The Moustache Dimanche 29.4 EQ – The Ultimate 2025 E-Gravel Bike Comparison Test

French manufacturer Moustache claims to build “Smiling Machines” and names its bikes after days of the week – “Dimanche” means Sunday. Spending a quiet Sunday exploring rural France, sharing a knowing smile? Sounds perfect! But does the Moustache Dimanche 29.4 also put a smile on our faces on weekdays?

With its, for a light motor, relatively powerful Bosch Performance Line SX with 55 Nm and a non removable 400 Wh battery, Moustache position the Dimanche as a versatile all-rounder for almost any use case. So versatile, in fact, that they offer an impressive range of different spec variants, with fourteen different variations all based around two aluminium frame platforms – the one we tested and a step-through version. The base model with drop handlebars is priced at € 4,699, which you can easily kit out for everyday use with the € 200 EQ package, featuring mudguards, a pannier rack and lights.

Fortunately, the sensible appearance of the EQ package is only superficial – beneath the surface, the Dimanche is a proper off-roader: robust 50 mm MAXXIS Rambler tires, a 500 mm wide gravel cockpit, a suspended dropper post with 75 mm travel, and a suspension stem with 20 mm travel – all of this makes it unmistakably clear that the Dimanche feels right at home off the beaten track. It seems that some mountain bike genes have found their way into the design – hardly surprising, as Moustache are already known for their eMTB range. The exciting question remains: is the Dimanche still just as much fun on a rainy Tuesday morning?

The Moustache Dimanche 29.4 on test – Just for the Weekend?

It quickly becomes clear that Moustache take their “Smiling Machine” claim seriously: the Dimanche rides with a delightfully agile and playful feel. It welcomes tight, twisting tracks and quick manoeuvres, implementing your inputs directly and precisely, without feeling twitchy or nervous. Neither the aluminum frame nor the comparatively high total weight of 19.4 kg can diminish this experience. Such lively handling is always fun, whether you’re riding at the weekend or in everyday use. Overall, when it comes to riding enjoyment, the Dimanche is only narrowly beaten by the BMC URS AMP LT TWO. However, in a direct comparison, it scores higher thanks to its potential as a versatile everyday bike.

Compared to the e-gravel bikes on test, the Moustache feels the most like a mountain bike. Its compact geometry and suspension components provide a reassuring feeling of stability. The relatively upright riding position, dropper post and wide handlebar contribute to a high level of control and safety – whether you unexpectedly have to stop at a red light, or the terrain suddenly shifts from gravel to trail. By lowering the dropper post, you gain additional freedom of movement on descents, which directly translates into an increased sense of security.

Upon closer inspection, the damping system on the Moustache proves to be functional but relatively basic. While the elastomer in the stem can be swapped out and adjusted to suit the rider’s weight, the front suspension doesn’t come close to the sensitivity or adjustability of the Future Shock system on the Specialized Creo, let alone the air-sprung forks on some of the other bikes, such as the Riese & Müller. Nevertheless, the Moustache stands out with one of the most balanced suspension setups in the test field. The seatpost’s suspension works in harmony with the stem, creating a noticeable decoupling effect from bumps on cobblestones – Bienvenue, Roubaix! In terms of comfort balance between the front and rear, the Moustache outperforms models such as the Riese & Müller, BMC, Specialized Creo, ROSE, and even the test winner, the Canyon Grizl:ON.

Speaking of Comfort: the Bosch Performance Line SX motor with 55 Nm of torque provides a smooth and supportive ride, as long as you stay engaged with your pedaling. However, it doesn’t quite match the sheer power of the Shimano EP8 in the ROSE Backroad Plus EQ. In Turbo mode, the Bosch motor delivers strong acceleration and easily handles even steep climbs. A drawback is the noticeable whirring noise from the motor, which is drowned out only by the ZF Centrix motor in the Ultima Mobility. In contrast, test bikes equipped with TQ or Specialized motors were much quieter, though they offered less powerful assistance. The Bosch Kiox 300 color display and the remote control for adjusting riding modes are intuitive and user-friendly. However, the charging port design is frustrating. It is hidden under a plastic cover between the battery and motor, making it difficult to locate. Riders have to fumble blindly with the plug, hoping to connect it properly.

As for security, the Bosch motor system provides practical theft protection features for urban commuting with its eBike Lock and Battery Lock functions. However, the permanently integrated battery of the Dimanche presents a challenge, especially for those who need to carry the bike up stairs regularly. Given that its 19,4 kg makes it one of the heaviest bikes in the test, this adds to its practicality concerns. That aside, the bike impresses with a broad and versatile range of features that extend its usability to commuting and everyday rides. The components are more functional than flashy: SRAM’s entry-level Apex groupset takes care of shifting and braking, while Moustache provide their own in-house aluminium wheelset. Perfectly functional, but nothing special.

It isn’t all smooth sailing – the dropper lever is positioned awkwardly in the hook of the handlebar. While this is easily reachable from the top position, once you switch to the drops, it digs in uncomfortably between your thumb and index finger – ouch! On the plus side, your ears are spared any irritation. The sturdy fenders remain rattle-free even on rough terrain, unlike the retrofitted standard fenders on the Specialized Creo tested. The Dimanche’s lighting system reliably does its job, but falls short in both quality and seamless integration compared to the setups on the Riese & Müller or the Canyon Commuter:ONfly 7. When it comes to carrying capacity, the Dimanche proves its utility with two mounting points on the frame and two more on the fork. The rear rack is compatible with Ortlieb’s practical QL3.1 mounting system and can support up to 25 kg, making it a solid choice for transporting gear.

Overall, we were impressed by the enjoyable ride quality and the solid, well-equipped setup. The Moustache Dimanche successfully combines its clear adventure DNA with a robust spec for commuting and everyday use.

Who is the Moustache Dimanche 29.4 for?

The Moustache Dimanche works right out of the box as both a commuter bike and an adventure machine. Whether tackling wild mountains, light trails or urban asphalt, it delivers a high level of comfort across all surfaces. An ideal use case would be a commuting route with plenty of forest and off-road sections. With its powerful Bosch SX motor, the Moustache sparks a spirit of exploration, encouraging riders to embrace alternative routes without hesitation. In terms of versatility, it is most comparable to the test winner, the Canyon Grizl:ON. In a direct comparison, the Canyon stands out with higher-quality components and smart features, but comes at a premium of around € 600 more. While the Canyon impresses with its smooth and stable ride, offering a strong sense of security, the Dimanche has more of a playful and fun-oriented character. It is more agile, with a livelier steering response – perfect for those who prefer a dynamic and responsive ride.

Conclusion to the Moustache Dimanche 29.4

The Dimanche isn’t just for Sundays – it’s built for weekdays too! With its highly responsive handling, it ranks among the most fun bikes in the test, fully living up to its claim as a “Smiling Machine”. The powerful Bosch SX motor seamlessly integrates into the bike’s fun-oriented design, encouraging riders to keep exploring just beyond the next hill. For those willing to forgo high-end components and accept the somewhat impractical charging port, the Dimanche offers a versatile do-it-all bike packed with fun DNA – all at a relatively affordable price of € 4,899.

For more info head to moustachebikes.com

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The Test Field

You can find an overview of this comparison test here: The Best E-Gravel Bike of 2025 – The most exciting models in a comprehensive comparison test

All bikes in the test: BMC URS AMP LT TWO, Canyon Commuter:ONfly 7, Canyon Grizl:ON Daily, Moustache Dimanche 29.4 EQ, Riese & Müller UBN Five commute, ROSE BACKROAD Plus EQ, Specialized Turbo Creo 2 Expert, Specialized Turbo Tero X 5.0, Ultima Mobility eGRAVEL YIN SPORT.

Words: Jonny Grapentin Photos: Jan Richter