Nicola Rutzou
Trek Bicycle has launched the all-new CheckOUT, a full suspension drop bar gravel bike for off-the-beaten-path adventures. Designed to be faster than a mountain bike on paved roads and more capable than a rigid gravel bike on singletrack, it’s ideal for road-to-gravel-to-singletrack adventures, ultra-endurance events, extended bike-packing trips, and more.
Suspension
CheckOUT features 55mm of rear travel and the new 60mm Rudy XL suspension fork designed in collaboration with RockShox.
Performance
Trek says that the new CheckOUT’s full suspension setup is proven to decrease fatigue and increase comfort and control when compared to its rigid counterparts, leading to a 7.3% reduction in rider ventilation, a 41.5% reduction in fatiguing vibrational energy, and 23% less steering variation.
Off-road drop bar
The new model features a new GR CheckOUT drop handlebar with a wide flare and ergonomic back sweep for more comfort and control.
Large tyre clearance
Room for up to 56mm/2.2″ tyres (as measured) gives riders a comfortable ride on rough trails.
Geometry
The new ‘Gravel Adventure’ geometry has a longer reach and higher stack for added comfort and stability on multi-surface, multi-day adventures.
Built for bike-packing
The new CheckOUT has 18 frame mounts (on size ML and up), a new integrated rear rack that works with the bike’s suspension and dropper post, and new adjustable mounts.
Trail-tested carbon frame
CheckOUT features a 500 Series OCLV carbon frame, that Trek says has been tested to robust mountain bike standards.
CheckOUT is available at select Trek retailers and online at trekbikes.com. The CheckOUT SL 7 AXS retails for $10,999.99, and the CheckOUT SL 5 is $6,999.99.
Nicola Rutzou – a long-time contributor and, most recently, the editor of Bicycling Australia. Nicola is a keen Sydney-based road cyclist who writes reviews, news, and destination pieces, as well as the weekly e-newsletter for BA online.
