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Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2

Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2

20.01.25 07:48 2Text: NoPain (translated by AI)Photos: Erwin HaidenOur comparison of the gravel racer with the gravel adventure bike in demanding bikepacking use highlighted the expected differences. Nevertheless, the conclusion was more surprising than expected.20.01.25 07:48 197

Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2

20.01.25 07:48 197 NoPain (translated by AI) Erwin Haiden
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  • AI-generated translation refers to the process of using artificial intelligence, particularly machine learning models, to automatically translate text or speech from one language to another. These systems, such as neural machine translation models, analyze large datasets of multilingual content to learn patterns and associations between languages. The generated translations are based on statistical probabilities and context learned during training.
Our comparison of the gravel racer with the gravel adventure bike in demanding bikepacking use highlighted the expected differences. Nevertheless, the conclusion was more surprising than expected.20.01.25 07:48 197

It stands to reason that someone who primarily wants to ride fast training laps, gravel marathons, or even real races would opt for a gravel racer. But what happens if a bikepacking tour is planned at some point? Is the racer completely unsuitable for this, or can such an adventure also be successfully undertaken with it? What are the differences in terms of equipment, geometry, and riding characteristics - what remains unchangeable and what doesn’t?

We asked ourselves these and similar questions during our four-day gravel tour covering 300 challenging kilometers with luggage. The trip took us from the picturesque Loisium Wine Hotel in southern Styria’s Ehrenhausen, over demanding mountain passes, to the original operations in Langenlois and offered ideal conditions to directly compare the two newly introduced 2024 Trek gravel bikes - the Checkmate SLR and the Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 - in an unsupported bikepacking use case.

  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2

The Grey Gravel Theory: Differences Between Race and Adventure Bikes

While a gravel racer (e.g., Trek Checkmate) is primarily designed for speed and performance, making it especially suitable for races or sporty riding on gravel and roads, an adventure gravel bike (e.g., Trek Checkpoint) shines with versatility, comfort, and durability - ideal for bikepacking and tours in rough terrain.

Before we share our bikepacking practical experiences with the two protagonists from Trek, let's first take a look at the theory. For this, we present the table below with the general differences between the two gravel categories - specifically in relation to our topic.

Bikepacking: Racer vs. Adventure

Gravel Racer Gravel Adventure Bike
Geometry More aggressive geometry with a lower front (similar to road bikes), optimized for aerodynamics and efficient propulsion. Comfort-oriented geometry with a higher head tube and a more relaxed seating position, which is more pleasant on long rides.
Weight Lighter frame (often carbon) for better agility, but possibly less robust. More stable frame construction (aluminum or carbon) to better handle the additional weight of luggage.
Tire Clearance Usually slightly narrower tires to maximize aerodynamics and speed. This may mean reduced comfort on very rough terrain. Wider tires (up to 45 mm or more) provide better grip, more traction, and more comfort on rough terrain.
Gear Range Adjusted range with larger gear ratios - optimized for higher speeds. Wide range with lower ratios - optimized for steep climbs and extended effort.
Load Capacity Limited options for racks and packing systems; gravel racers are often not designed for heavy loads. Numerous mounting points for bottle holders, bags, and racks. Ideal for extensive bikepacking gear.
Stability Narrow tires and an aggressive geometry can compromise stability (especially with higher loads). Thanks to a longer wheelbase and wider tires, it remains stable even with high loads.
Comfort Less focus on vibration damping, which can lead to fatigue on long rides. Often additional features like fork or damping systems that minimize vibrations and reduce fatigue.
Price Usually more expensive (approx. €2,500 - €8,000) More affordable (approx. €1,800 - €6,000)
Bikepacking Advantages Ideal for fast tours with minimal load (e.g., lightweight bikepacking). Very efficient on good terrain. Perfect for longer tours and rough terrain; provides stability, comfort, and plenty of space for luggage.
Bikepacking Disadvantages Less comfortable and more nervous on rough terrain; limited luggage options can be a problem on longer tours. A bit heavier and slower than a gravel racer, especially on smooth terrain.

A little spoiler ahead

Although Trek has fully hit the bikepacking nerve with the new Checkpoint SL and its features almost exactly match the table above, the Americans are taking an independent path with the Checkmate SLR. While the Checkmate is a purebred racer, it has been designed in several areas to make it suitable not only for racing but also for everyday use and even light bikepacking.

This becomes even clearer when we focus on the following areas:
  • Geometry
  • Technology and components
  • Storage options
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2

Geometry differences

The new Checkmate features Trek's specially developed "Gravel Race Geometry" for gravel racing, which allows for an extremely aerodynamic riding position while offering an excellent mix of high agility and stability. For example, the wheelbase and chainstays are shorter than those of the Checkpoint, while the head angle is nearly identical and the trail is identical down to the millimeter.

Geo Checkmate vs. Checkpoint

Checkmate (M) Checkpoint (M) Checkmate Differences
Seat Tube (mm) 455 505 + more flex at the seat tube
Seat Tube Angle (°) 73.7° 73.3° + more pressure on the front wheel
Head Tube Length (mm) 126 130 + sportier riding position
Head Angle (°) 71.5° 71.6° +- roughly the same
Trail (mm) 68 68 +- direct steering
Effective Top Tube (mm) 555 566 (adjusted to the seat tube angle)
Bottom Bracket Drop (mm) 80 76 - less ground clearance
Chainstay Length (mm) 426 430 +- more agile, but less stable
Wheelbase (mm) 1022 1034 + more nimble
Standover Height (mm) 782 799 + the lower bottom bracket reduces the standover height
Reach (mm) 392 391 +- slightly longer reach
Stack 560 579 + more aerodynamic riding position

Good comfort on rough terrain is ensured by the high extension of the seat post as well as the IsoSpeed comfort technology, which efficiently absorbs fatiguing bumps. At the same time, great emphasis was placed on maximum tire clearance. While the bike comes equipped with 38C tires from the factory, tires up to 45 mm wide (without fenders) fit in the frame and fork.

  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2

The only objective disadvantages are the reduced ground clearance, as the bottom bracket on the Checkmate is more than 0.5 cm lower in combination with the narrower tires. Additionally, the one-piece full-carbon handlebar combination offers fewer adjustment options and absorbs vibrations noticeably worse than the two-piece handlebar solution of the Checkpoint.

  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2

Technology and Equipment

Premium components such as the Bontrager carbon wheels, the Trek Aero RSL handlebar-stem unit, and the 800 Series OCLV carbon material keep the weight low. For example, the Checkmate in M-L weighs around 900 grams less than the Checkpoint. However, the difference in purchase price is, of course, significant as well, with €8,999 versus €6,499.

The gear range of both bikes, on the other hand, is equally large, and the gradation is identical – Sram AXS 1x12 makes it possible.

Checkmate vs. Checkpoint

Checkmate SLR 7 AXS Checkpoint SL 7 AXS Gen. 3
Frame 800 Series OCLV Carbon, IsoSpeed, internal cable routing, flat mount, integrated chain guide, removable derailleur mount, UDH, slanted 142x12 mm thru-axle 500 Series OCLV Carbon, IsoSpeed, internal cable routing, flat mount, integrated chain guide, removable derailleur mount, UDH, slanted 142x12 mm thru-axle
Fork Checkmate SLR, full carbon, tapered carbon steerer, flat mount, 12x100 mm thru-axle Checkpoint, full carbon, tapered carbon steerer, flat mount, 12x100 mm thru-axle
Weight 8.10 kg (M-L) 9.00 kg (M-L)
Tires & Tire Clearance Factory: 38C (maximum 45C)
In test: Bontrager GR1 Team Issue 40 mm
Factory: 42C (maximum 50C)
In test: Pirelli Cinturato Gravel M 40 mm
Gear Range SRAM Force AXS 1x12
Front 40T, rear 10-44T (max. 44T)
SRAM Force AXS 1x12
Front 40T, rear 10-44T (max. 44T)
Load Capacity Fender mounts on frame and fork, integrated frame bag mounts Fender mounts on frame and fork, integrated frame bag mounts, storage compartment in down tube, rack mounts on frame and fork
Price € 8,999.00 € 6,499.00
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2

In summary, it can be said that the Checkmate does not have any significant limitations in terms of comfort, tire clearance, and gear range.
So, if you are comfortable with the sportier riding position and can settle for 45-mm tires, you can also undertake larger expeditions with the gravel racer—unless, and here lies the biggest difference between the two bikes, you need to carry a lot of luggage. This is because the Checkmate does not have mounting options for pannier racks with side bags on either the frame or the fork.

  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2

Our luggage problem and solution

Unfortunately, we only noticed during a closer inspection of the bikes that the Checkmate did not have side pannier mounts on the dropouts, while these were already integrated on the Checkpoint; logically, the gravel racer was more designed for lightweight fenders rather than heavily loaded side bags. Therefore, we equipped the Checkmate only with Mile Grinder bikepacking frame, handlebar, and a huge saddlebag from Contec, while the rider also had to strap on a backpack.

  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2

With the Checkpoint, however, the preparation went significantly smoother: The Ortlieb Quick-Rack carrier/mudguard combination was mounted in no time at all, distributed the loads better in all situations during the journey, and provided noticeably higher comfort.

Here you can find our impressions and reviews of the luggage solutions from Ortlieb and Contec that were used.

  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2

Impressions from practical use

After 300 tough gravel kilometers - from the Loisium Hotel Ehrenhausen over the Turnauer Höhe and Annaberg to the Loisium in Langenlois - both riders and machines have returned safe and sound without technical or physical issues. And if our Mister M hadn’t struggled with his uncomfortable backpack, the four-day bikepacking trip, even with the Checkmate gravel racer, would have been a true success story.
The slightly wider tires were already enough to provide the necessary traction and sufficient comfort. Leaving the loading factor aside, the choice between Checkmate and Checkpoint can almost exclusively be made based on personal preferences.

Racer vs. Adventure Bike

Checkmate SLR 7 AXS Checkpoint SL 7 AXS Gen. 3
Comfort Low, more sporty Higher, ideal for long stages
Stability Agile, less stable when loaded Stable, very steady, even when heavily loaded
Off-road capability Suitable for light gravel Ideal for rough and mixed terrain
Load capacity Minimal (e.g., frame bags) Extensive, many mounting options
Speed High on flat terrain and uphill Solid, but more sluggish
Use case Short trips, light bikepacking Long tours, adventure travels


Mister M's further impressions of the Checkmate:
The hard saddle is suitable for long distances, while the stiff aero handlebar vibrates uncomfortably on rough terrain. Additionally, the handlebar and grips are difficult to adjust to a higher position. A storage compartment in the downtube would be practical, especially for tools. A positive highlight is the improved cover for saddle adjustment compared to the Checkpoint 2023. However, the matte black frame color proves difficult to clean.

NoPain's further impressions of the Checkpoint:
The Checkpoint is better suited for longer bikepacking tours, especially due to the additional storage space in the downtube and the many mounting options for luggage. The saddle is a bit too soft, and a 2x drivetrain would provide more range. On steep climbs and with more luggage, the "granny gear" might be missed.

 If you prefer a sporty riding position and travel with light luggage, the Checkmate is also an excellent choice. 

Bikepacking with the gravel racer
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2

Both bikes in everyday bikepacking use

Our conclusion from the comparison between the Trek Checkmate SLR 7 AXS and the Trek Checkpoint SL 7 AXS is somewhat surprising: Although the Checkmate is primarily designed as a gravel racer, it turns out that sporty bikepacking tours can also be a lot of fun with it.
The long-distance deficits in equipment and geometry compared to the Checkpoint are indeed noticeable, yet the race bike proves to be versatile and sufficiently comfortable.

For serious bikepacking adventures, however, the Checkpoint is better suited, primarily due to its higher riding comfort (geometry, tire clearance) as well as the ability to carry more luggage.

 Comfort, versatility, and cargo capacity speak in favor of the Checkpoint. 

Overall
  • Trek Checkmate SLR vs. Trek Checkpoint SL Gen. 3 in the Bikepacking Review^2