'Trek’s redesigned Checkpoint ticks all the boxes of what a modern gravel bike should be... one of the most comfortable gravel bikes we’ve ever ridden, especially on chunky gravel and washboard.'

"What Trek gets right with the Checkpoint is the handling, the comfort, the storage options and the flexibility to alter the cockpit or the drivetrain. The attention to detail... is welcome and warranted for a top-end machine."

'Trek's new Checkpoint SLR 9 eTap is an excellent gravel race bike, built with features and geometry that calm rough surfaces without the handling feeling vague or sluggish. After two months on it, I can say that the bike we named the 2021 VeloNews Bike of the Year has only got better.

'Overall, the new Checkpoint is a wonderful gravel bike. It’s faster, handles better and is more suited to the needs of today’s gravel rider.'

"As with other bikes with similarly long front ends, the revamped Checkpoint is easier and more confidence-inspiring to ride off-road on even moderately steep or loose terrain than before."

"Trek has revamped its Checkpoint line-up, with the updated gravel bike coming in not one but three different flavours, catering for the needs of go-fast racers, rough-and-ready adventurers and riders looking for a versatile N+1."

Anthill Films escapes the city with Nico Deportago-Cabrera.