Checkpoint AL 3 may be the introductory gravel bike in the lineup, but it’s packed with features that make it a worthy choice for new and experienced gravel grinders alike, like a lightweight aluminum frame, Shimano drivetrain, thru axles, Tubeless Ready wheels, and disc brakes for better braking power in all weather conditions.
Colors: Trek Black, Olive Grey, Era White
Sizes: 44, 49, 52, 54, 56, 58, 61
Checkpoint AL 3 2019 specification
Frameset
| Frame | 200 Series Alpha Aluminum, tapered head tube, Control Freak internal routing, rack & fender mounts, flat mount disc, 142x12mm thru axle |
|---|---|
| Fork | Checkpoint carbon, tapered alloy steerer, rack mounts, fender mounts, flat mount disc, 12x100mm thru axle |
Checkpoint AL 3 2019 Wheels
| Hub front | Formula RX-512 alloy, 6-bolt, 100x12mm thru axle |
|---|---|
| Skewer front | Bontrager Switch thru axle, removable lever |
| Hub rear | Formula RX-142 alloy, 6-bolt, Shimano 11-speed freehub, 142x12mm thru axle |
| Skewer rear | Bontrager Switch thru axle, removable lever |
| Rim | Bontrager Affinity Disc, Tubeless Ready, 24-hole, 21mm width, Presta valve |
| Tire | Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite, wire bead, 60 tpi, 700x32mm |
| Max tire size | 38c Bontrager tires (with at least 4mm of clearance to frame) |
Checkpoint AL 3 2019 Drivetrain
| Shifter | Shimano Sora R3000, 9 speed |
|---|---|
| Front derailleur | Shimano Sora R3000, 31.8mm clamp |
| Rear derailleur | Shimano Sora R3000, mid cage, 34T max cog |
| *Crank | Size: 44 Shimano Sora R3000, 50/34 (compact), 165mm length |
| Size: 49, 52, 54, 56 Shimano Sora R3000, 50/34 (compact), 170mm length | |
| Size: 58, 61 Shimano Sora R3000, 50/34 (compact), 175mm length | |
| Bottom bracket | Shimano RS500, 68mm, threaded external |
| Cassette | Shimano Sora HG400, 11-32, 9 speed |
| Chain | Shimano Sora HG53, 9 speed |
Checkpoint AL 3 2019 Components
Checkpoint AL 3 2019 Weight
| Weight | 56 – 10.50 kg / 23.15 lbs |
|---|---|
| Weight limit | This bike has a maximum total weight limit (combined weight of bicycle, rider, and cargo) of 275 pounds (125 kg). |
Checkpoint AL 3 2019 Sizing
| Size | Rider Height | Inseam |
|---|---|---|
| 44 | 150 – 153 cm4’11” – 5’0″ | 71 – 73 cm28″ – 29″ |
| 49 | 156 – 163 cm5’1″ – 5’4″ | 74 – 77 cm29″ – 30″ |
| 52 | 163 – 168 cm5’4″ – 5’6″ | 76 – 79 cm30″ – 31″ |
| 54 | 168 – 174 cm5’6″ – 5’9″ | 78 – 82 cm31″ – 32″ |
| 56 | 174 – 180 cm5’9″ – 5’11” | 81 – 85 cm32″ – 33″ |
| 58 | 180 – 185 cm5’11” – 6’1″ | 84 – 87 cm33″ – 34″ |
| 61 | 185 – 191 cm6’1″ – 6’3″ | 86 – 90 cm34″ – 35″ |
Checkpoint AL 3 2019 geometry
All measurements provided in cm unless otherwise noted.
| Frame size number | Wheel size | A — Seat tube | B — Seat tube angle | C — Head tube length | D — Head angle | E — Effective top tube | F — Bottom bracket height | G — Bottom bracket drop | H — Chainstay length | I — Offset | J — Trail | K — Wheelbase | L — Standover | M — Frame reach | N — Frame stack |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 44 cm | 700c | 39.0 | 75.5° | 9.0 | 70.6° | 50.5 | 27.5 | 8.0 | 43.0 | 5.0 | 7.2 | 100.2 | 68.5 | 36.8 | 53.1 |
| 49 cm | 700c | 44.0 | 75.0° | 10.0 | 71.4° | 51.8 | 27.7 | 7.8 | 43.0 | 5.0 | 6.6 | 100.5 | 72.3 | 37.3 | 54.1 |
| 52 cm | 700c | 47.5 | 74.0° | 12.0 | 71.7° | 53.7 | 27.7 | 7.8 | 43.0 | 5.0 | 6.5 | 101.1 | 75.5 | 37.6 | 56.1 |
| 54 cm | 700c | 50.0 | 73.5° | 13.5 | 71.8° | 54.8 | 27.9 | 7.6 | 43.0 | 5.0 | 6.4 | 101.8 | 77.5 | 37.8 | 57.4 |
| 56 cm | 700c | 52.5 | 73.0° | 15.0 | 72.2° | 56.0 | 27.9 | 7.6 | 43.0 | 5.0 | 6.1 | 102.1 | 79.4 | 38.0 | 59.0 |
| 58 cm | 700c | 54.8 | 73.0° | 17.0 | 72.3° | 56.8 | 28.1 | 7.4 | 43.0 | 5.0 | 6.1 | 102.8 | 81.6 | 38.2 | 60.7 |
| 61 cm | 700c | 56.7 | 73.0° | 20.0 | 72.6° | 58.1 | 28.1 | 7.4 | 43.0 | 5.0 | 5.9 | 103.9 | 83.7 | 38.6 | 63.7 |
Checkpoint AL 3 2019 review
The Trek Checkpoint AL 3 is a versatile gravel bike. It is designed for riders who want to explore beyond paved roads. Here are some key points and thoughts about the Checkpoint AL 3:
Design and Build
- Frame Material: The Checkpoint AL 3 features an aluminum frame, which provides a balance of strength, durability, and lightweight performance. Aluminum frames are known for being stiff and responsive.
- Geometry: The geometry of the Checkpoint AL 3 is designed for stability and comfort on mixed terrains. It has slightly more relaxed position compared to a road bike but still efficient for longer rides.
Components
- Drivetrain: This model typically comes equipped with a Shimano Sora drivetrain, which offers reliable shifting and a good range of gears suitable for gravel riding and light touring.
- Brakes: It features mechanical disc brakes. It provides strong and consistent stopping power in various weather conditions, crucial for gravel and off-road riding.
- Wheels and Tires: The bike comes with wide tires that enhance grip and comfort on rough surfaces. The wheels are robust enough to handle the rigors of gravel paths.
Gravel-Specific Features
- Mounting Points: The Checkpoint AL 3 includes multiple mounting points for racks, fenders, and bottle cages, allowing for customization and the addition of gear for extended adventures.
- Tire Clearance: It offers ample tire clearance, allowing for wider tires which are beneficial for increased stability and comfort on uneven terrain.
- Comfort: The design incorporates features aimed at reducing fatigue, such as a carbon fork which helps dampen vibrations from rough roads.
Performance and Ride Quality
- Versatility: The Checkpoint AL 3 is built to handle a variety of surfaces, from smooth pavement to rough gravel trails. It is a versatile choice for adventurous riders.
- Handling: The bike’s geometry and wide tires contribute to confident handling and stability, even on challenging terrain.
- Comfort: The combination of an aluminum frame, carbon fork, and wider tires provides a comfortable ride over long distances and rough roads.
Considerations
- Weight: While lighter than steel, the aluminum frame and components may still be heavier compared to higher-end gravel bikes made from carbon fiber. However, this is typical for bikes in this price range and doesn’t significantly detract from its performance.
- Component Level: The Shimano Sora groupset is reliable but entry-level. Riders looking for higher performance and lighter components might consider upgrading or looking at higher-tier models in the Checkpoint series.
Overall Impression
The Trek Checkpoint AL 3 is an excellent entry-level gravel bike. It offers a balance of versatility, durability, and comfort. It’s well-suited for riders new to gravel riding or those looking for a reliable bike to explore mixed terrains. Its design allows for ample customization and the ability to carry gear, making it a good option for bikepacking and light touring. If you seek a capable and adaptable bike for varied adventures, the Checkpoint AL 3 is a solid choice.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.