We'll have to disagree as to whether the Checkpoint is a viable replacement but $1300 still doesn't sound bad for a bike that may have cost $1500ish, is several years old and has been wrecked. And yes, he could use the $1300 on some other Trek bike and start over on the touring bike. Definitely would have been simpler if Trek still had some 520 frames but it seems they are doing the best they can.