Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 (2020)
Usage
After some extensive research, I decided I would use a Trek Checkpoint ALR 5 (2020) as my primary bikepacking bike. I opted for the Checkpoint because of its comparably reasonable price point, aluminum (and therefore rather lightweight) frame, decent tire clearance (up to 45mm), and the Shimano 105 drivetrain to ensure reliable shifting quality. The 2021 models come with the Shimano GRX groupset, specifically tailored to gravel riding.
Instead of the stock wheels, I went for Whisky No.9 30W rims for weight considerations and to accommodate wider tires. The front wheel was built with a SONdelux Dynamo Hub to generate electricity while riding and paired with the Sinewave Cycles Revolution.
The versatility of a gravel bike makes it my go-to bike for a wide range of bikepacking trips. Especially if I am expecting a variety of terrain (asphalt mixed with non-technical gravel/dirt roads), this is the bike I will always pick. I used the Checkpoint for the majority of my trips thus far, for example, New Zealand, Taiwan, Japan, Switzerland, Italy (Tuscany), and Oman.
Key Specs
Frameset
| Frame | 300 Series Alpha Aluminum, tapered head tube, Control Freak internal routing, 3S chain keeper, rack and fender mounts, flat mount disc, horizontal sliding dropouts, 142x12mm thru axle |
| Fork | Checkpoint carbon, tapered alloy steerer, rack mounts, fender mounts, flat mount disc, 12x100mm thru axle |
Wheels
Drivetrain
| Shifter | Shimano 105 R7020, 11 speed |
| Front derailleur | Shimano 105 R7000, 31.8mm clamp |
| Rear derailleur | Shimano GRX (check exact type) |
| Crank | Shimano 105 R7000, 50/34 (compact), 170mm length |
| Bottom bracket | Shimano RS500, 86mm, PressFit |
| Cassette | (check on bike) |
Components
| Saddle | Bontrager Montrose Comp, steel rails, 138mm width |
| Seatpost | Bontrager Comp, 6061 alloy, 27.2mm, 8mm offset, 330mm length |
| Handlebar | Salsa Cowchipper Drop Bar 31.8 42cm |
| Stem | Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 90mm length |
| Headset | FSA Integrated, sealed cartridge bearing, 1-1/8” top, 1.5” bottom |
| Brake | Shimano 105 hydraulic disc, flat mount |
| Brake rotor | Shimano RT70, centerlock, 160mm |
Weight
| Complete Bike Weight | 23 lbs 2oz (10.5kg) for size 52 |
Salsa Timberjack 27.5+ GX1 (2019)
Usage
Suited toward gnarlier terrain, where the front suspension, 2.8” tires, relaxed geometry, and gear range can increase the comfort level significantly. I used the Timberjack on the San Francisco Peninsula Traverse, the White Rim Trail, and the Henry Coe Overnighter.
Key Specs
Frameset
| Frame | Timberjack Aluminum |
| Fork | RockShox Recon RL Solo Air 120mm, BOOST |
Wheels
Drivetrain
| Rear Der | SRAM GX1 Long Cage |
| Cassette | SunRace CSMS7 11-42t |
| Crankset | SRAM NX, XSYNC Boost 30t |
| Shifter | SRAM NX |
| Brakes & Rotors | SRAM DB Level Hydraulic, Centerline 180mm, 160mm |
Components
| Headset | Cane Creek 10 |
| Stem | Salsa Guide Trail |
| Saddle | WTB Volt Sport |
Weight
| Complete Bike Weight | 30 lbs 14 oz (14kg) for size S |
