Checkpoint SL 5 is a carbon gravel bike made for epic all-road adventures. It's built with a full Shimano 105 drivetrain and hydraulic disc brakes, but the defining feature of this model is the lightweight OCLV Carbon frame with IsoSpeed, a decoupler at the top tube/seat tube junction that provides additional compliance over rough terrain so you can stay stronger longer.

It's right for you if...
Chamois or cut-off shorts, bikepacking trip or brutal day of gravel racing—you're going to ride far, go fast, and have a great time. You'd rather spend your money on a lightweight carbon frame than a top-of-the-line drivetrain, but you still expect your workhorse gravel bike to perform. You want a bike that's both fast and comfortable, and you want endless carry options for gravel races and everyday adventures.

The tech you get
A 500 Series OCLV Carbon frame with Rear IsoSpeed, powerful flat mount hydraulic disc brakes, a full 2x11 Shimano 105 groupset, and 700x40 Bontrager GR1 Tubeless Ready gravel tires. Checkpoint SL 5 also has Control Freak internal cable routing, an alloy seatmast cap, Carbon Armor to protect your frame against debris, 12mm thru axles, and Stranglehold dropouts that make it easy to fine-tune your geometry or run singlespeed.

The final word
Light, fast, comfortable. Checkpoint SL 5 is a carbon gravel bike that nails this trifecta. A quality groupset, massive tire clearance, options for carrying gear, an OCLV Carbon frame with IsoSpeed, and a ride quality that can't be matched.

Why you'll love it
- The IsoSpeed decoupler cuts down on fatiguing bumps in gravel so you can wander more, reach new places, and stay stronger longer
- This bike is exceedingly versatile and suited to a wide variety of ride styles, including gravel rides, bikepacking, and daily commutes
- Extra mounts on the top tube, seat tube, and both sides of the down tube make it easy to carry extra gear and water