Silca’s first electric bike pumps promise features designed to make them stand out from the crowd. However, you probably won't be able to buy one in the US due to current import tariffs.
Mini pumps and C02 cartridges face increasing competition from a host of pocket-sized electric options from brands such as Muc-Off, Fumpa, Flextail and Topeak.
Tool specialist Silca has joined the fray with two new Elettrico models, the Ultimate and Micro.
However, the brand states that it is not currently 'economically viable' to sell the pumps in the US due to the impact of the tariffs on imported goods introduced by President Trump.
Drone motors
The Elettrico pumps use quiet yet powerful motors, borrowed from drone technology, with Silca claiming a noise level of between 4 and 8dB – even lower when used with one of Silca’s chucks. They are compatible with any Silca chuck, such as the Schradero or Hiro.
The casing is designed to dissipate vibrations and reduce noise, making the pumps easier and more convenient to use.
Accurate and long-lasting
Silca claims the Ultimate pump's digital display shows real-time tyre pressure with an accuracy of ~1%. You can set your desired pressure (from 3 to 100psi) at the touch of a button and it’ll inflate automatically.
The compact Elettrico Micro forgoes a digital display but has a built-in safeguard that will cut out at 72psi, the maximum pressure advised for modern hookless rims.
The pumps use USB-C for battery recharging. Silca claims the Ultimate's capacity is equal to nine or more CO2 cartridges and charges in about an hour, whereas the Micro is equivalent to three or more CO2 cartridges and charges in 20 minutes.
The pumps’ casings are custom aluminium extrusions that are CNC machined to both dampen noise and dissipate heat, as well as being tough enough to withstand the rigours of being carried when riding.
As with Silca’s regular pumps, a range of spares and replacement parts will be available for both Elettrico pumps.
US riders set to miss out
The introduction of tariffs in the USA looks set to prove troublesome for Silca’s latest innovation.
Silca made the following statement when announcing the release of its new pumps: "Due to the significant impact of current United States tariff policies on imported goods, these products are not economically viable for sale within the US market currently. This, unfortunately, means that Silca's largest historical market will not have immediate access to these groundbreaking pumps. Silca remains hopeful that these trade barriers will be resolved in the future to allow US cyclists access to the Elettrico series."
Silca says it has made only 100 units available for the entire US market.
Silca Elettrico pumps pricing
- US: Elettrico Micro $119, Elettrico Ultimate $159
- CAD: $199.95, $239.95
- EU: €139, €179
- AU$: $179, $219
- UK: £119, £149
