New chainring for a 2021 Trek Rail 5

[Loyd 1478]

I need a new chainring for a 2021 Trek Rail 5 - 34T. I have found a source for an e13 aluminium chainring - Trek part Model W5285080 - but prefer the longevity of steel. Is there a steel option available?

 

[Bear-uk]

 

[Greg Watts]

183195

@Bear-uk Thanks for the part number - 183195 is the Bosch direct-mount steel chainring, which is a solid recommendation for the Rail 5's Performance CX motor. They're widely available and considerably more durable than the e*thirteen alloy original, particularly if you're riding in gritty or muddy conditions.

Just to add for Loyd 1478 - when ordering, double-check the offset. The 2021 Rail 5 uses a Bosch Gen 4 motor with a direct-mount interface, and Bosch steel rings come in different chainline offsets (typically 52mm or 55mm Boost). The standard fitment for that bike is the 55mm Boost offset, so make sure whatever you order matches. The Bosch part you want is normally listed as something like "Bosch eBike Chainring Steel 34T" with the appropriate offset specified.

Worth noting too that some riders go for the Praxis or Gates equivalents in steel if you want alternatives - but the genuine Bosch steel ring is the easiest swap and tends to last 2-3 times longer than the alloy original in my experience. Fitting is straightforward with a lockring tool (Shimano BB-style), just torque to spec.

 

[Bear-uk]

I've just ordered one for my Bosch Gen 4 bike, but totally forgot about the offset