Trek releases two new gravel bikes, with an option for racers and one for adventurers

Trek introduces two new Gravel bikes for exploring off the beaten path. The all-new Checkmate SLR is Trek’s first-ever Gravel race bike, the lightest and fastest the brand has ever made, perfect for speeding through the most epic races. The new Checkpoint SL Gen 3 carbon improves on the previous model with greater comfort and storage capacity, and an improved fit for long Gravel rides.

Source: Press Release

Both bikes share Trek’s IsoSpeed comfort technology to smooth out road bumps and allow adventurers to ride harder for longer. In addition, both Gravel bikes feature frames and mounts for Trek’s all-new Adventure bags, including top tube, frame, and a more aero-efficient triangular bag storage that tucks out of the wind.

Checkmate SLR Gravel Race Bike

Trek’s lightest Gravel bike ever.

The Checkmate is Trek’s lightest Gravel bike ever, featuring premium 800 Series OCLV Carbon, top-tier components, and new top tube shape technology that shaves almost 500g off the previous Checkpoint SLR model.

Trek’s fastest Gravel bike ever.

The Checkmate is Trek’s fastest Gravel bike ever, featuring the same new Full System Foil aerodynamic tube shapes and aero cockpit (bars and stem) as the Madone Gen 8. In addition, the Checkmate’s new Gravel Race geometry puts riders in a more aggressive and efficient position. Together, these features help make the Checkmate 5 minutes and 54 seconds faster than the Checkpoint SLR on the 200-mile Unbound course (at 200W).

New lightweight and aerodynamic stem.

The Checkmate features the same ultralight and aerodynamic one-piece carbon bar/stem combo as the Madone 8th gen, with a width at the hoods 3 cm narrower than the width at the drops, allowing the rider to choose between an aerodynamic position or one offering better control while enjoying superior comfort when hands are on the top of the bar.

Clearance for up to 45mm tires (measured).

The Checkmate comes standard with 38mm tires, but accepts tires up to 45mm wide for fast riding on more challenging race or training courses.

Customizable in Project One

The Project One program is the best way to create the Checkmate perfectly suited to the rider’s wishes with components and color of their choice. In addition, the new Project One ICON Raw Lithos paint, with stunning earth-toned hues, is exclusive to Checkmate customers.

Checkpoint SL Gen 3, Gravel bike

Carbon Gravel Performance

The Checkpoint SL Gen 3 features redesigned tube shapes and 500 Series OCLV carbon that keeps it light, lively, and affordable.

Optimized storage

The new Checkpoint SL Gen 3 frame design has more space to adjust water bottles higher with bags and offers more internal storage. In addition, it has plenty of mounts for top tube, frame, and triangle bags, storage options on the fork, and the ability to install front and rear racks.

New details that inspire confidence

The Checkpoint SL Gen 3’s new Gravel Endurance geometry has a higher and shorter stack that is more comfortable and efficient for multi-day Gravel rides. In addition, riders get a GR Elite handlebar (on SL 5 and 6) or a GR Pro carbon handlebar (on SL 7), which share a more comfortable flare and a superior 6 cm flare between the shifters and the drops for better control and greater confidence, regardless of the terrain.

Clearance for up to 50mm tires (measured).

The Checkpoint SL Gen 3 comes with 42mm tires, but it’s possible to fit larger, beefier Gravel tires for riding on rougher sections.

Dropper post and suspension fork compatible

The new Checkpoint SL Gen 3 is dropper post compatible and compatible with suspension forks with up to 40mm of travel* so customers can enjoy even more capability, comfort, and confidence.

*Available for all sizes except XS