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Trek Checkpoint SL 6 (2019)

specs & review

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Trek Checkpoint SL 6 2019 is a high-performance gravel bike designed for serious riders who enjoy both road and off-road adventures. Featuring a 500 Series OCLV Carbon frame with IsoSpeed decoupler, it provides a smooth and efficient ride. The Shimano Ultegra groupset ensures precise shifting and reliable performance. Hydraulic disc brakes deliver strong stopping power in all conditions. This bike is equipped with tubeless-ready wheels and ample tire clearance, making it versatile for various terrains and long-distance rides.

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

Trek Checkpoint SL 6 2019 Specs

Trek Checkpoint SL 6 2019 Frameset

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 6 2019 Wheels

WheelsBontrager Paradigm Comp Tubeless Ready Disc, 12mm thru axle
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 6 2019 Drivetrain

ShiftersShimano Ultegra, 11 speed
Front derailleurShimano Ultegra, braze-on
Rear derailleurShimano Ultegra, Shadow design, 11 speed
CrankShimano Ultegra, 50/34 (compact)
Bottom bracketBB90
CassetteShimano HG800, 11-34, 11 speed
ChainShimano HG600, 11 speed
PedalsNot included

Trek Checkpoint SL 6 2019 Components

SaddleBontrager Montrose Comp
SeatpostBontrager Ride Tuned carbon seatmast cap, 20mm 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 Ultegra flat mount hydraulic disc

Trek Checkpoint SL 6 2019 Weight

Weight 56cm – 8.94 kg / 19.7 lbs

Weight limit This bike has a maximum total weight limit (combined weight of bicycle, rider, and cargo) of 275 pounds (125 kg).

Trek Checkpoint SL 6 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 6 2019 Geometry

trek checkpoint geometry
trek checkpoint geometry

All measurements provided in cm unless otherwise noted.

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 6 2019 Review

The Trek Checkpoint SL 6 (2019) is a high-performance gravel bike designed for serious cyclists who demand versatility, durability, and comfort on a variety of terrains. Here are some key points and thoughts about the Checkpoint SL 6 (2019):

Design and Build

  • Frame Material: The Checkpoint SL 6 features Trek’s 500 Series OCLV Carbon frame. This high-quality carbon construction provides a lightweight yet robust frame, offering excellent vibration damping and responsiveness. The carbon frame is also designed for comfort over long distances, making it ideal for gravel riding and bikepacking.
  • Geometry: The geometry is tailored for gravel riding, with a slightly longer wheelbase and more relaxed angles compared to road bikes. This design enhances stability and control on rough terrain while maintaining efficiency on smoother surfaces.

Components

  • Drivetrain: The bike is equipped with a Shimano Ultegra 11-speed groupset, which is a step up from the Shimano 105 groupset found on the SL 5. The Ultegra groupset offers smoother and more precise shifting, along with improved durability and performance, making it suitable for demanding gravel rides.
  • Brakes: It features Shimano Ultegra hydraulic disc brakes, providing powerful and consistent stopping power in all weather conditions. Hydraulic disc brakes offer superior modulation and control, enhancing safety on descents and technical sections.
  • Wheels and Tires: The Checkpoint SL 6 comes with Bontrager Paradigm Comp Tubeless Ready wheels paired with Bontrager GR1 Team Issue 700x40c tires. These high-quality tires provide excellent traction and stability on loose and uneven surfaces, while the tubeless setup reduces the risk of flats and allows for lower tire pressures, enhancing comfort and grip.

Gravel-Specific Features

  • Mounting Points: The bike includes numerous mounting points for racks, fenders, and bottle cages, making it highly versatile for bikepacking, commuting, and touring. This versatility allows riders to customize the bike for various adventures and practical uses.
  • Tire Clearance: The frame and fork offer generous tire clearance, accommodating tires up to 45c. This flexibility allows riders to choose wider tires for increased comfort and traction on rough terrain.
  • IsoSpeed Decoupler: The Checkpoint SL 6 features Trek’s IsoSpeed decoupler technology, which allows the seat tube to flex independently from the top tube. This enhances compliance and comfort, smoothing out the ride on rough surfaces and reducing rider fatigue.

Performance and Ride Quality

  • Versatility: The Checkpoint SL 6 is designed to excel on a variety of surfaces, from smooth pavement to rugged gravel paths. Its carbon frame, wide tire clearance, and high-quality components make it a versatile choice for gravel racing, bikepacking, and long-distance touring.
  • Handling: The bike’s geometry and high-quality components provide confident handling and stability, even on challenging terrain. The combination of a stiff frame and compliant features ensures precise control and a smooth ride.
  • Comfort: The carbon frame, IsoSpeed decoupler, and tubeless-ready tires work together to enhance comfort, making the Checkpoint SL 6 well-suited for long rides and multi-day adventures. These features help reduce vibrations and impacts, allowing riders to stay comfortable over extended periods.

Considerations

  • Cost: As a high-end gravel bike, the Checkpoint SL 6 comes with a premium price tag. While it offers excellent performance and versatility, it may be a significant investment for some riders.
  • Weight: While carbon frames are generally lighter than aluminum, the Checkpoint SL 6 may still be heavier than some higher-end, more specialized gravel or road bikes. However, its performance and features justify the weight for most riders.

Overall Impression

The Trek Checkpoint SL 6 (2019) is an exceptional gravel bike that combines high performance, versatility, and comfort. Its carbon frame, Shimano Ultegra components, hydraulic disc brakes, and gravel-specific features make it an ideal choice for serious cyclists who want a capable bike for a variety of adventures. Whether you’re tackling gravel races, bikepacking trips, or long-distance tours, the Checkpoint SL 6 is a reliable and high-performing bike that can handle diverse riding conditions with ease.