Trek’s Checkmate SLR aims to dominate gravel racing with its lightweight construction, aerodynamic features and versatile design.
The Checkmate SLR is a gravel bike designed to meet the needs of riders who seek speed and versatility on mixed terrain.
This bike represents Trek’s first foray into the dedicated gravel racing segment, and it promises to deliver a performance-oriented experience without sacrificing comfort.
In this first look, we’ll explore the Checkmate’s key features, design elements and overall ride quality.
Purpose-built for gravel racing
The Checkmate SLR is engineered specifically for gravel racing, making it a notable addition to the brand’s line-up.
Constructed from Trek’s 800 Series OCLV carbon, the bike is designed to be lightweight, the frame shedding almost 300g compared to the previous Checkpoint SLR model.
This reduction in weight is achieved through careful design and material selection, allowing for a more competitive edge during races.
But the Checkmate isn’t just about being lightweight, Trek says; it’s also built to handle the rigours of gravel riding.
The frame geometry and construction aim to provide a balance of speed and stability, essential for navigating smooth roads and rougher trails alike.
One of the standout features of the Checkmate is its aerodynamic design.
Trek has utilised its Full System Foil technology, which incorporates wider and flatter tube shapes that help reduce drag.
This design is similar to what Trek uses in its latest road bike, the Madone Gen 8, and aims to enhance the bike’s performance on gravel courses.
The bike is equipped with a one-piece Aero RSL bar-stem setup, which not only contributes to its streamlined appearance, but also helps to conceal the hydraulic hoses and cables, which improves aerodynamics.
The handlebars are a flared design, which allow for comfort and control when in the drops and a more aerodynamic position when riding on the hoods.
Forward progress
The geometry of the Checkmate is tailored for a more aggressive riding stance compared to the Checkpoint.
It features a longer reach and lower stack height, which allows riders to adopt a forward-leaning posture that can help maximise power output.
However, Trek has also integrated its IsoSpeed decoupler into the design, which provides vertical compliance.
This means that while the bike is built for speed, it can still absorb bumps and rough terrain, offering a more comfortable ride over long distances.
The combination of a race-oriented geometry and the IsoSpeed technology aims to make the Checkmate a versatile option for gravel racing.
Riders can expect stability during high-speed descents while still enjoying a comfortable ride on uneven surfaces.
Components and performance
The Checkmate is equipped with the Sram’s Red XPLR AXS 13-speed groupset, which features a wide-range 10-46t cassette paired with a 42T chainring, providing riders with a broad selection of gears for tackling steep climbs and fast descents.
The gearing setup is designed to cater to various riding conditions, allowing for efficient power transfer on both gravel and pavement.
The bike rolls on Bontrager Aeolus RSL 37V wheels, which are designed for stability and performance.
With a 25mm internal rim width, these wheels can accommodate tyres ranging from 38mm to 45mm.
This flexibility allows riders to choose tyres based on their specific needs, whether they prefer speed on smooth gravel or more grip on technical trails.
In addition to its performance capabilities, the Checkmate SLR includes several practical features that enhance usability for everyday riders.
The frame has multiple mounts for storage, allowing riders to carry essential gear for longer rides or races.
This caters to the needs of those who may want to venture out for extended periods without worrying about carrying everything in their jersey pockets.
Trek has also optimised the frame to fit larger water bottles.
Staying hydrated is crucial for long rides, and the ability to carry larger bottles can make a significant difference in comfort and convenience.
The bike also comes with hidden fender mounts, giving the rider the option to stay as clean as possible even in the worst conditions.
Additionally, the integrated frame bag mounts are designed for Trek’s Bontrager Adventure bags.
When it dropped Checkmate, Trek also released a sibling, the new Checkpoint.
The Checkpoint is designed as a kilometre cruncher, with more relaxed geometry and room for 50mm tyres. With this pair, Trek has a complete gravel line-up.
The Checkmate is for those who need speed and ache for Strava KOMs and fast group rides.
Is it a quiver killer that can serve the rider well on road and gravel? That’s up to you, but we can’t wait to get some miles on it and complete a full review.
Trek Checkmate SLR 9 AXS
Au Price $17,999.99
Website trekbikes.com/au
