Moustache Samedi 27 Xroad 2 Open Review

This review was provided for free, but Bosch and I split the cost of flights and hotel so I could visit their headquarters in Irvine, Califonia to spend some time with a few different ebike models. My goal is to be transparent and unbiased with you, this video and writeup are not meant to be an endorsement of Bosch or Moustache products. I welcome your corrections, additions, and feedback in the comments below, and the Moustache electric bike forums.

Observations:

• Moustache is a French company that started in 2011. It’s based in Vosges France, which is a mountainous region bordering Germany. The 2021/2022 Samedi 27 Xroad 2 is part of their 11th season of electric bikes! They are a Bosch-only ebike manufacturer, meaning that they only use Bosch drive systems, and they are also “electric only” except for one child-oriented balance bike called the Mercredi.
• The Samedi 27 Xroad 2 comes in both “open” step-thru as well as traditional diamond high-step frame styles. I was riding the size Medium 45cm Open model for the video review, and that is what’s shown in the photos above. The bike is available in three frame sizes (five including the high-step version) and one color, dark metallic red with black accents. There are other Xroad models with higher numbers that utilize nicer components and higher capacity battery packs offering extended range.
• This is a great electric bike for people who want to blend utility on-road cycling with a bit of trail and mountain biking. The suspension fork, knobby tires, low weight distribution, and sturdy frame, tubular alloy fenders, and sturdy rack truly make it off-road capable. It doesn’t rattle or suffer from frame flex, in my experience.

Pros:

• This is a well-rounded electric bike with two purpose-built frames (high-step and step-thru), available in three frame sizes for improved fit. Depending on the level: 1, 2, 3, 5, or 7, you get nicer components, higher battery capacity, and different colors. The Xroad 2 is a more affordable variant but still uses a great motor and battery from Bosch.
• Ergonomically, this bike is very comfortable to ride, which is important if you plan to go long distances or cross bumpy terrain. The adjustable suspension fork is pretty smooth but only has preload adjust vs. full lockout on the higher-end Xroad models. The long adjustable angle stem, highly adjustable seat height, and swept back handlebars with ergonomic grips provide comfortable seating and hand position. And, the Selle Royal Wave saddle is above average.
• I was pleasantly surprised to discover that this electric bike, the size medium step-thru that I reviewed, only weighs 55.5lbs (25kg), despite having an aluminum alloy rear rack, tubular alloy fenders, a spring suspension fork, and integrated lights! The weight is also very well distributed across the frame and kept low, which improves stability and handling.
• Although the headlight is unsprung, being mounted to the suspension arch (so it may bounce around on bumpy terrain vs. a frame-mounted light), it functions well and has side windows for increased visual footprint. The rear light is also visible from more angles because it’s mounted to the sturdy fender. It’s not blocked by the rack at all, and is still somewhat protected by the fender since it’s not all the way at the end.
• In addition to keeping weight low and centered, the mid-drive motor allows both wheels to use quick release on this ebike. That makes servicing flat tires, performing drivetrain maintenance, and transporting the bike with certain types of racks more convenient.
• I like that way internally mounted batteries look, and appreciate how they are protected by the frame. The Bosch PowerTube is a leading design, and is offered in three styles (bottom, side, and top mount). I love that Moustache chose top mount, because it’s easier to access and safer to handle than the others, in my experience, especially when fenders are present. There’s actually a handle built into the extender for the PowerTube 500 that makes it easier and safer to lift and cary, in my opinion.
• Moustache chose a larger 180mm disc brake rotor for the front wheel! Some of the prior generations of Samedi 27 used two 160mm rotors which don’t offer the same mechanical advantage for stopping, and don’t cool as efficiently. For a hybrid electric bike that’s comfortable on gravel roads and light cross country, it’s nice to have that added stopping control now. The rear rotor is still 160mm, but most stopping power comes from the front wheel as weight shifts forward, so this setup is pretty good.
• Good drivetrain here with nine sprockets and a wide 11 to 36 tooth spread. This provides more cadence options to choose from and smaller steps between each gear, so you can really dial in a comfortable pedal cadence.
• The latest Bosch Performance Line Cruise mid-drive motor supports very high pedal RPM, so you can spin quickly without losing motor support (120+ RPM). They use a standard sized chainring now, and Moustache specced a narrow-wide chainring that reduces drops. There’s even shift detection built into the motor, so it won’t stress the drivetrain or break chains as easily.
• It’s a minor thing, but you can actually cycle the chain backwards when pedaling backwards with the Bosch Performance Line Cruise motor. This can be handy for chain cleaning, lubrication, and other maintenance. You may not need a bicycle stand for basic tuneups as you do with many of the other Bosch motors.
• In addition to the very nice looking, sturdy, and quiet tubular aluminum alloy fenders, the bike also comes with a full-surround plastic chain cover to keep your pant legs or dress ends from getting greasy or snagged. This is especially relevant on a step-thru model, which could appeal to casual riding where clothing is not as sporty and tight. I appreciate that Moustache also included a clear plastic slap guard sticker on the right chain stay to protect the paint when riding off-road.
• The brakes are above average here, Shimano hydraulic disc with 180mm front and 160mm rear rotor. Actuating the levers is easy, and they have adjustable reach. The larger front rotor provides a mechanical advantage and cooling improvements which is great, because weight often shifts forward when stopping.
• To me, it says a lot that Moustache remembered to put bottle cage bosses on the seat tube. This makes reaching fluids easy when riding. Alternatively, it could be used to mount a folding lock or other portable accessory like a mini pump. These threaded bosses are brazed on (welded on) low down on the seat tube so as not to interfere with the seat post, so you can slide it down farther.
• I love that the saddle does not collide with the rear rack when positioned all the way down, and the rear rack looks very elegant with the two side support arms and hidden fender support (a thick piece of metal hidden under the rear fender that connects to the seat stays).
• As mentioned earlier, the bike is fairly comfortable and setup for good ergonomics and adjustability… but in addition to the higher volume knobby tires and adjustable suspension fork, you could easily add a suspension seat post to reduce back and neck pain. Just keep in mind that doing so will add a few inches to the minimum saddle height.
• While this particular version of the Xroad does not have a frame lock (sometimes called a cafe lock) included, it still features bosses for mounting one to the seat stays. This could be handy for quick stops, and some products can attach to a chain for extra security vs. just immobilizing the rear wheel.
• The rear rack offers an above average 27kg (59.5lb) of max cargo capacity and is designed to interface with Basil MIK fixations bags and baskets on top as well as Ortlieb QL3 panniers on the sides. I believe that it would also work with the Thule Yepp Nexxt Maxi child seat and many other standard bags and panniers.
• This is the 11th “season” of ebikes that Moustache has designed and sold. They have a great reputation, even winning a Bosch 10th Anniversary design contest recently, and to me that builds trust. The company employs over 100 people and is sold through premium ebike shops in North America that seem to provide good post-purchase support.
• While this particular model comes with the PowerTube 500, it’s setup with an extension that makes it the same length as the PowerTube 625. So, you could purchase one of these high capacity battery packs separately for long range touring if you wanted. Avoid storing the battery in extreme heat or cold, which can damage the cells and reduce range… it’s great that the battery is removable.
• I love that they included the standard (faster) 4 amp charger with this bike. It really isn’t that much larger or more heavy than the 2 amp compact charger, but all current generation Bosch ebike batteries can use these same chargers, so it’s easy to share between your family, friends, or coworkers.
• I like the large cable routing entry points near the steer tube, they have big rubber grommets that should make servicing the bike much easier. The cable management here is great all around, the cockpit isn’t super busy or cluttered.
• There’s a friendly flick bell up front, and the Purion display panel is compact and easy to use. It’s the most basic in the Bosch lineup, not offering wireless for smartphone apps and heart rate monitors or providing USB charging, but it’s easy to learn and less complex and distracting.
• Outstanding job with the kickstand here! The stock one-sided stand is positioned just far enough back that it does not cause pedal lock when backing the bike up. Furthermore, the stand offers tool-free adjustable length and feels very stable, even with the heavier bike and loaded rack. I also really like the large, sturdy, clean looking pedals used here. Even though they are made from composite plastic vs. aluminum alloy, they felt stiff and provided great traction.
• Compared to some of the older Bosch ebike motors, and current generation off-road models like the CX, the Performance Line Cruise is fairly quiet. I think it also conserves power more.

Cons:

• The black plastic battery cover shield that clicks onto the downtube does not lock to the frame. It’s a great lightweight solution that is probably affordable to replace, but it’s a bit more vulnerable to tampering and theft at bike racks than some of the more hidden and locking ones I’ve seen from other companies.
• The battery charge port is located way down on the left side of the frame, requiring you to bend down pretty far to reach it. The port is also directly in the path of the left crank arm, which could snag it. Watch your head on the way up, because I’ve bumped myself on the handlebar after plugging the bike in.
• If you remove the battery to store it in a cool dry place, or perhaps reduce the weight of the bike for transport and then are putting it back into the frame, you have to twist the key to unlock the slot while simultaneously lining up the battery pack. It’s a bit more complex than the older Bosch PowerPack that would click into the locked position without requiring a key.
• The locking core used on this model is made by AXA, and I believe it cannot be keyed alike to match a security lock. This is a feature that ABUS offers, and some AXA locks are matched to frame locks, but that’s not the case here, it appears to be a more basic lock.
• The battery pack itself is heavier than the old PowerPack 500, despite offering the same capacity. It’s longer and has sharper edges than the PowerPacks or even a stock PowerTube 500 due to this extender block, so I find it less convenient to stow in pannier bags if you decide to purchase a second one for extended riding… consider bringing the battery charger along instead. One upside is that you may be able to use a PowerTube 625 on this electric bike for extended range. Some of the Moustache Samedi 27 Xroad 3, 5, and 7 models come standard with the upgraded battery.
• Moustache also skipped the fully integrated rear wheel speed sensor design that they’ve use on some other models in favor of the standard external sensor with spoke-mounted magnet. I find that this magnet can get bumped out of place a bit easier and isn’t as aesthetically pleasing or balanced as a disc brake rotor mount design.
• The motor kind of clunks when you stop pedaling, like theres some mechanical inertia inside. I’ve experienced this with some of the Active Line motors as well, but not the higher end performance CX, Cargo, and Speed. Perhaps it goes away with time as things loosen up… and it’s a minor consideration, but I notice it.
• The tires didn’t say anything about puncture protection or have reflective sidewall stripes, which might improve safety a bit. I’m guessing that they are pretty decent, because they are name-brand, I hope that they are extra durable given the on/off road capabilities of the Samedi 27 Xroad models.
• Although I really love the rear rack they chose for this ebike, it does not have bungee loops on the support arms. It seems like it’s designed to fit with one of the fancier quick-connect bags from Ortlieb or MIK (which stands for Mounting Is Key, and includes top bags and baskets).
• As mentioned previously, the rear light is a bit exposed on the fender which could result in damage at bike racks. It only uses one LED, and there’s no brake light activation or other fancy modes. One trade-off of the front disc brake rotor being larger is that it can get bent more easily at bike racks, so be extra careful with the rear light and front disc brake.
• Minor consideration here, but the Shimano Altus trigger shifters specced on this bike are kind of basic for a bike that is off-road capable. The shorter high-gear shift lever can only be pulled, and that tends to require your right index finger vs. a two-way shifter that could be pushed using your right thumb. The takeaway is that people who like to rest their index finger on the right brake lever or grab the grip securely when riding in challenging terrain might have to compromise their grip temporarily to shift gears.
• The Bosch Purion display panel is effective and easy to reach, but it isn’t removable and some menus have been removed as compared to the larger Bosch Intuvia or fancier new color displays like the Kiox and Nyon that integrate with smartphone applications. Furthermore, the Micro-USB port is only for diagnostics and not charging portable electronics. You can upgrade to one of the nicer displays by paying extra and hiring your dealer to install it.
• Moustache is a French brand that sells primarily through shops. So it may be difficult to find and test ride their products in North America. They are definitely high quality, and worth checking out in my opinion. They are covered by the industry leading two-year Bosch warranty and most of the parts are standard, so should be easy to repair or replace over time as needed.

Useful Resources:

• Moustache electric bike dealers.
• Bosch Purion display settings guide.
• Official Moustache electric bikes website.