"Faster than a MTB on asphalt and more comfortable than a gravel bike on trails": that's the new Trek CheckOUT

Gravel 25/09/25 17:00 Migue A.

Trek Bicycle has taken a decisive step in gravel with the presentation of the new CheckOUT, a bike that combines road handlebars with a dual suspension system to fully open the door to off-road. The brand defines this model as a versatile machine, capable of being faster than a mountain bike on asphalt and more efficient and comfortable than a rigid gravel bike on trails. 

Key features of the new Trek CheckOUT

  • New Trek CheckOUT: the brand's first gravel bike with road handlebars and dual suspension.
  • Full suspension: RockShox Rudy XL fork (60 mm) and 55 mm rear suspension.
  • Comfort and control: 41.5% reduction in vibrations compared to rigid models.
  • GR CheckOUT handlebar: wide flare, ergonomic backsweep, and greater stability.
  • Large tire clearance: accommodates tires up to 56 mm/2.2”.
  • Gravel Adventure geometry: designed for stable and comfortable riding over multiple days.
  • Bikepacking: 18 attachment points and integrated rear rack.
  • OCLV Series 500 frame: lightweight and durable carbon, tested to MTB standards.

Trek CheckOUT: dual suspension gravel for limitless adventures

Trek points out that the main innovation of the CheckOUT is its full suspension, consisting of a RockShox Rudy XL 60 mm fork, specifically designed for this model, and a 55 mm rear suspension with RockShox Sidluxe shock absorber. This configuration has been shown to reduce vibration energy by 41.5% compared to a rigid gravel bike, resulting in less accumulated fatigue, 23% less variation in steering, and up to 7.3% improvement in rider ventilation, meaning easier breathing and performance on long rides.

The CheckOUT also introduces a specific GR handlebar that embodies the philosophy of this bike. Its design allows for aerodynamics on the hoods on road sections, while offering a wide flare and more open curves on the drops to provide control on challenging terrain. Ergonomics have been carefully considered, with a natural backsweep and materials capable of absorbing some vibrations, ensuring comfort even on marathon rides.

The Gravel Adventure geometry seeks a balance between stability and comfort. Compared to the Trek Checkpoint, the new CheckOUT offers greater reach and stack for confidence on demanding sections, while compared to models like the Procaliber, it features a more upright and rearward position to reduce back fatigue on long routes. In addition, a generous tire clearance that accommodates tires up to 56 mm or 2.2”, significantly increases versatility on rough tracks or mountain trails.

One of the areas where Trek has paid special attention is in bikepacking. The CheckOUT features up to 18 attachment points in sizes ML and larger, an integrated rear rack that works in harmony with the suspension and dropper post, as well as an adjustable Multi Mount system that allows for mounting bottles and accessories in different positions on the frame. As a complement, the brand has partnered with Topo Designs to create a specific frame bag that fits perfectly and will be available at Trek stores.

The frame is made of OCLV Series 500 carbon, a lightweight and durable material that has been tested to the same standards as the brand's mountain bike frames. It also includes a protector on the downtube and comes standard with a dropper post, TranzX in the SL 5 version and Reverb AXS in the SL 7 version, to improve control on descents and more technical terrain.

Models and prices of the Trek CheckOUT

The Trek CheckOUT F/S range consists of two models and the option to purchase the frame only (2.4 kg) for a price of 2,999€.

The CheckOUT SL 7 AXS is the top-of-the-line model and comes equipped with the SRAM Force/XO mullet groupset and Reverb AXS dropper post. Its price is 6,999€ and it weighs 11.3 kg in size ML.

The CheckOUT SL 5 features the Shimano GRX groupset and a TranzX dropper post. Its price is 4,999€.

With this offering, Trek opens a new chapter in gravel, where dual suspension ceases to be an experiment and becomes a real ally for those who want to go further, faster, and more comfortably. You can check out all the models and builds on the official website of the brand.

 

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¿Prefieres leer la versión en Español?

"Más rápida que una MTB en asfalto y más cómoda que una gravel en senderos": así es la nueva Trek CheckOUT

Você prefere ler a versão em português?

Mais rápida que uma MTB no asfalto e mais confortável que uma gravel em trilhas: assim é a nova Trek CheckOUT

Préférez-vous lire la version en français?

"Plus rapide qu'un VTT sur l'asphalte et plus confortable qu'un gravel sur les sentiers" : voilà le nouveau Trek CheckOUT