Trek (United States) - Checkpoint AL 3 may be the introductory gravel bike in the line-up, but it's packed with features that make it a worthy choice for new and experienced gravel grinders alike, like a lightweight aluminium frame, Shimano drivetrain, thru axles, Tubeless Ready wheels and disc brakes for better braking power in all weather conditions.

It's right for you if...

You've heard about the new frontier of gravel riding and want to dip your toes into the grit with an affordable, capable ride that can meet your all-road adventure aspirations and also function as your daily commuter.

The tech you get:

A 200 Series Alpha Aluminium frame with massive tyre clearance, a carbon disc fork, 12 mm thru-axles, a 2x9 Shimano Sora drivetrain, mudguard and rack mounts, Tektro mechanical disc brakes for all-weather stopping power, Tubeless Ready wheels and 700x32 Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite tyres.

The final word:

A rugged all-road ride for gravel adventures, daily commutes, touring and more! Checkpoint AL 3 gives you all the capability of a true gravel bike at a price that leaves cash in your pocket for camp site fees, race entries and post-adventure fun.

Why you'll love it:

• This bike is exceedingly versatile and suited to a wide variety of riding styles, including gravel rides, bikepacking and daily commutes
• Massive tyre clearance means you can use tyres up to 35c for extra traction and stability in any condition
• Mounts on the seat tube and both sides of the down tube make it easy to carry extra gear and water
• Internal routing protects your cables, even when the gravel gets muddy

Specifications:

Frameset:

• Frame: Alpha 200 series aluminium, tapered head-tube, BB86.5, flat-mount disc brakes, 12mm thru-axle, internal cable routing, w/rack mounts and hidden fender mounts
• Fork: Checkpoint carbon disc, tapered steerer, flat-mount disc brakes, rack mounts, hidden mudguard mounts, 12 mm thru axle

Wheels:

• Front hub: Formula alloy disc, 12 mm thru-axle, 24h
• Rear hub: Formula alloy disc, 12 mm thru-axle, 24h
• Rims: Bontrager Affinity, Tubeless Ready, 24h
• Tyres: Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite, 700x32c
• Max tyre size: 35 c Bontrager tyres (with at least 4 mm of clearance to frame)

Drivetrain:

• Shifters: Shimano Sora, 9-speed
• Front derailleur: Shimano Sora
• Rear derailleur: Shimano Sora
• Crank: Shimano Sora, 50/34 (compact)
• Bottom bracket: Sealed cartridge
• Cassette: Shimano Sora, 11-32, 9-speed
• Chain: Shimano Sora
• Pedals: Not included

Components:

• Saddle: Bontrager Arvada Comp, steel rails
• Seatpost: Bontrager-Approved, alloy, 27.2 mm
• Handlebar: Bontrager Comp VR-C, 31.8 mm
• Grips: Bontrager tape
• Stem: Bontrager Elite, 31.8 mm, 7-degree, w/computer and light mounts
• Head set: Integrated, cartridge bearing, sealed, 1-1/8˝ top, 1.5˝ bottom
• Brake set: Tektro C550 Spyre, dual-piston mechanical disc brake, 160mm rotor

Weight:

• Weight: 56cm – 10.44 kg/23.01 lbs
• Weight limit: This bike has a maximum total weight limit (combined weight of bicycle, rider and cargo) of 125 kg (275 lb)