Interbike: Electra unveils Ticino classic bike line

Dec 19, 2023

Modern spin on European handmade bikes from the 1940s

By gary boulanger

Published: September 23, 2009 at 9:27 pm

California-based Electra has introduced its Ticino line of classically-styled bikes inspired by European handbuilts from the 1940s and `50s.

The Ticino line includes seven models, ranging from US$499 to US$1,999. Retro grouches will appreciate the attention to detail: TA Specialties-influenced forged alloy crankset; brazed cromoly steel quill stem; hammered alloy fenders; tubular stainless steel racking; Campagnolo-influenced hubs and quick-release skewers; and Reynolds-esque tubing decals.

“We scoured old bike catalogs and had a blast stepping back in time,” Electra’s Chris Holmes told BikeRadar. “We wanted to take retro a step further, though, and invest in the development of durable, functional equipment that looked retro but behaved like modern components should.”

Inspired by the exploding popularity of the Handmade Bicycle Show builders, Electra also offers its cranks, brake levers, hubs, pedals and wheelsets as aftermarket components. The bearded, torch-wielding Portland framesbuilders shall rejoice!

The Ticino 20D is the flagship model, made with smooth-welded and butted 6066 aluminium frame with hand-brazed cromoly steel fork with double-chromed fork crown. Component highlights include high-flange 32-hole hubs laced to high-polished alu rims, steel pedals with leather toe straps, Tektro cantilever brakes (Dia-Compe centerpulls on the women’s), Shimano 105 10-speed gearing with (gulp) Dia-Compe down-tube shifters, tubular steel front and rear carriers, and a Nitto-influenced stainless steel bottle cage.

Men’s and women’s models available, in chestnut metallic (M) and pearl rose (W).

Similar to the 20D, with Shimano RapidFire shifters at the handlebars and a 9-speed cassette.

Men’s and women’s models available, in pistachio (M) and creme fraiche (W).

Similar to the old Schwinn bikes, the Lux is a one-speed road bike made of double-butted 4130 cromoly steel, using a 42×16-tooth gearing. Men’s sizes regular and large only.

The Ticino logo, showing two bears and a crown, is a blended rendering of the Electra founders hometown of Berlin, Germany and Swiss coat of arms, a reflection of their mixed European heritage.

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