2023 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless Review

2023 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless Review

Are you searching for an endurance gravel bike that combines lightweight performance and severe loyalty to the cause? If so, the 2023 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless may be the perfect choice for you.

The latest version of the Check Point ALR 5 is a future-proofed long-distance gravel bike that has been heavily developed over several years. 

It features an all-new lightweight Alpha Aluminum frame and some seriously impressive technology, flat mount brakes, hidden fender mounts, and even a small frame bag.

2023 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless Review

All of this comes together to create an agile, long distance experience that packs in comfort without compromising on speed and control. 

In this review we take a closer look at what makes the 2023 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless so special and why it could be one of the best options available on the market today.

The 2023 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless was released recently and the anticipation for the bike has been huge. 

This high-performance all-road gravel bike offers a lightweight, responsive package that is built for long rides and intense races. 

Built with an aluminum frame and carbon fork, this Checkpoint comes packed with features like an 11-speed Shimano drivetrain and hydraulic brakes. 

In this review, we’ll be taking an in-depth look at the 2023 Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless and seeing how it performs on the trail.

Frame Design

The Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless features an aluminum alloy frame that is designed to offer good power transfer while remaining light weight. 

The frame has clearance for 700x45c or 650×2.1″ tires, allowing you to take on more challenging road surfaces with confidence. 

The frame also uses Trek’s Control Freak internal cable routing system which helps to streamline the design by tucking away all of the cables inside of the frame.

Groupset and Components

This version of the Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless comes equipped with a Shimano GRX 11-speed groupset which includes a shifter/brake lever combo, front/rear derailleurs and a 11-42t cassette. 

When it comes to braking, this bike features flat mount hydraulic disc brakes from Shimano which offer reliable stopping power even on wet or muddy roads. 

As for suspension, this Checkpoint model uses a rigid carbon fork to provide some comfort without taking too much away from its agile feel.

Wheelset

The wheels on this model are Bontrager Paradigm tubeless compatible wrapped with Bontrager GR2 Team Issue Elite 700x40c tires. 

These rims are strong and light, making them ideal for gravel riding where speed changes frequently and terrain can get rough or technical at times. 

They even include a small bottle of tubeless sealant should you choose to run them tubeless.

Overall Ride Feel

As far as ride feel goes, this Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Driftless has a stiff and snappy feel thanks to its lightweight construction and rigid carbon fork design. 

The geometry of this bike helps foster good power transfer throughout pedal strokes while still allowing you to stay agile around tight corners or when navigating through technical terrain at higher speeds. 

With its dependable components like Shimano’s GRX 11-speed groupset and hydraulic disc brakes you get great performance in any condition whether you’re racing against your friends or just out exploring some local trails.

Order online and have it shipped to your local dealer for final assembly!!