Ride Review, Jochem’s Mosaic RT-1

Earlier this year, I wrote a blog about my new custom-made Mosaic RT-1, Jochem’s Mosaic RT-1. If you’re curious about how my choices came together and how the bike was built, feel free to read that one first.

Now that the winter season has arrived, the Mosaic is getting its well-deserved rest. It will be on display in our showroom until spring returns. This is not the bike I’ll take onto muddy winter roads.

With the road season coming to an end, this seems like the perfect time to share how the bike has performed and what adventures we’ve had together. And yes, there were more of them than I expected, simply because I couldn’t stop riding it. More on that later.

First Impressions

As mentioned in the first blog, the Strade Bianche was the first real goal for me and the Mosaic. We built the bike a few weeks before departure, giving me time for some early rides.

I still remember that first ride vividly. After just a few hundred meters on smooth tarmac, I thought: is this really titanium? Not to dismiss the material, but it felt so tight, so stiff, so fast, and so composed that I couldn’t help but smile.

Of course, those first few rides required some fine-tuning, and it’s always fun to get to know the limits of a new bike. It’s the phase where you and the bike start to sync up. One thing was already clear: it was absolutely ready for Strade Bianche.

Ride Feel and Performance

Let me cut to the chase: this is the best road bike I’ve ever owned.
It fits perfectly, even on long days, it responds exactly how I want it to, it’s comfortable, and it’s incredibly fast when you need it to be. I don’t often get this impressed by a bike.

Everything just works. Looking back, I’m glad I didn’t make any compromises during the design process and took the time to think carefully about what I truly wanted.

Versatility, Comfort, Ride Feel, and Build

When it comes to versatility, I expected titanium to be adaptable, but I didn’t expect to reach for this bike as often as I have. Initially, I thought it would be my “special occasions” bike – the one for long, comfortable rides.

That turned out differently. For Strade Bianche, I kept the standard setup: 32 mm tires (34 mm measured) at 3 bar, and just went for it over the sterrato sections. It was incredible. On gravel it felt smooth, on tarmac it was fast and lively, and in descents it inspired total confidence. What a bike.

Back home, I couldn’t stop talking about it. I found myself taking it out for every planned ride. No other bike stood a chance – I simply enjoyed every kilometer.
With its short wheelbase and aggressive geometry, the Mosaic is a true racer. You can throw it into corners, and it handles like a Swiss army knife – sharp and precise. Sprinting and holding speed are no issue. Sure, there are bikes with more aero advantage, but honestly, does that matter for us? We’re not racing the Tour de France.

 This summer I went on an Alpine trip, with the Stelvio as the highlight. I briefly considered taking my Aurum Magma – a top-tier carbon climber – but deep down I knew I couldn’t leave the Mosaic behind. For the mountains, I mounted a Partington R39/44 wheelset with 30 mm Vittoria Corsa Pro tires – slightly lighter, and yes, partly psychological. The result: an even livelier bike weighing around 7 kg, perfect for climbing. It did feel a bit more nervous with that setup, though – the Chris King wheels with 32 mm tires remain the perfect match.

That impression was confirmed in October on Mallorca. Again, I hesitated, but titanium’s robustness made it the perfect travel companion.
Over a week of 350 kilometers – flat, hilly, and mountainous terrain – the bike proved once more how effortlessly it handles everything you throw at it. With the Chris King wheels and 32 mm tires, it was simply perfect.

Titanium

So, is that ride feel mainly because it’s titanium? I think so.
It’s hard to describe, but the bike feels incredibly planted and solid. You get the sense that the material beneath you just makes sense – it’s alive yet composed. That harsh edge carbon sometimes has is missing here. Titanium smooths things out, without dulling the ride.

Climbing and sprinting feel efficient, and acceleration is impressive. Weight-wise, there’s really nothing to complain about either.

Of course, we’re talking about a high-end frame, fully custom-built. But let’s be honest – a Pinarello Dogma or S-Works SL8 costs almost the same these days.

What makes this bike truly special is the process: the time and care spent tailoring the geometry, fit, and details to my body and preferences. That’s what turns a great bike into a perfect one. This frame just feels right – and you can tell.

Components

The Chris King wheels suit the bike perfectly. Not the lightest, but wide, strong, and ideal for 32 mm tires. Proof that weight isn’t everything.

The ENVE cockpit, especially the AR handlebar, is just right for me in shape and comfort. The Dura-Ace group remains lightning-fast and flawless, and the levers are still my favorite in terms of ergonomics.

That said, SRAM AXS has an edge – the wireless simplicity is appealing. The fact that I still have cables running through the frame bothers me a little, but it’s a small price to pay.

Everything else? Spot on. I haven’t changed a thing and see no need to. Maybe a new Dura-Ace group next year... Shimano?

Emotion and Character

What makes it extra special is that this is truly a one-of-a-kind bike.
The color stands out, but people mostly notice that it’s something unique. It’s fun to share the story behind it and spark the curiosity of fellow enthusiasts.

The bike has character – you feel it, and others see it. It’s not your average production bike (and rightly so, given the price), and that makes every ride special.

Conclusion

Yes, this turned into quite a glowing review – but it’s well deserved. Those who know me know I’m just as honest when something doesn’t meet expectations, and that’s what good advice is about.

But this time, it’s simple: this is my perfect bike.
I’m amazed by its versatility, comfort, and personality. A huge compliment to Mosaic – this is proof that if you’re in the market for a truly high-end bike, you can’t ignore titanium, and especially not custom.

Looking for perfection? A project like this might be just what you need.

If you have questions or got inspired by this story, the bike is on display in our showroom, and I’d love to tell you more about it.

Jochem