Last year, Moustache introduced their new Dimanche 29 gravel series. In addition to the classic dropbar models, the Dimanche 29.2 is also available in a version with straight handlebars and practical everyday equipment. It seems that the bike combines the best of both worlds: sporty all-road performance and suitability for everyday use. So is it the ideal mix of gravel and everyday bike? To find out, we put this interesting mix to the test.
Design
Visually, the Dimanche 29.2 EQ immediately cuts a strong figure: the straight-lined frame with its harmonious proportions looks modern and tidy. Thanks to the neatly polished weld seams, at first glance you might think it’s a carbon frame — but the manufacturer has actually opted for robust aluminium here, with only the fork made from the lightweight composite material. The look of the bike is confident and powerful, which is not least due to the wide tyres and high-profile rims. This makes it clear at first glance that this bike is not only at home on asphalt, but also on unpaved roads.
The integration of the drive is well done: thanks to the slightly angled mounting of the Bosch SX motor, the line from the down tube to the bottom bracket is completely straight — a design trick that is not so elegantly solved on many other e-bikes with this motor. Instead of a visible bend or a protruding motor, the frame design here remains clear and straightforward. The battery is also concealed in the down tube and the compact control element on the handlebars blends discreetly into the overall look.
In addition, internally routed cables and lines ensure a tidy looking cockpit. The mudguards run close to the tyres and instead of a bulky pannier rack, a slim pannier holder is used here, which does not interrupt the sporty line of the bike.
In terms of colour, Moustache has opted for Sand Storm matt, a rather unusual shade of beige that is exclusively available for this model. There is a charming detail on the down tube: the colour runs into black, consisting of the word “Dimanche” — French for “Sunday” — in various languages.
Equipment
The Dimanche is powered by Bosch’s Performance Line SX motor, which, with 55 Nm of torque, offers a moderate amount of power that is suitable for the intended use. After all, the bike is designed to be ridden actively with your own effort. The motor also scores points with its low weight and comparatively compact design. The same also applies to the CompactTube battery with 400 Wh capacity, which is permanently installed in the down tube. The drive is controlled via the Purion 200 unit on the handlebars — a combination of a compact colour display and ergonomically positioned thumb buttons.
Offering 10 gears, the derailleur comes from Shimano’s Cues series, with a wide range thanks to the 11-48 t cassette at the rear. The braking system with MT200 hydraulic disc brakes also comes from Shimano. Both are solid and proven mid-range components. The bike is well equipped for loose surfaces with chunky Rambler tyres from Maxxis, which are also quite wide at 50 mm.
The precisely fitting mudguards offer additional protection on the front wheel thanks to the additional mud flap, while the rear not only has a rear light but also a sturdy aluminium bag holder. This enables panniers to be quickly attached and removed using the Ortlieb QL3 system. The lighting system is completed by Trelock’s Lighthammer headlight at the front, which offers a decent light output of 80 lux.
Two comfort features are particularly worth emphasising: The suspension stem offers up to 20 mm of suspension travel and is complemented by the dropper seatpost, which not only offers additional suspension, but can also be lowered by up to 75 mm if required.
Operation
As you would expect from Bosch’s Smart System, the operation of the e-drive is well thought-out and intuitive. The system offers extensive functionality with a modern look and can be customised using the free eBike Flow app. For example, you can select your preferred riding modes — we once again favoured the Auto mode for everyday use. If you prefer a sportier ride, you can also activate the Sprint mode for a high pedalling speed, for example. In short: all options are available to customise the riding experience to your own preferences.
However, charging the bike is less convincing — unfortunately! It is quite common for sporty models to have a fixed battery in favour of a light weight and clean look. However, it is a pity that the charging port on the bike is unnecessarily difficult to access: you open a flap above the bottom bracket to insert the plug from the bottom upwards, largely blindly. With a little practice, plugging it in is quicker, but it is still a relatively cumbersome process.
But back to the positive impressions: The gears are easy and precise to operate in every situation and thanks to Shimano’s Linkglide technology, gear changes are quick and reliable even under load. On the other side of the handlebars, on the other hand, is the thumb button for easily lowering or extending the dropper seatpost. Incidentally, the suspension of the stem can be adjusted in its basic set-up with elastomers of different hardness, while an adjustment screw also allows fine adjustment of the suspension behaviour.
Riding impressions
The riding position on the Dimanche 29.2 is sporty and slightly stretched, but remains suitable for everyday use. The bike responds directly to steering impulses, accelerates powerfully thanks to the lively drive and conveys an agile riding experience at all times. It is just as much fun on asphalt as it is on gravel or forest paths.
One of the reasons for this is the comparatively low weight: at 19.8 kg (measured in size M), the bike is pleasantly light considering the extensive equipment with the wide tires and the suspension on the stem and seat post.
Bosch’s SX motor provides powerful support, which — together with the wide gear range — allows you to tackle even steep climbs with ease. The harder you pedal, the more noticeable the support provided by the motor, allowing you to reach the 25 km/h limit quickly, with the drive decoupling itself gently. If, on the other hand, you select turbo mode, you get full motor support even with little effort.
A proof of Moustache’s high build quality: even on rough surfaces, the bike remains completely rattle-free. Only the mudguards occasionally make a noise when a small stone bounces against them — which is hardly surprising given the tight routing along the tires. The same applies to the slight rolling noise of the coarse-tread tires on asphalt, but they impress on loose surfaces with a secure grip.
Despite the sporty orientation, riding comfort is never neglected. The wide tires, which smooth out many uneven surfaces with the right air pressure, contribute to this, as do the suspension dropper seat post and the flexible stem, which noticeably relieves the strain on the wrists in particular. The effectiveness of the stem can also be seen in the dark: the light cone of the headlight, which is attached directly to the handlebars, moves visibly with every bump.
Of course, all these features not only pay off on sporty rides, but also in everyday life. When commuting through the city, you will appreciate the comfort features on potholes and cobblestones and the lowerable seat post also proves to be practical in stop-and-go traffic: at traffic lights, you can stand comfortably and safely with your feet on the ground and wait relaxed for the green light.
Conclusion
The Dimanche 29.2 EQ is a well-designed bike for anyone who wants to combine sporty riding fun with everyday practicality. The successful mix of gravel and urban bike, combined with clever details such as the suspension stem and lowerable seat post, make it a real all-rounder for everyday use. Apart from the somewhat awkward handling when charging the battery, the bike has hardly any weaknesses.
For 3,899 euros, you get a high-quality overall package with a convincing design and individual touch — also available as a comfort frame in a trapezoidal frame version. Further information about the bike can be found here on Moustache’s website.
