'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.

"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."

'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."

Whether you're racing for the win or for the joy of getting out on two wheels with hundreds of like-minded riders, getting started with gravel racing is easy – it just takes some planning.

Anthill Films escapes the city with Nico Deportago-Cabrera.