Moustache Mercredi 12 Balance Bike on Test

The Moustache Mercredi 12 looks like it’s smiling. With its gentle lines and careful attention to detail, this children’s balance bike invites kids to playfully explore the world of cycling. It’s packed with stylish and cool features. But has it got the performance to back it up? We put it to the test to find out.

This individual review is part of a group test of ten balance bikes. Head this way for our
buyer’s guide and an overview of the test field.

The side silhouette of the Moustache Mercredi in the test is defined by elegant lines and a single-sided fork and swingarm on the left side of the bike. — **Moustache** Mercredi 12 | **Weight:** 3,42 kg | **Price:** € 249
**Recommended inseam length:** 34–43 cm | Manufacturer’s Website

The Moustache Mercredi 12 on Test

The detail-obsessed Moustache Mercredi 12 looks playful and fun. The flowing frame with its asymmetrical chainstay and fork, the rounded stem, and a softly curved handlebar make this bike feel as whimsical and cheerful as accordion music drifting through a town square.

laufrad test quick guide kids bikes Intro DOWNTOWN WEB 9758

laufrad test quick guide kids bikes Moustache Mercredi DOWNTOWN WEB 8 600x400 — The footrest works perfectly in practice – some kids even stand on it.

laufrad test quick guide kids bikes Moustache Mercredi DOWNTOWN WEB 5 600x400 — The bar tape looks and feels great – as long as it doesn’t rain.

Unfortunately, climbing aboard isn’t the easiest due to the slightly raised top tube. But once aboard, the Mercredi 12 glides along smoothly on wide, slick tires that offer decent cushioning thanks to their volume. Instead of standard grips, the handlebar is wrapped in soft bar tape, much like a road bike. It feels great to the touch but is delicate and doesn’t hold up well to moisture or wear. The same goes for the velvety saddle, which soaks up water and mud and quickly loses its charm in wet conditions. So, the Mercredi 12 isn’t quite ideal for splashing through puddles.

On the plus side, it features a removable footrest that attaches neatly to the seat tube, offering a grippy platform for coasting or practicing those first standing maneuvers. Furthermore, style-conscious kids (and their parents) can choose from seven frame colours – from soft mint to bold red – to roll through the city in their preferred look.

laufrad test quick guide kids bikes Moustache Mercredi DOWNTOWN WEB 2 600x400 — Simply stylish: both fork and swingarm are single-sided.

laufrad test quick guide kids bikes Moustache Mercredi DOWNTOWN WEB 6 600x400 — The steering limiter adds stability – a real safety bonus.

laufrad test quick guide kids bikes Intro DOWNTOWN WEB 9677

Conclusion

The Moustache Mercredi 12 is a charming, detail-rich balance bike with urban flair and haptically pleasing contact points. On smooth city terrain, it shines with a gentle ride and clever features. However, it reaches its limits when heading off-road – especially since the bar tape and saddle tend to soak up moisture. Overall, it’s a stylish entry into the world of kids’ bikes, with a clear focus on aesthetics over adventure capability.