Review

Test report: Moustache Samedi FS27/9 Gold E-Mountainbike

01.09.2014
by

We awaited the arrival of the Samedi FS27/9 Gold from French manufacturer Moustache Bikes with great anticipation. Many bikers may not be familiar with the company but their bikes look really promising at first sight. Our expectations before the test were high so we gave the Samedi FS27/9 Gold an extensive test and really put the bike through its paces.

French manufacturer Moustache sent us their top model in their mountainbike range the Samedi FS27/9 Gold to test.
French manufacturer Moustache sent us their top model in their mountainbike range the Samedi FS27/9 Gold to test.

Even whilst unpacking the bike in our office the simple and yet non mainstream looks of the Samedi FS drew everyone’s attention. It’s really worth taking a closer look to check out all of the nice details on the bike. So far so good, but just as important as the looks of an E-MTB is the off-road performance. Even sitting in the office we felt that a dropper post was missing.

Just like a guesstimated 90% of all other E-mountainbike manufacturers Moustache relies on a Bosch Performance centre motor with 250 watt power and 50Nm torque.
Depending on personal preferences and terrain one can choose between different levels of support “ECO”, “Tour”, “Sport” and “Turbo.” First of all for us it’s get aboard, switch to turbo mode and straight off to the woods.

On the downhills the low centre of gravity and outstanding rear suspension mean you can really let rip.
On the downhills the low centre of gravity and outstanding rear suspension mean you can really let rip.
At the front of the Moustache Samedi a high quality Fox Float 32 Kashima fork with 130mm travel is fitted. Unfortunately the skinny 32mm stanchions are under dimensioned for a bike with such potential. We would advise active trail riders to choose a stiffer fork.
At the front of the Moustache Samedi a high quality Fox Float 32 Kashima fork with 130mm travel is fitted. Unfortunately the skinny 32mm stanchions are under dimensioned for a bike with such potential. We would advise active trail riders to choose a stiffer fork.
The rear suspension delivers 145mm travel. The carbon-look of the suspension linkage underscore the classy looks of the bike.
The rear suspension delivers 145mm travel. The carbon-look of the suspension linkage underscore the classy looks of the bike.
Corners and edges shape the design of the hydroformed frame.
Corners and edges shape the design of the hydroformed frame.
The 740mm bars offer plenty of control and precise handling.
The 740mm bars offer plenty of control and precise handling.
Still something of a rarity on E-mountainbikes this season: the 11 speed SRAM X01-groupset.
Still something of a rarity on E-mountainbikes this season: the 11 speed SRAM X01-groupset.
Classy and functional: the carbon chain guide.
Classy and functional: the carbon chain guide.
The scale to set the right negative suspension travel (SAG) shows the engineers passion for detail.
The scale to set the right negative suspension travel (SAG) shows the engineers passion for detail.
The foam grips are very light but due to the shape not everyone's cup of tea.
The foam grips are very light but due to the shape not everyone’s cup of tea.
The bolts fit to the name of the Samedi and are gold anodized.
The bolts fit to the name of the Samedi and are gold anodized.
Saddle shape is well known as an individual choice, the Fizik Tundra fitted suited us straight away.
Saddle shape is well known as an individual choice, the Fizik Tundra fitted suited us straight away.

After just a few metres the character is clear: sit up and feel at home. Our test track starts with a short climb, which is of course effortless thanks to the electric drive. On the steepest sections the front wheel tends to start lose contact with the ground. Here the rider has to shift weight further forwards on the saddle. Overall the riding position feels pleasant and well balanced, with a solid 73° seat tube angle and the constant power delivery from the electric drive every climb becomes a breeze. Thanks to the big 42-tooth cog of the SRAM XO1 drivetrain pedaling cadence remains sufficiently high even on steep climbs and the Bosch Performance drive is a reliable partner.

Even small jumps can be mastered with the help of the Moustache Samedi FS.
Even small jumps can be mastered with the help of the Moustache Samedi FS.

But relaxed climbing is one thing, just as important is how the bike performs on flat trails and downhills. You wouldn’t guess it from the appearance but this is where the bike surprised us the most. Whilst the rear suspension was quite unnoticeable on the uphills when pointed down it revealed its true colours. The suspension feels unbelievably solid and bottomless. The action is exceptionally plush and convincing. With a flat 68.5° head tube angle and the integrated, central position the rider feels immediately at home. The well conceived cockpit with a 740mm wide bar and short
50mm stem contribute to the bikes agile handling as do the 456mm long chain stays.
Yet the 20.7kg Samedi never feels nervous. We only missed a dropper post, more aggressive tyres and a stiffer fork, which would all have increased the fun-factor even more.

Technical data Moustache Samedi FS27/9 Gold:

  • Motor: Bosch Performance centre motor, 250 Watt
  • Battery: Bosch Power Pack, 400 Watt hours
  • Brakes: Avid Elixir 180/180mm, hydraulic disk brakes
  • Drivetrain: SRAM X01 11-speed (10-42 Z.)
  • Suspension fork / Shock: FOX 32 Float 130mm with CDT / Fox Float CTD
  • Price: 5.299,00 Euro
  • Weight: ca. 20.7kg
  • More information: moustachebikes.com

Conclusion: the Samedi FS27/9 Gold from the relatively young French company Moustache bikes won us over in every respect. The high quality, harmonious spec and fantastic rear suspension leave nothing desired. The unique and classy design rounds up the package nicely.

Words: Max Schmitt Pictures: Christian Lämmle, Patrick Sauter

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