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Trek Checkpoint SL 5 (2019)

specs & review

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The Trek Checkpoint SL 5 2019 is a versatile gravel bike designed for adventure and performance. It features a lightweight carbon frame with rear IsoSpeed for a smooth ride, and is equipped with Shimano 105 components for reliable shifting. With ample tire clearance and mounts for racks and fenders, it’s ready for long rides on varied terrain. The bike also includes Bontrager wheels and tires that are tubeless-ready for enhanced puncture resistance and grip. Ideal for gravel enthusiasts and bikepackers alike.

Available Sizes: 49 cm, 52 cm, 54 cm, 56 cm, 58 cm, 61 cm

Trek Checkpoint SL 5 2019 Specs

Trek Checkpoint SL 5 2019 Frameset

ComponentSpecification
Frame500 Series OCLV Carbon, Rear IsoSpeed, horizontal sliding dropouts, tapered head tube, BB90, flat mount disc brakes, rack mounts and hidden fender mounts, Control Freak, internal cable routing, 12mm thru axle, 3S chain keeper, Ride Tuned seatmast
ForkCheckpoint carbon disc, carbon tapered steerer, flat mount disc brakes, rack mounts, hidden fender mounts, 12mm thru axle

Trek Checkpoint SL 5 2019 Wheels

ComponentSpecification
Front HubBontrager alloy sealed bearing, 12mm alloy axle, centerlock
Rear HubBontrager alloy sealed bearing, 12mm alloy axle, centerlock
RimsBontrager Tubeless Ready
TiresBontrager GR1 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength sidewalls, 120tpi, aramid bead, 700x40c
Max Tire Size45c Bontrager tires (49 & 52cm: 40c due to toe overlap), with at least 4mm of clearance to frame

Trek Checkpoint SL 5 2019 Drivetrain

ComponentSpecification
ShiftersShimano RS505, 11 speed
Front DerailleurShimano 105 FD-5801, braze-on
Rear DerailleurShimano 105
CrankShimano 105, 50/34 (compact)
Bottom BracketBB90
CassetteShimano HG800, 11-34, 11 speed
ChainShimano HG600, 11 speed
PedalsNot included

Trek Checkpoint SL 5 2019 Components

ComponentSpecification
SaddleBontrager Montrose Comp
SeatpostBontrager Ride Tuned seatmast cap, 10mm offset
HandlebarBontrager RL IsoZone VR-CF, 31.8mm
GripsBontrager tape
StemBontrager Elite, 31.8mm, 7 degree, w/computer & light mounts
HeadsetIntegrated, cartridge bearing, sealed, 1-1/8˝ top, 1.5˝ bottom
BrakesetShimano RS505 flat mount hydraulic disc

Trek Checkpoint SL 5 2019 Weight

ComponentSpecification
Weight56cm – 9.60 kg / 21.17 lbs
Weight LimitThis bike has a maximum total weight limit (combined weight of bicycle, rider, and cargo) of 275 pounds (125 kg).

Trek Checkpoint SL 5 2019 Sizing

SizeRider HeightInseam
49156 – 163 cm5’1″ – 5’4″74 – 77 cm29″ – 30″
52163 – 168 cm5’4″ – 5’6″76 – 79 cm30″ – 31″
54168 – 174 cm5’6″ – 5’9″78 – 82 cm31″ – 32″
56174 – 180 cm5’9″ – 5’11”81 – 85 cm32″ – 33″
58180 – 185 cm5’11” – 6’1″84 – 87 cm33″ – 34″
61185 – 191 cm6’1″ – 6’3″86 – 90 cm34″ – 35″

Trek Checkpoint SL 5 2019 Geometry

trek checkpoint geometry
trek checkpoint geometry
Frame size numberWheel sizeA — Seat tubeB — Seat tube angleC — Head tube lengthD — Head angleE — Effective top tubeG — Bottom bracket dropH — Chainstay lengthI — OffsetJ — TrailK — WheelbaseL — StandoverM — Frame reachN — Frame stackSaddle rail height min (w/short mast)Saddle rail height max (w/short mast)Saddle rail height min (w/tall mast)Saddle rail height max (w/tall mast)
49 cm700c49.075.0°9.071.4°51.57.842.54.96.699.572.337.353.257.563.560.566.5
52 cm700c52.074.0°10.771.6°53.67.842.54.96.5100.574.937.954.961.067.064.070.0
54 cm700c54.073.5°12.671.8°55.17.642.54.96.4101.477.538.356.764.070.067.073.0
56 cm700c56.073.0°14.572.2°56.67.642.54.96.1102.079.538.758.667.073.070.076.0
58 cm700c58.073.0°17.172.3°57.77.442.54.96.1103.281.739.160.969.075.072.078.0
61 cm700c61.073.0°20.072.6°59.27.442.54.95.9104.484.639.763.872.078.075.081.0

Trek Checkpoint SL 5 2019 review

The Trek Checkpoint SL 5 (2019) is a high-performance gravel bike. It is designed to excel on a variety of terrains, from smooth roads to rugged gravel paths. Here are some key points and thoughts about the Checkpoint SL 5 (2019):

Design and Build

  • Frame Material: The Checkpoint SL 5 features Trek’s 500 Series OCLV Carbon frame, which strikes a balance between lightweight construction and durability. Carbon fiber provides excellent vibration damping and responsiveness, enhancing comfort and control on rough terrain.
  • Geometry: The bike’s geometry is optimized for gravel riding, offering stability and comfort over long distances. It typically features a slightly longer wheelbase and more relaxed angles compared to road bikes. That is why it provides a stable and confidence-inspiring ride.

Components

  • Drivetrain: The bike is equipped with a Shimano 105 11-speed groupset, offering precise and reliable shifting performance. The 105 groupset is known for its durability and smooth operation, making it well-suited for gravel riding and long-distance touring.
  • Brakes: It features Shimano 105 hydraulic disc brakes, providing powerful and consistent braking performance in all weather conditions. Hydraulic disc brakes offer excellent modulation and control, enhancing safety and confidence on descents and technical terrain.
  • Wheels and Tires: The Checkpoint SL 5 comes with Bontrager Tubeless Ready wheels paired with wide Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite 700x32c tires. These tires strike a balance between rolling efficiency on pavement and traction on gravel, making them suitable for a wide range of surfaces.

Gravel-Specific Features

  • Mounting Points: The bike includes multiple mounting points for racks, fenders, and bottle cages, allowing for customization and versatility for bikepacking, commuting, and touring.
  • Tire Clearance: The frame and fork offer generous tire clearance, allowing for tires up to 45c. This provides the flexibility to use wider tires for increased comfort and traction on rough terrain.
  • Comfort: The carbon frame and fork help to absorb road vibrations, reducing fatigue and enhancing comfort on long rides.

Performance and Ride Quality

  • Versatility: The Checkpoint SL 5 is designed to handle a wide range of surfaces, from smooth pavement to rough gravel paths. It excels at gravel riding, offering a smooth and stable ride even on challenging terrain.
  • Handling: The bike’s geometry and wide tires provide confident handling and stability, allowing riders to tackle technical sections and descents with ease.
  • Comfort: With its carbon frame and features like the IsoSpeed decoupler, the Checkpoint SL 5 offers a comfortable ride, minimizing fatigue on long-distance rides and rough terrain.

Considerations

  • Cost: The Checkpoint SL 5 is a high-end gravel bike with a premium price tag. While it offers excellent performance and versatility, it may not be suitable for all budgets.
  • Weight: Carbon frames are generally lighter than aluminum frames. Still Trek Checkpoint SL 5 may be heavier than higher-end carbon gravel bikes. However, its performance and ride quality justify the weight.

Overall Impression

The Trek Checkpoint SL 5 (2019) is a top-tier gravel bike that offers exceptional performance, versatility, and comfort. Its carbon frame, Shimano 105 groupset, hydraulic disc brakes, and gravel-specific features make it an excellent choice for riders who demand the best in terms of performance and ride quality. Whether you’re tackling long gravel rides, bikepacking adventures, or mixed-terrain races, the Checkpoint SL 5 is a capable and reliable companion that can handle anything you throw at it.