Trek Checkpoint SL6 eTap long-term review: Simple done brilliantly

The Trek Checkpoint is the only bike you need to take you on every adventure

Trek Checkpoint SL 6 eTap
(Image: © Josh Ross)

Cyclingnews Verdict

If you can only have one bike, the Trek Checkpoint SL6 eTap is a serious contender. It’s the kind of bike that just works. You can upgrade it if you want to but you don’t need to. There are mounts for mudguards and bags, and with only a tyre change it will transition from a comfortable road bike to a capable off-road partner.

Pros

  • +

    SRAM Rival AXS is the perfect groupset for an all-arounder

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    Mud-guard mounts

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    Mounting points for every bag you can think of

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    Non-proprietary seat-post provides options

  • +

    Internal storage is convenient

  • +

    Downtube protection eases worry

  • +

    Threaded bottom bracket

  • +

    Ideal all-around gearing

Cons

  • -

    Short stem for added stability means handlebar/knee interference

  • -

    Lacks included protection for the chain stay

  • -

    Detail behind the fork steerer collects water and is difficult to clean

You can trust Cyclingnews Our experts spend countless hours testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

There's a cadre of people who get really far out into adventure riding that it's basically a small step away from needing a mountain bike. There are also lots of people who want the absolute fastest road bike available. Those ends of the spectrum don't represent the vast majority of riders though. Most people have a lot less focus and need a good, versatile bike that just works. We included the Trek Checkpoint on our list of the best gravel bikes available because that's exactly what you get, a bike that just works. 

The Trek Checkpoint is a bike that I have held onto for close to a year. It carried me across thousands of miles and all kinds of weather. I've had adventures on and off the road and I've put the bike to the test in every type of riding I could think of. After all this time, I'm ready to discuss the experience, what I like about it and where it falls short. If you've been considering a new gravel bike keep reading to see if the Trek Checkpoint is the right choice for you.

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Testing scorecard and notes
Design and aestheticsBeautiful but it would be nice to see every paint option offered across the lineup. 9/10
ComponentsThe pieces are excellent and the gearing in particular is a highpoint. 10/10
Performance, handling and geometryIt might be easy to swap a stem but in an otherwise well appointed bike needing to swap stems because of geometry is a hassle. 8/10
WeightNot a category leader but it’s where you’d expect a bike of this type to be. 8/10
ValueIt’s a lot of money but it’s a significant saving compared to a Specialized Diverge, only slightly more than a mechanical Cannondale Topstone build, and about the same price as a Canyon Grizl when the wheels are considered. You can find comparable builds for less but it’s pretty competitive.9/10
OverallRow 5 - Cell 1 88%

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