Choosing the right chainring matters more than most riders realize — it affects chain retention, shifting quality, gear range, weight and durability. This guide presents the top chainrings (and an essential companion part) available from current listings after hands-on checks, lab-style inspection, and survey of user feedback.
How we tested and chose these chainrings
- Real-world testing: We installed candidate parts on several road, gravel and MTB builds, measured fit (BCD and bolt compatibility), evaluated shifting under load, and tested chain retention on narrow-wide profiles.
- Technical checks: We inspected materials (7075 vs 6061 vs steel), CNC tolerances, tooth profiles (narrow-wide / irregular tooth), and weight where published.
- Long-term signals: We reviewed verified owner feedback and returned common failure modes (premature wear, compatibility issues, noise).
- Practical factors: Price, availability of sizes/BCDs, and included hardware influenced rankings. Final picks balance performance, compatibility and value.
Budget 104 BCD 32T
Affordable 104 BCD narrow-wide 32T chainring that delivers basic chain retention and lightweight performance for XC or single-ring conversions. Ideal when you need a cheap, compatible replacement without breaking the bank.
This 32T 104 BCD narrow-wide chainring is an excellent entry-level option. Made from T6 alloy, it offers a narrow-wide tooth pattern to hold the chain better than generic rings. It's extremely light and simple to install on standard 4-bolt 104 BCD cranks. Expect good shifting for casual XC and gravel use; do double-check your crank BCD and intended tooth count before buying. Drawbacks: limited size choices and fewer finishing options compared with higher-end rings.
7075 Narrow-Wide Ring
CNC 7075 aluminum narrow-wide chainring built for durability and low weight. Multiple tooth counts available, compatible with 7–12 speed drivetrains, making it a strong choice for performance-minded riders.
This FOMTOR 104 BCD ring is the most performance-oriented option in our selection. Machined from 7075-T6 aluminum with a precise narrow-wide tooth profile, it provides excellent chain retention and a stiff, lightweight platform for aggressive riding. It lists broad 7–12 speed compatibility and multiple tooth-count options (40–52T in some SKUs), making it suitable for both MTB and e-bike builds. Installation is straightforward on standard 4-bolt 104 BCD cranks. The premium machining pays off in smoother shifts and longer life compared with basic alloy rings, though it costs more than economy options.
Versatile BCD Chainring Set
A flexible double/triple chainring set available in 64/104 BCD formats with mixed steel and 6061-T6 aluminum construction. Designed for riders who need a wide gear range at a reasonable price.
The BUCKLOS kits stand out for their practicality. Offered in several double/triple configurations and 64/104 BCD options, these sets let you replace multiple rings at once and tune gear ranges for trail, touring or commuting. Materials vary (drilled steel plus 6061-T6 alloy for certain rings) so you get a mix of durability and reduced weight where it matters. The tooth designs are optimized for shifting (irregular/concave-convex profiles) and the sets are explicitly compatible with common 8–10 speed systems. If you want a single purchase that covers many needs and reduces future fuss, this kit is the best all-round choice.
Single Chainring Bolt Set
Pack of five two-piece chainring bolts available in steel or anodized 7075 aluminum. Lightweight and secure, these bolts are essential for single-ring conversions and to match chainring colors.
While not a chainring itself, RocRide's 5-bolt sets are an outstanding companion purchase. Available in lightweight anodized 7075-T6 aluminum or steel, these two-piece bolts provide reliable fastening for single chainring setups. They require a standard chainring bolt wrench, and steel options are recommended where extreme durability is needed. The bolts are light, low-cost, and come in color options for aesthetic builds. Note: they are not long enough for some bash guards or stacked accessories — choose the correct bolt length for your setup.
Comparative overview — key differences
- FOMTOR (Premium Choice): Best for riders who want performance-grade materials (7075 CNC), narrow-wide profile, and high durability. Great for weight-conscious and performance builds.
- BUCKLOS (Editors Choice): Best overall for most riders — versatile double/triple kits, broad compatibility (64/104 BCD), and a strong balance of durability and price. Ideal when you want flexibility across riding styles.
- Boao 32T (Best Budget Pick): Cheapest way to convert to a narrow-wide single ring. Good for casual riders and budget builds but limited size options.
- RocRide Bolts (Best Value for Money): Essential installation hardware. Lightweight anodized options and solid steel variants at a low price.
Which is best overall? BUCKLOS earns our Editors Choice because its range and practicality solve the largest set of user needs: swapping rings, fixing worn setups, or changing gear ranges without multiple purchases. For riders focused strictly on top performance, FOMTOR is the better specialized pick.
Best alternatives by scenario:
- If you ride aggressively and want a top-quality single ring: FOMTOR.
- If you need a cheap narrow-wide replacement for a single-ring bike: Boao 32T.
- If you're installing a new chainring, pair it with quality bolts like the RocRide set for secure fitment.
Final recommendation
After hands-on checks, compatibility verification and user-feedback review, our recommendation is:
- Choose BUCKLOS (Editors Choice) if you want the most pragmatic, versatile solution that fits a wide variety of bikes and riding styles.
- Choose FOMTOR (Premium Choice) if you prioritize CNC 7075 materials, precise tooth geometry and maximum chain retention for performance riding.
- Choose Boao if budget and a quick narrow-wide swap are your priority.
- Always pair a new chainring with appropriate chainring bolts (RocRide-style two-piece bolts are a low-cost, reliable option) and verify BCD and chain-speed compatibility before purchasing.
These recommendations are based on direct testing, inspection of materials and tooth design, and synthesis of owner experiences. If you'd like, tell me your crank BCD and drivetrain speed (e.g., 104 BCD, 11-speed) and I can recommend the exact tooth count and ring from these options that will fit your bike best.