Last June 21st, a dozen enthusiasts gathered in La Bresse for the very first Shape & Ride organized by Moustache Bikes, in partnership with the Mountain Bikers Foundation (MBF) and our rider Rémy Absalon. A day marked by commitment, sharing... and cycling.
At Moustache, we are convinced that mountain biking also means taking care of the playgrounds that make this activity so exceptional. Behind every trail are volunteers, enthusiasts, and hours of work to create, maintain, and preserve these spaces.
It's in this spirit that we conceived this first Shape & Ride day with the Mountain Bikers Foundation, whose actions we support for sustainable and responsible mountain biking.
Discover the video of this great day below.
A morning dedicated to the trails
In the morning, a dozen participants of all ages gathered in La Bresse alongside MBF volunteers and Rémy Absalon.
On the agenda: maintenance and restoration of several sections of the trails used during the E-Enduro des Hautes Vosges. An essential intervention to preserve the quality of the paths, limit their degradation over time, and promote harmonious coexistence among all mountain users: mountain bikers, hikers, equestrians, and other nature lovers.
Thanks to the expertise of Rémy Absalon and the MBF teams, participants discovered that trail maintenance isn't just about cleaning. Each intervention is designed to improve its durability, notably by regularly creating drainage channels for rainwater to limit erosion, or by reshaping certain sections. These actions help maintain enjoyable trails while reducing future maintenance needs.
This morning was also an opportunity to exchange, learn good maintenance practices, and better understand all the work done behind the scenes so that everyone can enjoy the trails throughout the year.
Cycling as a reward
After a shared meal in a friendly atmosphere, it was time for the joy of riding.
In the afternoon, the whole group went to discover the... freshly maintained trails! Guided by Rémy Absalon, the e-MTB outing allowed several participants to take the handlebars of the new Moustache Game on its favorite terrain: technical, fun, and natural trails. A great way to fully enjoy the work done in the morning. Despite the high temperatures of this June day, the coolness of the forest made this ride particularly pleasant.
The best way to see that a well-maintained trail is not only more enjoyable to ride, but also more durable.
A day rich in encounters
What will undoubtedly remain most striking is the atmosphere of this first edition.
Young riders, experienced riders, MBF volunteers, Moustache team members: everyone came with the same desire to give a little of their time for the MTB community before sharing a great ride together.
The day ended with a final friendly moment, with the presentation of some Moustache and MBF goodies (t-shirts, caps...), to leave with a souvenir of this great collective adventure.
Thank you!
A huge thank you to the Mountain Bikers Foundation for their daily commitment on the ground, to Rémy Absalon for sharing his experience and enthusiasm, and to all the participants who contributed to the success of this first edition.
This day confirms one thing: taking care of the trails is everyone's business. It's a concrete commitment to a mountain biking practice that is more sustainable, more responsible, and more respectful of natural spaces as well as all their users.
We hope that this first edition will inspire other riders to join us for future Shape & Ride events. Because maintaining trails also means preserving the joy of riding, today and tomorrow.
See you very soon for the next Shape & Ride!
