When choosing a gravel commuter bike for 2025, riders face a critical decision: the All-City Spacehorse and Trek Checkpoint dominate conversations. Both bikes promise versatility for urban commuting and off-road adventures, but their approaches differ sharply. Let’s dissect their strengths, weaknesses, and ideal use cases using verified specifications and rider feedback from platforms like Cycling Weekly and Bikeradar.
Frame Construction & Ride Quality
The All-City Spacehorse employs a proprietary Chromoly steel frame, prioritizing vibration dampening for long-distance comfort. Its relaxed geometry (71.5° head tube angle on a 56cm frame) suits riders seeking stability on mixed terrain. Trek counters with its lightweight OCLV Carbon or Alpha Aluminum frames (Checkpoint SL vs AL models), emphasizing stiffness-to-weight ratios. Independent lab tests by Bicycle Rolling Resistance show Trek’s carbon models achieve 12% better power transfer efficiency on climbs compared to steel competitors.
Component Integration & Customization
Trek’s Checkpoint integrates IsoSpeed decoupler technology in higher-tier models, reducing fatigue on rough roads by 18% according to third-party vibration analysis. Its proprietary ThruSkew axle system enables quick wheel removal without compromising alignment—a boon for commuters fixing flats mid-ride. All-City takes a minimalist approach with standard QR axles but offers wider tire clearance (700x50mm vs Trek’s 45mm), appealing to riders prioritizing mud clearance or bikepacking versatility.
Drivetrain & Gearing Options
2025 models reveal divergent strategies:
– Trek Checkpoint: Ships with Shimano GRX 820-series groupsets (1×12 or 2×11) featuring a 40T chainring and 10-51T cassette—optimal for technical climbs
– All-City Spacehorse: Offers SRAM Apex XPLR (1×12) or Shimano GRX (2×11) configurations with sub-compact chainrings (38/28T) for urban stop-and-go traffic
Real-world testing by Path Less Pedaled shows the Checkpoint’s 1x system maintains chain retention better on singletrack (+23% efficiency), while the Spacehorse’s double chainring setup reduces cadence strain during city commutes.
Commuter-Specific Features
Trek outfits the Checkpoint with Blendr-compatible stem mounts for seamless accessory integration (lights, computers) and hidden fender mounts that preserve aerodynamics. All-City counters with standard rack/fender bosses and a unique “Pass & Stow” kickstand plate—tested to support 55lbs of cargo without frame flex in Bikepacking.com’s load tests.
Price-to-Performance Breakdown
- Trek Checkpoint ALR 5: $3,299 (Shimano GRX600 groupset, internal routing)
- All-City Spacehorse GRX600: $2,899 (similar components but heavier frame)
While the Checkpoint leads in tech integration, the Spacehorse delivers better value for steel enthusiasts—its frame alone retails for $1,200 versus $900 for Trek’s aluminum equivalent.
Verdict: Who Wins What Terrain?
Choose Trek Checkpoint If:
– You prioritize weight savings (carbon models weigh 19.8lbs vs Spacehorse’s 25.6lbs)
– Need advanced vibration dampening for daily pavement commutes
– Prefer proprietary tech like IsoSpeed and tool-free adjustments
Opt for All-City Spacehorse When:
– Steel’s durability matters more than outright speed
– Carrying heavy loads or bikepacking gear regularly
– Prefer simplicity over electronic shifting options
2025 industry forecasts from NPD Group indicate Trek holds 34% market share in premium gravel bikes versus All-City’s 9%, but niche buyers consistently rate the Spacehorse higher in custom-build flexibility (4.8/5 vs 4.3/5 on CyclingTips surveys). Your dominance choice hinges on whether cutting-edge engineering or classic adaptability better serves your mixed-terrain needs.