There’s something to be said for a good steel bike. They’re a little heavier than aluminum bikes but arguably feel a lot more durable and have a ride quality that is often seen as superior to either aluminium or carbon. They also tend to be cheaper, making them a great option for those on a tight budget who still want to experience the thrill of riding a steel frame.
For many riders this combination of durability, reliability and affordability is enough to sway them towards a steel bicycle. That’s especially true if they’re not particularly concerned about the frame’s maximum rider weight limit, as these frames can generally accommodate far more riders than their aluminium counterparts.
A good example of this is the UK-based Mosaic Resolution, which combines a traditional framebuilding technique with modern features like bolt-thru axles and flat mount disc brakes to create a bike that is both thoroughly contemporary and undeniably timeless. Our test bike was specced with Shimano Ultegra Di2 and Hunt 4 Season wheels, which came in at just under 9kg – pretty impressive for a steel road bike these days.
Mosaic uses True Temper’s new Super-Stiff tubing, which is designed to be TIG welded and eliminates the need for lugs, saving weight and allowing for more creative freedom during construction. The resulting frame is well-proportioned and perfectly suited to a race or training build. Its external routing and high-end components give the impression of a very expensive bike without its eye-watering price tag, making it a fantastic choice for aspiring pro racers or seasoned pros looking for a new companion for their weekend rides.