My current touring bike is a Trek Checkpoint customized for my good self. And I have had many thousands of enjoyable miles on it. 

BUT it’s nearing end of life for multi-day cycling. I broke off the rear rack on my last long trip.

Right now I’m upgrading my other bike ➙ 2015 Ghost Panamao X 3 Bicycle  – CAD$725. It’s in great shape right now now as Brian has been doing the maintenance. BEST about the Ghost is front suspension like a mountain bike. A comparatively inexpensive gravel ride, it carried me from Vancouver to Calgary in 2020.

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Next bike?

IF I was to upgrade, my first choice is the somewhat more expensive Priority 600 series with front suspension. More comfort is the main thing I’m looking for.

An option is electronic Pinion Smart.Shift technology, 600% gear range across 12 speeds.

It’s available in titanium and aluminum.

In fact, my guru — Ryan Duzer — switched from a Checkpoint to the Priority. That’s Ryan in the photo.

One of the designers, some call this bike the Duzer Cruiser.  He just rode it from Canada to Mexico on the Tour Divide.

I think I’d prefer the no maintenance belt drive pinion system. And the nearly unbreakable Gates Carbon Drive.

Click PLAY or watch it on YouTube. 

My second choice, so far, is another Trek.

The new (expensive) Check-OUT.

It’s only available in Carbon and Aluminum.

Again, the main reason is front suspension. It also offers wireless electronic SRAM AXS shifting, which is a bit tempting.

I had a test ride on the Check-OUT and it does feel fantastic.

I’ve broken 3 rear racks in the past — and much appreciate the built-in variation invented for the Checkout.

Click PLAY or watch the pitch on YouTube.