1ST IMPRESSION
shock, keeping specs close and even minimising the number of paintjobs, keeps costs down and prices keen across the Moustache range, especially since the bikes are sold through a traditional dealer network. For £7,599 the Game 11 gets a Fox 38 factory fork, Shimano XTR drivetrain, Moustache’s own Just_moustache carbon rims, a carbon bar and Maxxis Assegai 3C tyres. Like all the other bikes in the range, there’s also a 750Wh battery, Bosch Performance CX motor, Kiox 300 display and LED remote.
HOW IT RIDES
Moustache held its launch for the new Samedi Game in Portugal, in an area that bears more than a passing resemblance to Dartmoor on steroids. Giant granite boulders lay like asteroids across open, grassy, gorse-covered hill tops, while lower down, loamy turns weave through oak and bracken. Riding time was pretty limited, so it would be unfair to deliver any kind of definitive verdict, but first impressions were not in short supply.
I rode a size Medium, with 461mm reach, and while that’s shorter than
I’d normally run on an analogue bike, I often down-size on an e-bike in order to try and maximise agility. However, the chainstays across all four frame sizes are very long at 462mm, which moves the rider mass relatively far forward between the axles and puts more weight over the fork. Which probably explains why Moustache runs three tokens in the Fox 38 instead of the standard two.
Those long chainstays certainly help the climbing performance, and along with the fairly high BB and excellent Bosch motor, make it possible to unlock technical ascents without risking pedal or motor strikes.
Leave the motor in EMTB mode and the Bosch electronics do an excellent job of working out the best power for every given situation, so you don’t need to go near the overly bulky LED remote unit, and instead can concentrate on gearing and dropper post position to maximise traction and ensure the best weight distribution.
Get the Game 11 pointing downhill and that extra weight over the front is immediately noticeable. It’s a good thing there’s an extra token in the fork, because you need the support, but there is a slight increase in harshness as a result. Even with the rebound dial fully open, there’s lots of damping at the rear shock. Combined with the long chainstays and 29in rear wheel, I found that the Game didn’t give me the lively, poppy ride that really helps a 24kg e-bike overcome its bulk. As such, quick direction changes didn’t come as easily as bikes like the YT Decoy and Specialized Turbo Levo – the Moustache is not a playful bike in the same vein as these models.
Despite Moustache’s claims, I also thought the shock lacked sensitivity at the start of the stroke, then tended to fall through the midstroke. Ultimately, it feels like it could do with a larger negative spring to improve the smallbump performance and help with midstroke support. And although Moustache claims the rebound tune is perfect for dynamic riding situations, I’d also like to try it with lighter damping.
Where the Game should be right at home is exploring the wilds and taking on big natural rides somewhere rough and rocky like Scotland or the Lakes. It has a great motor, large-capacity battery, plenty of ground clearance and long chainstays perfect for rocky climbs. On the other hand, there are other e-bikes with better suspension, more balanced geometry and more dynamic handling for hitting bike park trails or lapping enduro tracks. So if your Saturdays are spent seeking adventure on the UK’S most epic trails, then the Samedi Game could be a decent option.
HIGHS
Excellent motor and generous battery capacity. Clever packaging. Good value for the build kit. Good technical climber.
LOWS
Not particularly dynamic or engaging to ride. Magic Grip shock holds back the performance for aggressive riders.