It is January 9, and as the days slowly get longer, we are diving into a fresh dose of gravel inspiration. This week, we’ve curated a high-performance lineup featuring a halo-worthy titanium build from the Colorado Rockies, proper sunnies with swappable lenses, and the essential textiles to keep you warm as we turn toward spring. Whether you’re looking for a high-volume tire to tackle any terrain or an accessible Di2 upgrade for your mechanical GRX, this selection pushes the boundaries of craftsmanship and innovation. Swing a leg over—let’s go.
Mosaic GT-1 i45—inspired gravel
When it comes to the “forever bike,” many conversations begin and end with titanium. Hand-built in Boulder, Colorado, the Mosaic GT-1 i45 is the flagship of Mosaic’s gravel line. Every Mosaic owner’s style and imagination provides inspiration for their GT-1 i45, with nearly limitless options.
Integrated and wide
The “i” in its name signifies its most modern evolution: full internal cable integration. By utilizing the ENVE In-Route system, Mosaic tucks every hose and wire inside the frame, creating a clean interface that won’t snag on branches or interfere with handlebar bags. If an integrated cockpit is not for you, Mosaic continues to produce externally routed control housing (cables and hoses) around the cockpit.
The “45” signifies the 700x45C tire width that the frame accepts. If you poke around their website, you may find that the GT-1 45 actually accepts a 700x48C. We reached out to Mosaic for clarification, but did not hear back before press time. Our assessment is that the forks have different clearances due to internal routing.
Made-to-Order or Standard?
Mosaic approaches two-tier approach to construction. The 1-Level GT-1 i45 is a bespoke Made-To-Order machine. It utilizes double-butted T3A/2.5V titanium tuned specifically to the rider’s weight and handling preferences.For those who want a faster lead time, Mosaic offers a Batch Built version. This streamlined path uses straight-gauge tubing and proven stock geometry (48cm–62cm), delivering the same impeccable Colorado craftsmanship in a simplified package.
Mosaic also offers raw titanium finish along with multiple Standard and Artist Series painted finishes to choose from. With a nearly infinite number of color combinations, it’s easy to make your Mosaic uniquely yours.
Key Specifications:
- Frame Material: Custom Double-Butted T3A/2.5V Titanium
- Internal Routing: ENVE In-Route System with 44mm headtube and Chris King Aeroset
- Drivetrain Compatibility: AXS or Di2 1x (up to 46T) or 2x
- Rear Derailleur Hanger: SRAM UDH or standard
- Brake Standard: Flat Mount Disc (140mm or 160mm)
- Axle Standard: 12x100mm Front / 12x142mm Rear
- Bottom Bracket: 68mm BSA Threaded
- Tire Clearance: 700x45mm
- Mounting: Three bottle mounts (std), with optional “Bento” top tube and fender mounts
- Geometry: Fully bespoke (1-Level) or 8 stock sizes (Batch)
- Finish: Choice of Mosaic Paint Layouts or the Artist Series “SCALE” premium finishes
The Bottom Line
Mosaic Bicycles aim to provide an exclusive and bespoke bicycle to each buyer. As such, Mosaic use a network of dealers to sell their bicycles. But, Mosaic offers plenty of inspiration. Mosaic does not explicitly list prices on their website. In 2024, several reviews of the GT-1 i45 when released indicated framesets priced from $8,300, which has no doubt increased since that time. Contact a Mosaic dealer to inquire about build and pricing (which includes fitting).
Tifosi Moab Lite – $79.95
Tifosi sez: We trimmed the full-rim frame down to a sleek, lightweight half-rim silhouette—delivering a barely-there feel that goes the distance. Whether you’re grinding up switchbacks or charging toward the finish line, Moab Lite cycling sunglasses keep up with crystal-clear optics and zero distractions.
The venting in the Moab Lite lens prevents fogging
Chuck sez: I previously reviewed the Moab Lite (in the rad “80s throwback” Speed Yellow colorway) so won’t re-hash everything here. These are more of the same but in Glacier Blue.
- Shield style lens (133 mm wide x 55 mm tall)
- Half-rim design
- 3 lenses (Clarion Blue mirrored, All-Conditions Red, and Clear)
- Adjustable nose and ear pieces
- Hardshell case
- Microfiber bag
In addition to a Clarion Blue mirrored lens (best for bright/sunny days), you also get (1) an All Conditions Red lens (for overcast/cloudy days) and (2) a Clear lens (for low light conditions)
You get all of the above for $79.95. You could easily spend $150 or more for similar sunglasses from other brands (and they may or may not include additional lenses). I have other high quality (and more expensive) sunglasses from other manufacturers. To my eyes, the Tifosi Moab Lite (and all my other Tifosi sunglasses) have the same optic quality.
Tifosi specs 27 grams, but I’m not going to quibble and don’t notice 2 extra grams wearing the Moab Lite
And fashion-wise, the Moab Lite is the current EuroPro/shop ride fashion trend, i.e., an oversized shield style lens. Although not worn by any of the big name pros, the Moab Lite wouldn’t look out of place in the pro peloton. So you’ll definitely look the part on your local shop/club ride.
** Shop for the TIFOSI MOAB LITE here **
PEZ Sez: Support Tifosi and you are also supporting PEZ. We receive a small commission when you use the link above to buy a set of Tifosi glasses.
The Adventure System: Apidura Expedition Series
Not all gravel riding is racing. It also involves folks who just want to get away. The “Sub-48” style of bikepacking—focused on quick, overnight escapes that demand efficiency—are made easier with a unified bag system.
Apidura’s Expedition Series is built for exactly this, using a bespoke three-layer laminate called Trilon that is lightweight, entirely waterproof, and highly resistant to abrasion. It offers a full range of sizes for the adventurous sort that are looking to get lost escape for longer treks as well. The Expedition range focuses on long-term durability and maximum protection from the elements.
Expedition Top Tube Pack
This is the “cockpit” of your storage, designed for items you need while moving—electronics, snacks, or a battery pack. Apidura offers this in both Bolt-On and Strap-On versions. Internally, the bags are identical in features and volume, featuring a padded base to protect your frame and a cable port for charging lights or GPS units on the fly. The choice simply comes down to your frame. If you have top-tube bosses, the bolt-on pack provides a cleaner look and the security knowing there are no straps to run your top tube.
| Feature | Bolt-On Version ($78.00) | Strap-On Version (from $66.00) |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 1.0L | 0.5L / 1.0L |
| Weight | 110g | 55g / 90g |
| Attachment | Two bolts + Hypalon Strap | Hypalon Straps |
Expedition Frame Pack
The frame pack is the anchor of your system, sitting in the main triangle to keep heavy weight low. Apidura designed the Frame Pack to be narrow enough to offer ample knee clearance and prevent chafing. The Expedition Frame Pack features five distinct volume options to ensure a perfect fit for nearly any frame geometry. It is designed with a dual-zipper entry that allows you to access different compartments without dumping your whole kit. It includes an internal lash point for a hydration bladder, moving the “dense” gear—tools, spare tubes, and liquids—to the center of the bike to maintain neutral handling. The sizes are grouped in a “compact” format (3.5L, 4.0L, 4.5L) and “tall” (5.3L and 6.5L). Pricing is size dependent.
| Pack Volume | Weight (g) | Length (cm) | Height (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.0L ($139) | 145g | 41cm | 11cm |
| 4.0L ($140) | 160g | 44cm | 12cm |
| 4.5L ($145) | 170g | 46cm | 13cm |
| 5.3L ($145) | 200g | 51cm | 14.5cm |
| 6.5L ($152) | 225g | 53cm | 16.5cm |
The Expedition Saddle Pack
Completing the trio is the Expedition Saddle Pack, which carries your high-volume, low-weight items like a down jacket or a bivy. The magic of this bag is the hands-free air release valve. As you roll the bag shut, it automatically purges trapped air, allowing you to compress the load into a rock-solid unit. This prevents the “wagging” sensation common with large seat bags. It’s also 100% waterproof, so your dry clothes stay dry regardless of wheel spray or sudden downpours.
| Capacity | Weight |
|---|---|
| 9L ($186) | 325g |
| 14L ($199) | 350g |
| 17L ($208) | 425g |
Le Col Pro Jacket
The Pro Jacket is built to withstand your hardest efforts in wet and windy conditions. Constructed with extremely breathable, waterproof and windproof Polartec® Power Shield® fabric this is a jacket for late-winter or early-spring.
Fit and features
Designed with a WorldTour ready race cut fit, the jacket eliminates fabric flap during high-intensity training. The Polartec® Power Shield® technology is stated to balance protection and breathability. This edition introduces Biolon, a plant-based nylon that reduces carbon footprint by 50%. The monolithic molecular structure actively moves vapor out while maintaining a total wind and rain barrier. Le Col specify the jacket is ideal for temps ranging from 5° to 15°C.
Le Col integrated safety through oversized reflective arm and rear panels, ensuring high visibility in low-light conditions. Practicality is managed via a triple rear pocket system with drainage holes and a waterproof zipped security pocket. A silicone hem gripper keeps the jacket stable even when the pockets are fully loaded for long base miles.
The Bottom Line
It is a premium investment for riders seeking professional-level aerodynamics and weather protection, available directly from Le Col or select premium retailers. Listed MSRP for the Le Col Pro Jacket is $370, but is currently available in select sizes at a sharply discounted $184.
IRC Boken G-Claw TLR — $65.00
Japanese tire manufacturer Inoue Rubber Company, or just IRC, launched a new “high volume” gravel tire at Unbound in 2025. Previously, IRC’s gravel range topped out at 42c, releasing this tire they have joined a multitude of tire manufacturers going wide. The G-Claw is intended for riders who find traditional 40mm tires too skittish or just not fast enough on the gnarliest gravel courses. Designed as a crossover between a fast gravel tire and an XC mountain bike tire, this tire seems ready to take on just about anything.
Supple and plush
IRC built the supple 120 TPI casing to offer a plush ride. This allows you to run pressures as low as 20-25 PSI for a “hovercraft” effect over washboard roads. This high volume tire targets the rider seeking comfort and confidence on some of the toughest courses. The Boken G-Claw is not light, coming in at 610g, but this is expected for a tire designed to handle anything its pilot demands.
The grippy stuff
The secret lies in the dual-nature tread. The center section features low-profile, closely spaced blocks that create a nearly continuous rolling surface on hardpack and pavement. This allows you to maintain road-like speeds on paved transitions without the “hum” or drag of a knobby tire. However, as soon as you lean the bike over, the aggressive, diagonally protruding side knobs dig in to provide immense cornering confidence on loose dirt and sand.
The bottom line
This is a plush high-volume tire that offers the ability to lower the running pressures pretty dramatically. In doing so, coupled with an aggressive knob profile, it promises to offer comfort and endless confidence inspiring grip. For more info on the G-Claw head over to IRC. MSRP is $65.00.
Shimano GRX RX717
The most exciting news as we enter 2026 is the expansion of Shimano’s 12-speed Di2 for gravel to a more budget friendly GRX RX717 series. Essentially, Shimano has brought a “105/Deore” build spec to GRX making fully wireless shifting a reality for budget-conscious adventure builds.
1x for the masses
Shimano’s latest expansion of the GRX family focuses on entry-level wireless integration. Rather than a full group overhaul, this release introduces two essential wireless components: the RD-RX717 Rear Derailleur and the ST-RX715 Dual Control Levers. These parts are “backwards compatible” with existing 12-speed mechanical GRX components, making a Di2 upgrade significantly more affordable and less complex.
A tale of two components
The RD-RX717 Rear Derailleur is the centerpiece of the upgrade, housing the protected internal battery. It mirrors the Shadow RD+ design of Shimano’s MTB line for chain stability. The ST-RX715-R Lever provide the wireless cockpit connection and are powered by two CR1632 batteries with a 3.5 to 4-year lifespan. This hybrid setup allows you to keep your current GRX 12-speed brakes and crankset while moving to electronic shifting. At minimum, you only need to strip out shift cables, swap the right hand lever (and bleed the rear brake) and swap in the new rear derailleur, and you can be off (assuming you already have a 1x set up with the 10-51 cassette).
New Component Pricing:
- Shimano GRX RD-RX717 Rear Derailleur: Approximately $435.
- Shimano ST-RX715-R Right Dual Control Lever: Approximately $230.
- Shimano RS717 Left Brake-Only Lever: Approximately $205.
The Shimano GRX RX717 components offer a clear pathway to Di2 performance for riders already on a 12-speed mechanical GRX setup. By purchasing just the derailleur and levers, you can transition to a wireless cockpit for approximately $870.
Thanks for riding along with us this week. As always, if you have other experiences with gear or tech that we feature, or just something to add, drop us a line. We don’t claim to know everything (we just imply it at times). Feel free to give us a pat on the back if you like the reviews, or a smack if you think we need it!
PezCycling News and the author ask that you contact the manufacturers before using any products you see here. Only the manufacturer can provide accurate and complete information on proper/safe use, handling, maintenance, and or installation of products.
The post Gear Break: Gravel Inspiration — Mosaic GT-1 i45, Tifois Moab Lite, Apidura Expedition Series, Le Col Pro Jacket, IRC Boken G-Claw, Shimano GRX717 appeared first on PezCycling News.
