The Electra Ticino 8-speed (latte), expected to sell for around $800. According to Chris at Electra, the latte 8-speeds will start arriving at Electra's east coast warehouse on November 20, and the denim 8-speeds (see below) are due in on December 11. Expect to see these in bike shops this spring.Electra knows how to produce practical bikes with classic style, as they proved when they put out the Dutch-inspired Amsterdam models. The Ticino 8-speed has hammered alloy fenders and bar-end brake levers. The 20-speed chestnut-colored Ticino (see below, second to last pic) looks beautiful as pictured with a front rack. The price range is $500 for a singlespeed to $2,000 for a 20 speed.
The 8-speed frame is made from butted alloy, has a Shimano 2300 derailer with a 12-26T cassette, and Shimano rapidfire shifters. The men's bikes have Tektro canti brakes; the ladies' bikes have DiaCompe centerpull brakes. You can find more specs at the Electra website or on Bike Rumor.
The Ticino line is just coming out now, but already there is plenty of commentary on the web:
Bicycle Times: Mini-review of the Ticino 18-spd.
Urban Velo: On the Ticino singlespeed.
Bike Rumor: Pictures and specs. (wait, I thought that was our thing?)
Cyclelicio.us: Ticino preview.
Tree Hugger: Sexy bike alert.
Electra allowed me to download pics of all the Ticino models, so why not share? Here they are, for your viewing pleasure.
8D (plum) ladies
8D (denim) mens
7D (oyster) ladies
8D (wintermint) ladies
Singlespeed (pearl white) mens
Singlespeed (nimbus grey) mens
7D (portobello) mens
20D (pearl rose) ladies
18D (creme fraiche) ladies
16D (pearl white) ladies
20D (chestnut) mens
16D (putty) mens
