Abstract: A chain ring for engaging a chain link of a chain, the chain ring including an inner edge fully circumscribing both an opening and an axis of rotation, an inner surface extending between the inner edge and an outer edge where a plurality of chain ring teeth emanate, and a plurality of ramps disposed about the inner surface, wherein at least one of the plurality of ramps includes a lifting surface for initiating lift of a chain without assistance from the plurality of chain ring teeth. The lifting surface extends radially along the inner surface toward the outer edge, and the at least one ramp has a first end proximate the inner edge and a second end proximate the outer edge. The second end of the at least one lifting surface terminates before reaching the bottom of a trough positioned between two or more of the plurality of chain ring teeth.

Abstract: A bicycle chain ring for engaging a chain link of a bicycle chain, the bicycle chain ring including an inner edge fully circumscribing both an opening and an axis of rotation, an inner surface extending between the inner edge and an outer edge where a plurality of chain ring teeth emanate, and a plurality of ramps disposed about the inner surface, wherein at least one of the plurality of ramps includes a lifting surface for initiating lift of a bicycle chain without assistance from the plurality of chain ring teeth. The lifting surface extends radially along the inner surface toward the outer edge, and the at least one ramp has a first end proximate the inner edge and a second end proximate the outer edge. The second end of the at least one lifting surface terminates before reaching the bottom of a trough positioned between two or more of the plurality of chain ring teeth.

Abstract: A bicycle chain ring for engaging a chain link of a bicycle chain, the bicycle chain ring including an inner edge fully circumscribing both an opening and an axis of rotation, an inner surface extending between the inner edge and an outer edge where a plurality of chain ring teeth emanate, and a plurality of ramps disposed about the inner surface, wherein at least one of the plurality of ramps includes a lifting surface for initiating lift of a bicycle chain without assistance from the plurality of chain ring teeth. The lifting surface extends radially along the inner surface toward the outer edge, and the at least one ramp has a first end proximate the inner edge and a second end proximate the outer edge. The second end of the at least one lifting surface terminates before reaching the bottom of a trough positioned between two or more of the plurality of chain ring teeth.

Abstract: Disclosed are bicycle chain rings for bicycles having specially shaped ramps with lifting surfaces for improved up-shifting performance. Additional embodiments of the bicycle chain rings of the present invention may be configured with one or more additional features formed within the chain rings including a transition slide, a tapered ramp face, a ramp bridge, a ramp lead, a trailing transition slide and a wear pin.

Abstract: A specialized fastener cover is suitable for attaching to a fastener used to attach one object to another. The fastener cover includes a decorative faceplate and a method of pivoting the faceplate between two positions. In one position, the fastener can be inserted into the two objects to hold the objects together, or can be removed from the objects to release them from each other. When the faceplate is pivoted to the second position, the decorative faceplate conceals the fastener. The fastener cover can be used to cover fasteners attaching a variety of objects to each other.

Abstract: Disclosed are bicycle chain rings for bicycles having specially shaped ramps with lifting surfaces for improved up-shifting performance. Additional embodiments of the bicycle chain rings of the present invention may be configured with one or more additional features formed within the chain rings including a transition slide, a tapered ramp face, a ramp bridge, a ramp lead, a trailing transition slide and a wear pin.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention include bicycle chain rings for bicycles having specially shaped ramps with lifting surfaces for improved up-shifting performance. Additional embodiments of the bicycle chain rings of the present invention may be configured with one or more additional features formed within the chain rings including a transition slide, a tapered ramp face, a ramp bridge, a ramp lead, a trailing transition slide and a wear pin.