TECH TALK
SLICK NEW RIDES
From sensible spending to full-blown bike-porn territory, these gravel bikes cover plenty of ground – and deserve a closer look.
CHECK MATE
TREK Checkpoint SL7 AXS Gen 3 | RRP R105 000 | trekbikes. com Trek is one of the world’ s best-known bike brands for good reason: for decades, it has built race-winning road, TT and mountain bikes. So it seems almost inevitable that a brand with such deep racing DNA – and a name that nods to our Dutch forefathers, who hauled oxwagons over endless mountains – would make a serious gravel bike. The Checkpoint SL 7 AXS Gen 3 is primarily a racer, delivering the speed and efficiency needed for training, fast group rides and long mixed-surface miles. Its 500 Series OCLV carbon frame features IsoSpeed technology, allowing the seat tube to flex independently and absorb vibration over rough terrain. Revised Gravel Endurance geometry delivers a more upright, confidence-inspiring position, while clearance for 50mm tyres opens up more challenging routes. Integrated downtube storage and multiple mounting points add practicality, while wireless SRAM Force AXS, carbon wheels and compatibility with suspension forks and dropper posts make it a seriously versatile ride.
REVOLT AGAINST THE ORDINARY
Giant Revolt Advanced SL | RRP R119 990 – R199 990 across three models | giant-bicycles. co. za Giant calls this its most advanced gravel race bike ever, saying it’ s been engineered from the ground up for speed over demanding distances. Certainly, weight weenies will froth over its ultra-light Advanced SL composite frameset, Giant’ s lightest gravel platform to date at just 839g, which combines aerodynamic tube shaping with aggressive, racetuned geometry that still promises stability on rough descents. What sets it apart is its Total Speed System philosophy: the frame, fork, integrated Contact SLR XR cockpit, wheels and tyres are developed as one aerodynamic package. A full-composite OverDrive steerer enhances steering precision, while the D-Fuse seatpost helps absorb vibration without compromising efficiency, plus there’ s clearance for 45mm tyres. All in all, it’ s a competitive weapon that balances aerodynamic efficiency, explosive acceleration and confident handling.
PHOTOGRAPHS ROBERTO BRAGOTTO, SUPPLIED
24 | GRAVEL BIKE