I can't argue with some of your statements. Not to hijack the thread but another pov might be helpful At least for me I knew what I was getting into. Electra is more expensive than other bikes but I've felt that cost comes in from the dealer network and assembly. While not great components, better than the big box stuff, but its definitely entry level compared to just about everything else found in a regular bike store. My wifes Huffy was used and while it sat outside and got a little rusty - cheap steal and chrome - it had little use but i had to disassemble the entire bike and lube everything as it was crunchy and almost lube free. The difference between the $150 bike and the $350 bike were evident all the way to the welds.

Since you have the 7D and essentially the Lux in the fat tire, how do the components compare? I know the lux has a 3pc crank setup but am not certain about the rest of the stuff. A little higher grade or is it just the aluminum frame, 3pc crank and a better seat...oh and slightly larger tires?

I wanted a Steel Cruiser with comfortable geometry, a few gears and decent braking. I think I got it and for not an unreasonable price. My feeling was as the stuff wore out I would upgrade a little as needed but the starting point had to be the frame and initial setup being cable mounts a V brake mounts. I went overboard on the seat and saddle bag but you only live once.

True the Roll has slightly better equipment, and its aluminum but in my honest opinion it could have top of the line equipment, ti frame ect, but if its not the fit you want then ???

my .02