Built for incredible adventures in any terrain. Trek Checkpoint 2022 is a terrain-smoothing IsoSpeed splitter, with nimble yet stable geometry, internal storage, and plenty of attachment points.
- Part 1: Overall Review
- Part 2: Introduction of Advantages and Disadvantages
- Part 3: Products: Frame, Kit, Model Introduction
- Part 4: Main Features of the Product
- Part 5: Riding Experience And Product Recommendation
- Part 6: Brief Introduction of Other Models of the Product
- Part 7: Detailed Product Specifications
Part 1: Overall Review
An American company has just presented a new generation of trek checkpoint 2022 models. Or instead, we should write models, designed to meet slightly different needs and share a lot of standard features.
Besides, according to its gradation, the manufacturer has constructed 3 versions of trek checkpoint 2022 frames. SLR is the most race-oriented. It focused mainly on speed. SL is also a fast model. Still, it also gains a bit more in the “adventure” riding field. The aluminum version ALR is the most practical Checkpoint in the family. Details await below!
The SL version, of course, is mostly twin to the SLR, with the model shifted more towards adventure riding than high-performance racing. Trek has used the slightly heavier and more affordable OCLV 500 carbon fibre here. The SL model also features IsoSpeed technology but in the standard seat tube version.
Besides, the Checkpoint SL frame is compatible with droppers with a diameter of 27.2 mm (the SLR versions do not allow the installation of droppers), which clearly shows that if we want to shift the character of the bike towards more off-road riding, nothing stands in the way. The SL version of the frame has all the accessories mentioned earlier, mounting holes, and also allows you to bolt a rack or other bottle/tool cages to the fork.
Part 2: Introduction of Advantages and Disadvantages
More forgiving handling, size-appropriate IsoSpeed tuning on SLR models, relatively seamless cable routing, and traditional frame shaping. However, handling is more firm but more stable on some models, with odd handlebar flex.
Part 3: Products: Frame, Kit, Model Introduction
Frame
Carbon or aluminium construction, longer and more progressive frame geometry, integrated down tube storage and IsoSpeed rear pseudo-suspension on carbon models, neatly concealed internal/external hybrid routing, multiple mounts, threaded T47 bottom brackets. Also, the frame is stiff, lightweight, and strong. Besides, it provides you with stability and comfort for multi-day trips.
Drive
Trek introduces 4 versions of the Checkpoint SLR (within which you can choose between 1x or 2x drivetrains). Besides, Top models can also be ordered through the Project One program, which allows you to customize your paint job and the components you want.
Brakes
2022 trek checkpoint is instantly responsive. Top-end Shimano components work intuitively and precisely. Hydraulic disc brakes keep you confident and in control whatever the conditions.
Fork
Your comfort and muscles are taken care of by Checkpoint’s lightweight carbon fibre suspension fork. It absorbs road vibration, whether on asphalt, gravel, or forest trails.
Wheels
trek checkpoint 2022 becomes even more versatile with its Stranglehold hooks and massive gravel tire clearance. Increase your grip and stability, and when you feel like it, tweak the geometry to turn your bike into a single-speed
Part 4: Main Features of the Product
Each of the new models of the 2022 trek checkpoint features a new, more progressive geometry compared to the previous generation. The changes are mainly based on an increased reach value and a slightly longer chainstay value. Also, these measures are intended to increase handling stability in the field and under heavier loads.
All the new Checkpoints from Trek’s stable have the same tire capacity. The manufacturer (as in last year’s models) recommends using a maximum tire width of 45 mm (or, in the case of 27.5″ wheel, 2.1″ tires). As standard, the Checkpoints go out to their new owners on tires with a width of 40 mm.
The SLR and SL carbon models feature noticeably increased integration and improved aerodynamics. Any tubing on the carbon trek 2022 checkpoint instantly retracts into the steerer’s head, just as it does on the new Emonda.
Another construction curiosity, which we will meet in both versions of carbon frames, is a compartment built into the lower tube for a toolbox or other small items. This patent is already a well-known solution. Trek uses it, among others, in its MTB models and the all-road Domane model, which we also had a chance to test. Carbon fibre models also share the bottom tube cover near the bottom bracket.
Two Checkpoints Now Become Three
So how famous was Checkpoint? Firstly, famous enough that Trek saw fit to add a third variant to the existing SL carbon fibre and ALR aluminium versions. Also, the new trek checkpoint 2022 is designed more for gravel racing, built with a lighter OCLV 700 mix of carbon fibre and a fresher version of Trek’s IsoSpeed pseudo-rear Top Tube suspension system, an integrated saddle mast without notches and carbon fibre overlays.
This version of the Top Tube IsoSpeed system is not adjustable like on the Madone SLR or Domane SLR. Trek claims, however, that it has been adjusted to be more comfortable (similar to the current Domane SLR when the slider is set almost entirely too soft).
Panniers and Handlebars
Along with the launch, Bontrager’s new panniers were shown. While there was already a frame-mounted bag and a top tube-mounted bag on offer, we’re talking about the whole set, including a Seatpost and handlebar pannier.
Besides, the frame bags have been redesigned and come in six sizes to fit all Checkpoint frame sizes. In addition, what is most interesting is that unique holders under the top tube allow for mounting panniers on the frame without straps.
Part 5: Riding Experience and Product Recommendation
The Trek Checkpoint 2022 is a carbon-fibre gravel bike, which features a terrain-smoothing IsoSpeed splitter, nimble yet stable geometry, internal storage, and plenty of attachment points.
The alum model is the most practical. Likely, many of the potential buyers will also bet on it in terms of daily commuting and general city riding. Besides, it was built from Alpha 300 alum. We will not meet the storage compartment in the lower tube or the IsoSpeed distributor in the aluminium version.
Part 6: Other Models of the Product
For example, the trek offers the new 2022 trek checkpoint in a wide range of models, including four Checkpoint SLRs, three Checkpoint SLs, and one Checkpoint ALR.
All three will be available as framesets. And the Checkpoint SLR is also expected to be offered as part of Trek’s custom Project One program. However, if you want to find something else, here are some other models you may also like.
Part 7: Detailed Product
Front hub: Bontrager aluminium alloy front hub with sealed machine bearings, centre-lock disc, 100 x 12 mm thru-axle
Front calliper: Bontrager Switch with thru-axle, removable lever
Rear hub: Bontrager aluminium alloy rear hub with sealed machine bearings, centre-lock disc, Shimano 11-spline drums, through axle 142 x 12 mm
Rear calliper: Bontrager Switch with thru-axle, removable lever
Rim: Bontrager Paradigm SL, Tubeless Ready, 24 holes, 21 mm width, Presta valve
Tire: Bontrager GR1 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength casing, aramid bead, 120 TPI, 700x40c
Rim tape: Bontrager Aeolus XXX rim tape
Handle: Shimano GRX RX600, 11-speed
Front derailleur: Shimano GRX RX810, integrated
Rear derailleur: Shimano GRX RX810, long travel, max. sprocket 34T
Bottom bracket insert: Praxis, threaded T47, inner bearings
Cassette: Shimano 105 HG700-11, 11-34, 11-speed
Chain: Shimano 105 HG601, 11-speed
Saddle:
Size: 49, 52 Bontrager P3 Verse Comp, steel rails, width 155 mm
Size: 54, 56, 58, 61 Bontrager P3 Verse Comp, steel rails, width 145 mm
Stem: Bontrager carbon fiber, 27,2 mm, 8 mm offset, length 330 mm
Brake disc: Shimano SM-RT70, center lock, 160 mm
Accessories:
Bag: Bontrager BITS bag for internal mounting
Weight: Weight for size 56 – 21.38 lbs / 9.7 kg
Weight limitation: The max weight for this bike (total weight of bike, rider, and carried items) is 125 kg.
