Innovate your riding experience [Trek Checkpoint SL 7 Review]

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Trek Checkpoint SL 7 AXS Gen 3 Review

• Price:  $5,699.99
• Frame: 500 Series OCLV Carbon
• Max tire size： 50mm without fenders, 42mm with fenders
• Weight: ML – 9.00 kg / 19.85 lbs (with TLR sealant, no tubes)

What we like about it: Geometric structure, IsoSpeed technology, large tire clearance, storage space, compatible accessories

What we didn’t like about it: The cost of replacing accessories is high

Rating: (4.9/5)

Welcome to our comprehensive review of the Trek Checkpoint SL 7 AXS Gen 3 Bicycle! In the realm of Trek Bikes, each ride transforms into a thrilling journey of uncovering the unknown and pushing one’s limits. This Checkpoint SL 7 AXS Gen 3 bicycle, with its exceptional performance, impeccable craftsmanship, and intuitive design, presents a cycling experience that is unparalleled for enthusiasts. Whether you are enthusiastic about the exhilarating speed of road cycling or lean towards the adventurous freedom of gravel paths, this bicycle is tailored to fulfill your every cycling desire.

Riding Experience

When I first stepped on the pedal of the Trek Checkpoint SL 7 AXS Gen 3. I knew it would be a unique cycling journey. On a sunny morning, I set off from a bicycle shop in the San Francisco Bay Area of California to embark on my adventure.

The route I have chosen is to ride north along the famous Coastal Highway 1. This is a picturesque and challenging road. The starting point is Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco, which is bustling with various seafood restaurants and specialty shops. But soon, I left the bustling city and entered the peaceful and beautiful coastline.

Climbing

As I rode north along the coastline. The road gradually became rough and uneven, and the slope began to increase. But my Checkpoint SL 7 AXS Gen 3 performs surprisingly robustly. The lightweight carbon fiber frame makes me hardly feel the weight. The Shimano AXS Gen 3 electronic transmission system allows me to easily find the right gear when going uphill. Every step was filled with strength, as if the bicycle was helping me overcome the constraints of gravity together.

After a difficult climb. I finally reached a high point and my eyes suddenly opened up. This is Half Moon Bay, a peaceful small town. Located by the seaside, one can see the endless mountains and the azure sea in the distance. I stopped and adjusted my breathing, feeling the coolness of the sea breeze brushing my cheeks.

Descending

The next downhill section is where the real fun lies. I raced down the winding coastal road. The handling of Checkpoint SL 7 AXS Gen 3 gives me immense peace of mind. The disc brake system provides strong braking force, allowing me to quickly decelerate when needed. And the wide tires firmly grip the ground, no matter how slippery the road surface is.

As the speed increases. I seem to have merged into this beautiful road, blending in with the surrounding scenery. Seagulls soar in the sky, while waves crash against the rocks on the shore. And I enjoy the pleasure of freedom and speed on the bicycle.

As the sun began to set in the west, I finally arrived at my destination – a cozy homestay located in Sonoma Valley. This is about an hour’s drive from San Francisco and is a place full of pastoral scenery and wineries. I parked my bike and walked into the homestay. Tasting local wine and cuisine, looking back on the cycling experience of this day.

Specifications

The Gravel Endurance geometry of Checkpoint allows you to sit higher. And it has shorter stretchability, allowing you to stay comfortable during all day gravel exploration, lightweight monorail, bicycle travel, and more. The IsoSpeed comfort technology for smooth roads can absorb vibrations from rough surfaces, allowing you to stay refreshed for longer periods of time.

You will receive important upgrades such as carbon fiber Bontrager Aeolus Elite 35V wheels and SRAM Force AXS D2 wireless electronic 12 speed transmission system.

The clearance of 50mm tires means you can add extra traction and cushioning on rough roads and monorails.

You can use a large internal frame storage space and a large number of mounting components on the frame and front fork to transport all items. Used for water bags, front and rear shelves, fenders, and adventure bags. These designs are completely suitable for Checkpoints

Compatible with lift rods (all frame sizes) and suspension forks (all sizes except XS).

Video

Other Versions

The Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 features high-quality parts, durable alloy frame, and additional tire clearance, among many other features. Bringing you a high-quality riding experience.

The 2×11 Shimano GRX is an invincible conqueror of steep slopes and rugged gravel roads. Not only that, but also a flexible and stable progressive geometric structure. It can also help you find the appropriate driving angle on different road surfaces. Whether it’s sidewalks, mud or grass. 700x40c gravel tires can always grip the ground. The extremely high stability and traction ensure that you ride stronger, farther, and longer distances.

Benefits of the it

• Geometric structure: Designed to allow riders to sit higher and have shorter stretches. Suitable for all day gravel exploration, ensuring comfortable riding.
• IsoSpeed technology: absorbs vibrations from rough road surfaces, enhancing the refreshing feeling of long-term cycling.
• High performance accessories: Upgraded to carbon fiber wheels and SRAM Force AXS D2 wireless electronic 12 speed transmission system.
• Large tire clearance: 50mm clearance. Suitable for rough roads, increasing traction and buffering.
• Storage space: Large internal frames and frame mounting components. Suitable for carrying adventure equipment such as water bags, shelves, mudguards, etc.
• Compatible accessories: Compatible with lifting seat rods (all sizes) and suspension forks (except XS size).

What don’t we like about it?

• The cost of replacing accessories is high

FAQ

• Where can I find information regarding hardware, cable routing, parts compatibility, min/max, and replacement service parts?

Please visit the Service Manual. This document covers frequently asked questions not already covered in the Service Manual or on bike product pages.See the Service Manual 

• What is different about the frame compared to the previous generation Checkpoint SL?

• New Gravel Endurance geometry is revamped with shorter and higher reach for a more comfortable, accessible and capable all-day ride
• Improved internal downtube storage with more internal volume, a bigger door, and a new BITS bag
• Still maintains the same top tube, frame, downtube, fork, fender, and rear rack mounts of the previous Gen, but now also has mounts for a front rack
• Bigger tire clearance can now fit up to 50mm gravel tires (as measured)
• Maintains the same IsoSpeed comfort tech as before, but the hardware is now visible
• UDH (Universal Derailleur Hanger)
• RCS Headset System
• More robust chainstay guard

• Is the IsoSpeed adjustable?

No

• What’s new about the handlebar?

New Checkpoint SL 5 AXS and 6 AXS come with the new GR Elite Handlebar and Checkpoint SL 7 AXS comes with the new GR Pro Handlebar. Both new bars are updated with a more comfortable, ergonomic drop shape. Both bars are now also 6cm wider in the drops than the hoods, have 120mm of drop, and have 15 degrees of flare – all for better control on rough surfaces.

• Does it have internal storage?

Yes! And the internal storage area has been improved with more room to store essentials, along with a bigger storage door to get essentials inside the frame.

Size	Rider Height	Inseam
XS (49cm)	143 – 158 cm4’8″ – 5’2″	67 – 74 cm26″ – 29″
S (49-52cm)	158 – 162 cm5’2″ – 5’4″	74 – 76 cm29″ – 30″
M (52-54cm)	162 – 173 cm5’4″ – 5’8″	76 – 81 cm30″ – 32″
ML (56cm)	173 – 179 cm5’8″ – 5’10”	81 – 84 cm32″ – 33″
L (58cm)	179 – 188 cm5’10” – 6’2″	84 – 88 cm33″ – 35″
XL (61cm)	188 – 213 cm6’2″ – 7’0″	88 – 100 cm35″ – 39″

Specs

Frameset

Frame	500 Series OCLV Carbon, IsoSpeed, downtube storage door, hidden fender mounts, rack mounts, integrated frame bag mounts, invisible cable routing, T47, flat mount disc, integrated chainkeeper, removable FD hanger, UDH, 142x12mm chamfered thru axle
Fork	Checkpoint full carbon, tapered carbon steerer, fender mounts, triple rack mounts, flat mount disc, 12x100mm chamfered thru axle
Max compatible fork travel	40mm (XS: compatible with rigid fork only) See Checkpoint SL Gen 3 FAQ for compatible options

Weight

Weight	ML – 9.00 kg / 19.85 lbs (with TLR sealant, no tubes)
Weight limit	This bike has a maximum total weight limit (combined weight of bicycle, rider, and cargo) of 275 pounds (125 kg).

E-system

Battery	SRAM eTap battery pack (with charger)

Drivetrain

Shifter	SRAM Force AXS D2, 12 speed
Rear derailleur	SRAM Force XPLR AXS D2, 44T max cog
*Crank	Size: XS, S SRAM Force 1 D2, 40T, DUB, 165mm length
	Size: M SRAM Force 1 D2, 40T, DUB, 170mm length
	Size: ML, L SRAM Force 1 D2, 40T, DUB, 172.5mm length
	Size: XL SRAM Force 1 D2, 40T, DUB, 175mm length
Bottom bracket	SRAM DUB, T47 threaded, internal bearing
Cassette	SRAM XG-1271, 10-44, 12 speed
Chain	SRAM Force, 12 speed
Max chainring size	1x:44 2x: 46/30

Wheels

Wheel front	Bontrager Aeolus Elite 35V, OCLV Carbon, Tubeless Ready, 35mm rim depth, 100x12mm thru axle
Wheel rear	Bontrager Aeolus Elite 35V, OCLV Carbon, Tubeless Ready, 35mm rim depth, SRAM XDR driver, 142x12mm thru axle
Skewer front	Bontrager Switch chamfered thru axle, removable lever
Skewer rear	Bontrager Switch chamfered thru axle, removable lever
Tire	Bontrager Girona RSL, Tubeless Ready, GR puncture protection, aramid bead, 220 tpi, 700x42mm
Tire part	Bontrager TLR sealant, 6oz
Rim strip	Bontrager TLR
Max tire size	50mm without fenders, 42mm with fenders

Components

*Saddle	Size: XS, S Verse Short Elite, hollow magnesium rails, 155mm width
	Size: M, ML, L, XL Verse Short Elite, hollow magnesium rails, 145mm width
Seatpost	Bontrager carbon, 27.2mm, 8mm offset, 330mm length
*Handlebar	Size: XS Bontrager Pro Gravel, 40cm width
	Size: S, M Bontrager Pro Gravel, 42cm width
	Size: ML, L Bontrager Pro Gravel, 44cm width
	Size: XL Bontrager Pro Gravel, 46cm width
Handlebar tape	Bontrager Supertack Perf tape
*Stem	Size: XS Bontrager Pro, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 60mm length
	Size: S Bontrager Pro, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 70mm length
	Size: M, ML Bontrager Pro, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 80mm length
	Size: L Bontrager Pro, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 90mm length
	Size: XL Bontrager Pro, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 100mm length
Brake	SRAM Force AXS hydraulic disc, flat mount
Brake rotor	SRAM CenterLine X, centerlock, round edge, 160mm
Rotor size	Max brake rotor sizes: 180mm front & rear

Comparison table

Bicycles	Price	Drivetrain	Tires	Click view
Marin Headlands 1	$2679	Shimano csm800011 Speed	700x44c	Click view
Trek 1120	$2999	Shimano SLX m7100 speed	29×3.00”	Click view
Salsa Journeyer GRX 810 700c	$2799	Shimano M7000 1142t, 11-speed	700x38c	Click view

Comparison

Trek Checkpoint SL 7 AXS Gen 3 VS Marin Headlands 1

The Trek Checkpoint SL 7 AXS Gen 3 boasts its outstanding geometric structure. IsoSpeed is known for its comfort technology. Its geometric design allows riders to sit higher and have shorter stretches. This is suitable for activities such as all day gravel exploration, lightweight monorail, and bicycle travel. Can provide a more comfortable riding experience. IsoSpeed technology can absorb vibrations from rough road surfaces, further reducing rider fatigue and making cycling easier and more enjoyable.

In contrast, Marin Headlands 1 has won the love of riders for its lightweight and practicality. This bicycle features a carbon fiber frame and carbon fork. Make the whole vehicle lighter in weight, and have stronger acceleration and sprint capabilities. At the same time, it is equipped with Shimano 40T flywheel and 11/42T sprocket, bringing a 1 × 11 transmission system. Enable riders to easily handle different terrains and slopes. In addition, the exterior design of Marin Headlands 1 is also excellent. Adopting a glossy carbon black/black/orange gradient coating, the lines are smooth and give a very fashionable feeling.

In terms of braking system, both bicycles use hydraulic disc brakes. Provides excellent braking performance and safety. However, in terms of transmission system, the AXS Gen 3 transmission system of the Trek Checkpoint SL 7 AXS Gen 3 may be more advanced and precise. Can provide a better shifting experience.

In addition, the two bicycles also differ in tire specifications and compatibility. Marin Headlands 1 is compatible with tire specifications of 700c x 45mm/650B x 50mm. Provides more choices and flexibility to adapt to different cycling needs. The Trek Checkpoint SL 7 AXS Gen 3 may offer tire options in other sizes to meet the preferences and needs of different riders.

Learn more:https://bestbikeselect.com/marin-headlands-1-review/

Trek Checkpoint SL 7 AXS Gen 3 VS Trek 1120

The Trek 1120, designed primarily for off-road exploration, boasts impressive performance. Compared to Checkpoint SL 7 AXS Gen 3, the Trek 1120 has opted for a simpler transmission system. Adopting a 1×12 Shimano setup. It seamlessly transitions between gears, making it a perfect pick for extensive cycling endeavors. Furthermore, the Trek 1120 comes with wide tires and a carbon fiber front fork, guaranteeing superior traction and steadiness even in the most intricate terrains. While its aluminum frame may not rival the lightweight nature of carbon fiber, it offers remarkable durability and is highly cost-efficient. Catering to cyclists who prioritize budget friendly options.

Essentially, Checkpoint SL 7 AXS Gen 3 is more suitable for cyclists seeking ultimate comfort and embarking on long gravel adventures. On the other hand, the Trek 1120 is tailored for those who value cost-effectiveness and prioritize off-road exploration. Both modes have their own advantages, allowing riders to choose based on personal needs and budget.

Learn more: https://bestbikeselect.com/2023-trek-1120-review/

Trek Checkpoint SL 7 AXS Gen 3 VS Salsa Journeyman Sora 700

The Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 is renowned for its excellent cost-effectiveness and versatility. It is made of Journeyman’s specialized aluminum tube frame, which may not match the lightweight characteristics of carbon fiber. But the durability and stability of its aluminum structure are undeniable. Equipped with Shimano Sora 2 × 9 transmission system. It may not provide the wide gear range or fast shifting speed of the Trek Checkpoint SL 7 AXS Gen 3 electronic gear. However, for most cyclists, this system is sufficient for daily cycling and light off-road adventures. In addition, the Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 sport vacuum is compatible with WTB Riddler tires. It can provide excellent grip and rolling efficiency, ensuring consistent handling on smooth asphalt roads and rocky tracks.

In terms of braking, both bicycles are equipped with mechanical disc brakes. Provides powerful braking capability and reliable performance. However, in terms of design details, the Trek Checkpoint SL 7 AXS Gen 3 tends towards lightweight and high-performance attributes. The Salsa Journeyman Sora 700 emphasizes practicality and longevity.

Learn more: https://bestbikeselect.com/salsa-journeyman-sora-700-review/

Summary

After this in-depth evaluation, it is not difficult for us to discover. The Trek Checkpoint SL 7 AXS Gen 3 bicycle is undoubtedly an outstanding work that combines performance, comfort, and aesthetics. Whether it’s from the lightweight design of the frame. From the precision and smoothness of the transmission system to the reliability and strength of the braking system. This bicycle demonstrates the relentless pursuit of excellent quality by the Trek brand.

More importantly, Trek also offers flexible and diverse delivery methods. Whether it’s delivering the bicycle to a local store or delivering it directly to your doorstep and assembling it. Customers can enjoy unprecedented convenience and thoughtfulness. This customer-centric service philosophy is the key to Trek’s ability to stand out in the fiercely competitive bicycle market.