Abstract: A steering wheel which strengthens and simplifies a structure supporting a pad, to which an air bag apparatus is attached, at a cored bar. A cored bar is integrally formed with a bridge (engaging piece) formed by leg portions, which stand upright from spokes or the like, and a crossbar (pressing portion), which is bent and formed from the leg portions. A bracket for a pad, to which an air bag apparatus is attached, is mounted at the space between the boss portion of the cored bar and the crossbar. When the air bag apparatus is operated, impact force applied in a vehicle operator's direction is supported by the bridge (engaging piece) via the bracket.

Abstract: A structure for mounting a bracket for a horn pad on a metal core of a steering wheel has a simplified construction. Further, the number of upper contacts is reduced by controlling a movement of the horn pad. The mounting structure and arrangement result in a low cost of production. Generally, the mounting structure includes a plurality of leg parts formed on the metal core of the steering wheel. The leg parts extend generally parallel to a steering shaft. A cross bar is formed on a tip of each leg part. The horn pad's bracket is disposed between the metal core and the cross bars. Biasing devices, for biasing the bracket towards the cross bars are installed between the bracket and the metal core. Positioning devices, for positioning the bracket relative to an axis of the steering shaft are provided on the cross bars and the bracket. The biasing devices are installed at two locations on a lower side of the pad, and at two locations on an upper side of the pad.