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All-New 2023 Trek Domane: Gravel Bike AND Endurance Road?

JOM

“ Trek has launched the all-new Domane SL and SLR today, taking their most versatile performance road bike platform and making it lighter, faster and more capable.” – Trek Bicycle

2023 trek domane review

But, is the new Domane capable of more than just pavement-going cycling? Trek kindly provided the opportunity for Gravel Cyclist to review this exciting new bike.

2023 Trek Domane SLR Video

Alternative Video Link for those reading via email subscription .

In this video, JOM of the Gravel Cyclist runs through many of the standout features of the all-new Trek Domane, as a preview to a coming long-term review. Several variants of the Domane are on offer, this be the Domane SLR 9 eTap (Red).

2023 trek domane review

Continued from Above:

“The fourth generation Domane SL and SLR maintain the all-day comfort Domane is known for, with all-new race-ready details designed for the top step of the podium.”

2023 trek domane review

“ Trek’s lightest Domane disc ever, the all-new Domane also comes in a race-specific RSL frameset that was raced to victory at the 2022 Paris-Roubaix Femmes by Trek-Segafredo’s Elisa Longo Borghini.”

2023 trek domane review

All-New Lightweight Design

“ Domane SL and SLR share the same tech and frame design, weighing in at around 300 g lighter than the previous generation thanks to a simplified frame, refined rear IsoSpeed and an upgraded 800 Series OCLV Carbon frame (SLR only).”

2023 trek domane review

Road-Smoothing Rear Isospeed

“ Newly refined IsoSpeed comfort technology shaves weight and soaks up fatiguing bumps in the road so you can ride stronger for longer.”

2023 trek domane review

Podium-Topping Speed

“ Updated Kammtail tube shaping and a newly integrated cockpit improve aerodynamics to create the fastest Domane yet.”

2023 trek domane review

Boundless Adventure

“ Clearance for up to 38c tyres and a stable, comfortable endurance geometry give riders the versatility to ride everything from smooth pavement to light gravel and even the infamous cobbles of the world’s most epic one-day Monuments.”

2023 trek domane review

Storage & Mounts for Every Ride

“ Internal downtube storage, hidden mudguard mounts and new top tube bag mounts give riders the option to keep their Domane lean and clean or fully accessorised for all-day rides.”

2023 trek domane review

Race Shop Limited (RSL) Frameset

“ The new Domane also comes in a Race Shop Limited (RSL) frameset that prioritises ultimate speed and performance over comfort and versatility. This frameset features a more aggressive H1.5 racing fit, foregoes downtube storage and features a smaller tyre clearance (35 mm capacity) to shave even more weight.”

Geometry Charts

2023 trek domane review

MY23 Domane SL, SLR and RSL FAQ

What’s different about the frame compared to previous versions?

  • 800 Series OCLV carbon on Domane SLR and RSL
  • All-new, lighter, non-adjustable rear IsoSpeed system
  • Front IsoSpeed has been removed to shed weight
  • Kammtail Virtual Foil (KVF) tube shaping and an all-new integrated cockpit for improved aerodynamics
  • Top tube bag mount for clean installs on big days out
  • Race-orientated H1.5 geometry
  • No downtube storage saves 100 g over standard SLR frame
  • 35 mm max tyre clearance
  • Won 2022 Paris-Roubaix Femmes under Elisa Longo Borghini

2023 trek domane review

How much lighter are the new bikes? Complete bike weights are significantly lighter: up to 700 g on SLR builds and 300 g on SL builds.

2023 trek domane review

What is the geometry? Domane SL and SLR use Endurance Geometry. Compared to the H1.5 geometry found on Madone and Émonda, Endurance Geometry features a higher top tube and longer wheelbase to maximise comfort and stability. The race-orientated Domane RSL, however, uses H1.5 geometry.

2023 trek domane review

What is the maximum tyre size (according to Trek)? SLR and SL: 38 mm, 35 mm with full-coverage mudguards RSL: 35 mm

2023 trek domane review

Is it compatible with mechanical drivetrains? Yes, with full-housing. The frame does not have a front derailleur housing stop, which means that you are limited to front derailleurs with a built-in stop, like Shimano toggle front derailleurs. Because of this, SRAM mechanical front derailleurs are not compatible.

2023 trek domane review

Is that a standard round seat post? No, it’s a D-shaped KVF post for improved aerodynamics.  The new seat post is available in two lengths (280 mm and 320 mm) with two offsets per length (5 mm and 20 mm).

2023 trek domane review

What type of bottom bracket? T47

2023 trek domane review

Max chain rings? SLR and SL: 2x 52/36 (min 46/33) , 1x 50T RSL: 2x 54/40, 1x 54T

2023 trek domane review

Does the frame have internal storage? Domane SLR and SL do; RSL skips internal storage to save 100 g of frame weight.

2023 trek domane review

How about mudguard / fender mounts? Domane SLR and SL have hidden mudguard mounts to be used with SKU W331954; RSL does not have hidden mudguard mounts.

2023 trek domane review

What do I need to know about the RCS Pro stem? The RCS Pro is an all-new, integrated stem that shares compatibility across several different road models. It keeps the cables tucked out of sight while also allowing riders to swap stem sizes without having to remove any brake hoses or shift housings. RCS Pro is available in both -7 and +7 degree rise.

2023 trek domane review

Domane SL, SLR and RSL will be available globally on trekbikes.com and through Trek’s global network of retail partners. 

Additional Photos

2023 trek domane review

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Links of Interest:

  • Trek Bicycle – https://trekbikes.com
  • Gravel Cyclist’s Route Library

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Looking forward to your long-term review. Would also like to see you review Trelk’s CheckPoint which I understand is their main gravel bike.

JOM

Thank you. I hope to review the Checkpoint in the future.

Would be interested how it compares to the Checkpoint for gravel riding and which makes the better all-road bike.

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Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 review – a confident, capable gravel bike

Trek's updated aluminum checkpoint is a surefooted, confidence-inspiring ride that's perfect for ruined back lanes, byways and well-laden travels.

Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 gravel bike

BikePerfect Verdict

The reshaped Checkpoint frame neatly combines confidence-inspiring stability with a fun, engaging feel which goes well at all speeds on all sorts of surfaces. This might not be the lightest or fanciest build, but the key bits are great and the rest just quietly works.

Stable and predictable

Comfortable

Great shifting and brakes

Gearing a bit tall for the weight

Could use a dropper post

Why trust BikePerfect Our cycling experts have decades of testing experience. We'll always share our unbiased opinions on bikes and gear. Find out more about how we test.

The aluminium-framed ALR models sit at the bottom of Trek's Checkpoint range, with the lighter carbon SL and race-focused SLR bikes above, but in truth that's not a bad place to be. The ALR 5 gets a full set of excellent Shimano GRX components for the drivetrain and brakes, decent tires on tubeless-ready rims and lots of rack and fender mounts. 

The result is a surefooted, confident bike that's ready for exactly what Trek says it's for – gravel riding for fun, commuting or just general adventures. Which is pretty much what most people are after when looking for the best gravel bikes or best cheap gravel bikes .

Design and geometry

For 2023, the Checkpoint frame has seen some changes – basically it's got longer both in the front centre and the chainstays, and the stem is shorter to compensate. I tested a 58cm, and compared to the 2021 model it has 10mm longer chainstays, 20mm more reach and is 26mm longer overall. The 90mm stem and 60.9cm/41.1cm stack and reach figures keep the overall riding position fairly relaxed, with a usefully tall front end and slightly head-down, but certainly not front heavy, bias.

The head angle is the same as before at 72.3 degrees, presumably to keep the steering decently snappy, as is the bottom bracket drop at 7.4cm. 

This might be the 'poor man's' model with its humble alloy frame, but that doesn't mean it's unsophisticated. The various touring-friendly mounts are complimented by internally-routed cables that help a lot when strapping on frame bags or cages, as well as keeping them generally out of harm's way. I did find several of the bungs protecting the mounting/cable holes disappeared overboard on rough trails though, so if you want to keep filth out of your threads/frame you might want to stock up – or wind in some actual bolts where you can.

Components and build

Trek has spent the budget wisely here, speccing the excellent Shimano GRX shifters, levers and hydraulic brakes. The flat-fronted levers are particularly good for grip when it's rough, the shifts are always positive and the two-piston calipers are powerful and easy to modulate on the 160mm discs. Basically, the whole stop and go thing is covered perfectly.

Well, almost perfectly. The 2x11 drivetrain gives a very useable spread of ratios, but for the most serious off-road climbing it's a little high. At the top end it's good for 35mph before you spin out, which is great for the road and fireroad descents, but leaves the lowest gear (30/34t) slightly high for the steepest, techiest climbs. That's especially true if the bike's loaded up.

That's the lowest combination of ratios that will fit, though, so your options there are either to keep the bike as light as possible, fit a 1x crank and lose a fair bit of top speed, or get stronger...

The finishing kit is all in-house Bontrager stuff, and while it's all perfectly good they're pretty easy targets for weight loss upgrades. The Bontrager Elite Gravel bar is 44cm wide on this frame size with a good flare to the drops for extra leverage, and the comfy GRX hoods tilt inwards just enough to encourage a slightly elbows-out stance that's good for control.

The wheels – Switch hubs, 21mm wide Paradigm rims (the SL version on one end, presumably the front) and 24 spokes on each – are similarly utilitarian, being strong, middling for weight and entirely decent for the job. Wearing Aeolus XXX rim strips they're tubeless ready, and so are the Bontrager GR1 Team Issue tires, which is nice – in fact, Trek lists 6oz of its TLR sealant as a 'tire part,' so presumably consumer bikes are supplied already set, just as our test bike was.

The tires are predictable and confidence inspiring on the unusually dry terrain of our test period, as well as on tarmac both damp or dry, but are clearly not designed for mud. There's room in the frame for up to 45mm rubber should you want to go wider.

Oh, and while the front axle looks like you'll need to carry a hex key to get it out, the lever on the rear thru-axle actually pulls out to fit in either one. 

Performance

The Checkpoint has a confident feel – its length and reasonable heft keep it planted, while the steering is stable without being sluggish. It's the same whether you're on gravel or tarmac, and predictable in a friendly but not boring way. The chunky headtube and sizeable welded junctions do a great job of keeping it tracking where it's pointed in the rough.

Despite the chunky, almost box-section seatstays and generally rigid-feeling frame, it's comfortable for long rides, thanks to the high volume tyres, well-cushioned bar tape and a supportive, hammocky P3 Verse Comp saddle you really sit 'in'.

Get up some speed on gravel though and there's no disguising the aluminum build. By 30mph on a fireroad, your hands and feet are taking some serious vibes, and the chatter from sustained speed does reduce comfort. 

Switching to carbon at the bar (and at the Bontrager seatpost) would both increase comfort and reduce weight, and though I found the saddle supportive and comfy both for long rides and hard pedaling efforts, it does have steel rails – it's another easy and relatively cheap target for weight loss and vibe reduction.

Alternatively, if you want more speed whatever the trails do, fit the best dropper post that will suit the 27.2mm seat tube and reap the rewards.

Personally, I would have quite liked the shorter cranks of the smaller sizes instead of the 175mm GRX RX600s fitted here, which would allow an even lower BB for descending confidence, but that's really just preference. The 7.4cm BB drop is pretty low in the scheme of things, cornering feel is predictable, and ground clearance is good.

This is an extremely usable yet still very enjoyable bike. It nails that '2/3rds road bike, 1/3rd XC bike' feel that makes gravel bikes so good for so many things – commuting while avoiding the worst traffic, touring, exploring dilapidated rural lanes, getting in hard climbing efforts away from ANY traffic, or just generally getting out there and enjoying the view. 

It's comfortable and reassuring from the off whatever the surface, and the money's been spent in the right places – this is a really solid base for years of riding fun.

Test conditions

  • Temperature: Rarely less than 20 degrees C and up to 35
  • Conditions: Dry, hard and dusty with almost zero rain
  • Trails: Mountain singletrack, bridleways, forest gravel and crumbling rural lanes

Tech specs: Trek Checkpoint ALR 5

  • Price: $2,500 / £2,400
  • Discipline: Gravel
  • Frame size tested: 58cm
  • Seat tube angle: 72.5°
  • Head angle: 72.3°
  • Effective top tube: 59.7cm
  • Bottom bracket drop: 7.4cm
  • Wheelbase: 105.8cm
  • Reach: 41.1cm
  • Frame: 300 Series Alpha Aluminium
  • Tires: Bontrager GR1 Team Issue 40mm, Tubeless Ready 
  • Drivetrain: Shimano GRX
  • Sizes: 49, 52, 54, 56, 58 (tested), 61cm
  • Claimed weight: 9.75 kg / 21.5 lb (56cm)

Steve Williams

Steve is a highly experienced journalist and rider who's been involved with bikes of all kinds for more years than he would care to remember. Based in South Wales, he has mile upon mile of swooping singletrack, an array of plummet and winch descents and everything in between right on his doorstep.

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2022 Trek Checkpoint gravel bike review: Longer, but not slacker

Major geometry changes make for a new personality that’s rowdier, but also perhaps more polarizing..

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Story Highlights

What it is: Trek’s second-generation gravel bike family|| Frame features: Carbon fiber or aluminum construction, longer and more progressive frame geometry, integrated down tube storage and IsoSpeed rear pseudo-suspension on carbon models, cleanly hidden internal/external hybrid routing, lots of mounts, T47 threaded bottom brackets|| Weight: 950-1,450 g (claimed, frame only); 8.65 kg (19.07 lb), as tested, 52 cm size, without pedals or accessories|| Price: Starting at US$2,400 / AU$3,200 / £2,250 / €2,400; topping out at US$12,000 / AU$16,500 / £11,000 / €12,000|| Highs: More forgiving handling, size-specific IsoSpeed tuning on the SLR models, reasonably headache-free cable routing, traditional frame shaping|| Lows: Handling is more stable but also more sedate, strange bar bend on some models

Going a little deeper down the gravel rabbit hole with a longer front end

Trek’s original Checkpoint was a runaway sales success, offering very good capability on mixed terrain while retaining the nimbleness and agility of road and cyclocross bikes that many nascent gravel riders enjoyed. But as popular as that bike family has been, gravel bikes have continued to veer further into proper off-road terrain since then, and the new second-generation Checkpoint has evolved to keep up with those trends.

By far, the biggest change is in the new Checkpoint’s frame geometry.

Gravel bikes have grown steadily longer up front, and Trek has definitely hopped on that bandwagon here — albeit in its own way. Reach and front center dimensions on the second-generation Checkpoint have grown by about 2 cm across the board, and a 10 mm bump in chainstay length has added further to the total wheelbase (the old Stranglehold adjustable rear dropouts are gone). 

new trek gravel bike

Stem length and handlebar reach each decrease by 1 cm to maintain the same riding position as before, and overall stack dimensions have changed by no more than 6 mm.

Head tube angles have slackened only very slightly, but that’s coupled with a drop in fork rake from 49 mm to 45 mm. Trail dimensions have grown as a result for more steering stability, but the trail figures still aren’t too crazy. Whereas the old Checkpoint was quite road-like with trail measurements ranging from 59-66 mm, depending on size, the new ones sit at 65-74 mm. 

Down below, bottom bracket drop remains unchanged at 74-78 mm, depending on size.

Overall, the intent is to add some stability to the Checkpoint while still retaining some of its trademark agility — and it’s also somewhat telling that the axle-to-crown length of the revised fork intentionally doesn’t account for switching to a suspension fork. 

Interestingly, claimed maximum tire size remains unchanged at 700×45 mm (40 mm-wide tires come stock across the board), although 650b setups finally get the official Trek seal of approval, at least for tires up to 2.1″-wide.

new trek gravel bike

Built-in burrito storage, hidden cabling

Integrated into the down tube of carbon fiber Checkpoint models is the same cleverly integrated storage compartment as is already found in the Domane SLR and multiple Trek mountain bikes. A single lever secures the smartphone-sized hatch, and there’s enough room inside for an included tool roll with compartments for an inner tube, CO2 cartridge and inflator, a tire lever, and a bit more. Directly attached to the underside of the hatch is a holder for a Bontrager mini-tool, too, although it’s missing a chain tool and there’s no obvious dedicated location to add one, either, so you’ll want to source a compact model yourself. 

If you’re open to carrying the repair items somewhere else, I can also say that I’ve done the hard research to confirm that the down tube is sufficiently spacious — and the hatch opening sufficiently wide — for you to stuff an actual burrito inside (just don’t forget it’s in there).

new trek gravel bike

Cable routing is slightly revised from the previous Checkpoint, and arguably an improvement over some of the bonkers fully-internal setups we see on many other drop-bar bikes these days. 

Similar to what Trek has already done on multiple Madone and Domane models, brake hoses and derailleur lines now enter the frame through openings in the upper headset cover. The handlebar and stem are otherwise completely normal items, though, so while the routing is tidier than it used to be (which can actually come in handy if you like to run handlebar bags), it’s not quite as much of a maintenance headache as more fully integrated setups. 

new trek gravel bike

Trek has also equipped those headset cover ports with some rubber gaskets, unlike the more gaping holes on the Madone and Domane. This should keep out a lot of dirt and debris, but water will still trickle in there, so keep that in mind if you tend to wash your bikes frequently, especially since headset bearings will require you to fully disconnect all of the control lines. 

Two Checkpoints now become three

So just how popular was the original Checkpoint? Popular enough that Trek saw fit to add a third variant to the existing SL carbon fiber and ALR aluminum versions.

The new top-tier Checkpoint SLR is aimed more at gravel racing, built with a lighter-weight OCLV 700 carbon fiber blend and a new version of Trek’s Top Tube IsoSpeed pseudo-rear suspension system, complete with an integrated no-cut seatmast and carbon fiber topper. This Top Tube IsoSpeed variant isn’t adjustable like it is on the Madone SLR or Domane SLR, but Trek says it’s been tuned to be on the cushier side of things (similar to the current Domane SLR when its slider is set nearly to full-soft). 

new trek gravel bike

Moreover, since this new Top Tube IsoSpeed design’s flex patterns aren’t tied to frame size, smaller frames can be made more compliant than larger ones, which is the opposite of what you get with the original seat tube-based IsoSpeed (since longer tubes flex more than shorter ones). An integrated elastomer damper promises to minimize bounciness, too.

Going along with that racing bent, the new Checkpoint SLR also features mounts for up to four water bottles (three inside the main triangle on larger sizes) and a top tube feed bag, but the rear rack mounts of the first-generation Checkpoint SL are gone, along with any sort of carrying capacity on the fork. Front and rear fender mounts are still standard, though, to help make the Checkpoint SLR better suited to all-weather duty. 

Claimed weight for an unpainted 56 cm Checkpoint SLR frame without hardware is 950 g.

The second-tier Checkpoint SL carries on with the same mid-range OCLV 500 carbon fiber as the original model, along with the same seat tube-based IsoSpeed pseudo-rear suspension design. Whereas that first-generation Checkpoint SL also had a no-cut integrated seatmast, though, this newer Checkpoint SL switches to a conventional 27.2 mm round seatpost.

new trek gravel bike

That also makes it compatible with internally routed dropper seatposts should you decide to run one, which is in keeping with Trek’s intent for this to be the “sendier” of the two carbon Checkpoint models. This one also gets additional rear rack mounts and accessory mounts on the fork blades for more carrying capacity should your definition of “sendy” comprise just heading deeper into the wilderness for longer periods of time.

Claimed frame weight is 1,150 g for the Checkpoint SL, or about 200 g heavier than the Checkpoint SLR.

Rounding out the new Checkpoint family is the aluminum Checkpoint ALR, TIG-welded from Trek’s hydroformed and butted Alpha 300 aluminum tubing. Aimed at gravel riders on tighter budgets — or even commuters who just want something a little sportier — this one retains front and rear fender mounts, rear rack mounts, fork bottle mounts, a top tube feed bag mount, and up to four bottle mounts on the front triangle. Unfortunately, though, the down tube storage compartment doesn’t make the cut here.

new trek gravel bike

Claimed weight for an unpainted 56 cm Checkpoint ALR frame is 1,415 g.

Now, you might be asking yourself at this point why Trek hasn’t incorporated the Front IsoSpeed mechanism from the Domane SLR into the new Checkpoints. After all, if a big part of the game when it comes to gravel bikes is compliance, shouldn’t a softer ride be better? 

Well, yes. However, Trek says that while Front IsoSpeed pays comfort dividends on something like the Domane SLR with its narrower tires and higher inflation pressures, it was too stiff to make enough of a difference with the Checkpoint’s larger and softer tires to justify the additional cost and weight.

One thing that did make it into every new Checkpoint, though, are new T47 oversized threaded bottom bracket shells in place of the old BB90 press-fit design. This admittedly adds a few grams, but it’s unlikely many people will complain much. As compared to BB90, this setup should be far less prone to creaking and will be easier to service, and it also now finally allows for oversized crankset spindles. 

Models, pricing, and availability

Trek is offering the new Checkpoint in a wide range of models, including four Checkpoint SLR versions, three Checkpoint SLs, and one Checkpoint ALR. All three will be available as framesets — yay! — and it’s expected that the Checkpoint SLR will also be offered through Trek’s Project One custom program.

Models, basic build information, pricing, and claimed weights (for a 56 cm size) are as follows, with all models expected to be available at Trek retailers immediately (at least in some capacity).

  • Checkpoint SLR 9 eTap: SRAM Red XPLR eTap AXS 1×12 electronic groupset, Bontrager Aeolus RSL 37 carbon wheels; 8.1 kg (17.86 lb); US$12,000 / AU$16,500 / £11,000 / €12,000.
  • Checkpoint SLR 7 eTap: SRAM Force XPLR eTap AXS 1×12 electronic groupset; Bontrager Aeolus Pro 3V carbon wheels; 8.45 kg (18.63 lb); US$8,300 / AU$11,700 / £7,800 / €8,500.
  • Checkpoint SLR 7: Shimano GRX Di2 2×11 electronic groupset; Bontrager Aeolus Pro 3V carbon wheels; 8.81 kg (19.42 lb); US$8,300 / AU$11,400 / £7,650 / €8,300.
  • Checkpoint SLR 6 eTap: SRAM Rival XPLR eTap AXS 1×12 electronic groupset; Bontrager Aeolus Pro 3V carbon wheels; 8.65 kg (19.07 lb); US$7,600 / AU$10,200 / £6,450 / €7,000.
  • Checkpoint SL 7 eTap: SRAM Force XPLR eTap AXS 2×12 electronic groupset; Bontrager Aeolus Pro 3V carbon wheels; US$6,300 / AU$8,000 / £5,750 / €6,000.
  • Checkpoint SL 6 eTap: SRAM Rival XPLR eTap AXS electronic groupset; Bontrager Paradigm Comp 25 aluminum wheels; 9.05 kg (19.95 lb); US$4,100 / AU$5,300 / £3,750 / 4,000.
  • Checkpoint SL 5: Shimano GRX RX600/800 2×11 mechanical groupset; Bontrager Paradigm SL aluminum wheels; 9.65 kg (21.27 lb); US$3,200 / AU$4,200 / £3,200 / €3,500.
  • Checkpoint ALR 5: Shimano GRX RX600/800 2×11 mechanical groupset; Bontrager alloy wheels; 9.75 kg (21.50 lb); US$2,400 / AU$3,200 / £2,250 / €2,400.

new trek gravel bike

New Bontrager bikepacking bags, too

Going along with the new Checkpoint is a trio of new bikepacking bags from Bontrager. There’s an oversized handlebar bag and saddle bag — both with generous 9-liter capacities — and also a frame bag that’s offered in six (six!) different sizes for direct-mount attachment to the new Checkpoint’s dedicated threaded fittings. The frame bags can still be installed with traditional straps for other bikes, too.

Bontrager isn’t billing any of the bags as being waterproof, but the handlebar bag and saddle bag are both made of waterproof materials and use waterproof zippers, and the roll top format mimics the dry bags often used in rafting and kayaking. Both of those bags attach with conventional straps and buckles, and both also feature multiple strapping points if you need to lash on additional gear. 

new trek gravel bike

Light mounts are on hand, too, and the handlebar bag even has a dedicated pocket and hose port for a 1.5-liter Hydrapak bladder. Supplemental pockets are included throughout to help organize smaller items, and — dear god, thank you — the inside of the frame bag is lined with high-viz material so you’re not trying to dig around inside a black hole for your stuff.

Retail price for the handlebar bag is US$100, while the saddle bag and handlebar bag both retail for US$120. Prices for other regions is to be confirmed.

So is the new Checkpoint better or just different from the old one?

Trek delivered a production Checkpoint SLR 6 eTap sample to me for testing, built with a SRAM Rival AXS XPLR 1x wireless electronic groupset, Bontrager Aeolus Pro 3V wide-profile carbon clinchers wrapped with 40 mm-wide Bontrager GR1 tires (set up tubeless), and finished with a Bontrager P3 Verse Elite saddle, Bontrager Pro forged aluminum stem, and a Bontrager Pro IsoCore VR-SF carbon handlebar. For my 52 cm size, actual weight was 8.65 kg (19.07 lb) without pedals or accessories — which, it’s perhaps worth noting is exactly what Trek claims for this model in a 56 cm size.

I mentioned earlier that the original Checkpoint has been a huge sales success for Trek, and now that I’ve been riding this one for the past few weeks, I have little reason to think these new versions will be any different. 

As with other bikes with similarly long front ends, the revamped Checkpoint is easier and more confidence-inspiring to ride off-road on even moderately steep or loose terrain than before. Granted, pushing the front wheel 2 cm further out doesn’t sound like much on paper, but it’s often the difference between mild understeer before the tire regains traction, or jackknifing over the bars. 

new trek gravel bike

Overall, the front end of this second-generation Checkpoint feels calmer and more settled in those situations, and there’s less thought and skill involved in navigation tricky ground. And assuming you’re comfortable exploring the limits of just how much you can push that front end, the changes also make for more speed.

Low-speed handling definitely takes a hit, however. Although the geometry of that original Checkpoint would now be considered pretty old-school, one of the things I’ve always enjoyed about it is its road-like agility. It was amusingly quick and nimble, and with room for 45 mm-wide knobbies, a skilled rider could have a blast throttling that thing in the woods. The more toned-down reflexes of this new Checkpoint dampens some of that dartiness, though, and that longer wheelbase and longer rear end feel slower to come around a corner when it’s tight and technical. Nevertheless, hair-trigger reflexes and borderline nervousness are not what most mainstream riders are looking for in a gravel bike, so I’d say Trek made the right decision here. Plus, if you really want quicker handling with (somewhat) fatter tires, there’s still the new Boone .

new trek gravel bike

Given Trek’s stated goal that the Checkpoint SLR is the most race-oriented of the three new Checkpoint models, it’s no surprise that it feels stiff and solid underfoot in terms of pedaling efficiency, too. It’s not on the same level as the company’s ultra-efficient Emonda, but still on the upper-middle end of the spectrum as far as carbon gravel bikes go in general. 

In terms of ride quality, I found the new non-adjustable Top Tube IsoSpeed setup on the Checkpoint SLR to be a little perplexing. 

Granted, it’s now been a while since I spent a lot of time on the first-generation Checkpoint, but I have very fond memories of how cushy that older seat tube-based IsoSpeed seatmast felt on rough ground. It was basically a magic carpet of compliance, suspending you on a virtual cloud when things got bumpy.

new trek gravel bike

Trek says this fancier Top Tube IsoSpeed version offers an even more comfortable ride, but I found it to feel firmer — also less bouncy, mind you, but firmer and less dramatically different from a conventional telescoping seatpost nonetheless. And apparently, I’m not alone.

“The little elastomer in the SLR’s top tube unit damps the motion a bit,” explained Trek road product marketing manager Anders Ahlberg. “I’ve found that in testing bikes with and without damping, the bikes with damping feel less compliant just because they’re less bouncy.”

On the plus side, the perception that the rear end is firmer than on the original Checkpoint SL makes for a more balanced feel, and Trek has done a superb job of hiding all of that extra hardware inside the frame. Especially with the matte black finish of my loaner, you barely notice there’s anything unusual going on at the seat cluster area. Combined with the only modestly dropped chainstays and wholly conventional looking seatstays and front triangle, the whole profile of the Checkpoint looks about as classic as something like this can probably be.

new trek gravel bike

I’ve got very mixed feelings on the revamped cable routing used here. On the one hand, it’s undeniably tidier looking, it helps keeps the lines from interfering with handlebar bags, and since none of the lines run inside either the handlebar or stem, it’s easy to swap both of those components or move them around. And kudos to Trek to at least trying to seal up the hose ports in the upper headset cover instead of just leaving them as gaping holes (like on the Madone SLR and Domane SLR) that practically invite water and debris into the frame.

Those ports aren’t watertight, though, so riders who wash their bikes regularly will want to exercise caution, particularly since swapping headset bearings will be a monumental pain in the butt. In general, though, if Trek engineers felt like they absolutely had to implement some sort of semi-internal routing scheme on the new Checkpoint, this is a lot less crappy than how many other brands do it.

As I’ve found with every other bike I’ve ridden with this feature — on road or off — the new down tube storage is brilliant. There’s enough room inside the down tube for a spare inner tube, tire levers, multiple CO2 cartridges and an inflator head (or a mini-pump , depending on the model), and even some snacks or an extra layer, depending on the size of your frame. The included tool wrap makes it easy to organize all of that stuff, and also keeps it from rattling inside. The hatch fits very securely, too, and yet is easy to access with a single lever flip.

new trek gravel bike

I do wish that Trek could find a lower-profile way of attaching the multi-tool to the underside of the hatch, though. As it is, it impinges on the interior space more than I’d like, and if you’re not careful with how you pack the down tube, it causes the hatch to bow outward a little, which compromises the seal and potentially allows water and debris to get inside the frame.

Speaking of which, those new Bontrager Adventure bags seem to be a nice option if you’re interested in taking the Checkpoint on a multi-day trip (and I’ll admit that I was only able to do a test run with the bags loaded up with gear, not an actual overnighter). They fit securely — the strap-free frame bag is especially nice — and don’t wiggle around too much on the trail, and the front and rear bags have plenty of capacity for camping gear, especially if you follow Trek’s guidance and carry your tent poles inside the frame bag instead of the saddle bag. Add-ons like extra layers are easy to attach to the strapping points on the front and rear bags, too.

new trek gravel bike

I do wish that Bontrager had incorporated some one-way valves into the saddle and handlebar packs, though. Although they’re not advertised as proper waterproof bags, Bontrager still builds these with waterproof materials and zippers, and it’s tricky to compress the bags since air essentially has nowhere to go. I also had to get pretty creative in mounting the front bag since the bottom would otherwise drag on the tire on my 52 cm test bike, so riders on smaller sizes or running lower handlebar heights in general should be wary.

There aren’t too many surprises as far as the build kit on this particular bike goes.

The SRAM Rival AXS XPLR wireless electronic groupset is just as good as it’s been the other multiple times I’ve ridden it now, with quick and reliable shifts, ample range from that new 10-44T cassette, and plenty of power from the hydraulic disc brakes with excellent control to boot. The downsized lever bodies feel great in your hands, and so far, I haven’t regretted not being able to plug in any remote shift buttons. It’s still rather heavy stuff, mind you, but in most cases, that doesn’t detract too much from the overall performance, and probably not enough that most everyday riders will care.

new trek gravel bike

I’ve also spent plenty of time with these Bontrager Aeolus Pro 3V carbon wheels on this and other bikes, and they’re honestly some of my favorites. They’re appropriately wide at 25 mm between the bead hooks, they feel fast and solid, and the 108-tooth freehub mechanism is very quick to engage (although it’s also quite loud and buzzy). The molded plastic tubeless rim strip incorporates beadlock ridges for a very secure hold that’s still field serviceable, and I’ve found it to hold up much, much better over time than any tape I’ve used. They’ve been quite durable, too, shrugging off the various times I’ve bottomed the tires out on the sharp rocks that litter my local trails.

I also give high marks to the Bontrager Versa saddle for its accommodating shape, supportive padding, and built-in accessory mount underneath the shell, and to the neat Bontrager Pro forged aluminum stem. That stem is nothing special in terms of traditional performance metrics like weight and stiffness, but it’s compatible with Bontrager’s broad array of Blendr faceplate-based accessory mounts to keep things neat and tidy up front, even if you want to run a computer and a front flasher or camera. Only Bontrager, Garmin, and SRM (?!) computers are supported for now, although other 3D-printed options are offered through third parties.

I have more mixed feelings on the new handlebar shape, however. 

As mentioned earlier, Bontrager opted to take a centimeter of reach out of both the handlebar and stem to offset the 2 cm increase in front-end length. This makes sense in concept, but the shorter 75 mm reach of the Bontrager Pro IsoCore VR-SF carbon bar is mated to a comparatively deep 128 mm of drop with a surprisingly traditional large-radius bend. I normally love classic-bend bars on the road, but this bend just feels weird to me and I was never able to find a comfy spot for my hands in the drops.

Final thoughts

Regular readers of CyclingTips will know that I’m generally a big fan of how gravel bike geometry has been evolving over the past couple of years (and I suspect many riders with more of a mountain bike background would agree). The whole longer-slacker-lower thing offers the same benefits on gravel as it does for mountain bikes, and Trek wisely hasn’t gone too extreme in that direction. The new Checkpoint is a more capable bike than the one it replaces, and it’s easier to ride fast on unpaved surfaces, too.

That said, one of the things I really enjoyed about the old Checkpoint was its nimbler personality. It was maybe a bit more of a handful as compared to more modern gravel bikes with new-school geometry when things got rowdier — and there was the small issue of toe overlap, too — but there was nevertheless an element of playfulness and agility that I can’t help but miss.

new trek gravel bike

Does it sound contradictory that I repeatedly praise new-school gravel geometry and yet simultaneously kind of miss the handling of the old Checkpoint? Maybe, but perhaps it’s also just me wishing Trek hadn’t applied the same geometry across the board. If the Checkpoint SL and ALR models are supposed to be the rowdier and more versatile ones, could it have made sense to apply this geometry to those two, but have something more agile for the SLR?

Then again, there’s probably a good reason why I don’t run a bike company or count the beans.

Nitpicks aside, the new Checkpoint is still very fun — albeit in a different way now — and I fully expect Trek will continue to sell a ton of these things. 

More information can be found at www.trekbikes.com .

new trek gravel bike

Our Field Test group bike tests are by no means paid events, but they’re still only possible with some outside support. CyclingTips would like to thank the following sponsors for this round of the Field Test:

  • Rudy Project
  • Pearl Izumi
  • Sierra Nevada Brewing Company
  • Lead Out Gear

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\"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/wout-van-aert-under-spotlight-in-must-win-spring\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"\u2018three grand tours and no monument \u2013 it\u2019s like something\u2019s missing\u2019: wout van aert under spotlight in must-win spring\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/wout-van-aert-under-spotlight-in-must-win-spring\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"\u2018three grand tours and no monument \u2013 it\u2019s like something\u2019s missing\u2019: wout van aert under spotlight in must-win spring\"}}\u0027>\n \u2018three grand tours and no monument \u2013 it\u2019s like something\u2019s missing\u2019: wout van aert under spotlight in must-win spring\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"meet the only person who can fix your brooks saddle (in north america, at least)","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-gear\/only-brooks-saddle-repair-north-america-simon-firth-philly-bike-expo\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-gear\/only-brooks-saddle-repair-north-america-simon-firth-philly-bike-expo\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"meet the only person who can fix your brooks saddle (in north america, at least)\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-gear\/only-brooks-saddle-repair-north-america-simon-firth-philly-bike-expo\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"meet the only person who can fix your brooks saddle (in north america, at least)\"}}\u0027>\n meet the only person who can fix your brooks saddle (in north america, at least)\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"e3 saxo classic: mathieu van der poel crushes solo cobblestone victory after wout van aert crash","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/e3-saxo-classic-mathieu-van-der-poel-crushes-solo-cobblestone-victory-after-wout-van-aert-crash\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/e3-saxo-classic-mathieu-van-der-poel-crushes-solo-cobblestone-victory-after-wout-van-aert-crash\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"e3 saxo classic: mathieu van der poel crushes solo cobblestone victory after wout van aert crash\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/e3-saxo-classic-mathieu-van-der-poel-crushes-solo-cobblestone-victory-after-wout-van-aert-crash\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"e3 saxo classic: mathieu van der poel crushes solo cobblestone victory after wout van aert crash\"}}\u0027>\n e3 saxo classic: mathieu van der poel crushes solo cobblestone victory after wout van aert crash\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"tour of flanders and the birth of the modern-era\u2019s cobblestone climber","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/tour-of-flanders-and-the-birth-of-the-modern-eras-cobblestone-climber\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/tour-of-flanders-and-the-birth-of-the-modern-eras-cobblestone-climber\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"tour of flanders and the birth of the modern-era\u2019s cobblestone climber\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/tour-of-flanders-and-the-birth-of-the-modern-eras-cobblestone-climber\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"tour of flanders and the birth of the modern-era\u2019s cobblestone climber\"}}\u0027>\n tour of flanders and the birth of the modern-era\u2019s cobblestone climber\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"\u2018so much chaos\u2019: cobblestone season starts with a van aert-van der poel slugfest that sets tone for flanders","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/cobblestone-season-starts-with-a-van-aert-van-der-poel-slugfest\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/cobblestone-season-starts-with-a-van-aert-van-der-poel-slugfest\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"\u2018so much chaos\u2019: cobblestone season starts with a van aert-van der poel slugfest that sets tone for flanders\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/cobblestone-season-starts-with-a-van-aert-van-der-poel-slugfest\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"\u2018so much chaos\u2019: cobblestone season starts with a van aert-van der poel slugfest that sets tone for flanders\"}}\u0027>\n \u2018so much chaos\u2019: cobblestone season starts with a van aert-van der poel slugfest that sets tone for flanders\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"jasper philipsen wins milan-san remo in select group sprint, poga\u010dar surge can\u2019t break rivals","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/jasper-philipsen-wins-milan-san-remo-in-select-group-sprint\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/jasper-philipsen-wins-milan-san-remo-in-select-group-sprint\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"jasper philipsen wins milan-san remo in select group sprint, poga\u010dar surge can\u2019t break rivals\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/jasper-philipsen-wins-milan-san-remo-in-select-group-sprint\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"jasper philipsen wins milan-san remo in select group sprint, poga\u010dar surge can\u2019t break rivals\"}}\u0027>\n jasper philipsen wins milan-san remo in select group sprint, poga\u010dar surge can\u2019t break rivals\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"peter sagan to undergo additional heart surgery after further symptoms arise","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/peter-sagan-to-undergo-additional-heart-surgery-after-further-symptoms-arise\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/peter-sagan-to-undergo-additional-heart-surgery-after-further-symptoms-arise\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"peter sagan to undergo additional heart surgery after further symptoms arise\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/peter-sagan-to-undergo-additional-heart-surgery-after-further-symptoms-arise\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"peter sagan to undergo additional heart surgery after further symptoms arise\"}}\u0027>\n peter sagan to undergo additional heart surgery after further symptoms arise\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"power analysis: inside milan-san remo, the longest one-day race in the worldtour","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/power-analysis-milan-san-remo-2024\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/power-analysis-milan-san-remo-2024\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"power analysis: inside milan-san remo, the longest one-day race in the worldtour\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/power-analysis-milan-san-remo-2024\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"power analysis: inside milan-san remo, the longest one-day race in the worldtour\"}}\u0027>\n power analysis: inside milan-san remo, the longest one-day race in the worldtour\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"mathieu van der poel signs unprecedented 10-year deal with canyon","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/news\/mathieu-van-der-poel-10-year-canyon\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/news\/mathieu-van-der-poel-10-year-canyon\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"mathieu van der poel signs unprecedented 10-year deal with canyon\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/news\/mathieu-van-der-poel-10-year-canyon\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"mathieu van der poel signs unprecedented 10-year deal with canyon\"}}\u0027>\n mathieu van der poel signs unprecedented 10-year deal with canyon\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"watch: can ted king return to the front of the pack","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-racing\/ted-king-unbound-gravel\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-racing\/ted-king-unbound-gravel\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"watch: can ted king return to the front of the pack\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-racing\/ted-king-unbound-gravel\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"watch: can ted king return to the front of the pack\"}}\u0027>\n watch: can ted king return to the front of the pack\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"derailed by the doctor: rider fractures fibula in mix-up with volta a catalunya race medic","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/derailed-by-the-doctor-rider-fractures-fibula-in-mix-up-with-volta-a-catalunya-race-medic\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/derailed-by-the-doctor-rider-fractures-fibula-in-mix-up-with-volta-a-catalunya-race-medic\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"derailed by the doctor: rider fractures fibula in mix-up with volta a catalunya race medic\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/derailed-by-the-doctor-rider-fractures-fibula-in-mix-up-with-volta-a-catalunya-race-medic\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"derailed by the doctor: rider fractures fibula in mix-up with volta a catalunya race medic\"}}\u0027>\n derailed by the doctor: rider fractures fibula in mix-up with volta a catalunya race medic\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"joe martin stage race canceled for 2024 in shock to us stage-race calendar","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/joe-martin-stage-race-cancelled-for-2024\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/joe-martin-stage-race-cancelled-for-2024\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"joe martin stage race canceled for 2024 in shock to us stage-race calendar\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/joe-martin-stage-race-cancelled-for-2024\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"joe martin stage race canceled for 2024 in shock to us stage-race calendar\"}}\u0027>\n joe martin stage race canceled for 2024 in shock to us stage-race calendar\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "}]' > >", "name": "footer-menu", "type": "link"}}'>advertise >", "name": "footer-menu", "type": "link"}}'>privacy policy >", "name": "footer-menu", "type": "link"}}'>contact >", "name": "footer-menu", "type": "link"}}'>careers >", "name": "footer-menu", "type": "link"}}'>terms of use >", "name": "footer-menu", "type": "link"}}'>site map >", "name": "footer-menu", "type": "link"}}'>my newsletters manage cookie preferences privacy request healthy living.

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Trek Checkpoint SL7 gravel bike - first ride review

On early impressions, trek's flagship gravel bike, the checkpoint sl7, looks perfect for seekers of versatility and adventure.

Trek Checkpoint SL7

Cyclingnews Verdict

A high-end superbike, suitable for gravel adventurers and bikepackers alike

Lightweight, agile and responsive ride

IsoSpeed shock adds comfort

Underbody protection for the eye-popping paint job

SRAM Force eTap AXS 1X drive not suited to mixed road/gravel

Top tube is too wide near the seat tube

Toe overlap in the smallest size

You can trust Cyclingnews Our experts spend countless hours testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

Straight out of the box two things stood out about the Trek Checkpoint SL7: first, the 'Rage Red' paint job and second, the sheer enormity of the biggest sprocket on the rear cassette.

The Checkpoint is Trek's best gravel bike and is available as an AL, ALR or SL version, the latter of which is built upon a carbon frameset made from Trek's 500 Series OCLV carbon. This frame paired with the full carbon Bontrager Aeolus Pro 3V tubeless-ready wheels, 38cm Bontrager Pro IsoCore VR-CF carbon bars, and the Bontrager carbon seat mast cap makes for a surprisingly light bike, while the hefty 25mm rims and chunky downtube gives an impression of brute strength. At just under 8.6kg in a 49cm, it's not troubling the sub-7kg best lightweight bikes , but is impressively light given its off-road capability. 

Although lightweight, the Checkpoint gives a sense of security with a no-fuss FSA integrated headset with sealed cartridge bearing, its alloy Bontrager Pro stem with a four-bolt clamp (also compatible with the Blendr accessories - camera, computer or headlight mounts), a stainless steel-railed Bontrager Arvada Elite saddle, the redundant bolt and nut rear dropout, and 142x12mm and 12x100 thru-axles.

3T Exploro gravel bike review Specialized S-Works Diverge gravel bike review Basso Palta gravel bike review

Unlike some gravel offerings that look more like a road or cyclo-cross setup with a bigger cassette, the Checkpoint has the quick and comfortable geometry of the best road bikes with the flexibility of running a tyre even 5mm beefier than the 40mm Bontrager GR1 Team Issue Tubeless Ready micro-knobbies it came with.

The Stranglehold rear dropout allows for moving the thru-axle back up to 15mm to make room for wider gravel tyres or forward for tightening up your ride for a quicker, more sprightly feel.

The fear of dinging up the stunning paint while tearing down gravel descents is somewhat alleviated by the inclusion of the Carbon Armor shield underneath the bottom bracket and down tube and other protective panels near the chainrings and on the chainstays.

The SRAM Force eTap wireless groupset leaves only one cable for the rear brake looping out between the bars and downtube, while the front brake hose enters the fork at the crown. However, if you were so inclined, you could convert to a Shimano Di2 setup and stow the battery away in the compartment underneath the downtube bottle cage mounts so as to not to disturb the clean lines of the Control Freak internal routing system. 

Speaking of mounts, although this is a high-end bike, it is meant for adventure and as such, has bottle cage mounts on both sides of the downtube and the seat tube, as well as mounts for bags on the top tube, as well as rack and mudguard mounts.

The IsoSpeed decoupler at the intersection of the top and seat tubes definitely smooths out the ride. Although it isn't terribly pronounced initially, the extra comfort becomes noticeable after an extended stretch of rough gravel. Combined with a tubeless setup and lower pressures, you can get a pretty cushy ride if you want one.

The 1x12 drivetrain dispenses with the need for a front derailleur which has a few advantages: in heavy, muddy conditions, it's one less place for clots of sticks and mud to get stuck and cause problems, and, paired with the clutched derailleur, you can forget the worries about dropping your chain when navigating undulating terrain.

It is obvious that the Checkpoint SL7 is designed for serious gradients with a 40T chainring and 10-50T cassette providing a gear ratio similar to the so-called 'granny gear' in mountain biking circles. This does come with some disadvantages aside from looking insane: while the Eagle cassette's 50-tooth cog allows for grinding up very steep inclines, the 10-tooth cog combined with the 40T ring is noticeably lacking when it comes to fast road sections. You'll be spinning your head off in that 10 at almost 120rpm to keep up with a brisk 50km/h pace.

There is a front derailleur mount if you wanted to switch to 2x gearing.

As a lighter rider, I appreciate a tubeless setup so I can run lower than usual pressures, and as an old-timer more accustomed to cyclo-cross bikes and cantilevers on gravel, the flat-mount Force eTap AXS hydraulic disc brakes are a welcome improvement both in smoothness and in stopping power, especially in dusty or wet conditions.

I took the Checkpoint on two gravel-ish rides, both with plenty of road in between. The first on a wide crush-and-run gravel bridle trail with undulating, non-technical terrain and the second on the local cyclo-cross course that has a few sharp climbs, berms, off-camber turns, fast descents and loose gravel turns.

On the bridle trail, the Checkpoint was flawless, feeling light underneath and quick to accelerate. The full carbon setup made for a smooth and comfortable ride even without any decoupler under the bars.

Over the singletrack, a few flaws became apparent: the fork isn't quite as raked out as a 'cross bike and with the 40mm tyres I definitely have toe-overlap - a fact no-doubt owing to the 49cm frame size and 700c wheel combo. 

Many gravel bikes offer the option to swap between 650b and 700c wheels to change the characteristics of the ride. Trek seemed perfectly placed to also offer this option, with 'Smart Wheel Sizing' featuring in its cross-country mountain bike range (which pairs 650b wheels to smaller frame sizes). However, the Checkpoint range uses 700c wheels throughout the sizing spectrum and makes no mention of smaller wheel compatibility in any of its literature. 

The other quirk of the frame is that the top tube, rather than taper in the horizontal plane to the seat tube, it actually grows wider to fit the IsoSpeed mechanism. This, even with the wider Q-factor of the SRAM Force eTap AXS crankset, meant my leg rubbed against the frame on the downstroke. It was particularly pronounced when pedalling through turns and, frankly, it got annoying.

No woman wants to be reminded of the realities of thigh-rub and you certainly don't want rub well below the chub - the Checkpoint frame hit just below the shorts, above the knee. I can imagine that once you're covered in Dirty Kanza dust and sweat, this could become a problem. Though easily solved by a pair of bib knickers, I guess.

Neither one of these flaws is enough to detract from the fact that the Checkpoint is the cream of the gravel bike crop and a beautiful, lovingly crafted piece of art designed for riders who demand nothing but the best. 

To sum up, with its Stranglehold dropout, comfort-enhancing IsoSpeed decoupler and myriad mounting points, the Checkpoint seems to be a great gravel bike option for those looking for versatility and adventure. However, those looking for road speed and tight-turn agility might find the Checkpoint lacking.

new trek gravel bike

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Laura Weislo

Laura Weislo has been with Cyclingnews since 2006 after making a switch from a career in science. As Managing Editor, she coordinates coverage for North American events and global news. As former elite-level road racer who dabbled in cyclo-cross and track, Laura has a passion for all three disciplines. When not working she likes to go camping and explore lesser traveled roads, paths and gravel tracks. Laura's specialises in covering doping, anti-doping, UCI governance and performing data analysis.

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Trek Checkpoint SL 5 – First Impressions

The not-so-minor details.

Trek Checkpoint SL 5

https://www.trekbikes.com

Grab your flannel shirt, lace-up shoes and enamel camping mug, Trek has a new bike that might just be what you’ve been looking for. The all-new Checkpoint 5 SL might confuse you as to what it is exactly, but in fact, Trek has let you decide yourself what to do with it, so far what we can tell is they’re calling it a; ‘gravel bike for epic all-road adventures’.

We know what we’ll do with it – adventures! – but before we give it a run to the hills let’s take a look at this unique animal in closer detail.

So many things to look at.

It might look like a road bike from afar but take a couple steps closer and you’ll notice frame features you’d never see on a classic road bike. We’re talking about; rack/utility mounts, multiple water bottle cage mounts, loads of tyre clearance, 12mm thru-axles, impact protection under the downtube, and an adjustable wheelbase.

new trek gravel bike

IsoSpeed decoupler, the fancy little bump-diffuser.

As seen on the Trek Procaliber is Trek’s unique vibration dampening system; IsoSpeed. Seen on Trek’s cross-country hardtail; the Procaliber, the Boone cyclocross bike and their endurance road bike, Domane.

new trek gravel bike

It’s like the tiniest bit of suspension to take the sting out of the road.

It essentially uses a bushing and axle arrangement at the junction of the seat tube and top tube to allow the seat post to bend backwards independently from the top tube, adding comfort when seated. The top tube and seat tube tube are completely separate parts, joined by the decoupler unit.

See the IsoSpeed used for the purpose of mountain biking here: Trek Procaliber review.

Flow ‘GravelCross’ Bike, sorry, what?

We are aware that our name Flow Mountain Bike is completely void of words like ‘cyclocross’ or ‘gravel’, nor do we profess to be experts in the field of gravel but we’ve ridden quite a few nowadays, and our road bikes are gathering dust because of it. What’s going on?

C’mon, we know mountain bikers are hard on road bikes. There are even gravel events popping up like this one!

Isn’t it just a cyclocross bike?

In comparison to Trek’s cyclocross bike – The Boone – the Checkpoint’s frame geometry is lower in the bottom bracket, taller up the front and has considerably more tyre clearance. The adjustable wheelbase will provide the rider with the ability to select a fast and agile feel, or long and stable.

new trek gravel bike

Other gravel bikes we’ve recently tried out.

Norco’s Search XR shares a lot of features with the Checkpoint, check out the chainstays, multiple mounts, tyre clearance etc. Have a look here.

Cannondale Super X SE is an adaption from a cyclocross race bike for the gravel, a fast bike indeed! Check it out here.

Checkpoint options?

Trek provides the Checkpoint in three models, the SL 6 for $4699 is the top-end carbon frame version with the fancy Shimano Ultegra, the SL 5 we have sells for $3699 with Shimano 105. The ALR 5 uses a is aluminium frame option for $2699.

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Trek Checkpoint SL 6 eTap review

Can this Checkpoint compete with pricier and racier models?

Russell Burton / Our Media

Notably comfortable ride; very versatile

Inelegant seat-clamp design; occasionally rattly

The Trek Checkpoint is one of the most versatile gravel bikes out there from a mainstream brand.

It bristles with mounts for all sorts of things – triple-boss bikepacking bags , mudguards , extra bottle cages, pannier racks and top-tube bento boxes are all invited to the accessory party.

This versatility, paired with the comfortable ride provided by plush tyres and Trek's compliance-boosting IsoSpeed technology, makes for a sensible option that will work well for many riders.

Trek Checkpoint SL 6 specs

The Checkpoint SL 6 sits in the middle of the new 2022 Trek Checkpoint SL range , updated with a refreshed geometry, clearance for 45mm tyres (on 700c wheels, or 2.1in tyres on 650b wheels) and the aforementioned mounting points.

The SL is the second-tier frame, made from Trek's 500 Series OCLV carbon fibre. The top-tier SLR frame gets upscale 700 Series OCLV carbon for reduced weight, plus a seatmast with integrated IsoSpeed decoupler, compared to the SL's conventional seatpost and seat tube-located IsoSpeed.

At 9.47kg for my size 56cm bike, the mid-range Checkpoint SL 6 is no heavyweight, though that definitely doesn't make it the lightest gravel bike out there.

However, when you consider it's built up with SRAM's rather weighty Rival AXS XPLR groupset in a 1x guise and chunky alloy gravel wheels , you’re not giving up much in terms of frame weight for a package that's more versatile than many of its contemporaries.

The finishing kit is all from in-house brand Bontrager, including the GR1 tyres.

For a little more, the Checkpoint SL 7 gets a SRAM Force groupset and Bontrager Aeolus wheels. Both upgrades together only drop a claimed 420g, but the 2x drivetrain will make this a better choice for most road riding.

If you can forgo electronic shifting, the Checkpoint's SL 5’s Shimano GRX components won’t leave you wanting. The rims are slightly narrower (21mm), but this will only matter if you run very wide tyres.

Trek Checkpoint SL 6 ride impressions

new trek gravel bike

The key feature of the Checkpoint family is Trek’s IsoSpeed decoupler system. On the Checkpoint SL, this splits the seat tube from the top tube, allowing it to flex around a pivot. This system helps take the sting out of bumps, particularly when seated. It's hard to quantify but, psychologically at least, the system helps reduce fatigue on rough climbs.

Trek dropped front IsoSpeed for this generation of the Checkpoint. Nonetheless, despite the fork’s chunky blades and very broad crown, square-edged hits to the front wheel aren't overly harsh.

The plump 700x40c Bontrager GR1 tyres mounted to the 25mm wide (internal) Bontrager Paradigm Comp wheelset also contribute as much to the comfortable ride as any carbon wizardry.

The tread consists of nine rows of tightly packed knobs that get larger towards the shoulder.

Like all tyres of this ilk, they don’t shed claggy mud very well, but have plenty of grip on drier surfaces when run at lower pressures. They also feel pretty good on the road.

Clearances for up to 2.1in tyres on 650b wheels or 45mm on 700c mean you can tackle wilder terrain.

new trek gravel bike

The pliant ride and geometry make for a confident, fun and calm partner on singletrack trails and for high-speed riding.

It’s definitely not a gravel bike that errs into pseudo mountain bike territory, but it's one of the better-behaved gravel bikes I've tested on gnarly trails.

A swap to gravel tyres with a more aggressive tread would also greatly improve control in rough terrain if that’s a key performance factor for you.

new trek gravel bike

The Bontrager Elite Gravel is one of the best gravel bike handlebars I have used – in my mind, it really is close to perfection. It has long drops that give ample space for your hands to move around without squashing them up into the hooks. The 75mm reach is also generous enough to allow your hands to move fore and aft when riding on the tops.

At 42cm wide on the size 54 and 56cm bikes, it's not excessively wide either. The squishy Bontrager P3 Verse Comp saddle will also be a crowd-pleaser.

new trek gravel bike

The Checkpoint is slightly noisier over rough ground than other gravel bikes I have tested.

The cable-routing system forces the cables to run close to the underside of the stem so, off road, the cables rattle against the stem.

It’s also a shame that the external seat clamp (hooray!) sits above a rather ungainly step from the wider-diameter tube down to the clamping surface. Functionally, it’s fine and it’s a small detail, but it detracts visually from the otherwise premium-looking frameset.

Trek Checkpoint SL 6 eTap geometry

Trek checkpoint sl 6 etap bottom line.

new trek gravel bike

The Checkpoint SL 6 presents decent value for money, with a well-thought-out build and a frameset that's notably versatile without looking too ungainly.

As has been proven before, IsoSpeed really does work as advertised.

That comfortable ride – in combination with the ability to run an array of accessories and carry enough water to quench the thirst of a flannel-wearing gravel army – sets the Checkpoint apart as a sensible option for bikepacking, adventurous riding and those interested in traditional long-distance gravel racing .

  • Buy the Trek Checkpoint SL 6 eTap direct from Trek

How we tested

We set out to test three of the latest gravel race bikes – a fast-developing sub-genre of machines aimed at covered varied ground quickly.

The Trek Checkpoint has been redesigned for 2022 as a versatile gravel bike capable of turning its hand to racing or multi-day riding.

The Specialized S-Works Crux, meanwhile, has been reimagined as a super-light gravel machine aimed at go-fast riding.

Finally, the Wilier Rave SLR arrives as the Italian firm's take on gravel, with road and off-road builds available.

Our testing involved skittering over the hardpacked Fosse Way in the Cotswolds, cruisy loops on local roads and getting bogged down in the mire of claggy mid-winter byways.

Bikes on test

  • Trek Checkpoint SL 6
  • Specialized S-Works Crux
  • Wilier Rave SLR Ekar

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​Trek's First True Gravel Bike, the Checkpoint, Is Impressive

The new bike's features and lower-cost versions make it a compelling multi-surface option

Trek Checkpoint SL6

What’s New for 2018? Checkpoint is a brand new line in the Trek family ; previously, its multi-surface road offerings were split between the Domane Disc , which has clearance for 35mm tires but is decidedly more a performance road bike in features and geometry, and the cyclocross-focused Boone and Crockett lines. The Checkpoint is a dedicated multi-surface bike, with more tire clearance than any bike in Trek’s drop-bar line, and a full range of mounts for racks, bags, fenders, and hydration.

Trek bike

The Checkpoint Family Includes Carbon and Aluminum Models There are four models in the Checkpoint line, three of which come in men’s and women’s options. The SL6 and SL5 feature OCLV 500 carbon frames; while the ALR5 and ALR4 models are aluminum. Women’s options differ only in saddle and handlebar touchpoints and paint; geometry and most parts are identical.

Trek bike

The two carbon models have an OCLV carbon frame with rubberized armor on the down tube and a rear IsoSpeed decoupler. The SL6 ($3,800) gets a full Shimano Ultegra drivetrain with RT800 hydraulic disc brakes and the new Shimano Freeza rotors. The SL5 ($2,800) has a Shimano 105 drivetrain and non-series hydraulic discs.

The aluminum models don't have the IsoSpeed decoupler or the top-tube bag mount. They do, however, have all of the other bottle, rack, and fender mounts. The ALR5 ($2,000) uses a Shimano 105 drivetrain and non-series hydraulic disc brakes, while the ALR4 ($1,700) is kitted with a Shimano Tiagra 10-speed drivetrain and hydraulic brakes. Both have carbon forks, but not the same version as the SL bikes.

All men’s models come in six sizes: 49, 52, 54, 56, 58, and 61cm. Women’s models come in 49, 52, 54, and 56cm. Both the ALR and SL platforms are also available as framesets.

Claimed weight on the Checkpoint SL bare frame is 1,240g; the ALR frame is said to weigh 1,570g (both in a 56cm). Claimed fork weights are 470g (SL) and 600g (ALR).

Generous Tire Clearance and the Option to Run It as a Singlespeed At first glance, the Checkpoint looks largely like a first-generation Domane or Boone, with a rear-only IsoSpeed decoupler on the carbon models for a little bit of comfort. Trek’s road brand manager, Michael Mayer, says that the company opted to not give the bike the front IsoSpeed coupler found on most current Domane and Boone models for two reasons: Doing so would have increased the price, and the company feels like the larger tires most riders will choose lessens its importance.

The Checkpoint can accept up to 700x45mm rubber. That’s thanks in part to the asymmetric chainstay design, which drops the driveside chainstay so that it can still clear the chainrings while preserving generous tire clearance. Unlike some other brands, Trek does not officially say that the Checkpoint is compatible with 650b wheels. It’s designed around a 700c wheel size.

The Stranglehold sliding dropouts are similar to those found on the company's Stache mountain bike and Crockett alloy cyclocross bike. They allow the rider to adjust wheelbase according to tire size and riding preferences, and offer the option to run the bike as a singlespeed.

Trek bike

Trek didn’t hold back with mount options. Every bike in the line gets up to four bottle-cage mounts: three inside the main triangle (with a high/low option for the down tube) and one underneath the down tube. (Smaller sizes have only two mounts inside the main triangle.) There’s a top-tube mount for a frame bag, and full front and rear rack and fender eyelets. Trek uses 12x142mm and 12x100mm thru-axle wheel attachments and flat-mount disc brakes; cable routing is internal on the carbon bikes and partly internal on the aluminum models. While 1x drivetrains are increasingly popular, Trek opted for double chainrings on all models (all drivetrains are Shimano). Every bike has hydraulic disc brakes, tubeless-ready or tubeless-compatible rims, and comes with the same Schwalbe G-One multi-surface tire in a 35mm width.

The Checkpoint is most similar to Trek’s Boone. But the Boone is focused on racing cyclocross, so there are several important differences. In addition to greater tire clearance, the Checkpoint has a slightly taller stack for a more upright rider position, and a lower bottom bracket.

Trek bike

The Stranglehold dropouts offer some adjustment for overall wheelbase, which allows you to shorten the wheelbase with narrower tires; shorter will mean more responsive handling, while longer offers more clearance for wider tires and a more stable feel.

How It Rides We’ve had limited time on the Checkpoint, but initial impressions are positive. The SL6 model in for testing is no featherweight, but is competitive with other multi-surface bikes that have similar features and parts kits. Trek has long excelled at carbon construction, and the frame doesn’t betray any flexiness under power. With the stock 35mm Schwalbe G-One tires, grip and comfort are excellent on a variety of surfaces; descending on pavement feels a little slow, and the pebble tread isn’t as confident in aggressive cornering on pavement as a design like the Donnelly (née Clement) Strada USH, but that’s not what this bike is really designed for.

Trek bike

On two initial shakeout rides, I piloted the Checkpoint over a variety of surfaces ranging from paved climbs and descents to hardpack dirt to loose, sandy loam and even packed snow with icy ruts. The Checkpoint proved confident and capable in all conditions, and I’m looking forward to getting more time on it.

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Joe Lindsey is a longtime freelance journalist who writes about sports and outdoors, health and fitness, and science and tech, especially where the three elements in that Venn diagram overlap.

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Best gravel bikes 2024: our pick of the top models

The best gravel bikes to suit all styles, terrain and budgets from bikepacking to gravel racing

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Male cyclist riding the Giant Revolt which is one of the best gravel bikes

The Quick List

  • 1. Best for adventure
  • 2. Best for versatility
  • 3. Best value
  • PERFORMANCE
  • 1. Best overall
  • 2. Best for bikepacking
  • 3. Best for racing

Gravel bikes: all you need to know

Gravel bike and adventure bike components, how we test.

Stefan Abram

Best Gravel Bikes 2023: Jump Menu

The list in brief ↴

Best value 1. Best for adventure 2. Best for versatility 3. Best value

High-performance 1. Best overall 2. Best for bikepacking 3. Best for racing

Advice How to choose a bike Gravel bike components How we test

What is the best gravel bike? This deceptively simple question is almost impossible to answer as the gravel bike genre now covers so many different facets and sub-genres that what is best for you and your riding might be totally unsuitable for the next rider. We rode lots of bikes in our gravel bike of the year test, and some of them feature again here, including the overall winner, the Giant Revolt Advanced Pro.

In this article, we have bikes that are out-and-out gravel racers along with bikes that will make perfect bikepacking companions, all tempered with some more all-round options. There are premium bikes that cost more than $10,000 / £10,000 and some of the best budget gravel bikes too, so there should be something of interest for everyone.

What to look for in a good gravel bike is covered towards the bottom of the article with advice about fit, frame material and other features to look out for. 

You can trust Cycling Weekly. Our team of experts put in hard miles testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

Best for adventure

The plethora of luggage mounts and the relaxed geometry found on the Specialized Diverge E5 will appeal to long-distance gravel riders. The Future Shock front end adds further comfort and provides effective isolation from trail chatter although some might find the ride a little too upright.

Read more here

Most versatile

The racy-looking Vitus Venon Evo-GR proved itself to be a rapid and enjoyable bike to ride. It's very light despite the aero wheels and would make a fine road bike too, but it does lack many of the mounts and bosses typically found on off-road machines.

Most for your money

Available with either 700c or 650b wheels, the Ribble Gravel AL Sport makes an excellent bike for tougher trails. The slack head tube angle coupled with long, low geometry gives it plenty of stability and capability off-road whilst the relatively basic GRX 400 groupset performed very well.

High-performance

Best overall

Gravel Bike of the Year 2023, the Revolt has proved itself a highly capable choice. A flexy seat post and comfortable carbon frame ensure plenty of vibration damping and the 2-position rear dropout allows for the geometry to be fine-tuned to suit terrain or rider. 

Best for bikepacking

Well specced for multi-day epics, the Checkpoint SL7 features plenty of luggage mounts and even has a space in the frame for spares. Trek's IsoSpeed decoupler allows the seat tube to flex for extra comfort on big days off-road and the long wheelbase ensures predictable handling.

Best for racing

The Kaius from BMC is unashamedly racy, with an aero frame and low riding position. Mounting points are limited, but there is clearance for 44mm tires and the short wheelbase keeps the handling suitably quick and engaging.

Best value gravel bikes 2023: Our picks

The Diverge is a do-it-all machine that can handle on and off road adventures

1. Specialized Diverge Comp E5

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

If your riding leans towards the more adventurous end of the spectrum, exploring new trails, all-day epics and occasional multi-day bikepacking trips, then the Specialized Diverge Comp E5 is well suited to you.

It comes with a relaxed geometry and a high front end for a more comfortable riding position - with the caveat that we found it a little more difficult to weight the front tire sufficiently when really pinning the corners. 

There's a full complement of mounts, with pairs under the down tube and on top of the top tube, as well as triple bosses on the fork legs. Full fenders and a pannier rack are also catered for if you prefer a more traditional luggage-carrying and splash-defending setup.

However, the most significant feature of the Diverge Comp E5 is the Future Shock 1.5, which is usually only found on carbon models. This does a good job of damping out some of the trail chatter and high-frequency bumps, but we found that it's not sufficient to replace front suspension, if you were considering this as an alternative.

Read more: Specialized Diverge Comp Carbon full review

The Vitus Venon Evo Force AXS is light and versatile

2. Vitus Venon Evo-GR Force AXS

The Vitus Venon Evo combines a fast gravel bike and an endurance road bike in one all-road package, with Vitus selling GR specs geared towards gravel and RS specs for road use. We found the riding position is a good compromise between upright and aggressive.

This Force AXS XPLR 1x build is gravelly, with 40mm wide Michelin Power Gravel tires mounted on Prime Primavera 44 carbon wheels and clearance for 45mm if wanted. Even so, the bike weighed just 7.9kg, making for lively progress even on trickier off-road terrain. Swap in 28mm tires and you're good for endurance road rides too.

You do miss out on some of the mounting points typically found on the best gravel bikes, although no more so than on many gravel race bikes, and the aero front end and fast ride certainly make the Vitus Venon Evo a good option for competitive riding.

Read more: Vitus Venon Evo-GR Force AXS full review

Ribble's Gravel AL Sport comes equipped with a reliable Shimano GRX drivechain

3. Ribble Gravel AL Sport

The Ribble Gravel AL Sport has 47mm tires on 650b wheels, although you can also spec 700c wheels. The 650b option makes it a highly capable go-anywhere option that doesn't break the bank. 

The alloy frame is long and low, with a slack headtube. longish reach and short stem. There are loads of mounting points, although oddly not those needed for a rack. The 2x10-speed Shimano GRX 400 build is the bottom of the range, but still offers excellent performance and ratios down to 30x34t to tackle the rough stuff. 

Although not light, we discovered that the bike still felt quick and that it coped well with both degraded tarmac and rough tracks, although the grip tended to wane when we ventured on to muddier passages. 

Read more: Ribble Gravel AL Sport full review

Best performance gravel bikes 2023: Our picks

Best overall gravel bike.

Giant Revolt won the Gravel Bike of the Year award 2023

1. Giant Revolt

The Giant Revolt won our Gravel Bike of the Year title in 2023. It's a gravel bike that covers the broad spectrum of gravel riding really well. Its saddle comfort is augmented by a D-shaped seatpost with a claimed 12mm of flex, but it fits in a standard 30.9mm round seat tube, so you can fit a dropper if you ride more technical terrain.

The rear dropouts feature two-position adjustable geometry, which lets you choose between a more agile ride for racing or wider clearance with increased stability. You also have mounting points for bikepacking kit, including on the fork legs. 

The frame soaks up bumps well too, both front and rear, although we'd have preferred a shorter head tube for more versatility in the bike's set-up.

We were impressed with the value offered as well, with the spec tested including Shimano GRX RX815 Di2 electronic shifting and Giant carbon wheels.

Read more: Giant Revolt Advanced Pro 0 gravel bike full review

Trek's Checkpoint SL7 is ideal for long rides and bikepacking

2. Trek Checkpoint SL7

The Checkpoint majors on mounts, including on the fork legs, as well as storage in Trek's down tube cubbyhole for tools and a tube. The frame allows you to fit 2.1" 650bs and the IsoSpeed seat tube decoupler provides added comfort when in the saddle.

We thought that the Checkpoint's long wheelbase and high fork trail provided great stability for longer rides, without going overboard. It's still quick enough though, despite its carrying capacity, and remained good to ride whether fully laden for bikepacking or stripped down for a shorter blast.

Our long-term test concluded that the Checkpoint is best suited for crushing long-distance rides with its reassuring handling, comfy ride characteristics and considered componentry.

Read more: Trek Checkpoint SL 7 gravel bike full review

Best for gravel racing

BMC Kaius 01 gravel is perfect for racing

3. BMC Kaius

At the other end of the gravel spectrum from the Trek Checkpoint, the BMC Kaius is an out-and-out gravel race bike, with a low ride position and aero frame that borrows from the BMC Teammachine road race bike. 

The ride feels similar to BMC's road bikes as well and you get a pared-down road bike-style set of mounting points that doesn't even include fender / mudguard bosses. There is room for 44mm tires though, which might help mitigate the lack of comfort in the stiff, race-tuned frame.

When we tested it we enjoyed the novel combination of a short wheelbase and low bottom bracket, which gave the bike snappy, precise handling and prodigious speed.

This lower-spec model is more affordable than the top level of the BMC Kaius, but is still more expensive than the highest spec available for the Giant Revolt though.

Read our review of the BMC Kaius in our Gravel Bike of the Year coverage.

The Scott Addict 10 Gravel bike offers good value and great performance

4. Scott Addict Gravel 10

The Addict Gravel is designed for speed rather than off-road load-lugging, but still with a longer wheelbase and higher stack than other gravel race bikes like the BMC Kaius. This results in a well-balanced ride that's as good for fast, technical riding as it is for multi-day bikepacking, despite the absence of fork leg mounts.

We loved Scott's paint job on the Addict Gravel and the bike is good value, with the lower spec SRAM Rival AXS-equipped bike as reasonably priced as bikes from brands that are normally more value-oriented than Scott.

Read our review of the Scott Addict Gravel 10 in our Gravel Bike of the Year coverage.

The Topstone features Cannondale's Kingpin suspension system

5. Cannondale Topstone Carbon 3

The Cannondale Topstone Carbon has a geometry that, on paper, looks aggressive, but is more forgiving than you'd expect. It also includes Cannondale's now-simplified and lower-weight Kingpin rear suspension. This provides 30mm of travel from a pivotless design which improves rear-end traction over rougher ground, although it doesn't aid front-end comfort. For that, you'll need the  Topstone Carbon Lefty  with its suspension fork. 

There's the option to spec Cannondale's Smart Sense lighting system, with its rearview radar. Cannondale's prices are competitive too, despite the high-tech frame features.

Our test of the Topstone 3 concluded that it is “a sublime blend of exuberance, speed and comfort” that gives a poised and playful ride, but it is also perfectly at home carrying overnight gear on multi-day epics thanks to multiple mounting points.

Read more: Cannondale Topstone Carbon 3 full review 

The Crux is lightweight, stripped back and ready to race

6. Specialized Crux Pro

More reasonably priced than the S-Works Crux , the Crux Pro is still very light and has the same responsive geometry as the top-spec bike. That results in lightning-fast acceleration, although the 38mm tires result in a jittery ride over rougher surfaces.

You could plump things up to 2.1" 650b rubber though, which should help add a touch more comfort and extra traction whilst the round seatpost allows you to fit a dropper or suspension seatpost.

We reckon that the Crux fits the bill for riders who want agile performance on gravel, but with the ability to put down the power for outright speed. 

Read more : Specialized Crux Pro full review

What are gravel bikes?

Gravel bikes are drop-bar bikes that allow you to veer off paved roads and onto more exciting terrain.

From racing to bikepacking, there'll be a best gravel bike for you, built ready to cope with the demands of tricky terrain and longer, multi-day off-road rides.  

As with all bikes, it's vital that you get the best bike to fit you, and it doesn't need to be gender specified. But if you are after a women's specific model, which often includes smaller sizes and different touchpoints like a wider saddle and narrower bars, you might want to check out our best women's gravel bikes for off-road adventures page. 

If you're juggling a tighter budget, but still want the best, our page dedicated to the best budget gravel bikes: gravel bikes under £1,000/$1500 is ideal for getting the best value for money adventures on two wheels. 

Born with the spirit of adventure, the best gravel bikes sit somewhere between the best endurance and sportive bikes and the best cyclocross bikes , with a blend of the best hardtail mountain bikes thrown in. They're nimble on paved sections of road compared to fat-tired MTB steeds, but more confidence-inspiring when it comes to tackling rough surfaces when compared to their slick-tired road-going siblings. 

These bikes are ideal for mixed-terrain adventures; gravel paths, broken tarmac, fire roads, and of course unpaved dirt tracks. Taking cues from their cyclocross cousins and MTB siblings, don't let the drop bars fool you, these bikes can tackle some pretty technical terrain, including flowy mountain bike trails.

This crossover discipline can add a slight confusion in the cycling gear department too, i.e. to Lycra or not to Lycra. Thankfully our guide on the best gravel bike clothing: cycling kit for your gravel ride should sort out any kit quandries.  

The best gravel bikes will come with wide tires, with room for extra mud clearance, and disc brakes as standard. Expect anything up to 47c or more on either 700c or 650b wheels.

Mounts for pannier racks and extra storage will often feature on the best gravel bikes, as will the option for fitting fender / mudguards. In fact, that's probably the biggest difference between gravel and cyclocross bikes, along with bottle cage mounts.

Are gravel bikes any good on the road?

Compared to road bikes, you'll also find wider and lower gear ratios on the best gravel bikes, which will help you ride over loose or hilly terrain especially when carrying bikepacking bags if you're gearing up for multi-day expeditions.

In general, the best gravel bikes will also have a lower bottom bracket than a cyclocross bike, helping to provide enhanced stability on rocky, rooty and rough terrain.  For more details on exactly what the differences are, you might find our gravel vs cyclocross bikes: what is the difference page really helpful. 

For those wanting to head off the beaten track, but worried about keeping up, you might want to consider an electric version. Electric gravel bikes give you all-terrain capability and confidence-inspiring stability, but with some additional assistance.

Why are gravel and adventure bikes so popular?

If you’ve ever gone out on a ride on your best road bike and noticed unpaved roads, fire trails or alluring singletrack as you passed, wondering where they lead but hesitating to head off the tarmac, then a gravel bike or adventure road bike may be for you.

These bikes aim to meld on-road efficiency with off-road capability, so you'll find overlaps in design features with both road and cyclocross bikes, as well as incorporating elements from mountain bike technology. When you're shopping for your first gravel bike , as standard you should expect disc brakes and clearance for wider tires.

Whereas cyclocross bikes are designed with short, muddy races in mind, gravel and adventure bikes take longer unpaved rides into account. You'll still find race-orientated builds in the gravel category for gravel racing, alongside adventure bikes that feature additional clearance and mounts to accommodate luggage and often even wider tires for more remote journeys.

Does the frame and fork material matter on a gravel bike?

As with road bikes, gravel bikes can be made from carbon, aluminum, titanium or steel.

Carbon and aluminum are the two most commonly used frame materials, and all the bikes in this guide are made from one or other of these two options. Carbon tends to be more expensive and lighter whilst aluminum frames are heavier but cheaper. This means that for a similar price, you can expect better components on an aluminum-framed bike than on one with a carbon frame so you might have to decide where your priorities lie when choosing between the two.

The big advantage of using carbon as a frame material is that it can be added exactly where it is needed for strength and stiffness or removed where it is not needed to lower weight and fine-tune compliance. 

Titanium gravel bikes are less widely available, with aficionados often describing the ride quality as being more ‘lively’ than carbon or aluminum whilst also offering low weight and high strength among its qualities.

High-end steel frames offer an almost titanium-like ride, albeit with a bit of a weight penalty whilst at the lower end some manufacturers offer steel bikes as a potentially more durable and repairable option to aluminum.

Regardless of frame material, most gravel bikes have carbon forks as the carbon layup can be tuned to provide some degree of protection against trail vibrations which is important at the front end of an off-road bike.

How does gravel bike geometry differ from road bikes?

Stability and handling are key when it comes to riding off-road. Expect to see a lengthened wheelbase, slack headtube angle and lower bottom bracket compared to road bikes, all of which aid with technical terrain and steeper descents.

The rider position is typically more upright than on road bikes, both for comfort over long rides and to allow the rider to move their weight around more easily when negotiating off-road obstacles.

12mm thru-axle and hydraulic discs on a gravel bike

Do gravel bikes have other specialized features?

Thru-axles and disc brakes have quickly become standard on gravel (and many road) bikes, technologies borrowed from mountain biking. You can also find front and rear suspension, although these aren't commonplace yet.

The norm is 12mm thru-axles, which make for easier disc brake alignment and rigidity. Rear-axle spacing for disc brake wheels is typically 142mm (thru-axle), or occasionally 148mm Boost spacing for stronger wheelsets.

More adventure or utility-centric frames will come with mounts for racks and fenders so that the bike can be used as a sturdy commuter or year-round road bike. At the most extreme end of the adventure bike market, fork leg mounts and extra frame mounts are becoming increasingly common for even more luggage carrying options.

There is a wide range of specialist gravel bike components which add extra features for gravel rides that are different from those you'd find on road bikes. Below are a few things to consider when looking for the best gravel bike for your needs.

What are the best tires for gravel and adventure bikes?

You can find adventure road and gravel bikes shod with tires of pretty much any width between a 28c and 47c, plus tires measured in inches on 650b wheel builds! 

The best gravel bike tires can dramatically improve your ride. There's a real range of tread patterns available, which can add extra grip for muddy conditions or lower rolling resistance if you're mixing in more tarmac and cater for everything in between.

We think changing your tires is one of the best gravel bike upgrades you can make. Going tubeless is also a great option to improve comfort and reliability.

In the UK, you're likely to come across patches of wet mud or loose dirt year-round, so a more aggressive tread can be useful in those situations to help you maintain grip, albeit at the expense of on-road speed. 

But in the US, gravel roads can range from well-graded packed dirt that almost resembles tarmac, to the crushed and graded limestone you find in the Flint Hills of Kansas. 

Finding the right tires for your riding terrain may take some experimentation, and don't be afraid to try something with more or less tread than you're used to. You might also want to change your tires between summer and winter to get the best width and tread pattern for the conditions.

Most gravel and adventure bikes are specced with tubeless or tubeless-ready tires and rims, ready for conversion to a tubeless set-up . Rather than having to replace an inner tube every time you flat, the sealant in the system will (in theory) plug any punctures from sharp objects like thorns, which is a real advantage when it comes to riding off-road. 

You may need to re-inflate the tire a little if you have a puncture. Tubeless tire plugs can get you riding quickly, but make sure you're equipped with a spare tube and full tubeless repair kit for more serious tire damage.

What are the best gearing options for gravel and adventure bikes?

Adventure road bikes and gravel bikes are designed to be ridden on the road as well as off, so you'll typically find a wide gear range to allow both efficiency and speed on the road, as well as enough gears to cope with loose and steep terrain off-road. 

The choice between a double or single chainring up front is usually down to rider preference. A 1x (one-by) set-up gives ultimate simplicity and can allow for greater tire clearance, but sometimes at the cost of wider jumps between ratios, although the latest 12 and 13-speed groupsets go some way to avoiding this. 

Double chainrings offer more options for riders who prefer to spend more time on smoother terrain or on the road and may give you a greater overall range with smaller jumps between ratios.

A 1X drivetrain keeps it simple and can allow for greater rear tire clearance

Gravel bikes often feature a drivetrain that goes below 1:1 for off-road climbing and load carrying. That might be via a 1x set-up like SRAM XPLR with a cassette that goes to 42 teeth or greater or a two-ring supercompact chainset with 48/32 or 46/30 chainrings paired with an 11-32 or 11-34 cassette. You'll even find "mullet builds" that mix a road chainset with an MTB cassette and rear derailleur for ultra-low gearing, as low as 38x52t.

Read our guide to gravel bike gearing for more.

What pedals are best suited to gravel and adventure bikes?

Pedal choice is a matter of personal taste and will be dependent on your riding style, but check out our guide to the best gravel bike pedals for advice. If you ride predominantly on roads and well-maintained paths where you rarely need to put a foot down, then road cycling shoes , clipless pedals and cleats may be a good choice.

On the other hand, more demanding off-road riding may mean that you need to dismount and walk with the bike or put a foot down for stability. In this case, gravel bike shoes and two-sided gravel bike pedals with grippy treaded soles and recessed cleats derived from mountain bike systems may be a better choice for their ease of walking and easier foot engagement with the pedal. 

Mountain bike style pedals make walking, mounting and dismounting easier

What components should I expect to find on the best gravel bikes?

Adventure and gravel bikes use disc brakes for their better modulation and more consistent stopping in dry, wet and muddy conditions. This also has a really positive impact on wheel rim longevity compared to rim brakes for off-road riding.

On higher-value models, the brakes will be hydraulic, while budget bikes typically have mechanical callipers. With Shimano's GRX and SRAM's gravel-specific groupsets available with hydraulic discs only, this tends to be the preference. You'll occasionally find mechanical disc brakes on adventure bike builds, where long-distance riders find them easier to maintain and repair in more remote situations.

Different types of handlebars are also worth considering on adventure bikes. Again, we've got a guide to the best gravel bike handlebars for more info.

Flared bars are generally accepted as a good upgrade to give greater stability in the wider drops for rough terrain and descending off-road. The wider the flare, the easier it is to fit a handlebar bag on the front of the bike and still be able to fit your hands on the drops and brakes at the same time. Raised bars such as the Specialized Hover Bar also help to give more clearance over the front wheel for smaller riders, as well as providing a more upright riding position.

With a lack of innovation-quashing UCI rules in the gravel sector, more ambitious designs are being tested, like the radical double-decker bar on the Canyon Grail , designed to add additional compliance to the ride.

Canyon's double-decker handlebar certainly divides opinion

Short travel suspension forks like the RockShox Rudy Ultimate XPLR and the Cannondale Lefty Oliver are also an option that is sneaking into gravel bike design.

We have a dedicated team of testers here at  Cycling Weekly , whose job is to review a whole range of cycling products and to write objective reviews of their experience of using them day in, day out in a whole range of conditions.

With huge experience, they're well-placed to compare products, identify their strengths and weaknesses and bring you an honest, unbiased assessment of how they perform.

Testing gravel bikes calls for the logging of plenty of miles - and our testers do just that. Depending on the bike, routes range from technical mountain bike-style trails to multi-day bikepacking adventures and plenty in between. We also make sure that we test the bikes on paved roads, given that many riders will use gravel bikes for commuting and winter riding and many gravel rides will involve some tarmac as well.

While out riding we asses the bikes across a range of factors, including comfort and handling, suitability for a variety of gravel terrain and bikepacking, as well as the quality and durability of components and the bike's overall value for money.

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After winning the 2019 National Single-Speed Cross-Country Mountain Biking Championships and claiming the plushie unicorn (true story), Stefan swapped the flat-bars for drop-bars and has never looked back. 

Since then, he’s earnt his 2ⁿᵈ cat racing licence in his first season racing as a third , completed the South Downs Double in under 20 hours and Everested in under 12 .

But his favourite rides are multiday bikepacking trips, with all the huge amount of cycling tech and long days spent exploring new roads and trails - as well as histories and cultures. Most recently, he’s spent two weeks riding from Budapest into the mountains of Slovakia . 

Height: 177cm

Weight: 67–69kg

The Briton has finished eighth and ninth at the Giro d'Italia since his Vuelta podium

By Chris Marshall-Bell Published 23 March 24

Fitness gadgets use very emotive language, but should we be allowing them to press our buttons? Dr Josephine Perry investigates

By Josephine Perry Published 23 March 24

Best gravel bike shoes and cyclocross shoes for riding and running off-road

By Hannah Bussey Last updated 16 November 23

When it comes to gravel bike riding, tires are all important. Here's our pick of the best gravel tires on the market to suit different terrain, conditions, frame clearances and budgets.

By Katherine Moore Last updated 16 November 23

Looking for the best budget gravel bikes? Here's our pick of lower priced options

By Katherine Moore Last updated 11 July 23

The best handlebars for gravel riding might look similar to road handlebars, but there are some subtle differences that will help elevate your gravel riding. Here are some of the best options.

By Katherine Moore Last updated 7 February 24

Could electric gravel bikes be the best and most versatile e-bikes on the market?

By Katherine Moore Last updated 19 April 23

What are the best wheels for your gravel or adventure bike? We round up the best options for you.

By Katherine Moore Published 15 June 22

From quick and easy wins to significant component changes, here's our pick of the best gravel bike upgrades you can make

By Katherine Moore Last updated 12 June 23

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  • Personal Mobility

Best Electric Bike for 2024

We've got e-bike picks for almost any budget, plus answers to your electric bike questions.

new trek gravel bike

Electric commuter bikes weren't always as common as they are today. But the ability to zoom around the city without tiring yourself out has made these eco-friendly modes of transport incredibly popular. Plus, if you're in school , an e-bike is perfect for getting around campus without breaking a sweat. But which is the best electric bike option for you?

The market for electric rideables is straight-up booming and, as a result, we've had to divide our recommendations into two different categories: the best electric bikes, which you'll find below, and the  best electric scooters and skateboards . Most of the rideables were tested on a commute through sections of midtown Manhattan, bike paths  around Central Park  or on the  West Side Highway bike path . Note, these all fall into the category of "commuter bike," and we don't recommend trying to traverse rough terrain on one of these babies. 

If you do get into rideables and electric commuter bikes, be sure to be safe by keeping several guidelines in mind. Keep your battery charged and make it a habit to check your tires often. Leave enough space between yourself and both cars and riders on plain old human-powered bikes and scooters. Ride and pass with caution, because an electric bicycle will go faster than a traditional bike or scooter. Most importantly, wear a helmet every time you ride. 

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Woom Up 5 and 6

Young cyclists can ride longer and farther.

In June, Woom launched its first e-bike for kids/teens in the US. The Woom Up  e-bike has a unique design meant only for children and is powered by a 250-watt  Fazua  drive system combined with an SRAM NX 11-gear drivetrain, adjustable air suspension fork and hydraulic disc brakes. Some hills or distances can be intimidating at times and having that electric boost when needed makes getting out and about stress-free. The Woom Up has three levels of pedal-assist up to 12 mph, to make those long rides with our kids painless and with fewer complaints. There is even a non-assist mode for times they want to do it on their own. 

Woom currently offers two models: The Up 5 is $3,599 (£2,645, AU$4,790) with 24-inch wheels designed for 7 to 11-year-olds who are 50-57-inches tall, and the Woom Up 6 at $3,749 ( £3,665, AU$4,985) equipped with 26-inch wheels built for kids 10 to 14 years old who are 55-65-inches tall. The Up 5 weighs just under 36 pounds while the Up 6 is 37 pounds. 

For those not familiar with the Fazua system, it's a lightweight and compact battery-and-motor combo that can be easily removed, shaving off 7.3 pounds and leaving you with a high-end traditional bicycle. The battery can be charged on or off the bicycle. The Fazua Rider app lets you view bike data such as speed, mileage, battery charge, navigation, motor power and more. Riders can adjust bicycle assistance levels on the fly by using the touch sensor toward the front of the frame, with each level of assistance indicated by illuminating in different colors. 

The frame is made from lightweight, high-quality 6061 T6 aluminum with butted and hydroformed tubes. The fork has a hydraulic air suspension, adjustable compression and rebound damping, plus lock-out. The brakes are Promax hydraulic disc brakes and children's hand-sized ergonomic brake levers.

I tested, or should I say my daughter tested the Up 5 and it was a simple and quick assembly process with some minor adjusting for my daughter's comfort, and the tools were included. Instructions for assembly along with instructions for use are included and are also available on the company's website. 

My daughter really enjoyed the ride, and there was little motor resistance that you might find on some other e-bikes. The tires were great for going on- and off-road along with the front suspension. Both bikes support up to 160 pounds, but I took the Up 5 for a quick spin to confirm her feedback. The bike handled great and didn't make any creaking noises when I hopped on and off. The seat was comfortable even for my larger frame, but again it's ergonomically designed to fit children. 

The battery performance will vary depending on the rider's size, terrain and assistance level, but I only had to charge it once after she used it on and off for a week. The price tag might be intimidating given how fast kids grow. But the resale value is good, along with the quality of the product. 

new trek gravel bike

Niner RLT e9 RDO Gravel Bike

E-bike that breaks barriers.

There's always been a divide between e-bike riders and hard-core cyclists because the latter think the former are cheating. I use e-bikes and scooters to run errands and commute to and from work. It's not about exercise as much as it is trying to get from one point to another in a timely fashion and not show up all sweaty. However, if you're somewhere in between and don't have space for multiple bikes, the Niner RLT e9 RD0 is the only bike you'll need. 

Of those I've tested, the Niner is the easiest to ride like a traditional bicycle. It's relatively light for an e-bike at only 40 pounds with its battery and 34 pounds without. It's powered by a Bosch Line CX Gen 4 motor that can assist you in pedaling up to 28 mph. The battery, which is nicely hidden in the frame but still removable, takes approximately 6 hours to fully charge and will last you about 75 miles depending on your riding style.

The frame is composed of Niner's highest-quality Race Day Optimized carbon fiber. The model I received shipped with 700c wheels, but the e9 can also support 650b wheels. The bike is complemented with an assortment of high-end parts, a gorgeous finish that lives up to its name -- electric moss green -- and a credo on the top of the frame that says "Pedal Dammit." The bike handles like a dream and is effortless to ride with or without assistance due to the Bosch motor's lag-free resistance.

The Shimano SLX M7000 11-42T cassette provides 11 speeds while the Bosch mid-drive motor gets you four levels of assistance -- Eco, Tour, Sport and Turbo -- which allowed me to easily reach speeds of up to 35 mph. It ships with Schwalbe G-One Speed Performance 700X50C tires and some beautifully designed Shimano RT-EM810 180MM Centerlock hydraulic disc brakes. The custom Niner seat is fairly comfortable, but it ships without pedals. Lastly, it has a display that's easy to see in direct sunlight and shows the assist mode along with traveling speed, battery level and other info.

I've covered micromobility products at all prices and I can assure you that the $5,995 is worth it. I can't tell you how much I enjoyed riding this bike. Considering how light the bike is, you may only use the pedal assistance on hills, which is what I mostly did. And the fact that at first glance you can barely tell it's an e-bike is a testament to how well it's designed.

Check out Niner Bikes' NEW RLT e9 RDO Introduction video .

new trek gravel bike

Priority Current e-bike

Quality that exceeds its price.

The $3,299  Priority Current  is a great e-bike that performs like and resembles a normal bike. It can be used with its 500-watt mid-drive torque-sensing motor on or completely turned off. There are a lot of e-bikes out there that are pretty much useless or unbearable to ride if not providing some level of assistance. That is not the case with the Current: You don't experience dead weight or motor resistance -- a common issue with a lot of other hub-motor e-bikes. 

The Current uses a proprietary mid-drive motor that allows riders to take full advantage of the  Envolio  NuVinci gearing system and the  Gates Carbon Drive CDX  to make for a smooth ride, and requires minimum upkeep. With a mid-drive motor and rear gearing, both the rider and the bike's motor need to do less work when shifting, and changing gears even on an incline is effortless and silent. If you've never tried an Envolio system I strongly recommend hitting up a local bike shop and seeing if it has any Envolio-equpped bikes for a test ride. 

When it comes time to stop, the Current has Tektro dual-piston hydraulic disc brakes. The cables are run internally through the frame for a clean look and where the cables exit the frame there's a protective wrap around them to prevent any damage to the housing.

The 500wh 48v battery is integrated into the frame and can be charged on or off the bike within 5 or 6 hours. The Current ships as a Class 1 e-bike, which means you get motorized pedal assist up to 20 mph. It can easily be changed to a Class 3 (28-mph pedal assistance) from the bicycle's console, however. Depending on the pedal assist mode you use, it can travel about 30 to 60 miles on a full charge. The 4-inch display console is a nice size that can be seen in direct sunlight as well as at night. The display shows battery level and current speed along with assist level, and this pedal assist bike also has a USB port to charge mobile devices. 

The 6061 aluminum step-through frame design is ideal regardless of gender, so getting on and off the bike is a hassle-free experience. Its handlebars are wide with ergonomic grips and a height-adjustable stem to get that perfect comfort level. The overall bike weight is approximately 45 pounds. 

Front and rear fenders keep the dirt on the street and off your clothes, and automatic head and taillights are standard to brighten your darkest days. The bike even has a gel-filled seat for added comfort. Priority really thought of everything.

new trek gravel bike

Riese & Müller Load 60 Touring HS

Best of everything.

The Riese & Müller Load 60 Touring HS is a premium ride with premium features and a premium price: $8,669. I made a special trip to e-bike shop  Propel  in Brooklyn to test this bike, which is an excellent option for living in the city without a car. 

One of the first things I noticed when standing over the bike was how long the front cargo area is. Amazingly though, once I started moving, it handled so smoothly it was like riding a normal bike, even on some of the bumpiest side streets of Brooklyn. The Load 60 comes equipped with both front and rear suspension as well as a comfortable gel seat. 

A small but welcome feature is its rear-slanting seat tube. As you raise it for taller riders, the farther back it goes, providing better leg extension. It has a quick-release adjustable stem tube that can be moved backward, forward, up and down, making it easier to find a handlebar sweet spot if you need to share it with family and friends. It'll accommodate rider heights from 5 feet even to 6 feet, 5 inches, and its low-profile frame makes maneuvering sharp and responsive. 

The front cargo area can seat two small kids or one larger child and they can be secured in place with its five-point belts over a soft cushion seat. There is also a small storage space underneath the seat. For those not looking to transport kids, there is also a lockbox option great for messengering, carrying tools, groceries -- you name it. The cargo area can support up to 200 pounds, and the bike itself can support a total weight of 551 pounds; it weighs approximately 80.7 pounds on its own.

The model I tested had two Bosch PowerPack 500 Performance batteries, but the bike can run on a single battery. The batteries powered the bike's 250-watt motor to a top pedal-assisted speed of 28 mph. There's a Shimano SLX 11-speed, 11-46 cassette to help keep you moving, too. Travel distance is all going to depend on the level of assistance you use, along with the terrain and bike load. Charge time is about six to seven hours depending on battery level. I never totally deplete any micromobility battery because it's not healthy and usually the product's performance drops. 

There's a built-in display to show your current assist mode, battery level, speed and other info. There's also a mobile phone application that can provide you with this information along with some other features. 

The model I tested had a rear rack that can also be used for additional storage. I can not emphasize enough how smooth and comfortable the Load 60 rides. For a full list of specifications and customizations, check out  Riese & Müller . If you're in the New York City area, you can check it out at  Propel  in Brooklyn.

new trek gravel bike

Biktrix Juggernaut HD Duo

Will get you to the mountaintop.

Biktrix, a Canada-based e-bike manufacturer that's been around since 2014, launched its latest bike, the  Juggernaut HD Duo , on  Indiegogo  and absolutely crushed its $30,000 goal. The bike just recently started shipping to backers, but I got a chance to test out an early sample of the $3,399 Juggernaut HD Duo and it's definitely a fun ride.

The model I tested came with two 52-volt, 17.5-Ah batteries that add 20 pounds to the already heavy 83-pound bike, bringing its total weight to 103 pounds -- not great if you live in a walk-up. You can also get it with two 39-Ah batteries for greater travel distances between charges.

The two batteries are removable, with one integrated into the frame and the other resting on top of the downtube. Chargers are included for both and can be fully charged in about 6 to 8 hours with the batteries on or off the bike. The bike can draw power from both batteries or just the integrated one. The bike wires are neatly channeled through the frame with some padded wraps to protect the frame where they exit. 

The bike rides like a monster truck on its 26-inch wheels and I found its front suspension smoothed out the bumpy New York City streets. Front and rear fenders come standard and I can't wait for snow so I can test it out. For anyone near a beach, it can also run on sand. The off-road model I tested was uncapped, letting it reach up to 35 mph (56 kph); the street version would adhere to local regulations. 

I got the bike up to 32 mph -- not bad considering my size and lack of aerodynamics. My mood would determine the total distance I could travel. It's not a bicycle that needs charging every day but I happen to have a bit of a speed bug in me and that would cut the expected travel distance by 30% to 40%. The estimated travel distance is over 100 miles and that is possible, depending on the rider's weight, terrain and use of assistance and throttle. I personally like to pedal but love dialing up that assistance, especially since I ride with cars more than in the bike lane, especially when going fast. Most of the time I ride with the pedal assistance set at 2 or 3 and kick it up to 5 when cars start getting too close.

The Juggernaut HD Duo can support a max load of 380 pounds with a rear rack that can support 50 pounds. Sitting on it I felt powerful, from its sheer size and power and the sound the off-road tires made on the concrete. It's a mid-drive e-bike powered by a 1,000-watt  BBSHD   Bafang  motor with a 10-speed Shimano cassette.

The bike can be pedaled with or without assistance or powered solely with its motor using the thumb throttle. You get a choice of Eco or Sport modes and five levels of assistance. Shifting is definitely something the rider has to do on the Duo and it's almost like driving a stick shift minus the clutch. The Juggernaut is equipped with dual 180mm disc hydraulic brakes to slow you down fast, with a rear brake light that illuminates when braking whether the headlights are on or not.

The DPC-18 full-color display for the bike is approximately 4 inches and visible at any time of day. The display shows current speed, battery level, mode (Eco or Sport), assist level, time, trip odometer and total miles traveled. In addition, there's a USB-A port for charging mobile devices. 

Lastly, the Juggernaut HD Duo is available to order in four colors: blue, black, camo and reptilian.

See Biktrix's video of the Juggernaut HD Duo .

new trek gravel bike

Swagtron EB5 Pro

Best electric bike for small spaces and small budgets.

Great for a commuter with limited storage space. The  Swagtron EB5 Pro  is a folding pedal-assist bike with an electric motor that also has its own throttle (so you don't really have to pedal at all). With a full battery, it can travel up to 15 miles at a speed of 15 mph. This folding bike is a single speed, and you can turn all the powered features and pedal-assist mode off and use it like a regular bike. It weighs a solid 37 pounds and the seat supports riders of up to 264 pounds, but when the seat is folded down, this commuter bike is surprisingly small.

See our Swagtron EB5 Pro gallery .

new trek gravel bike

Fits and goes anywhere

The Charge XC is a clean-looking e-bike that's made to go anywhere -- dirt, gravel or on the road -- for $2,499. The XC doesn't have a throttle, but it does have three levels of assist (eco, normal and high) and I found the 250-watt mid-drive Shimano motor was just enough to tackle any hill. Its front shocks were great for getting around the bumpy New York streets. 

The motor was efficient enough with the Shimano E8035 integrated battery that I always had enough juice to get home. The bike has a travel distance of up to 50 miles depending on the assist level you're using and its charge time is approximately 7 hours. With no throttle and a pedal-assist that gets you up to 20 mph (32 kmh), the Charge XC is a  Class 1 e-bicycle . Along with pedal assist, the XC also has eight manual gears and dual 180mm hydraulic brakes that work in any weather and on any slope. And its puncture-resistant Goodyear knobby tires work well on- or off-road. 

The frame is made from aluminum, weighs 55 pounds (25 kilograms) and supports riders of up to 300 pounds (136 kilograms). The pedals fold and the handlebars rotate in line with the bike for easy storage. I have to say that was a standout feature for me, living in a typical small Manhattan apartment. This electric road bike currently comes in one color, charcoal, which I personally think is a great color for a city bike. You don't need a key to use it but it does have one for removing the integrated battery -- a welcome feature I've seen more and more on e-bikes. 

The bike's comfortable seat made the ride more enjoyable, and it also has front and rear fenders that'll keep you dry on wet roads, as well as a rainproof battery cover. The XC is equipped with both headlights and taillights along with a rack that can support up to 50 pounds (23 kilograms), making it great for a quick run to the market. 

Other nice touches include a display that's clean, low-key and easy to read with an option of white-on-black or black-on-white characters (the latter was easier to see in sunlight). The tire caps tell you when tire pressure is low so there's no more guessing, and you get a portable hand pump along with the tools needed to assemble the bike. The box it comes in is cleverly designed to hold the wheel to assist with the installation. 

I would recommend the Charge XC for anyone who enjoys riding and doesn't want too much assistance but wouldn't mind an extra boost from time to time.

new trek gravel bike

Rad Power Bikes RadRunner

Best electric bike for customization.

If it can be put on a bicycle, Rad Power Bikes probably offers it. With a slew of accessories, you can outfit one of the company's nine different electric bike models for cargo, kids or just riding through the mud. 

We got our hands on the RadRunner 1 electric bike with a rear bench and foot pegs. This particular configuration is great for a parent wanting to get out and run errands with their little ones on board the electric cargo bike. The 48-volt, 14-amp-hour battery powers a 750-watt motor that can pedal-assist or throttle the RadRunner up to 20 mph. With four levels of assistance, riders can increase or decrease it to help conserve battery, if necessary, or make it up steep hills.

The step-through frame makes it easy to mount and dismount, even with a passenger or packages on the rear of the bike. The RadRunner is rated to support up to 300 pounds. I can assure you it does that, as my passengers and I pushed past the weight limit without any problems.

Read our RadRunner 1 hands-on .

new trek gravel bike

Bunch Bike Original 2020 Edition

Best cargo e-bike for hauling a lot of stuff (or kids).

The $4,999  Bunch Bike Original 2020 Edition  can definitely replace a car, especially here in New York City. You'll just need an adequate parking space if you don't have a garage. The bike design reminds me of an old ice cream vendor's tricycle from back in the day, with a cooler at the front of the bike. 

The Bunch Bike, while not huge, will require some storage space. Its size, or at least its storage capacity, is its advantage, though, and was immediately put to use by my entire family. This cargo bike can seat up to four children and has seat belts to keep them safe and secure. Under the benches, there is additional storage space that can be locked. The bicycle has a rear-wheel key lock that prevents anyone from rolling the bike away while you're running errands. 

We used the bike for Costco runs, trips to our storage locker and to take George, our cat, to the vet in his carrier. For these types of trips with other cargo bikes, we also had to use our backpacks, but not with the Bunch bike; everything fit in the cargo box easily, and it was a cinch riding back and forth. 

The bike is powered by a 500-watt brushless hub motor paired with an eight-speed Shimano cassette. Its battery can be charged on or off the frame and takes about six to seven hours to top off. The bike is easy to ride even with assistance off and doesn't have the motor drag I've experienced with some e-bikes with hub motors. Also, the beauty of three wheels is the ability to have three hydraulic disc brakes that stop the bike on a dime. 

There are five levels of pedal assistance and a thumb throttle that I mostly used for take-offs on inclines. The assistance goes up to 20 mph, which is more than fast enough. Since the bicycle has three wheels, it does require some getting used to, especially when turning. There was also some flexing in the frame while riding that the company says is the company's anti-tip technology. An outer frame protects the cargo bay along with the wheels. It also has some nicely placed square foot plates used to step in and out of the cargo space. There's even a rain cover that can be purchased to keep the cargo area dry or block the wind on a chilly day. 

The overall ride of the bike is better when there are passengers in the cargo area or there's something heavy there to provide some ballast. Surprisingly, the bike itself is lighter than it looks (though it's still 152 pounds), and it helps to have whatever you're carting closer to the driver to prevent any possible tipping when dismounting. 

The bike has front and rear lights along with reflectors on the front of the cargo bay. A large display gives you at-a-glance access to important stats but the placement of the pedal-assist controls could be better; I would sometimes accidentally hit both the increase and decrease buttons with my thumb. Other than that, the layout is really nice, and overall it is a bunch of fun to ride. 

Rad Power Bikes RadWagon 4

Carry the kids or groceries on a budget.

Rad Power Bikes is a fierce competitor in the e-bike market, offering 10 different models, all competitively priced. One of the first Rad Power Bikes I reviewed was the Rad Runner that was both versatile and inexpensive. It could be customized for cargo or a single small passenger. But what if you had two little ones? That's where the $1,899  RadWagon 4  comes in: Riders can seat two children on the back with a bench and running board along the bottom for a footrest, or you can add a rear basket for additional carrying capabilities with a second basket on the front for still more capacity. The rear rack in particular is great for runs to Trader Joe's and Costco. It can easily carry a case of wine, too. 

Made from  6061 aluminum , the well-constructed RadWagon 4 has a seven-speed Shimano cassette and a 750-watt hub motor with five levels of cadence assistance to get you up to 20 mph via pedaling or throttle alone. The battery fully charges in 5 to 6 hours and travels anywhere between 25 to 45 miles on a full charge depending on bike load, terrain and pedal assistance. The battery can also be charged on or off the bicycle and is removed using the same key that's also needed to start the RadWagon 4. 

Riders from 5 feet, 1 inch up to 6 feet, 4 inches tall will fit on the bike, and it can support a total weight of 350 pounds. The RadWagon 4 itself weighs 73 pounds and has dual-cable disc brakes that work in all weather conditions. It also has a unique 22-by-3-inch tire that gives riders almost fat-tire stability and a little more height than a 20-inch, improving the overall performance without sizing out smaller riders. 

A durable steel center stand keeps the bike upright while you load it up, and it has a mid-step frame to make taking off or getting started with weight on the bike an easier process. Simply straddle the bike and push forward to take off. No need to try and balance and mount a bicycle with young ones or groceries loaded on. 

The RadWagon has a smooth ride, and the ability to angle the handlebars to maintain an upright position makes long rides a breeze, even with one hand and a full load. The bicycle is equipped with both front and rear lights that also indicate braking; they can be manually toggled on and off or set to activate automatically. The backlit LCD display provides battery level, speedometer, odometer, trip odometer, pedal-assist level and other bits of information. There is also a 5-volt USB port under the display to charge mobile devices. 

new trek gravel bike

Roadster V2 Gravel Edition

Fantastic entry-level e-bike.

The Roadster capitalizes on everything I like about my standard bike but now with the benefit of being electric. It's very light weight, sitting at around 33 pounds, so picking it up and carrying it is easy. The brake cables are nicely integrated inside the tube instead of being fastened along the frame. This is a class 3 e-bike and can reach up to around 24 miles per hour with the assist. It has 700x42 off-road tires and 160mm disc brakes but doesn't come with any extra accessories like a kickstand, lights or fenders.

The Roadster features a 36-volt battery, which will get you around 20-30 miles on average. Of course, that varies depending on the terrain, how much pedal assist you're using, and so on. This bike doesn't have a huge battery, and that's obvious from its frame size. The battery has been fine during my testing, but if you want even more juice, Ride1Up does offer an additional, external, 7 amp hour battery . It adds another 250 watts, doubling the total supply. It attaches to the water bottle screws and retails for $375 on Ride1Up's website. 

The Roadster's battery can't be removed from the bike for charging. This will make managing the bike more difficult, since you'll need to be able to set it down near an outlet. Keep this in mind if you store your bike outside or in something like a bike locker. The upside, however, is it means no one can steal your battery when locking up in public, a component bike thieves often go for if they can't take the entire thing.  

The Roadster V2 Gravel Edition is not only a great entry level e-bike, it's a great bike for anyone. Its light weight makes it easy to carry and store inside, while the gate belt makes upkeep clean and effortless. The Roadster's sleek design helps it blend in with a standard bike, and the integrated battery can't be removed or stolen. Despite its one gear, the five levels of pedal assist should be enough for most people, and if not, the addition of a throttle is extremely welcome. Plus, you get all this at one of the cheapest prices I've seen on the market, with options to go even cheaper if need be.

new trek gravel bike

Juiced Bikes Camp Scrambler

Unique and fast, on- or off-road (update: out of stock).

The $1,799 Camp Scrambler from Juiced bikes is as fun as it is unique, and as comfortable as it is fast. The long banana seat is reminiscent of a conventional bike from the '70s, but with a modern twist. The Camp Scrambler electric bike comes with a 750-watt Bafang rear hub motor and can pedal-assist up to 28 mph and throttle up to 20 mph. It's powered by a 52-volt battery that lets riders travel up to 50 miles on a single charge. Recharge time is approximately 4 hours. There are seven pedal-assist modes and a Shimano seven-speed freewheel cassette for shifting gears as well.

The long seat is cozy for riders of all sizes, with room for a second rider (my speed-demon daughter loves to ride on the front section of the seat) and the high handlebars are pleasing for long rides. I've put more than 500 miles on one and still enjoy riding it every bit as much as I did at the start. The wide Kendra knobby tires make it easy to hop on- and off-road, but for those who strictly ride pavement and want a road bike, there's the City Scambler , which has a similar look and specifications to a street tire. 

The bicycle weighs 71 pounds and can support riders of up to 275 pounds. Lights on the front and rear of the electric bike help for nighttime visibility, and it comes with a bell to let people know you're coming down the lane. Dual hydraulic brakes bring the Scrambler bike to a stop quickly and safely. The hydraulic disc brake system and the whole package make for a great riding experience.

Read our Juiced Bikes Camp Scrambler first take .

new trek gravel bike

Trek Allant Plus 9.9S

Best electric bike for deep pockets (update: out of stock).

The $6,300 Trek Allant Plus 9.9S hits a lot of premium notes. The design is sleek, with a Removable Integrated Battery or RIB, as Trek calls it, built right into the frame. There's also an optional secondary 500-watt-hour battery that mounts just above the integrated one for extra range. 

The built-in display shows riding mode, speed and other info, while the Bosch app for iOS and Android keeps track of where you've gone and how long it took to get there. The frame is made from lightweight carbon fiber, but still hits 51 pounds. 

In my hands-on testing, the Allant handled as if it were gliding over the pavement, and having the option to use the 75 Newton-meters of torque from the  Bosch motor  with pedal assist -- taking you up to 28 mph -- adds to the experience.

See our gallery of the Trek Allant Plus 9.9S .

new trek gravel bike

TurboAnt Thunder T1

Ideal daily commuter and weekend warrior bike for those on a budget (update: out of stock).

The TurboAnt Thunder T1 is a fat-tire electric bike with impressive performance for its reasonable $1,699 price, especially with the recent price increases on electric scooters and bicycles.

The T1 is a class 3 electric bike, and ships with all the tools necessary for assembly secured in cardboard and foam packaging. Building it was pretty straightforward and took about 25 minutes. 

A 750-watt Bafang hub motor powers the Thunder T1 and can assist in speeds up to 28 mph. In addition to five levels of pedal-assistance, the Thunder T1 is equipped with a twist throttle. A bonus feature I've seldom seen on e-bikes is the ability to toggle the throttle off with a button push. This is great for mounting and dismounting the bike and trail riding down steep slopes. For those who may want to get a workout, the T1 has a Shimano seven-speed derailleur. As with most hub motors, expect some motor drag with assist off. The powerful motor flattened out many steep inclines and, with the addition of the throttle, even starting midslope was painless. 

The bike, with its removable 48-volt, 14Ah battery, weighs in at just under 73 pounds (33 kilograms) and can support a rider up to 264 pounds. Rolling on 26-by-4-inch Kenda fat tires and an RST adjustable alloy front fork, you feel like you can roll over anything: snow, gravel or even bumpy New York streets. TurboAnt claims you can get up to 60 miles on a full charge, depending on how the bike is used, the terrain and rider size.

The removable battery can be charged on or off the bike and takes roughly seven hours to fully charge. In addition, there's a USB-A port on the battery that can be used to charge portable devices such as a phone or GoPro camera. 

The T1 handles nicely and has a sleek look to it. The bike has both front and rear fenders to keep whatever is on the ground off of the rider and bright rear and front LED lights. Also, while I prefer hydraulic brakes for their reliability and less maintenance, the Tektro Aries mechanical disc brakes with 180mm rotors worked fine. 

The seat is comfortable, as are the handgrips, and the Promax MA-593S stem can be adjusted to find the perfect spot. The LCD on the handlebars is easy to read in direct sunlight and provides current speed, battery level, distance traveled and assistance level. 

The TurboAnt Thunder T1 works as a daily commuter or for those weekends off-road and even if you run into a little bad weather, it's no problem. Well-constructed and fairly priced for what you're getting, I'd recommend it for those on a budget.

Juiced Bikes HyperScorpion Express

Best electric cargo bike for speed demons (update: out of stock).

The $2,899  Juiced Bikes HyperScorpion Express  is a modern e-bike that pays homage to mopeds of the past. It has that classic moped look and feel: From its frame design to comfortably high handlebars, rearview mirrors and a 2,000-lumen headlight (my favorite addition). The bright yellow Express is essentially  the company's HyperScorpion e-bike  but with a cargo basket that's currently not sold separately, front and rear signal lights and rear brake lights. It also has adjustable front and rear suspension that is great for bumpy roads and generally gives you a better, safer hauling experience.

Riders can easily use it to cruise around town or put its 1,000-watt Bafang hub motor to work. Powered by a 52-volt 19.2 Ah battery, riders 275 pounds or less can hit 30 miles per hour and reach an estimated 60 miles on a single charge, depending on your assist level and speed. A full charge takes about seven hours, but you can buy a $139  Turbo charger  to double the charging speed.

This bike is excellent for relaxed rides but has a lot of oomph to get up and go when you want. One minute I would find myself cruising in the bike lane, and the next I'd be gunning it in the car lane. There are six levels of assistance -- Eco, 1, 2, 3 Sport and Race -- and with each level of assistance, riders will hit higher speeds with less effort (at the cost of battery life). You do have the option to pedal or use the throttle: With an eight-speed Shimano cassette, there are many ways to ride and conserve battery. 

Riding with zero assistance is not fun at all, though, and you will notice some motor drag. When trying to save power I found myself using Eco mode, which gives it enough assistance to zero out the bike's full 102 pounds of weight. 

What makes the Express great for deliveries, in addition to its exclusive cargo basket and vibrant color, is its powerful motor, solid build quality and security features: key ignition to start the bike, a key battery lock and an alarm with a remote that sounds if someone touches or attempts to move the bicycle. 

The street tires on this bike are designed to minimize flats while the custom cast aluminum mag not only adds some style but, due to the build quality, requires little maintenance compared to traditional spoked wheels. However, they do add more weight to the bike. Tektro hydraulic disc brakes stop the bike on a dime, too. 

Juiced Bikes offers a one-year warranty on electrical/mechanical components and frame upon factory default. 

new trek gravel bike

A rich experience for a modest budget (Update: Sold out)

One of the most appealing aspects of the $2,298 VanMoof S3 is it doesn't look like a traditional e-bike. The wires and battery are housed inside the frame with integrated lights to give it a sleek, immaculate look. Even the shipping package is an experience, with a pull-tab to open the box and the tools necessary to put it together. The overall experience gave me the same feeling as opening an Apple product. 

But the appeal doesn't stop at the packaging nor how it looks. The VanMoof continues its premium experience with a slew of features, starting with its antitheft capabilities. A button located on the frame by the back wheel locks it to prevent it from being rolled away. If the bike is lifted, it triggers an alarm and starts its lights flashing. Should someone still get away with your S3, the bike also has GSM and Bluetooth theft tracking so you can locate it.

At an additional cost, VanMoof also provides a service to locate your bicycle if it does indeed go missing. If you can't locate it on your own, Vanmoof has a team of bike hunters -- again, there's a small fee at purchase for the service -- and if the team is unable to find your bike, VanMoof will replace it with one of equal value.

A subtle matrix display is integrated into the top tube that shows your current speed, whether the bike is locked, the battery level and warning messages. It can be hard to see in direct sunlight, but you can also keep an eye on your battery level via the bike's mobile app if you plan to travel long distances. 

Available for iOS and Android, the app allows you to do everything from locking and unlocking the bike to changing horn sounds and at what speeds the gears change and controlling the lights, as well as tracking your rides. Yes, the S3 is an automatic, switching the gears for you with its fully enclosed drive chain. It can take a while to get used to (it did for me), but a boost button on the right side of the handlebar helped with the adjustment period. For example, I would be on an incline and pedaling aggressively and then the gear would change. But with the boost -- made possible by a 350-watt front-hub motor -- the bike quickly gets up to 20 mph (32 kmh), making it easy to get up any hill or pass any obstacle. The S3 is powered by a 504-Wh-capacity integrated LG battery and has hydraulic brakes, and weighs 46 pounds. It can support riders from 5 feet, 8 inches to 6 feet, 9 inches tall and up to 264 pounds. It can travel approximately 60 miles on a full charge, which takes about 4 hours; a 50% charge takes approximately 80 minutes. 

Overall, the S3 itself is a smooth and comfortable ride and a great city bike. You won't have to worry about losing it or people trying to steal parts of it, and the 28-inch wheels come with a proprietary wheel lock. I'm definitely a fan of its single, solid color (black or sky blue) -- especially for a city bike where the more low-key you are, the better. 

If you're on the fence, VanMoof has actual retail stores and allows test rides before purchasing.

Watch our video of the VanMoof S3 electric bike .

More for quick transport

  • Best Cheap E-Bikes and Electric Scooters
  • Best Motorcycle Helmets for 2023

We update this list regularly. Below are answers to some of the most common e-bike questions. 

How fast can an electric bike go?

Before we can go into top speeds, we first need to go over e-bike classifications. There are three classes. 

  • Class 1 is an e-bike where the motor only supplies pedal assistance while the rider is pedaling and has a max assisted speed of 20 mph.
  • Class 2 follows the same pedal-assist top speed as class 1 but also has a throttle enabling the rider to get around without pedaling. 
  • Class 3 has a top assist speed of 28 mph and can be either pedal-assist only or pedal-assist along with throttle-assistance.

These classes are limited to 1 horsepower (750 watts). That said, some (air quotes) e-bikes can hit 50 or even 60 mph. But they are more like motorcycles with pedals. They are not optimized as traditional bicycles for pedaling from point A to B and do not legally fit into the class 1-3 category. Typically only class 1 and 2 e-bikes are allowed where traditional bicycles are. 

Do I need a permit or license to operate an e-bike?

The short answer is no; however, riders must meet their state's minimum age limit (which can vary). In New York, that's 16. 

Should I buy an electric bike or an electric scooter?

It's frankly pretty fun to have one of each. But if you need a reason to pick one over the other, an e-bike can also be used as a traditional bike so riders benefit from getting a workout along with the fact you can travel further, even on a dead battery. In addition, most people I talk to feel better on bicycles because they've had more experience riding them.

Here are some of the best electric rideables available right now

new trek gravel bike

Ride1Up CF Racer1 review: Testing the lowest cost, quality carbon fiber gravel/road e-bike

Avatar for Micah Toll

In the world of electric bikes, the words “carbon fiber” usually means big bucks. Actually, it’s the same in the pedal bike industry, it’s just that e-bikes already start out more expensive. That means carbon fiber electric bikes have always commanded premium prices – at least, until now. When Ride1Up rolled out the new CF Racer1 e-bike, it shook up the electric gravel bike market with a reasonably priced direct-to-consumer model that can scratch that lightweight e-bike itch for more hardcore riders.

Priced at $2,295 , the CF Racer1 is around half the price that most other carbon fiber gravel e-bikes start at, let alone the even nicer models whose prices head even further north.

But just because it’s a lower-cost bike doesn’t mean it’s cheap. It may not have the most insanely top-shelf components on it, but it’s got a great mix of quality parts and features to fit the needs of the majority of enthusiast riders. If you’re a pro rider, you’re going to be looking at different bikes entirely.

And since Ride1Up focuses on that larger swath of recreational, commuter, and enthusiast riders, the direct-to-consumer sales model means you aren’t paying a big bike shop markup, either.

See the CF Racer1 in action in my video review below, then keep reading for even more info!

Ride1Up CF Racer1 video review

Ride1Up CF Racer1 tech specs

  • Motor:  250W continuous rear hub motor (42 Nm of torque)
  • Top speed:  28 mph (45 km/h)
  • Range:  16-40 miles (25-64 km)
  • Battery:  36V 7Ah (252Wh) with Samsung cells (frame-integrated but removable for servicing)
  • Weight : 28.6 lb (13 kg)
  • Load Capacity:  225 lb (102 kg)
  • Frame:  Carbon fiber
  • Brakes:  SRAM Rival 1 hydraulic disc brakes on 160 mm rotors
  • Extras:  Color LCD display with speedometer, battery gauge, PAS level indicator, two frame sizes available in either road or gravel variants, Rival 1 11-speed doubletap shifters
  • Price :  $2,295

new trek gravel bike

A different kind of riding

The CF Racer1 is a different kind of electric bike intended for a different kind of rider. If you’re familiar with most direct-to-consumer e-bike companies out there, Ride1Up included, then you’ll know the typical D2C e-bike . We’re talking chunky tires, robust (i.e. heavy) frame, throttle activation, budget shifters, etc. You won’t find any of those parts on this e-bike.

That’s because the CF Racer1 is more of a cyclist’s bike. Those drop bars are par for the course in road bikes, but we almost never see them on common budget-minded electric bikes. Same goes for the SRAM Rival 1 shifters, which you press sideways to upshift or press even harder in the same direction to downshift. They certainly feel new to most casual riders (I find myself on bikes with these types of shifters usually just once or twice a year, for example), but they’re easy to use and give you that quality feel that the cheap Shimano stuff on entry-level fat tire bikes just doesn’t have.

The drop bars allow you to lean more forward and get a tighter tuck, which is useful when you’re trying to maintain that top speed of 28 mph and not fight against your own body’s meat sail. However, I find I’m usually up on the horns to sit taller, as I’m not a huge fan of super tucked riding. And when I really want a taller view of the road, I grip the middle portion of the bars for the most comfortable ride. The three positions are a big plus, though I basically never drop down into the lowest position, so it’s more like a two-position bar for me.

The biggest reason I hang out on the horns most of the time is because I also like knowing those brake levers are ready for me, both in city riding in case of unexpected car behavior, and while trail riding in case I come across an obstacle I wasn’t expecting.

new trek gravel bike

Ultra-light, but at a cost

And then of course there’s the carbon fiber frame, which, along with the modest battery and motor specs helps to reduce the weight of the bike to a mere 28 pounds! That’s a featherweight in the e-bike world, believe it or not.

That low weight means you won’t get crazy power or super long-range riding, though you can still get up to 30-40 miles if you keep the pedal assist in a very low power level. And while the 250W motor is fairly low power compared to most of the e-bikes I ride, it’s not meant to be a hot rod. It’s a modest torque motor designed for folks who actually want to pedal and get a workout. It will still take you up to 28 mph – it sure did for me. But you’ve got to be a part of that process, giving your own muscle assist as well in order for the pedal assist to take you to that top speed. In other words, it’s taking the pain out of the ride but it’s not doing all the work for you.

It feels like a good balance of power though, especially on such a lightweight e-bike.

One more part I wish I could have seen added to the electrical system would be a torque sensor. As it stands now, the cadence sensor works fine for riding, but has a bit of sensor lag when you first get rolling – especially if you don’t downshift low enough at stops. That impacts you more in stop/start riding, but for folks who spend long periods of time at constant speed – which is a lot of what this e-bike is designed for – then you won’t notice the cadence sensor very much.

new trek gravel bike

More than paint deep

There are two colors available on the Ride1Up CF Racer1, known as Clouded Gray and Rainbow Black. The bike I’m testing is the Rainbow Black, which may sound like an oxymoron until the sun comes out. As soon as you get some bright light on the paint, it illuminates with a rainbow array of metal flakes, producing a beautiful spectrum of light reflecting off the glossy surface.

It’s hard to capture in photos and videos, though I did my best in the photo above. You can also see a few good shots in my video review at the top of this page. Just know that in real life, the effect is even more pronounced and is truly beautiful to look at.

On the flipside though, when you’re riding in overcast weather, you’ll find that the paint basically just looks like glossy black.

new trek gravel bike

The take-home message

Here’s the thing: The Ride1Up CF Racer1 is a great e-bike, but it’s not for everyone. In fact, it’s not for most people. Most of us are more at home on a Portola fat tire e-bike or a Turris trail bike. You’ve got to be someone who already enjoys riding road bikes (meaning you like to pedal), who doesn’t mind the lack of throttle, and who is comfortable with a tucked ride. But if you’re in the market for a gravel e-bike, that’s probably already you.

In that case, this is a killer deal for a super lightweight carbon fiber electric bike. With options for road or gravel (basically different handlebars and tires), you’ve got all of your bases covered.

So yeah, if you’re a pro rider, this isn’t going to cut it for you. But if you’re like most of us – just someone who enjoys riding and wants to get that electric gravel bike experience without shelling out $5k, then this is the bike for you.

ride1up CF Racer1 gravel e-bike

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

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Micah Toll is a personal electric vehicle enthusiast, battery nerd, and author of the Amazon #1 bestselling books DIY Lithium Batteries , DIY Solar Power,   The Ultimate DIY Ebike Guide  and The Electric Bike Manifesto .

The e-bikes that make up Micah’s current daily drivers are the $999 Lectric XP 2.0 , the $1,095 Ride1Up Roadster V2 , the $1,199 Rad Power Bikes RadMission , and the $3,299 Priority Current . But it’s a pretty evolving list these days.

You can send Micah tips at [email protected], or find him on Twitter , Instagram , or TikTok .

Micah Toll's favorite gear

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Trip Itinerary

New Mexico Bike Tour 2024-2025 Itinerary

Experience a rich blend of Southwestern culture, culinary arts, and endless miles of scenic roads and trails.

2024 - 2025 Day-to-Day

Arrival / departure.

Where to Arrive

Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ)

Pick-up location :

Bishops Lodge - Auberge Resorts Collection in Santa Fe, New Mexico

Pick-up time :

Where to Depart

Drop-off location :

Drop-off time :

Additional Arrival Information

We suggest that you arrive at least one day prior to the trip start, which will enable you to adjust to the time zone and minimize the risk of missing the trip start due to flight-related delays. We recommend that you fly into the Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) or the Santa Fe Municipal Airport (SAF). SAF is a small regional airport with limited flights options, therefore guests tend to have more success flying through ABQ.

If you plan to drive your own vehicle to the trip start and need a place to park it for the week, you may park at Bishops Lodge. Self-Parking during your stay is complementary.

Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at Bishop’s Lodge (1297 Bishops Lodge Road Santa Fe, New Mexico 87506) at 11:00 AM on the first day of the trip. After meeting at the hotel you'll enjoy a fresh, delicious lunch and, after a brief orientation and safety talk, saddle up to begin the day's ride through the historic town of Santa Fe. Please come prepared to ride, dressed in your cycling clothes, and have your shoes and any riding gear easily accessible, separate from your luggage.

If you will be late for the pick-up or are going to miss it altogether, please inform your guides. You will receive an email a week before the trip start with their names and contact details. If you cannot reach them, please call your first hotel, Bishop’s Lodge (505-983-6377) and leave a message with your expected arrival time and contact details. A taxi from Albuquerque International Airport to your ride start or first hotel will take about one hour and cost around $120-165 one way.

Additional Departure Information

We will say our farewells at the hotel at 11:00 AM in Santa Fe. From here you may choose to stay for more time in town or return to the Albuquerque Sunport via Groome Shuttle or another transportation method of your choosing.

Day 1 Welcome to enchanting Santa Fe

Welcome to enchanting Santa Fe

Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the hotel at 11:00 AM on the first day of the trip. Please be prepared to ride, dressed in your cycling clothes, and have your shoes and any riding gear easily accessible, separate from your luggage. Enjoy lunch followed by a short round of introductions, an orientation, safety talk, and bike fitting. As you head out on today's ride, get a taste of Santa Fe's historic plaza while riding west of Santa Fe. You'll be met with sw... Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the hotel at 11:00 AM on the first day of the trip. Please be prepared to ride, dressed in your cycling clothes, and have your shoes and any riding gear easily accessible, separate from your luggage. Enjoy lunch followed by a short round of introductions, an orientation, safety talk, and bike fitting. As you head out on today's ride, get a taste of Santa Fe's historic plaza while riding west of Santa Fe. You'll be met with sweeping views of the Santa Fe National Forest as you get acquainted with your bike for the week. If you're looking for a challenge right out of the gate, tackle Hyde Park Road as it takes you north of the city. The ride will bring you to your luxurious home for the night. Take some time to settle in before gathering for a great opportunity to get to know your fellow travelers better. Tonight, we dine at the innovative and world-class Coyote Cafe. Throughout the evening, you'll hear about all the fun and adventure in store for you in the days ahead from your guides. Read More

Bishop's Lodge - Auberge Resorts

Meals included

Lunch | Social Hour | Dinner

Featured Meal | Coyote Cafe

Highlight of the Day

Featured Meal | Coyote Cafe

Opened by celebrity chef Mark Miller in 1987, our dinner at Coyote Cafe will delight with its creative menu of eclectic, modern Southwestern... Opened by celebrity chef Mark Miller in 1987, our dinner at Coyote Cafe will delight with its creative menu of eclectic, modern Southwestern Cuisine. Be sure to order their signature cocktail, the Norteño margarita. Read More

Ride Options

Ride Option 1

TODAY'S RIDE:

Las Campanas Loop - Approximately 31 mi | 50 km and 2,164 ft | 660 m

Ride Option 2

AVID OPTION:

Las Campanas Loop with Hyde Park Hill Climb - Approximately 44 mi | 71 km and 3,678 ft | 1,121 m

Day 2 Discover the area of the High Road from Santa Fe to Taos

Discover the area of the High Road from Santa Fe to Taos

Our ride takes us north through the verdant and shaded art community named for the nearby Pueblo Tesuque. A short brisk climb is followed by a gentle 1,500-foot descent over 15 miles passing through the Pojoaque and Nambé Pueblos. Our ride includes rolling hills and wind-carved hoodoos of the badlands. After passing through the small village of Cundiyo and where the Santa Cruz, Frioles and Medio rivers converge, continue along the route until you reconnect with the... Our ride takes us north through the verdant and shaded art community named for the nearby Pueblo Tesuque. A short brisk climb is followed by a gentle 1,500-foot descent over 15 miles passing through the Pojoaque and Nambé Pueblos. Our ride includes rolling hills and wind-carved hoodoos of the badlands. After passing through the small village of Cundiyo and where the Santa Cruz, Frioles and Medio rivers converge, continue along the route until you reconnect with the High Road to Taos. After passing through the green, farming valley of Chimayó, we'll make a stop at the historic Santuario de Chimayó - a designated National Historic Landmark. Chimayó is also known for its thriving traditional weaving studios, many of which are owned and operated by descendants of the original Spanish settlers. We enjoy lunch at Rancho de Chimayó. Once you return to the hotel, take some time to relax and enjoy the hotel amenities before dinner tonight on your own. Santa Fe offers a variety of many delicious eateries to choose from. After that, retreat to the lavish comforts of your room and rest up for another incredible day ahead. Read More

Breakfast | Lunch

El Santuario de Chimayo

El Santuario de Chimayo

Tucked away in the village of Chimayo along the High Road to Taos sits a national historic landmark, El Santuario de Chimayo. The sanctuary ... Tucked away in the village of Chimayo along the High Road to Taos sits a national historic landmark, El Santuario de Chimayo. The sanctuary is well known for the unusual legend of its creation and as a present-day pilgrimage site. Read More

Bishop's Lodge to Rancho de Chimayo - Approximately 31 mi | 50 km and 1,884 ft | 574 m

Bishop's Lodge to Rancho de Chimayo Return - Approximately 56 mi | 90 km and 3,811 ft | 1,162 m

Day 3 Cycle through high desert landscape and visit the historic village of Galisteo

Cycle through high desert landscape and visit the historic village of Galisteo

Enjoy a delicious and hearty breakfast for today’s ride that will, if you choose, complete a loop that's a favorite among local cyclists. A large part of the ride is on rural roads with little car traffic. There are rolling hills with glorious, and picturesque views, like scenes from an old western movie. Our ride takes us to Galisteo. The Galisteo Basin has been continuously occupied by a diverse collection of peoples and cultures since pre-historic times. The ea... Enjoy a delicious and hearty breakfast for today’s ride that will, if you choose, complete a loop that's a favorite among local cyclists. A large part of the ride is on rural roads with little car traffic. There are rolling hills with glorious, and picturesque views, like scenes from an old western movie. Our ride takes us to Galisteo. The Galisteo Basin has been continuously occupied by a diverse collection of peoples and cultures since pre-historic times. The earliest known humans to inhabit the Galisteo Basin were Paleo Indians who arrived in the Basin as early as 7500 to 6000 B.C. The natural beauty of a high desert landscape, breathtaking sunsets and enchanted light has attracted many artists over the years. Today's ride ends in the all-adobe historic village of Galisteo where an incredibly diverse artist population live. We will shuttle to lunch at a favorite eatery. Choose to take the van or finish the loop ride back to our hotel. This evening, the group will gather to toast to newfound friends and fond memories with a social hour and dinner at a favorite local restaurant. Read More

Breakfast | Lunch | Social Hour | Dinner

Galisteo Basin

Galisteo Basin

The Galisteo Basin, first inhabited by Paleo Indians around 7500-6000 B.C., later saw the Archaic people by 3000 B.C., and the Tanoan-speaki... The Galisteo Basin, first inhabited by Paleo Indians around 7500-6000 B.C., later saw the Archaic people by 3000 B.C., and the Tanoan-speaking Pueblo ancestors by 1000 A.D. Rich in natural resources, this area nurtured early human settlements and today is known for its significant archaeological sites and breathtaking landscapes, drawing global visitors. Read More

Bishop's Lodge to Galisteo - Approximately 35 mi | 56 km and 1,354 ft | 413 m

Galisteo Loop - Approximately 58 mi | 93 km and 3,029 ft | 923 m

Day 4 Ride to the Tesuque Foothills or enjoy a relaxing morning

Ride to the Tesuque Foothills or enjoy a relaxing morning

Today, our final day will have opportunities for riding or a leisurely morning before departing. The ride provides one last glimpse of the gorgeous Southwestern scenery with more great views to take in. Or perhaps you want to enjoy the beautiful property and the surrounding area before departing. The choice is always yours.

Tesuque Foothills and Return - Approximately 15 mi | 24 km and 1,246 ft | 3,800 m

Rio en Medio and Return - Approximately 20 mi | 21 km and 1,882 ft | 574 m

If a date is marked as Private, it is reserved for a private group.

Looking to travel with a small group or looking for a custom date? Call our trip consultants at 866-464-8735

What is the Difference?

Ultimate luxury:.

Savor some of the most spectacular, 5-star properties in the world. Exuding luxury and elegance, these one-of-a-kind accommodations offer the chance to rejuvenate at award-winning spas, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, and more.

Enjoy luxurious accommodations handpicked for a refined experience. From signature spa treatments to delicious local cuisine, you’ll be more than provided for; you’ll be pampered.

These handpicked hotels provide relaxation and fun in a casual and comfortable environment. Delicious cuisine and great service mix perfectly for a memorable stay.

On select cycling vacations, you’ll stay at a mix of hotel levels, from Explorer to Luxury to Ultimate Luxury. Rest assured, no matter which level of hotel you’re at, our trip designers carefully select every accommodation.

Activity Level

Road : 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Gravel: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 20 mi (35 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Road : 2-4 hours of riding. 20-35 mi (35-60 km). Up to 2,500 ft (750 m).

Gravel: 2-4 hours of riding. 15-30 mi (25-45 km). Up to 2,000 ft (300 m).

Road : 3-5 hours of riding. 25-55 mi (40-85 km). Up to 4,500 ft (1,500 m).

Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).

Road : 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).

Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

What are your trip styles?

Classic - reserve:.

Savor the finer things as you relax in luxurious 5-star accommodations and wine, dine, and ride in some of the most unforgettable destinations around the world.

Classic - Signature:

Explore beautiful destinations by bike, enjoy extra inclusions, savor delicious local cuisine, and enjoy the perfect mix of accommodations.

Classic - Discovor:

Enjoy a casual cycling vacation with fantastic routes and comfortable accommodations.

Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.

See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.

Cross Country:

Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.

Self-Guided

Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.

Single Occupancy

Sometimes it’s more convenient and comfortable to have your own room while on vacation. We understand and that’s why we offer a Single Occupancy option. The additional price guarantees a private room all to yourself

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2018 Powered By VentiCode

We moved! Triton is now in Portugal!

😊

We now offer Triton Groont standard gravel bike and Triton Shkval allroadie. Custom bike orders welcome, too!

Please email us for any inquiries: [email protected]

WhatsApp: +972534321309

Triton team

new trek gravel bike

Minimalistic gravel/commuter bike

The bike we fell in love with. Affordable and multi-purpose. Our upcoming standard gravel Triton will be close to what you can see here.

Frame: Triton Gravel with Paragon Polydrops, fender and rack mounts, 142×12, T47 BB shell Fork: Triton Speeder Cross Carbon, flatmount, 100×15 Transmission: Sram Rival1 + Garbaruk 44T direct mount chainring Wheelset: Rolf Prima Hyalite ES Brakes: TRP Spyre Flatmount, Avid Centerline rotors Cockpit: Thomson Saddle: WTB Tires: WTB Exposure 34c Bottom Bracket: White Industries T47 Headset: Cane Creek 40 Fenders: PDW Full Metal City Fenders

Proper road plus / gravel bike for a local customer

We are now getting more and more gravel bike orders worlwide. Customers want 1x and 2x transmissions and large tires. We provide that, thanks to the new T47 bottom bracket standard. This lovely bike is equipped with Sram Force1 group, Easton carbon crankset, ENVE Cross fork, and WTB/Industry Nine wheelset. Lovely!

Open the post to see more photos

Titanium frames and components made ​​by hand

Triton Bikes. We build custom titanium bicycle and unicycle frames. Triton Bikes is a project ran by bicycle enthusiasts. We do it because we love it. The dream came true.

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2024 Trek Checkpoint SL5 - 56 cm - Large

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19 hours ago | 142 views

Used - Excellent

Frame Material

Bike is 3 months old. (Purchased late Jan 2024)

Bike is 100% original with bottle cages and GPS mount. Upgraded 700x44 Tufo Gravel tyres (Great upgrade)

Did approximately 600km on bike, all on Tar road (Ride for Sight and the CTCT being to two longest rides on this bike)

Reason for sale. Prefer riding position of MTB`s.

Price: R55 000

Contact George

Original invoice available

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You are here, diamondback releases two new gravel bike models.

SEATTLE (BRAIN) — Diamondback has two new Haanjo gravel bike models available immediately.

The models are the Haanjo 4 EXP and the Haanjo 5.

The Haanjo 4 EXP has 44c tires, Sram Apex 1x11 wide-range gearing, and a GVX front suspension fork.

The model has new suspension-corrected geometry available in five sizes, XS through XL. Diamondback says the new geometry offers "a more balanced rider position that enhances comfort, climbing, handling control, and increased stand-over clearance."

They say they paid particular attention to accommodating smaller riders and a wide range of body types without compromising performance.

The aluminum-framed bike has an SR GVX 60mm-travel fork and a KS dropper post; the Haanjo 4 EXP offers unmatched gravel performance and control. The frame's accessory mounting points include enduro mounts on the top tube, multiple water bottle locations, rack and fender mounts. Component highlights include SRAM Apex 1x11 speed shifting and TRP Spyre dual-piston mechanical disc brakes. MSRP is $2,200. More information at diamondback.com/haanjo-4-exp-5079

The Haanjo 5 model also has the new geometry like the 4 EXP, a KS Dropper post, and a full carbon monocoque fork with a tapered steerer and 10mm thru-axle. It has SRAM Apex AXS Eagle eTap 1x12 speed wireless shifting and hydraulic disc brakes. MSRP is $2,950.  diamondback.com/bikes/road-gravel-bikes/adventure-gravel/haanjo-5-5078

The Diamondback Haanjo 4 EXP

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new trek gravel bike

Find a bike shop near you | Trek Retailers

IMAGES

  1. Trek launch new gravel bike: Meet the Checkpoint

    new trek gravel bike

  2. Trek 920 Ultimate Adventure Gravel Bike Review

    new trek gravel bike

  3. Trek Checkpoint Gravel Bikes Launched 3 Brand-New

    new trek gravel bike

  4. Introducing the Trek Checkpoint Gravel Bike

    new trek gravel bike

  5. Gravel Bike 2021 Trek Checkpoint ALR 4 Shimano GRX Red

    new trek gravel bike

  6. TREK Checkpoint SL 5 Radioactive Red/Nautical Navy (2022)

    new trek gravel bike

COMMENTS

  1. Gravel bikes for wherever you roam

    Use the Bike Finder to narrow your choices, compare models, and find the Trek that's right for you. Get started. Ready to roam? These gravel bikes are built for adventure, whether you want to go near, go fast, or go your own way into the wild beyond.

  2. Gravel bikes

    Gravel bikes let you explore beyond the beaten path and onto more rugged terrain like gravel logging roads and flowery dirt trails. ... Trek bike finder Find a bike shop Bike tours Inside Trek. Heritage Technology Racing Social responsibility Stories Sustainability Work at Trek Podcast

  3. Checkpoint gravel bikes

    Explore rugged gravel and beyond on the all-new Checkpoint. Checkpoint is made for adventure, no matter if you're racing Unbound Gravel, bikepacking on a remote logging road, or cruising down the bike path. It's fast, comfortable, and smooth and its versatile design ensures you'll reach all the places you dream of exploring on two wheels.

  4. Trek Checkpoint Review

    Price: $12,000 (SLR 9, as tested) Weight: 17.8 lb. (Size 54cm) Buy Now View Gallery. Trek's gravel loving Checkpoint is all new front to rear, with new geometry (covered below) and features for ...

  5. Trek Checkpoint SL 7 gravel bike review: a true all-terrain vehicle

    The full Trek Checkpoint SL line-up spans a price range from $3,399.99 / £3,700.00 with the SL 5 to £6,400 with the SL 7, which is the model I had on test. This may be the top of the range for ...

  6. All-New 2023 Trek Domane: Gravel Bike AND Endurance Road?

    Continued from Above: "The fourth generation Domane SL and SLR maintain the all-day comfort Domane is known for, with all-new race-ready details designed for the top step of the podium.". Gravel mode, Trek recommends 700c x 38mm at max. " Trek's lightest Domane disc ever, the all-new Domane also comes in a race-specific RSL frameset ...

  7. Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 review

    The aluminium-framed ALR models sit at the bottom of Trek's Checkpoint range, with the lighter carbon SL and race-focused SLR bikes above, but in truth that's not a bad place to be. The ALR 5 gets a full set of excellent Shimano GRX components for the drivetrain and brakes, decent tires on tubeless-ready rims and lots of rack and fender mounts.

  8. 2022 Trek Checkpoint gravel bike review: Longer, but not slacker

    Going a little deeper down the gravel rabbit hole with a longer front end. Trek's original Checkpoint was a runaway sales success, offering very good capability on mixed terrain while retaining the nimbleness and agility of road and cyclocross bikes that many nascent gravel riders enjoyed. But as popular as that bike family has been, gravel bikes have continued to veer further into proper ...

  9. Trek Checkpoint SL7 gravel bike

    The Checkpoint is Trek's best gravel bike and is available as an AL, ALR or SL version, the latter of which is built upon a carbon frameset made from Trek's 500 Series OCLV carbon. This frame ...

  10. Trek Checkpoint SL 5

    Cannondale Super X SE is an adaption from a cyclocross race bike for the gravel, a fast bike indeed! Check it out here. Checkpoint options? Trek provides the Checkpoint in three models, the SL 6 for $4699 is the top-end carbon frame version with the fancy Shimano Ultegra, the SL 5 we have sells for $3699 with Shimano 105.

  11. Trek Checkpoint SL 6 eTap review

    The Trek Checkpoint SL 6 eTap is a gravel bike that combines a smooth carbon frame, a wireless drivetrain and a versatile geometry. Find out how it performs on and off the road in our review.

  12. Trek Checkpoint Review

    Trek's First True Gravel Bike, the Checkpoint, Is Impressive. The new bike's features and lower-cost versions make it a compelling multi-surface option. by Joe Lindsey Published: Mar 1, 2018.

  13. My Gravel Bikes Videos & 6 Observations So Far on Trek's Checkpoint SL 5

    So what I did is make two new videos to tell the whole story of my first "gravel" bike and this new Trek. The first bike, a custom, made for me to my spec by Bonny Doon, California framesmith Jim Oxford is unique and the bike also features some of Keith Bontrager's early innovations. ... 6 Observations So Far on My Trek Checkpoint SL 5 ...

  14. The 5 Best Gravel Bikes of 2024

    The Ibis Hakka MX is a very lightweight, uncompromisingly stiff, fast, and efficient gravel bike. An affordable, capable, and versatile carbon-framed gravel bike with a great build and solid all-around performance. This redesigned bike is more capable, comfortable, and versatile than the previous version.

  15. Best gravel bikes: our pick of the top models

    The Ribble Gravel AL Sport has 47mm tires on 650b wheels, although you can also spec 700c wheels. The 650b option makes it a highly capable go-anywhere option that doesn't break the bank. The ...

  16. Electric gravel bikes

    Use the Bike Finder to narrow your choices, compare models, and find the Trek that's right for you. Get started. Electric gravel bikes with a subtle electric assist for crushing climbs and riding fast off the beaten path. See the gravel e-bikes online and in-store.

  17. Best Electric Bike for 2024

    Woom currently offers two models: The Up 5 is $3,599 (£2,645, AU$4,790) with 24-inch wheels designed for 7 to 11-year-olds who are 50-57-inches tall, and the Woom Up 6 at $3,749 ( £3,665, AU ...

  18. Ride1Up CF Racer1 review: Testing the lowest cost, quality ...

    Priced at $2,295, the CF Racer1 is around half the price that most other carbon fiber gravel e-bikes start at, let alone the even nicer models whose prices head even further north. But just ...

  19. New Mexico Bike Tour 2024-2025 Itinerary

    New Mexico Bike Tour 2024-2025 Itinerary. Experience a rich blend of Southwestern culture, culinary arts, and endless miles of scenic roads and trails. ... Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at Bishop's Lodge (1297 Bishops Lodge Road Santa Fe, New Mexico 87506) at 11:00 AM on the first day of the trip. ... Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 30 ...

  20. Checkpoint ALR 5

    Checkpoint ALR 5. 31 Reviews / Write a Review. $1,999.99 $2,499.99. Model 5260854. Retailer prices may vary. Checkpoint ALR 5 is the best value gravel bike in the lineup. It's a high-quality build that will hold up for long, rugged miles on pavement, dirt, and even the most treacherous gravel roads. A wealth of features like nimble-yet-stable ...

  21. Texas Bike Rides for 2024

    March 16, 2024. Easter Bike Tour (Featured) Kerrville, TX. March 29 - 31, 2024 (Registration closes March 31st) Road to Hotter'N Hell (Featured) Texas. April 20 - August 24, 2024 (Registration closes February 29th) European Tour of Texas (Featured) Texas.

  22. Triton

    We now offer Triton Groont standard gravel bike and Triton Shkval allroadie. Custom bike orders welcome, too! Please email us for any inquiries: [email protected]. WhatsApp: +972534321309. Triton team. Our new shop space. 500 square meters of bicycle passion. Read more. Posted: 26.02.2023. Minimalistic gravel/commuter bike.

  23. 2024 Trek Checkpoint SL5

    Frame Material. Carbon. 2024 Trek Checkpoint SL5 - 56 cm - Large. Bike is 3 months old. (Purchased late Jan 2024) Bike is 100% original with bottle cages and GPS mount. Upgraded 700x44 Tufo Gravel tyres (Great upgrade) Did approximately 600km on bike, all on Tar road (Ride for Sight and the CTCT being to two longest rides on this bike)

  24. Drop bar gravel bikes

    Gravel bikes. Drop bar gravel bikes give you the efficiency and control you need for any climb, flat, or descent. With options for multiple hand positions, these rad adventure rigs are designed to keep you comfy on anything from epic bikepacking adventures to grueling gravel grinders.

  25. Diamondback releases two new gravel bike models

    SEATTLE (BRAIN) — Diamondback has two new Haanjo gravel bike models available immediately.The models are the Haanjo 4 EXP and the Haanjo 5.The Haanjo 4 EXP has 44c tires, Sram Apex 1x11 wide-range gearing, and a GVX front suspension fork.The model has new suspension-corrected geometry available in five sizes, XS through XL. Diamondback says the new geometry offers "a more balanced rider ...

  26. Flat bar gravel bikes

    Use the Bike Finder to narrow your choices, compare models, and find the Trek that's right for you. Get started. Gravel-capable bikes with flat handlebars offer comfort, control, and capability on anything from smooth pavement to light gravel. See the bikes now!

  27. Find a bike shop near you

    Trek and Electra bike shops are your destination for the latest Trek bikes, Electra bikes and accessories, Bontrager cycling gear, service and tune-ups for bikes of any brand, and professional bike fit services through Trek Precision Fit. Whether you visit a Trek-owned store or one of our awesome independent partners, you'll find amazing ...