Trek Rail 7 Gen3: City, country, trail - Trek's all-round e-MTB for all situations on test

The Rail is a classic among versatile e-mountainbikes and has always been equipped with Bosch's Performance CX. The bike has undergone numerous updates over the years. The suspension travel of 160/150 millimetres and the 29er wheels remain constant. A classic off-road all-rounder.

Our test bike for 5999 euros comes with a third-generation aluminium frame - and it has not yet received the latest innovations. In contrast to the fourth generation carbon model, there is only room for the smaller 625 battery, and a system controller cannot be installed in the top tube. Nevertheless the latest Bosch Performance CX with Smartsystem in Rail 7.

The geometry of the Gen3 aluminium chassis is even more moderate than the latest carbon model: shorter in reach and wheelbase, steeper in the steering angle and slacker in the seat angle. If you are looking for an ultra-modern bike for trail hunting, it is worth reaching for one of the more expensive carbon models. However, the aluminium chassis also has a high-quality finish and is comparatively light. This is also reflected in the overall weight. At 24.3 kilos, the aluminium bike is not an explicit lightweight, but comparable carbon bikes are hardly lighter.

Details such as the dedicated charging port, the harmonious cable routing and super-comfortable battery removal have also been implemented in the third generation. A pity: the high-quality overall impression is spoilt by a noticeably rattling battery. A problem that we have often experienced with the Trek Rail. The equipment is solid, but with few highlights in the test comparison.

The facts about the Trek Rail 7 Gen3

• EngineBosch Perf. CX, 85 Nm max. torque
• Battery625 Wh (removable)
• Frame materialAluminium
• Spring travel: 160 / 150 mm
• Wheel size: 29 inch
• Frame sizesS, M, L, XL
• Price5999 Euro >> e.g. available here at a reduced price
• Weight24.3 kg (test bike in size L, EMTB measurement)
• Permissible total weight136 kg (manufacturer's specification)

The e-bike drive

The Bosch Performance CX is a classic among the E-bike motorsHowever, the combination with the smaller 625 battery is rather unusual. The Powertube 750 does not fit into the (older) aluminium frame. The motor is characterised by top modulation and lively acceleration. It sets the benchmark on technical climbs.

However, to achieve its full performance, it requires more sporting effort than some of its competitors. The removal of the Batteries on the rail. Secured with a key, the battery can be conveniently folded out of the down tube to the side with the cover firmly screwed on.

Trek has opted to economise on the controls. The Rail does without a display in this price range. The battery status and support level can only be read via the coloured LEDs on the LED remote on the handlebars. If you want, you can retrofit a Kiox 300 or Kiox 500.

The geometry

Conspicuously inconspicuous. The rail with aluminium chassis dispenses with extreme dimensions and relies on moderate values at almost every point. The bottom bracket is rather high, but can be lowered by 5 mm using a flip chip. This makes the seat and steering angle 0.5 degrees slacker. The front of the Rail 7 is low.

EMTB measurements at a glance (frame size L, "high" setting)

• Seat tube length: 445 mm
• Wheelbase: 1253 mm
• Reach: 465 mm
• Stack: 626 mm
• Steering angle: 64.5 degrees
• Seat angle: 76.5 degrees
• Chainstay length: 447 mm
• Bottom bracket height: 349 mm

The equipment of the Trek Rail 7 Gen3

• Fork / damper: Rockshox Domain RC / Deluxe Select+
• Circuit: Shimano SLX/XT 12-speed, 34; 10-51 teeth
• Brakes: Shimano BR-M6120, 203 / 203 mm Icetech discs
• Impellers: Bontrager Line Comp 30
• Tyres: Bontrager XR5 Team Issue TR, 29 x 2.5"
• Special features: Flipchip for geometry adjustment, telescopic support only 150 mm stroke

Practical test: How the Trek Rail 7 Gen3

Sit on and feel good. There is no doubt that this is the case with the Trek Rail 7. You sit on the bike in a balanced and comfortable position, and that's exactly how it handles. On the uphills, the Trek is uncomplicated.

The dynamic Bosch motor and the balanced rear suspension stand out positively. The suspension responds smoothly without sagging through the travel. However, the Rail makes it a little more difficult to keep the front wheel on the ground on really steep climbs, and the riding position could be more front-heavy. This is all the more true if you set the "Mino Link", as Trek calls the flip chip for geometry adjustment, to the slacker "Low" position.

The Rail also rolls over the trail and downhill with a similar character: reliable and comfortable at all times. Here, the strong rear suspension with a successful mix of sensitivity and support is also impressive, while the heavy Domain fork can't quite keep up. On the downhill, the bike benefits from the flat geometry setting, as it gains some smoothness and descending qualities. The differences due to the geometry adjustment are not huge, but they are clearly noticeable.

The bike also achieves a good compromise between agility and composure in terms of handling - without scoring top marks in either of these areas. The front is low and the reach is not particularly long, making the Rail 7 feel rather compact. Overall, the trail and downhill qualities of the bike are successful. However, the Rail can't quite keep up with the best in the test. It feels more comfortable at a moderate pace than in overly extreme full throttle use. Too bad: The battery rattled loudly in the frame as delivered.

EMTB evaluation of the Trek Rail 7 Gen3

Strengths

• Strong all-round qualities
• Convenient battery removal
• Successful chassis
• Lightweight wheels

Weaknesses

• Very loud downhill, battery and motor rattle
• Equipment only mediocre

The EMTB review of the Trek Rail 7

The Trek Rail 7* combines touring comfort, suitability for everyday use and good off-road performance into a well-rounded all-mountain package. However, it does not stand out in any discipline. High-quality aluminium frame with convenient battery removal. For sporty trail hunters and range fetishists, it's worth reaching for the more modern carbon model. - Josh Welz, Editor-in-Chief EMTB Magazine