Moustache, a premium French bicycle brand, manufactures its Samedi 29 Game electric mountain bike in the Vosges region, featuring the advanced Bosch Performance Line CX motor. The bike’s aluminum frame has been redesigned for optimal weight distribution, enhancing its handling. Weighing 23.9 kg, the Game includes a 750 Wh battery designed for stability and durability. The high-end model features a FOX Float fork, Shimano XT components, and offers impressive performance on both climbs and descents, priced at €5,999 with various battery options available.
Moustache is a premium French brand specializing in high-end bicycles, manufacturing them in the Vosges region. The latest model, the Samedi 29 Game electric mountain bike (e-MTB), is equipped with the updated Bosch Performance Line CX motor, prompting a complete redesign of the Game’s frame to enhance its performance and ride dynamics.
Revised Weight Distribution
The Moustache Game weighs in at 23.9 kg in our tested Game 7 version. The manufacturer has re-engineered the aluminum frame to achieve better mass centralization, which is crucial for a well-balanced e-MTB experience.
The rear shock has been relocated under the top tube, and with changes to the Bosch motor’s mounting points, Moustache has positioned the motor vertically. This adjustment lowers the battery placement, consequently reducing the bike’s center of gravity.
This new motor positioning also improves the cooling efficiency of the electric assistance. An electric motor, even under light load, needs adequate cooling to perform optimally.
A High-Energy Electric Mountain Bike
Bosch has managed to reduce the motor’s weight by about 100 grams, bringing it down to 2.8 kg, along with the batteries. However, Moustache opted not to include Bosch’s new 800 Wh battery, which is lighter than the previous 750 Wh model. The brand chose to keep the 750 Wh battery in the Game to avoid enlarging the down tube where the battery is housed, a reasonable decision.
Moustache has developed secured mounts for the 750 Wh or 600 Wh battery options, preventing noise from battery movement—a vital factor since the Moustache Game is built for rugged terrains.
Premium Equipment
The Moustache Game is designed to be a high-end offering. Our test model, the Game 7, featured a FOX Float 36 Performance fork with 160 mm travel. The Moustache Magic Grip Control rear shock offered 150 mm of travel, with a variant available that boasts 160 mm.
This version comes equipped with a Shimano XT 12-speed derailleur and a 10-51 cassette. The brakes are also from Shimano’s XT line, featuring four-piston calipers and 203 mm discs for powerful braking performance, which is a notable advantage.
On the handlebars, the Bosch Mini Remote controller is neatly integrated, while the new Purion 400 display impresses with its clarity and high resolution. However, its position on the right side of the stem requires tilting your head to monitor speed or battery level. This placement, while less convenient, protects the display from damage in case of falls or collisions.
Moustache has included several useful features such as a multi-tool nestled in the headset for emergencies and a pouch attached to the battery for carrying a spare inner tube—an extremely practical addition for those unexpected flats.
Powerful Performance
Now, let’s talk about our riding experience with the Moustache Game on the trails of the Maures massif. Departing from the nature base of Fréjus, the flat stretch leading to the first climb highlighted the challenge of exceeding 25 km/h when the motor is off, where every additional kilometer per hour demands significant physical effort.
The bike’s weight, coupled with resistance from the electric motor, makes it tough to gain speed without assistance. It quickly becomes clear that the Moustache Game is intended for use with its electric support, a stark contrast to the lighter Canyon Spectral:Onfly, another e-MTB we tested.
In contrast, the motor’s power propels you upwards with ease. Weighing 60 kg, I found myself soaring up hills thanks to the motor’s 85 Nm torque. On technical climbs, the power can feel almost overwhelming, making control difficult at full speed. Swapping from Turbo mode to eMTB mode offers a more natural assistance feel—it’s all about personal preference and settings.
On steep ascents, the bike remains stable, with the rear shock providing just enough give to keep the wheels grounded. The optimized mass distribution enhances this stability, allowing easy navigation over roots and rocks, further aided by the 29-inch wheels. Riding the Game gives an exhilarating sense of power.
Descending with the Moustache Game is equally reassuring. Though I’m not an expert descender and lack certain techniques, riding the Game on steep slopes felt unexpectedly manageable. The suspension effectively absorbs terrain irregularities, keeping the wheels connected to the ground. This allows for speed control combined with powerful braking capabilities. Overall, I left with highly positive initial impressions.
The Game, in a striking Dusty Mauve finish, is priced