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 adventurous riders seeking versatility. Its key benefit lies in its robust build, comfortable geometry, and ample tire clearance for tackling diverse terrain. A potential caveat is that while capable, it may not offer the same lightweight performance as higher-end carbon models. This bike features a durable aluminum frame, a carbon fork for shock absorption, and a reliable SRAM Apex XPLR 12-speed drivetrain, making it suitable for bikepacking, commuting, and general gravel riding.
All features
Model Part Number
5332802
Brand
Trek
Extended Product Information
FAQs
What type of riding is the Checkpoint ALR 5 best suited for?
The Checkpoint ALR 5 is highly versatile and is excellent for gravel riding, bikepacking, commuting, and general adventure cycling. Its design accommodates a wide range of terrain and load-carrying needs.
Can I fit wider tires than the stock 700x42mm?
Yes, the frame and fork have clearance for tires up to 50mm wide with 700c wheels. This allows for greater customization based on your riding conditions and preference for comfort and grip.
What is the advantage of the carbon fork?
The full carbon fork helps to absorb vibrations and road chatter, leading to a more comfortable ride, especially on rough surfaces. It also contributes to a lighter overall bike weight compared to a full alloy fork.
How do I maintain the tubeless tire setup?
Regularly check tire pressure and inspect for small punctures that the sealant can fix. You may need to periodically add more sealant (typically every 6 months) to ensure optimal performance and puncture resistance.
What is the gear range on the SRAM Apex XPLR drivetrain?
The SRAM Apex XPLR 12-speed drivetrain typically features a wide range cassette (e.g., 11-44T) paired with a 40T front chainring, providing ample gears for both steep climbs and fast descents.
How many mounts does the bike have for accessories?
The Checkpoint ALR 5 features numerous mounts on the frame and fork, designed to accommodate racks, fenders, bags, and other accessories, making it well-equipped for long-distance touring and bikepacking.
What is the warranty on the Trek Checkpoint ALR 5?
Trek typically offers a limited lifetime warranty on the frame and fork for the original owner, with specific warranty terms for components. Please refer to the official Trek warranty documentation for precise details.
Troubleshooting
Gear skipping or poor shifting performance
Ensure the derailleur hanger is straight. Check cable tension and lubrication. If issues persist, consult a professional mechanic for derailleur adjustment or service.
Brakes not stopping effectively
Check brake pad wear and clean rotors with isopropyl alcohol. Ensure brake lines are not contaminated. Hydraulic brakes may need bleeding if lever feel is spongy.
Tyre losing air (tubeless setup)
Check for small punctures that sealant can seal. Ensure the tire bead is properly seated on the rim. If air is leaking from the valve stem, tighten the valve core.
Excessive frame noise or creaking
Check that all bolts, especially headset, bottom bracket, and seatpost, are properly tightened. Lubricate the seatpost and re-tighten the clamp. Water or dirt ingress in the bottom bracket area can also cause noise.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Versatile for gravel, bikepacking, and commuting.
Comfortable endurance geometry for long rides.
Generous tire clearance for varied terrain.
Reliable SRAM Apex XPLR drivetrain.
Durable aluminum frame with a carbon fork.
Cons
May be heavier than comparable carbon gravel bikes.
Stock tires are 700x42mm; maximum clearance is 50mm, suggesting potential for even wider tires.
Aluminium frame may transmit more road vibration than carbon frames without wider tires.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Initial Setup: Upon receiving the bike, it is recommended to have a professional bike mechanic complete the final assembly. This includes installing the handlebars, stem, seatpost, pedals, and performing a thorough safety check.
Compatibility: The Checkpoint ALR 5 uses a T47 threaded bottom bracket and a UDH (Universal Derailleur Hanger), offering modern standards for compatibility. It accepts thru-axles for secure wheel mounting. Tire clearance is up to 50 mm for 700c wheels.
Care and Maintenance:
Cleaning: Regularly clean the frame with mild soap and water. Avoid high-pressure washers, especially near bearings.
Drivetrain: Keep the chain clean and lubricated. Periodic adjustments to derailleurs may be necessary.
Brakes: Check brake pad wear and rotor cleanliness. Hydraulic disc brakes may require occasional bleeding by a qualified mechanic.
Tyres: Monitor tire pressure and check for wear or damage. For tubeless setups, ensure sealant levels are adequate.
Storage: Store the bike in a dry place away from extreme temperatures.