Moustache Zaterdag 29 Spel 11

What sets the Moustache Samedi 29 Game 11 FOX apart from the competition?

True to Moustache’s “Keep it simple” motto, the Samedi 29 Game 11 FOX relies on the French brand’s usual alloy frame in a “Black Glossy/Black Mat” paint finish, which makes for an elegant, understated look. The whole thing’s completely black, and not even the brown lettering stands out. The branding is almost completely swallowed up by the dark paint job, while the octagonal downtube starts to look a little outdated. We can’t help feeling that Moustache could have come up with something a little more exciting to stand out from the competition. In addition, the weld seams on the swingarm and motor mounts are right in your face. Old but gold? Unfortunately not! The cable routing makes for a rather cluttered cockpit, with the cables extending all the way around the head tube before finally disappearing into cable ports either side of the top tube. Unfortunately this creates a big cable arch, which results in a rather untidy look. Mounting points on the underside of the top tube allow you to attach a bottle cage or tool mount, but the Moustache is not compatible with Bosch’s bottle shaped PowerMore Range Extender.

For the motor, Moustache rely on a proven 85 Nm Bosch Performance Line CX motor and 750 Wh battery, which can be removed from the down tube without the need for tools. A bayonet lock keeps the battery cover securely in place, while the battery itself is bolted to the inside of the frame with a knurled screw. The charging port is well positioned above the motor, and the small cover holds itself open, making it easy to use. The motor is paired with a Kiox 300 display and somewhat bulky Bosch LED remote, which is positioned awkwardly in front of the handlebars, where it’s at risk of damage if you run out of luck on the trail. A little tip: just turn the holder around!

For the suspension of the Samedi 29 Game 11 FOX, Moustache rely on a top-tier FOX combo, combining a finely tunable 170 mm 38 Factory GRIP2 fork and matching FOX FLOAT X Factory shock, which manages 160 mm of travel at the rear. The fork offers countless adjustment options, while the shock just offers externally adjustable rebound and compression dials. The KS LEV INTEGRA dropper post offers 170 mm of travel, which is average in this test field, and ensures plenty of freedom of movement for a touring bike.

Shimano XT brakes with 200 mm discs provide reliable, powerful deceleration. Shifting is taken care of by a mixed, cable-operated Shimano drivetrain consisting of an XTR rear derailleur and XT shifter/cassette combo, which enables precise shifting. Apart from being slightly heavier, the cheaper XT components don’t bring any disadvantages to the trail. However, the chainstay protector to avoid paint chips.

For the wheels, Moustache rely on their in-house Just Carbon wheelset and, as usual, MAXXIS tires, fitting both wheels with an ASSEGAI in the hard MaxxTerra rubber compound and puncture-prone EXO+. However, heavy and rowdy riders should consider upgrading to the more robust Doubledown casing, which provides more puncture protection and allows you to run lower air pressures for more traction. While you’re at it, you should change to the softer MaxxGrip rubber compound at the front.

Bosch’s eBike Lock allows you to shut down the motor functions when you leave your bike unattended and the Moustache is also compatible with the Bosch Connect module, which lets you track the bike if it gets stolen.