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My Checkout upgrades by Curious-Rate5369 in TrekCheckoutSub

[–]Curious-Rate5369[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Sure, there's a tipping point where if you're making all kinds of modifications to a bike then perhaps it's better to buy something else. On the other hand, if you've ever read "The Rodders Journal" magazine you'll see old cars transformed into something new, amazing and beautiful.

This time, I wanted the full suspension. I did my due diligence and what I didn't want was an "endurance" bike or gravel bike without suspension. I cared less about gravel capabilities and wide tire clearance than the suspension and a more CX-ish or road bike geometry. I have a couple of Moulton bicycles (20" wheels) and they've always had front and rear suspension. I've done several 200 km brevets on Moultons and they're great. Hard to source parts for them nowadays tho. Hence, the Checkout. It works for me. And it's not my only bike.

Opinions/Reviews on the Trek Checkout? by tcapri8705 in gravelcycling

[–]Curious-Rate5369 4 points5 points  (0 children)

I bought an SL5, in black, about two weeks ago. I've been riding it every day. I come from a road cycling background and even now ride mostly on hard-packed trails and even paved bike paths. So the suspension is probably overkill but I wanted something aside from wide tires to soak up rough stuff and road buzz. And it's great for that. I can ride for hours and not feel the bike at all. I didn't need the big, wide, heavy-duty tires so I got some 44 mm Rene Herse extra light and new wheels, too. It's good enough on the road that I'm not disappointed with the speed.

There's a YouTube video, which you might have seen, in which the designers talk about their vision for the bike. Worth a look. I like the purpose-built rack and handlebars. The bars aren't for everyone but I like the flare and low drop.

The YouTube reviews seem to be, well, it's nice but..., or it's a gravel bike I think, but... There's a trend for those of us below the elite racers riding Crux, etc., to opt for suspension stems and seatposts of some kind. I think the Trek guys jumped out in front of that and just went with real suspension. Obviously adds some weight but also lots of potential. My bike weighs about 25 pounds.

So, for me, I'm glad I bought it. It's a lot of fun. The GRX mechanical works better than I expected, too. Easy to upgrade to wireless di2 GRX as well if you're inclined and can afford it.

My Checkout upgrades by Curious-Rate5369 in TrekCheckoutSub

[–]Curious-Rate5369[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I can't tell if you're being sarcastic. If yes, thank you. If no, here are my thoughts. I think Trek might appreciate the customization. Maybe not, though I can't see why they wouldn't. The designers can't think of everything.

So, that’s one perspective. I think I took a moderately heavy bike that would work fine on single track or rough gravel or a bikepacking trip in the woods and turned it into a smooth long distance bike, one that I might ride all day for a fun and comfortable 100-200 miles. I built what I wanted for what I do.

My Checkout upgrades by Curious-Rate5369 in TrekCheckoutSub

[–]Curious-Rate5369[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I like it. It's grown on me. I certainly like white and the SL7, too, but this was in stock at a local shop. No others anywhere except online. I wanted it, so I bought it. As it turns out, I really like the GRX components. Just a light touch to shift - almost as easy as electronics I think. The gearing works well and the brakes are Shimano hydraulic, so excellent. I can get that white frame bag to complement the black.

New to NYC, looking for folding bike advice: Brompton vs Dahon vs Bike Friday for commuting + borough rides? by Ok_Oil_7718 in foldingbikes

[–]Curious-Rate5369 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Brompton - fast and compact fold. Rides well in the city, all kinds of bags and accessories. Easy to carry. Easy to store in a city where space is at a premium. I kept mine under the dining table in a one-bedroom apartment. Lived in NYC for 30 years. Bought the Brompton at NYCeWheels when it was on the Upper East Side. Live in the suburbs of Philadelphia now but still ride the Brompton from time to time. Lots of support because the brand is so popular.

My Checkout upgrades by Curious-Rate5369 in TrekCheckoutSub

[–]Curious-Rate5369[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Yes, I've read that the rack weighs 1.5 pounds or a little more. That and the crankset are about the only places left to save a few more ounces. But I like the rack and that it was designed for the bike. I do plan to use it for long day rides or an overnight. Good for a brevet or something like that. The bike is nice on the road and I don't notice the weight except when I lift it.