TPC Staff Picks: October

Staff Picks:

Once positioned as a dedicated XC Race Bike, the Top Fuel has found a new home among the modern "Downcountry" class. While I typically prefer a bike with a bit more travel, I must say I'm impressed with this latest edition of the Trek Top Fuel. I could see adding this bike to my fleet for days when there's quite a bit of climbing involved, but I still want the bike to feel fun and capable on the descents. Be sure to check out the close-up shots our photographer took of this bike - the splatter paint on this bike is subtle, but mighty classy. 

Aaron S. - Warehouse Manager

TLDR: A New Age for the Trek Top Fuel

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If you haven't noticed, I'm a sucker for top-of-the-line high performance, aero road bikes, especially in black with tan side walls and ideally spec'd with SRAM Red AXS. In September I picked a Cervelo S5, which is a little more aero, but a little heavier. This beautiful Madone blends aerodynamics with lightweight responsiveness and climbing prowess. A versatile performance bike regardless of what the terrain throws at you.

James P. - Warehouse Associate

TLDR: Lightweight & Aero: You Can Have it All

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There's a reason for every rider to love e-bikes. If you've never ridden one, you should - you'll immediately understand the hype. If you're a rider looking to take your road or gravel rides further or keep up with quicker group rides, there are few options as good as the Cervelo Rouvida.

Cervelo patiently waited their turn to enter the e-bike market, but the wait was worth it. This bike has no compromises from the performance feel you expect from a Cervelo, paired with a 28mph pedal assist motor, and a stunning aesthetic design the brand is known for. 

Corvez B. - Customer Service / Retail Specialist

TLDR: Road/Gravel eBike without compromise

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I enjoy races like Silver Rush 50 and Leadville 100. The Specialized S-Works Epic EVO is such a good choice for these types of races. Super fast, plenty capable. This Epic got the top shelf treatment with SRAM XX1 AXS, Roval Control SL wheels, and RockShox Ultimate suspension. It'll give you every advantage possible toeing the line.

Chase R. - Line Technician

TLDR: Perfect tool for Leadville

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It's been fascinating to watch the evolution of gravel bikes. It's become so popular that the category has split into various sub-categories with one focus being toward the gravel racing crowd, which is where the new Trek Checkmate sits. With the most recent launch of their Checkout gravel bike, in 2025, Trek now has 3 bikes in the gravel category alone: 

• Checkout - Full-Suspension, full adventure mode gravel
• Checkpoint - Adventure Gravel / Casual Race
• Checkmate - Full-Throttle Race Gravel / Easy to Double as a Roadie
  

While there are a handful of great options on the market for race-optimized gravel bikes, Trek pairs lightweight, high-performance with their proprietary IsoSpeed technology below the rider to bring an impressive amount of welcomed comfort on bumpy gravel. The Checmate is a really cool new addition to the gravel scene. 

Justin E. - CRO

TLDR: Full-Throttle Gravel Racing

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