The Trek Checkpoint SL 6 AXS is an exceptional carbon gravel bike, streamlined for long rides over diverse terrains. Its 500 Series OCLV Carbon frame guarantees both lightness and durability, while the IsoSpeed technology heightens comfort.
Powering through varied terrains, the SRAM Rival eTap AXS 12-speed wireless electronic drivetrain is a definite standout. The bike’s detailed setup includes the Bontrager Verse Comp saddle, Elite Gravel handlebars, and SRAM Rival hydraulic disc brakes, ensuring precision and performance.
Offering such a detailed overview just scratches the surface, there’s so much more to explore with the Trek Checkpoint.
Contents
Trek Checkpoint SL 6 AXS Overview
Diving into the details, the Trek Checkpoint SL 6 AXS is a carbon gravel bike packed with features designed for long, adventurous rides over varied terrains. A standout feature is its SRAM Rival eTap AXS, a 12-speed wireless electronic drivetrain that guarantees seamless, fast shifts while biking. This model also comes with the SRAM Rival XPLR eTap AXS rear derailleur, capable of handling a max cog of 44T, enhancing its off-road capabilities.
The bike’s crankset is available in a wide range of sizes, from 49 to 61, with a 40T DUB Wide option, catering to various rider preferences. The bottom bracket, a SRAM DUB, T47 threaded, internal bearing, is designed for improved durability and better control over rough terrains.
Featuring a SRAM XG-1251, 10-44, 12-speed cassette and a SRAM Rival, 12-speed chain, this bike ensures smooth and efficient power transfer. The Bontrager Verse Comp saddle and Elite Gravel handlebars, available in different sizes and widths, secure rider comfort on long journeys.
The bike’s weight is a manageable 9.05 kg (19.96 lbs), with a maximum total weight limit of 125 kg (275 lb) for the bike, rider, and cargo. This makes it suitable for bikepacking or carrying additional gear for long adventures.
In terms of brakes, it comes equipped with SRAM Rival hydraulic disc brakes and SRAM Paceline rounded CentreLock rotors, guaranteeing reliable stopping power in all conditions. Finally, the bike is available in sizes ranging from 49 cm to 61 cm, catering to a wide array of rider heights.
Frame and Fork Specifications
Turning our attention to the frame and fork of the Checkpoint SL 6 AXS, we find a high-quality construction that contributes to the bike’s impressive performance and comfort. The frame is constructed of 500 Series OCLV Carbon, a material known for its lightweight yet sturdy properties, which contributes to the bike’s overall agility and endurance on various terrains.
The frame also boasts Trek’s proprietary IsoSpeed technology. This decoupler is designed to absorb road vibrations, increasing the bike’s comfort and reducing rider fatigue on longer rides. It’s a feature that, in my experience, sets the Checkpoint SL 6 AXS apart from other gravel bikes in its class.
The fork, too, leaves nothing to be desired. It’s a full carbon fork, contributing to the bike’s overall lightness and providing excellent handling. It’s also fitted with front and rear thru-axles that enhance the bike’s stability and control, especially when negotiating rough and uneven terrains.
Key Aspects of Frame and Fork:
- Lightweight yet durable 500 Series OCLV Carbon frame.
- IsoSpeed technology for enhanced comfort by absorbing road vibrations.
- Full carbon fork for excellent handling.
- Front and rear thru-axles for improved stability and control.
Drivetrain and Component Analysis
When it comes to the drivetrain and components of the Checkpoint SL 6 AXS, we encounter a lineup of top-tier parts that truly enhance the bike’s performance and reliability. The bike’s drivetrain is built around SRAM’s Rival eTap AXS 12-speed shifter and Rival XPLR eTap AXS rear derailleur, both of which are recognized for their precise and seamless gear changes. With a 44T max cog in the rear, the bike can handle a wide range of terrains and gradients.
The bike’s crankset is also from SRAM’s Rival line, available in a variety of sizes, which allows for customization based on rider preference. The bike utilizes SRAM DUB, T47 threaded, internal bearing for the bottom bracket, which guarantees smooth and efficient power transfer from the pedals to the drivetrain.
As for the bike’s components, they are equally impressive. The saddle is a Bontrager Verse Comp, which blends comfort and performance. The handlebars are Bontrager Elite Gravel, providing an ergonomic design and varying widths for a tailored fit. The bike’s braking system is based on SRAM Rival hydraulic disc brakes, which offers robust and responsive stopping power under all conditions.
Checkpoint SL 6 AXS Features
The Checkpoint SL 6 AXS boasts a variety of features that set it apart as a top-quality gravel bike. One of the main highlights is its lightweight OCLV Carbon frame. This frame not only contributes to the bike’s overall low weight but also offers excellent rigidity for better power transfer.
Complementing the frame is the IsoSpeed technology. This unique innovation decouples the seat tube from the top tube, allowing the frame to flex along the entire seat tube. This results in an incredibly smooth ride, especially on rough gravel roads.
- Wireless Electronic Drivetrain: The bike features a SRAM Rival XPLR AXS wireless electronic drivetrain. This 12-speed system offers quick, crisp, and reliable gear changes at the touch of a button.
- Progressive Geometry: The Checkpoint SL 6 AXS adopts a progressive geometry that strikes the perfect balance between speed and stability. This makes it a versatile choice for both racing and bikepacking adventures.
- Internal Storage and Bikepacking Mounts: The bike also incorporates internal storage in the downtube for tools and other essentials. Additionally, it has multiple mounts for bikepacking bags, making it an excellent choice for long-distance, multi-day adventures.
- Service and Support: Trek offers extensive service and support for the Checkpoint SL 6 AXS. This includes a detailed service manual and a network of authorized service centers.
Brakes and Wheels Examination
Diving into the analysis of the brakes and wheels, it’s essential to highlight the SRAM Rival hydraulic disc brakes that the Checkpoint SL 6 AXS is equipped with. These are high-performance brakes designed to provide powerful and reliable stopping power in all conditions. The hydraulic nature of these brakes guarantees smooth modulation, allowing for consistent, controlled braking that’s vital when tackling aggressive terrains.
The SRAM Paceline rounded CentreLock rotors, at a size of 160mm, contribute to the braking system’s efficiency. The CentreLock design guarantees a secure fit for the rotors, offering better heat management and improved overall performance. Efficient heat management is crucial in maintaining consistent braking power, especially during long descents.
As we shift focus to the wheels, the Checkpoint SL 6 AXS is compatible with 700c wheels – a common size for road and gravel bikes. The larger wheel size ensures a smoother ride over uneven surfaces, making it ideal for gravel riding. Thru-axles are also used, enhancing stability and control.
The tires are another key consideration when evaluating the wheels. The Checkpoint SL 6 AXS can accommodate a max tire size of 45c, providing the flexibility to customize your ride based on the terrain or personal preference.
Conclusion
The Trek Checkpoint SL 6 AXS is a game-changer. Its lightweight OCLV Carbon frame and smooth SRAM Rival XPLR AXS drivetrain offer power, accuracy, and comfort in a single package.
The IsoSpeed technology truly excels on rugged trails, demonstrating its value for gravel rides. Equipped with various mounts and internal storage, it’s also a bikepacker’s ideal choice.
While it comes at a high cost, for dedicated cyclists, it’s a purchase that will yield returns.