Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 Gravel Bike - 2021 - Black

Gravel-ready bike with wider range Shimano GRX groupset and wide tyres

Gravel bikes are certainly becoming the best all-round winners for those who don't have space for multiple bikes for different disciplines. They tend to have everything: great tyre clearance to switch up between grippy and wide off-roaders and narrower road tyres for races or the commute, mudguard and rack capabilities for group rides, commutes or touring, and a sturdy stiff frame for the responsiveness you need when out on the trails. The difference in cost tends to come down to the component quality. Of course, the higher up the price range you go, you step into carbon frame territory, but if you're on a budget you don't need to go that far to get a high quality ride.

The Checkpoint ALR 5 is excellent value for money, staying with a sturdy aluminium frame and carbon fork for comfort on and off road and wide 40c tyres for reliable traction. Here, your money goes to the 11 speed Shimano GRX groupset which is perfectly tuned to give you a wide range of gears to tackle more difficult terrain (the ALR 4 is 10-speed GRX). It's rugged, fast, comfortable and has an amazing amount of tech for its price. Though it's made to stand up to the rigours of gravel roads, the frame geometry and accessory mounts make it a great choice for road rides and commutes too. For larger frames, there's also 3 bottle cage mounts for longer rides.

This bike is exceedingly versatile and suited to a wide variety of riding styles, including gravel rides, bikepacking and daily commutes.