The Checkpoint ALR 5 is an aluminium gravel bike built for venturing anywhere. It pairs modern end...The Checkpoint ALR 5 is an aluminium gravel bike built for venturing anywhere. It pairs modern endurance geometry with a carbon fork for road-smoothing comfort, while 50 mm of tyre clearance gives you room for tons of grip. It comes equipped with SRAM Apex XPLR 12-speed shifting, hydraulic disc brakes, Tubeless Ready Bontrager Paradigm wheels and loads of mounts for bags and gear. The Tech you'll get: A 300 Series Alpha Aluminium frame with a full carbon fork, with clearance for up to 50 mm tyres. Upgraded SRAM Apex XPLR 12-speed shifting, hydraulic disc brakes, Bontrager Paradigm wheels with Bontrager Girona Pro Tubeless Ready tyres, plus mounts for loading up with bags, racks and gear. Key Features The Checkpoint ALR features the same updated endurance geometry as its carbon sibling, giving you comfort and control in the rough stuff You get road-smoothing comfort from a full carbon fork and clearance for up to 50 mm tyres Its spec'd with 12-speed SRAM Apex XPRL shifting that's extra durable and provides plenty of gears for steep climbs and long grinds alike Lots of mounts on the frame and fork give you places to load up for epic bikepacking adventures or commuting around town Specifications Frameset Frame: 300 Series Alpha Aluminium, Internal cable routing, 3S chain keeper, T47, UDH, rack and mudguard mounts, integrated frame bag mounts, flat-mount disc, 142x12 mm chamfered thru axle Fork: Trek Checkpoint, full carbon, tapered steerer, rack mounts, fender mounts, flat mount disc, 12x100mm thru axle Wheels Rims: Bontrager Paradigm 23, Tubeless Ready, 24-hole, 23 mm width, Presta valve Tyres: Bontrager Girona Pro, Tubeless Ready, GR puncture protection, aramid bead, 60 tpi, 700x42 mm Drivetrain Crankset: SRAM Apex 1, 40T, DUB Wide Shifters: SRAM Apex, 12 speed Rear Derailleur: SRAM Apex XPLR, 44T max cog Chain: SRAM Apex, 12-speed Cassette: SRAM XPLR PG-1231, 11-44, 12-speed Bottom Bracket: SRAM DUB Wide, T47 threaded, internal bearing Components Handlebar
The Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 is an aluminium gravel bike designed for riders who want to explore beyond paved roads. Its key benefit is versatility, offering comfort, capability, and numerous mounting points for adventure. A potential caveat is that while durable, it may not offer the same refined ride feel as higher-end carbon models. This bike features a robust aluminum frame, a full carbon fork for vibration dampening, ample tire clearance for various conditions, and reliable SRAM Apex XPLR 12-speed shifting with hydraulic disc brakes. It's built to handle gravel roads, bikepacking trips, and daily commuting with ease.
All features
Model Part Number
5332800
Brand
Trek
Extended Product Information
FAQs
What is the maximum tyre clearance for the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5?
The bike has clearance for tyres up to 700x50 mm. This allows for significant customization depending on your intended use, from slick tires for commuting to wide, knobby tires for rough gravel.
Is this bike suitable for long-distance touring or bikepacking?
Yes, the numerous mounting points for bags, racks, and fenders, combined with its comfortable geometry and durable construction, make it an excellent choice for bikepacking and long-distance touring.
What type of bottom bracket does it use?
The Checkpoint ALR 5 features a T47 threaded bottom bracket, which offers a wider shell for improved stiffness and is compatible with a range of modern cranksets.
Can I fit different wheel sizes (e.g., 650b)?
Yes, the frame and fork are also compatible with 650b wheels, provided they are fitted with tires up to 2.0 inches wide. This offers another option for customization.
How does the SRAM Apex XPLR 12-speed perform?
The SRAM Apex XPLR is a gravel-specific 1x (single chainring) drivetrain that offers a wide gear range with its 11-44T cassette, making it suitable for climbing and varied terrain. It's known for its durability and crisp shifting.
Do I need a special tool to remove the wheels?
No, the wheels are attached with 12x100mm (front) and 142x12mm (rear) thru-axles, which are typically operated with a standard Allen key (often 5mm or 6mm).
Troubleshooting
Gears not shifting smoothly
Check derailleur hanger alignment. Clean and lubricate the chain and shifter cables. Ensure the rear derailleur limit screws are correctly set.
Brakes feel spongy or weak
Hydraulic brake lines may need bleeding. Check brake pad alignment and wear. Ensure rotor is clean and free of contamination.
Tyre develops a slow leak (tubeless setup)
Check sealant level and re-seat the tyre. Inspect the tyre for small punctures or cuts that may need patching. Ensure the rim tape is intact.
Frame bag or rack is rattling
Ensure all mounting bolts are securely tightened. Use rubber washers or frame protection tape where components meet the frame.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Highly versatile for gravel, commuting, and bikepacking.
Comfortable ride with carbon fork and generous tire clearance.
Reliable and smooth SRAM Apex XPLR 12-speed drivetrain.
Strong braking performance with hydraulic disc brakes.
Durable aluminum construction for long-term use.
Cons
Aluminum frame may be less vibration-dampening than carbon options.
Stock tires might require upgrading for specific, aggressive terrain.
Internal cable routing, while neat, can make maintenance slightly more complex.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Initial Setup:
Most Checkpoint ALR 5 bikes are sold assembled. However, if purchased online or requiring fine-tuning, professional assembly by a qualified bicycle mechanic is recommended. This ensures brakes are properly bled, gears are indexed, and all components are torqued to specification.
Compatibility:
Tyres: Compatible with tyres up to 700x50 mm or 650b x 2.0" (requires appropriate rims).
Bottom Bracket: T47 threaded bottom bracket for wide crankset compatibility.
Rear Derailleur Hanger: UDH (Universal Derailleur Hanger) compatible for easy replacement and broader shifter compatibility if needed.
Brakes: Flat-mount disc brakes are standard.
Accessories: Numerous mounts accommodate standard racks, fenders, and frame bags.
Care and Maintenance:
Cleaning: Regularly clean the frame, drivetrain, and wheels with mild soap and water. Avoid high-pressure washers on bearings.
Drivetrain: Keep the chain lubricated and clean. Periodic derailleur adjustments may be necessary.
Brakes: Check brake pad wear regularly. Hydraulic brake systems may require periodic bleeding by a professional.
Tyres: Maintain proper tyre pressure for optimal performance and puncture resistance. Check for wear and damage.
Storage: Store the bike in a dry, protected environment when not in use.