In addition to the updated Checkpoint SL which launches today, Trek are expanding their gravel line up to include a gravel race-specific bike, the Checkmate SLR.
Checkmate SLR is their first ever dedicated gravel race bike and fastest and lightest gravel bike yet. It shares DNA with the new Madone Gen 8, and is designed with the same new Full System Foil aero shapes and Aero RSL integrated Bar/Stem as seen on the Madone.
Given the meteoric rise in popularity of gravel racing both locally and globally, and the growing demand for gravel bikes reflected in our Quarterly Review, we expect to see this ripping up Karoo gravel roads in the near future. Get all the details in the full press release below:
Press release
The all-new Checkmate SLR is Trek’s first-ever dedicated gravel race bike and the lightest and fastest gravel bike the brand has ever made, perfect for crushing the sport’s most epic events. It’s designed for gravel riders on the ultimate pursuit of speed – from taking on gravel races like Unbound, to chasing gravel QOMs/KOMs.
Standout Features
– Gravel Race geometry that puts you in a fast and confident riding position
– Ultralight and fast 800 Series OCLV Carbon frame
– 45mm tire clearance (as measured)
– Lightweight and aero one-piece bar/stem
– Full System Foil aero tube shaping
The Checkmate SLR features Trek’s IsoSpeed comfort tech to smooth bumps in the road and keep adventurers riding stronger longer. Plus frame designs and mounts for Trek’s all-new Adventure Bags, including top tube, frame, and the more aero-efficient triangle bag that’s tucked out of the wind.
Trek’s lightest gravel bike ever
Checkmate is Trek’s lightest gravel bike ever, with premium 800 Series OCLV Carbon, top-tier components, and new lightweight tube shape technology that help drop a whole pound off the previous Checkpoint SLR model.
| Model | Weight | Detail |
| Checkmate SLR 9 AXS | 7.55 kg / 16.65 lbs | ML – with TLR sealant, no tubes |
| Checkmate SLR 7 AXS | 8.10 kg / 17.86 lbs | ML – with TLR sealant, no tubes |
| Checkmate SLR Frameset | 1223g – ML (frame-only) 415g (fork-only) | Painted |
Trek’s fastest gravel bike ever
Checkmate is Trek’s fastest gravel bike ever, with the same new Full System Foil aero tube shapes and aero one-piece bar/stem as Madone Gen 8. Plus, Checkmate’s new Gravel Race geo puts riders in a more aggressive and efficient riding position. Together, these features help make Checkmate 5 minutes and 54 seconds faster than Checkpoint SLR on the 200-mile course at Unbound (at 200W).
New lightweight and aero one-piece bar/stem
Checkmate features the same ultra-light and aero one-piece carbon bar/stem as Madone Gen 8, with hoods that are 3cm narrower than the drops so riders can choose between a more aero or more controlled position and enjoy more ergonomic comfort on the tops.
New Gravel Race Geometry
All-new geo keeps you tucked out of the wind so you can soar past the competition on race day and stay confident and in control on even the gnarliest gravel sections. A lower, shorter position provides a more aggressive fit and faster handling than the previous Checkpoint SLR.
Room for up to 45mm tires (as measured)
Checkmate comes stock with 38mm tires but can fit up to 45mm tires to roll quick over tougher race or training courses.
Customizable in Project One
The best way to get Checkmate is through Project One for the perfect fit, parts, and color. Plus, the new Project One ICON Raw Lithos scheme brings breathtaking earthen hues exclusively to Checkmate customers.
Local Pricing and Availability
Checkmate SLR 7: R185 000
Checkmate SLR 9: R255 000
These will only be available as Project One models. For more information check out trekbikes.com and get in touch with your nearest Trek dealer.
