Trek Checkpoint ALR 5

Checkpoint's aluminum-framed ALR 5 represents Trek's commitment to riders looking for freedom and adventure, but who also look for value.

The Checkpoint ALR 5 combines rugged construction, a responsive feel, versatile design and a new geometry for riders looking to discover (or rediscover) adventure cycling. The frameset of the Checkpoint ALR for 2022 is slightly different with a slightly longer top tube and correspondingly shorter stem and handlebar reach. Mountain bike designers call this "progressive geometry", allowing better control on gravel-strewn descents. A change to the fork rake ensures the nimble handling of previous Checkpoint bicycles hasn't changed. An upright fit allows a wider range of riders -and rider flexibilities- to get comfortable. The 300 Series Alpha aluminum frame features tapered and butted tubes created by hydroforming, keeping weight low while adding plenty of strength. There's room for tires up to 45mm (!), depending on rim width. A tapered head tube/steerer tube interface also adds handling precision while traversing rough surfaces. There's more strength to be found at the threaded T47 bottom bracket that all but eliminates power-robbing flex at the crankset. A 3S chain keeper, Control Freak internal cable routing, and accessory mounts from stem to stern demonstrate how much this bike is ready for expeditions across town or across the state. There are even mounts under the top tube for a direct-mount frame bag.

Shimano's proven 11-speed GRX components are built for riding all day in the rough stuff, and are found throughout the Checkpoint ALR 5. Adjustable-reach dual-control levers, a clutch-equipped rear derailleur, toggle-pivot front derailleur, flat-mount disc brakes and a redesigned 46/30T compact crankset are all Shimano GRX components. An 11-34T Shimano cassette boasts a huge gearing range for tackling challenging terrain. Tubeless-ready alloy Bontrager Paradigm wheels are wrapped with Bontrager GR1 Team Issue 700x40c tubeless-ready gravel tires, offering easy acceleration and confident grip in a wide range of surfaces. Shimano GRX hydraulic disc brakes bring effective stopping power to the Checkpoint ALR 5 in all conditions, rain or shine. A Bontrager P3 Verse Comp saddle sits atop an alloy Bontrager seatpost, while an accessory-ready Bontrager Elite Blendr stem and flared alloy Bontrager Elite Gravel road handlebars with a 13 degree flare complete this capable machine.