Frames And Running Gear Patents (Class 280/274)
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Patent number: 11858485Abstract: A straddle type vehicle including a vehicle control apparatus capable of controlling a brake by a brake-by-wire method, includes: a control unit configured to control the brake of the straddle type vehicle based on a signal from a brake operation unit; and a signal processing unit configured to supply power of a battery power supply of the straddle type vehicle to the control unit by a predetermined input operation in a handle locking state of the straddle type vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2021Date of Patent: January 2, 2024Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.Inventors: Takaya Kakimoto, Shogo Tatsumi, Akiyuki Suzuki, Shogo Nishida, Takashi Sato, Takayuki Abe
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Patent number: 11667348Abstract: An ebike comprises a front wheel, a rear wheel, a frame structure supported on the front wheel and the rear wheel, a crank assembly, and a battery assembly. The frame structure can include a front fork supported on the front wheel, a head tube coupled to the front fork, and a down tube extending downward and rearward from the head tube, the down tube defining a down tube axis and being open at its lower end. The crank assembly can be supported by the frame structure and can be rotatable about a crank axis that is spaced rearward from the down tube axis. The battery assembly can be at least partially secured in the down tube in an installed position and can be slidable into the down tube from the lower end of the down tube along the down tube axis.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2019Date of Patent: June 6, 2023Assignee: SPECIALIZED BICYCLE COMPONENTS, INC.Inventors: Marc Pallure, Marco Werner Sonderegger, Jan Talavasek, Vincent Patureau
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Patent number: 11572132Abstract: A bicycle battery system includes a battery assembly and a battery lock. The battery assembly includes a battery and a handle assembly mounted to the battery. The handle assembly includes a handle mount, a handle plunger, and a handle. The battery lock is mounted within a cavity of a frame of a bicycle and configured to secure the battery assembly within the cavity. The battery lock includes a lock plunger, a movable latch, and a stationary latch. The lock plunger is configured to press a portion of the handle mount against the movable latch when the battery lock is in a locked position such that the battery assembly is securely mounted within the cavity. Responsive to the battery lock being in an unlocked position, the handle plunger is configured to cause the handle mount and the handle to pivot away from a face of the battery such that at least the portion of the handle mount engages the stationary latch of the battery lock.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2019Date of Patent: February 7, 2023Assignee: Trek Bicycle CorporationInventor: Reijer den Hertog
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Patent number: 11299228Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a bicycle frame and associated bicycle components, and to reducing the aerodynamic drag of these. In one aspect, there is provided an elongate structural member of a bicycle frame, the member comprising a lengthwise extending leading edge, the leading edge comprising at least a pair of forwardly extending protrusions spaced apart lengthwise therealong. In one form, the protrusions comprise tubercles, a series of which are spaced apart lengthwise along the leading edge, and which further extend to at least one side of the leading edge so as to transition into a chordwise extending rib.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2017Date of Patent: April 12, 2022Assignee: The University of AdelaideInventors: Richard Malcolm Kelso, Henry James Atkins, Shaun James Fitzgerald
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Patent number: 11155317Abstract: A bike frame includes including a seat tube (10) for receiving a seatpost (2), a front portion comprising a top tube (13) connecting the seat tube (10) to a head tube (16), the seat tube (10), the top tube (13). The head tube (16) extends in a plane of symmetry of the bike frame (1). A rear portion has two chain stays (11a, 11b) and two seat stays (12a, 12b) arranged symmetrically relative to the plane of symmetry of the bike frame (1). The two seat stays (12a, 12b) are independent of each other and the two seat stays (12a, 12b) have a preform that is curved along at least one arc in a plane passing through the two seat stays, so as to enable the two seat stays to move away from or closer to each other under the action of a vertical load.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2019Date of Patent: October 26, 2021Assignee: LOOK CYCLE INTERNATIONALInventors: Pierre Bigard, Frédéric Caron, Julien Pavard
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Patent number: 10836452Abstract: A front fork capable of reducing an unsprung weight of the arm-shaped front fork, optimizing rigidity, and improving appearance is provided. A front swing arm includes a left and right arm portions, and a bridge portion integrally connecting the left and right arm portions, a first lightening hole, a second lightening hole and a third lightening hole are provided in the arm portion, the first lightening hole, the second lightening hole and the third lightening hole are covered with a reflector provided to be exposed to an outer side surface of the arm portion from outside.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2016Date of Patent: November 17, 2020Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.Inventors: Naoki Kuwahara, Masayuki Fujita, Kenji Tako
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Patent number: 10807560Abstract: A pedestrian protecting device according to one aspect of the present invention includes a right air bag device, a left air bag device, G sensors (collision position detector), a vehicle speed sensor (vehicle speed detector), a steering angle sensor (steering angle detector), and an ECU (controller) configured to control operations of the air bags. The air bags and include respective tip end portions which vertically overlap each other at a middle portion of the vehicle when the air bags and are deployed. The ECU estimates a movement direction of a pedestrian who has collided with the vehicle. Based on a result of this estimation, the ECU determines an operation target from the air bag devices and an operation timing of the operation target. Based on a result of this determination, the ECU controls operations of the air bag devices.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2017Date of Patent: October 20, 2020Assignee: Mazda Motor CorporationInventors: Ryouji Funahashi, Tsutomu Watanabe, Susumu Kuroda, Motoharu Sato, Yuji Nakanishi
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Patent number: 10710663Abstract: The invention relates to a two-wheeled vehicle frame with two frame half-shells (1, 1?) which are joined so as to form a support frame (3), thereby forming at least one inner cavity (2). The support frame (3) has at least one separating surface (4) on which the two frame half-shells (1, 1?) rest against each other. The support frame (3) preferably has receiving areas (5, 6, 7) for a handlebar tube and/or a bottom bracket and/or an operator seat tube. The support frame (3) forms a rear structure (8) for assembling a rear wheel (9) at the rear end when seen in the travel direction (z). In order to form the rear structure (8), a left-hand support brace (10) when seen in the travel direction (z) and a right-hand support brace (11) when seen in the travel direction (z) are provided such that the rear wheel (8) can be mounted between the two support braces (10, 11).Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2016Date of Patent: July 14, 2020Assignees: REHAU AG + CO, TECHNISCHE UNIVERSITÄT DRESDEN, STORCK BICYCLE GMBHInventors: Andreas Jedrzejowski, Christian Garthaus, Martin Pohl, Michael Stegelmann, Michael Krahl, Werner Hufenbach, Georg Luttermann, Jens Buder
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Patent number: 10703416Abstract: A vehicle front portion structure includes a pair of front side members arranged at a distance from each other in a vehicle width direction, each of the front side members extending in a vehicle front-rear direction, a gusset attached to a vehicle width direction outside surface of each of the front side members, protruding outwards in the vehicle width direction beyond the front side member, and having a vehicle width direction dimension decreasing toward a rear of a vehicle, and an MC cross member stretching between the front side members, in which the MC cross member and the front side member face each other in a state where the MC cross member and the front side member are apart from each other in the vehicle width direction at the same vehicle front-rear direction position as a rear end of the gusset.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2018Date of Patent: July 7, 2020Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Daiki Okura, Yoshihito Tomizawa, Yoshinori Domon, Akira Sabu
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Patent number: 10633049Abstract: An aerodynamic front fork assembly for a bicycle may include an elongated crown portion extending from a steerer tube to a distal end behind a front wheel, with one or more fork blades projecting in a generally forward direction from the distal end of the crown portion to engage the front wheel. The crown portion may substantially fill the gap between the front wheel and the down tube of the bicycle, thereby collectively forming an airfoil with the front wheel and the down tube.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 2018Date of Patent: April 28, 2020Inventor: William F. Logan
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Patent number: 10611426Abstract: An axle assembly for a vehicle includes an axle shaft having a bolt end and a lever end. The axle assembly includes a cam assembly coupled to the lever end of the axle shaft. The cam assembly includes a cam housing, a cam follower shaft coupled to the cam housing, and the cam follower shaft is located within the axle shaft. The cam follower shaft does not extend the full length of the axle shaft. The cam shaft is coupled to the cam follower shaft, and a lever is coupled to the cam assembly. The lever is rotatable from an open position to a closed position, and an angle of maximum rotation for the lever between the open position and the closed position is less than 180 degrees.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2017Date of Patent: April 7, 2020Assignee: Fox Factory, Inc.Inventors: Andrew Laird, Mario Galasso, William M. Becker, David M. Haugen
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Patent number: 9969462Abstract: A bicycle shifting system is basically provided with a first shifting device, a second shifting device and a controller. One of the first shifting device and the second shifting device is mechanically operated, while the other of the first shifting device and the second shifting device is electrically operated. The controller is configured to operate at least one of the first shifting device and the second shifting device in accordance with at least one of a predetermined upshifting route and a predetermined downshifting route.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2016Date of Patent: May 15, 2018Assignee: Shimano Inc.Inventor: Nobukatsu Hara
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Patent number: 9688342Abstract: In a mobile vehicle 1 having a vehicle body 2, a front wheel 3f, and a rear wheel 3r, the steering control wheel 3f can be steered by a steering actuator 8 about a steering axis Csf which is tilted backward. The steering actuator 8 is controlled by a control device 15. The height a, from a ground surface 110, of the intersection point Ef of the steering axis Csf of the steering control wheel 3f and a virtual straight line connecting the ground contact point of the steering control wheel 3f and the center of axle of the steering control wheel 3f in a basic posture state of the mobile vehicle 1 is set to satisfy a prescribed condition.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2015Date of Patent: June 27, 2017Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.Inventors: Toru Takenaka, Hiroshi Gomi, Kazushi Akimoto, Hiroyuki Makino, Yoichi Nishimura, Taihei Setoguchi, Naoyuki Saito, Kenji Muto, Keisuke Koitabashi, Shunichi Nakabayashi
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Patent number: 9689355Abstract: A vehicle body frame structure of a saddle-ride type vehicle includes: a frame body having at least a part made of fiber reinforced resin and forming at least part of a vehicle body frame supporting a rider seat and a power unit which generates drive force for driving a drive wheel. The structure increases freedom in partially setting thickness of the frame body. The frame body is formed by joining together a press-molded outer body made of fiber reinforced resin and an injection-molded inner body made of resin with the inner body brought into contact with an inner surface of the outer body.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2014Date of Patent: June 27, 2017Assignees: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD., TORAY INDUSTRIES, INC.Inventors: Satoshi Matsushima, Yasuhiro Nakayama, Hiroki Wakabayashi
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Patent number: 9283809Abstract: In one example, a structure for attaching a wheel to one of a frame of a motorcycle or a bicycle may include an axle having first and second opposing end portions and supporting a wheel, a left axle support collar structure configured to support the first opposing end portion of the axle, and a right axle support collar structure configured to support the second opposing end portion of the axle. A first bearing is positioned in the left axle support collar structure, and a second bearing is positioned in the left axle support collar structure. The axle rotates relative to the frame.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2012Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: Yeti Cycling, LLCInventor: Steven W. Hoogendoorn
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Patent number: 9010788Abstract: A handlebar comprises a transverse extension piece including a first gripping portion. First and second handlebar segments are disposed on opposite ends of the transverse extension piece. Each of the handlebar segments comprises an upper handlebar grip portion and a lower handlebar grip portion. The upper handlebar grip portion includes a first curved section adjoining one end of the transverse extension piece and extending forwardly and inwardly from the transverse extension piece, and a second straight section. The upper handlebar grip portion includes a second gripping portion. The lower handlebar grip portion includes a curved end portion adjoining the end of the second straight section of the upper handlebar grip portion and extends outwardly and then downwardly. The lower handlebar grip portion includes a third gripping portion. The three gripping portions of the handlebar define a plurality of gripping positions in combination with a plurality of riding positions.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2012Date of Patent: April 21, 2015Inventor: John Toffaletti
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Patent number: 8991848Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, an improved bicycle frame according to one embodiment of this invention has a top tube that allows the wheel base to lengthen by resiliently flexing or pivotally deflecting vertically while resisting torsional flex This feature is combined with a resilient, flexible, arcuate down tube extending between the bottom bracket of the bicycle and the bicycle head tube or the intermediate connection points The down tube has at least one arc and springs back to its original position from forces of tension as well as compression The combination of the two flexing members gives the bicycle a smoother ride and may also enhance the delivery of pedal” power to the rear wheel The down tube is replaceable in order to modify the flex characteristics of the frame and physical characteristics, such as head tube and seat tube angle, wheel base, and bottom bracket height.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2010Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Alter Cycles, Ltd.Inventor: Mark L. Groendal
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Publication number: 20150076788Abstract: An interchangeable colored bicycle has a bicycle framework with a main bicycle frame component part, a handlebar stem component part, and a wheel fork component part. Clear transparent tube members enclose and circumscribe these component parts. Free-flowing, colored liquids fill the interior spaces between the tube members and the component parts. The colored liquids in each interior space are different, thus allowing the bicycle to assume multiple colors. The free-flowing liquids can be drained from the tube members and different colored liquids can be poured into the interior spaces to change the colors of the bicycle.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 17, 2013Publication date: March 19, 2015Inventor: Kareem L. Frazier
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Patent number: 8876136Abstract: A bicycle design includes a seat tube affixed to the chain stay at a fixed distance rearward of the bottom bracket so that the rider sitting on the saddle can comfortably fully extend one leg to place a foot flat on the ground or to use the proper full leg extension for pedaling. The rider sits comfortably upright on the saddle while pedaling and can pedal while standing up. The fixed distance may be on the order of about the height above ground of a heel of the rider's foot sitting on a properly adjusted conventional frame when the foot is outstretched to reach the ground and/or on the order of about a radius of a circle through which the pedals are moved during pedaling of the bicycle.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2012Date of Patent: November 4, 2014Assignee: Electra Bicycle Company, LLCInventor: Benno Baenziger
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Patent number: 8876137Abstract: A frame for a bicycle and a bicycle equipped therewith, wherein the frame includes a frame body having a top tube and a down tube, and at least one supporting device connecting the top tube to the down tube. A supporting device includes a flow-through opening through which, when used as intended, at least part of the arriving air flows.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2010Date of Patent: November 4, 2014Inventor: Morgan Nicol
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Publication number: 20140265224Abstract: A mobile vehicle 1A includes a front-wheel support mechanism 4 having a trail adjustment mechanism 9, a steering actuator 8 which generates a steering force for steering a front wheel 3f, a trail adjustment actuator 15 which generates a driving force for changing a trail of the front wheel 3f, and a control device 50. The control device 50 has a function of controlling the steering actuator 8 so as to stabilize the posture of a vehicle body 2, and a function of controlling the trail adjustment actuator 15 in accordance with an observed value of the vehicle speed.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 6, 2014Publication date: September 18, 2014Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.Inventors: Toru Takenaka, Kazushi Akimoto, Hiroshi Gomi, Yusuke Yamamoto, Takashi Kudo, Makoto Araki, Yoshiki Takahashi
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Patent number: 8807585Abstract: A bicycle seat tube assembly includes an arced component, a bottom bracket positioned below the arced component, and a seat tube including a pivot attachment at a lower end of the seat tube. The arced component includes a lower curved surface with a plurality of holes. The pivot attachment is coupled to the bottom bracket so that the arced component is pivotable relative to the seat tube about the bottom bracket, resulting in multiple seat tube positions between a fully forward position and a fully back position. A locking mechanism is configured to selectively lock the seat tube to the arced component. The locking mechanism includes a lock ring with a plurality of lock pins and a spring that pushes the lock ring towards the arced component. The lock ring and the spring surround the seat tube The lock ring is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2013Date of Patent: August 19, 2014Assignee: ARC Bikes LLCInventor: Loren Lee Alan
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Publication number: 20140217696Abstract: A tricycle is provided for supporting multiple passengers. The multi-passenger tricycle has a frame member, a steering assembly, a rear axle assembly, an auxiliary handlebar and a rear passenger foot platform. The steering assembly is rotatable and is coupled to a first end of the frame member. The rear axle assembly is coupled to the second end of the frame member. The auxiliary handlebar is coupled to the frame member between the first end and the second end of the frame member. The rear passenger foot platform is coupled to the frame member adjacent a second end of the frame member, and is at least partially above the rear axle assembly. Preferably, the rear passenger foot platform includes a first foot platform on one side of the frame member and a second foot platform on an opposing side of the frame member.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 31, 2014Publication date: August 7, 2014Inventor: Ross Elliott Bartels
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Publication number: 20140210180Abstract: A bicycle comprising a Frame (1), a Front Wheel (9), a Rear Wheel (10), a Drivetrain Assembly (11), a Pedal Assembly (6), a Seat Assembly (5), Handlebar Assembly (7), a hard Tail (2) or a movable Tail (2) which is supported by a Suspension Assembly (4) and a hard Fork (3) or a telescopic Fork (3), the mutually slidable parts of which are interconnected by a Suspension Assembly (4). Further, a center of the Front Wheel (9), a center of the Rear Wheel (10), a Bottom Bracket (6.1) center, a Seat (5.1) connection and a Handlebar (7.1) connection form the vertices of a pentagon, the shape of which is slope-modifiable by at least one positionally adjustable vertex, when Suspension Assemblies (4) are unloaded.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 20, 2012Publication date: July 31, 2014Inventor: Boris Hudák
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Publication number: 20140210178Abstract: A multi-use vehicle assembly provides a means for entertainment and mobilization. The vehicle assembly includes a frame assembly having a first frame coupled to a second frame. The frame assembly has a center frame coupled to and extending between the first frame and the second frame. A plurality of wheels is coupled to the frame assembly. The plurality of wheels comprises a left back wheel, a right back wheel, and a central front wheel. The left back wheel is coupled to the first frame. The right back wheel is coupled to the second frame. The central front wheel is coupled to the center frame. A steering mechanism is coupled to the frame assembly. The steering mechanism is mechanically coupled to the central front wheel. A drive system is operationally coupled to one of the plurality of wheels.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 31, 2013Publication date: July 31, 2014Inventor: Jose M. Eirin
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Patent number: 8776933Abstract: A vehicle body frame of a motorcycle includes a head pipe, a pair of main frame sections extending rearwardly from the head pipe, a pair of pivot plates joined to end portions of the main frame sections, and a crossmember arranged between the pivot plates. In such vehicle body frame, the crossmember is arranged between upper end portions of the pivot plates such that the upper end portions of the pivot plates are sandwiched between the crossmember and rear end portions of main frame sections so that at least a portion of the crossmember overlaps a joint portion between the main frame sections and the pivot plates as viewed in a side view. Such structure of the vehicle body frame ensures the rigidity of connecting portions where the crossmember is connected to pivot plates without making the vehicle body frame heavy and thick.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2012Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Munehiro Toda, Akira Hosono, Ryo Kobayashi
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Patent number: 8762002Abstract: A vehicle includes a frame, first and second wheels that are selectively rotatable about a first horizontal axis, a third wheel, and a steering system. The steering system operatively connects the third wheel to the frame such that the third wheel is selectively rotatable about a second horizontal axis. The steering system is configured to selectively toe the third wheel and to laterally displace the third wheel with respect to the frame, thereby increasing stability during turning.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 2011Date of Patent: June 24, 2014Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Daniel Shakespear, Frank Leopold
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Publication number: 20140159335Abstract: A tricycle may be operable between a first mode of operation steerable by a tricycle rider, and a second mode of operation steerable by an individual pushing the tricycle. In both such first and second modes, the frame of the tricycle is configured to rotatably support the rear wheels and configured to support the head tube at a distance from the rear wheels such that a distance between the head tube and rear wheels need not necessarily be changed even when the front wheel axis location is changed from one mode to another.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 17, 2013Publication date: June 12, 2014Applicant: SMART TRIKE MNF PTE LTDInventor: Yoram Baron
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Patent number: 8746390Abstract: A body frame of a straddle-type vehicle is provided with a first cross tube 21 for interconnecting left and right main frames 13 in a right-left direction, and a second cross tube 22 disposed rearwards of the first cross tube 21 and for interconnecting the of left and right main frames 13. A shock absorber mounting portion 23 is mounted so as to interconnect the first cross tube 21 and the second cross tube 22. An extension/contraction axis L1 of a shock absorber 41 and a line L2 passing through an axis of the first cross tube 21 and an axis of the second cross tubes 22 are offset in a side view of a vehicle in a right-left direction.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2011Date of Patent: June 10, 2014Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Eiji Sugiyama, Takashi Sasaki
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Patent number: 8727058Abstract: A saddle type vehicle includes a head pipe that steerably supports a steering system including a front wheel, a main frame extending rearwardly downward from the head pipe, left and right lower frames extending substantially in parallel to each other rearward from a lower portion of the main frame, and a storage space provided between the left and right lower frames on the rear side of the main frame. The storage space permits a fuel tank as a vehicle component part to be disposed therein. A front cross frame is connected to a lower end portion of a main frame lower portion and extends in the vehicle width direction. Front end portions of the lower frames are connected to left and right end portions of the front cross frame.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2012Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Junichi Nakano
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Patent number: 8727368Abstract: A bicycle including front and rear wheels, a main frame that has a mounting bracket, and a front fork that connects the main frame to the front wheel. The bicycle also includes a rear sub-frame that connects the main frame to the rear wheel and that is movable relative to the main frame, and a shock that is positioned to dampen movement between the main frame and the sub-frame. The shock has a front mount that is secured to the mounting bracket and that defines a space between the front mount and the main frame, and a bicycle accessory is positioned in the space.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2012Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: Specialized Bicycle Components, Inc.Inventor: Dennis John Wrobleski
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Patent number: 8727367Abstract: A bicycle including a frame that has an elongated hollow frame member, a fork rotationally coupled to the frame, a wheel rotationally coupled to the fork, and a handlebar coupled to the fork for steering the wheel. The frame has an interior surface that defines a longitudinal groove with a groove width. The bicycle also includes a cable that is positioned in the longitudinal groove and that has a cable width less than the groove width.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2012Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: Specialized Bicycle Components, Inc.Inventors: Jan Talavasek, Amber R. Lucas, Ian Hamilton, Robert F. Meyer, Markus Spenninger, Holger Krauss
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Patent number: 8720929Abstract: A bicycle frame including a head tube and a bottom bracket adapted to support a crankset. The frame also includes a tubular frame member that is coupled to the head tube and that has a concave section disposed on an underside of the frame member and spaced from the head tube.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2011Date of Patent: May 13, 2014Assignee: Specialized Bicycle Components, Inc.Inventor: Christopher P. D'Aluisio
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Patent number: 8696007Abstract: A frame for a bicycle that has a fork and a handlebar. The frame includes a head tube, a bottom bracket adapted to support a crankset, and a down tube coupled between the head tube and the bottom bracket. The frame also has a fork bumper that is coupled to and is disposed on an underside of the down tube. The fork bumper extends outward from the down tube and includes a base and a resilient outer layer engageable by the fork to prevent contact between the down tube and the fork.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2012Date of Patent: April 15, 2014Assignee: Specialized Bicycle Components, Inc.Inventors: Robb H. Jankura, Brandon D. Sloan, David Allen, Jeffrey D. Juarez
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Patent number: 8684388Abstract: A bicycle having a first tube with a first tube portion and a first weld portion. The first tube portion has a first tube portion thickness and the first weld portion has a first weld portion thickness. The first weld portion has a first mating surface. A second tube having a second tube portion and a second weld portion. The second tube portion has a second tube portion thickness and the second weld portion has a second weld portion thickness. The second weld portion has a second mating surface. The first mating surface is positioned adjacent to the second mating surface, forming a weld interface between the first tube and the second tube. A weld bead formed along the weld interface coupling the first weld portion and the second weld portion.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2012Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Assignee: Specialized Bicycle Components, Inc.Inventor: Chuck Teixeira
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Patent number: 8668218Abstract: A head pipe includes a pipe portion and a bracket portion contiguously formed on a rear portion of the pipe portion wherein front end portions of the main frames and a front end portion of the down frame are jointed to the bracket portion. A widthwise center line of the main frames in the vertical direction is directed toward an intermediate portion of the pipe portion in the vertical direction in a side view. An upper surface extension line and a lower surface extension line on the extension in the frontward direction of an upper surface and a lower surface of the main frames pass between an upper end and a lower end of the pipe portion as viewed in a side view. The down frame is inclined to be directed towards the intermediate portion of the pipe portion in the vertical direction as viewed in a side view.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2012Date of Patent: March 11, 2014Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Munehiro Toda, Akira Hosono, Ryo Kobayashi
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Publication number: 20140058624Abstract: An example can include a frame of a vehicle. An example can include at least two wheels coupled to the frame, wherein at least one of the wheels is configured to pivot around a steering axis. An example can include a cornering force sensor to measure a cornering force of the frame with respect to the surface and produce a cornering force signal. An example can include a thrust generation controller to receive the cornering force signal and to produce a desired downforce signal. An example can include and a thrust generator to receive the desired downforce signal and to pump air through at least one of the at least two wheels to produce lateral force on the wheel in association with the desired downforce signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 21, 2013Publication date: February 27, 2014Inventor: John Austin Muth
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Publication number: 20140049020Abstract: An insert for a bicycle has a central portion and a contiguous outer portion to form a unitary elongated body, the body being dimensionable by reference to major and minor datum lines, the outer portion forming a flange. The body includes a first outer surface defined by the central portion, and a second opposing outer surface defined by the central portion and the outer portion. The central portion includes a through-hole that extends perpendicularly through the body from the first outer surface to the second outer surface, wherein the hole defines a hole axis. The central portion has a non-circular outer profile that encloses the hole axis, and the flange has a non-circular outer profile that encloses the hole axis, the outer profile of the flange being larger than the outer profile of the central portion. The hole is disposed asymmetric with respect to the minor datum line.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 15, 2012Publication date: February 20, 2014Applicant: CYCLING SPORTS GROUP, INC.Inventors: Martin Andreas Wendt, John M. Cramer
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Patent number: 8651244Abstract: A hydraulic brake device includes a carrier body. The carrier body is integrally molded. The carrier body has at least one assembling portion disposed thereon for assembling purpose. The carrier body has at least one connecting portion respectively extending from the at least one assembling portion. At least one hydraulic brake assembly movably is mounted on the at least one connecting portion of the carrier body. The carrier body with the at least one brake assembly are adapted to assemble with a bicycle for providing a stable assembling effect, a high structural strength, and lightweight effect.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2013Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Ashima Ltd.Inventor: Wayne-Ian Moore
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Patent number: 8651505Abstract: A bicycle 10 providing increased power transfer and improved aerodynamic characteristics. The bicycle includes a seat assembly 70 that supports the anterior pelvic region so the rider extends forwardly over the bicycle instead of in an upright position. The bicycle also includes a rear mounted drive assembly 80 to increase the power transfer from the rider.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2010Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Inventor: Marty Williams
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Patent number: 8646801Abstract: The teachings provided herein are generally directed to compact vehicle drive mechanisms that can be used in the design of a foldable, carry-on vehicle. The compact drive mechanisms presented herein, for example, have contributed to the advent of the compact, carry-on bicycles set-forth in the teachings which include drive-and-steering units and drive-and-chassis units.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2013Date of Patent: February 11, 2014Assignee: MDM Productivity, Inc.Inventor: Jon P. Moldestad
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Publication number: 20140008139Abstract: A brake system is disclosed. The brake system includes a front brake, a rear brake, a right brake lever for operating the front brake, and a left brake lever for operating the rear brake. The brake system also includes a brake pedal for operating the front brake and rear brake such that the front brake and rear brake work in an interlocked manner.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 19, 2013Publication date: January 9, 2014Inventors: Kazuhisa INOUE, Takanobu FUSHIMI
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Publication number: 20130341884Abstract: An adult scale three-wheeled device facilitates movement for mobility challenged persons. The device is foot propelled while seated either through walking while seated or pedaling. The device is provided with a limited footprint for navigating confined areas while the individual is seated in a substantially standing position, with the pedals being repositionable so as to allow unobstructed walking while remaining seated. A lockable braking system prevents one or more wheels from turning. The device is collapsible for storage.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 1, 2013Publication date: December 26, 2013Inventor: Thomas Raphael
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Patent number: 8579316Abstract: A bicycle frame comprising a first tubular member having a first main portion and a first interface portion (e.g., a rounded taper), and a second tubular member having a second main portion and a second interface portion engaged with the first interface portion to create a joint. The joint includes a peripheral channel defined between the first interface portion and the second interface portion, and a weld is positioned in the peripheral channel. The second interface portion is defined at least partially by a substantially flat face wall. Preferably, the first tubular member includes an open end at the first interface portion, while the flat face wall at the second interface portion is substantially closed. In addition, it is preferred that the face wall lies in a plane that is substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the head tube (e.g., within ten degrees of the longitudinal axis).Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2011Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: Specialized Bicycle Components, Inc.Inventors: Christopher P. D'Aluisio, Andrew Frasca
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Publication number: 20130292920Abstract: A bicycle seat tube assembly includes an arced component, a bottom bracket positioned below the arced component, and a seat tube including a pivot attachment at a lower end of the seat tube. The arced component includes a lower curved surface with a plurality of holes. The pivot attachment is coupled to the bottom bracket so that the arced component is pivotable relative to the seat tube about the bottom bracket, resulting in multiple seat tube positions between a fully forward position and a fully back position. A locking mechanism is configured to selectively lock the seat tube to the arced component. The locking mechanism includes a lock ring with a plurality of lock pins and a spring that pushes the lock ring towards the arced component. The lock ring and the spring surround the seat tube The lock ring is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 22, 2013Publication date: November 7, 2013Applicant: ARC BikesInventor: Loren Lee ALAN
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Publication number: 20130270792Abstract: Provided is a bicycle including: a front wheel section steering bicycle comprising: a front wheel section comprising a handle section, and front wheel stem connected to a lower end of the handle section and provided with a saddle installed at an upper end and a front wheel installed at a lower end thereof; and a rear wheel section comprising a rear wheel stem provided with an upper end hinged to the lower end of the handle section or the front wheel stem via a steering bearing and a lower end at which a rear wheel is installed, which form an X shape, wherein the front wheel section is laterally steered about a ground contact point of the front wheel as a rotary shaft by the hinge when the steering bearing is rotated by steering manipulation of the handle section.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 13, 2013Publication date: October 17, 2013Inventor: Kyunghee PARK
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Publication number: 20130264793Abstract: One embodiment includes a bicycle frame that includes a plurality of square cross-section tubing members, wherein all tubing members are straight, and are consistent in cross-sectional dimensions along their length and wherein each tubing member is cut to length with a straight cut defining a tubing opening formed by an edge that extends along a single plane.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2012Publication date: October 10, 2013Applicant: Cheetah Development, Inc.Inventors: Bob Brown, Mark Stonich, Lloyd Keleny, John Hehre, Raymond Menard
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Publication number: 20130249186Abstract: A frame structure for a saddle-ride type vehicle includes a body frame having a head pipe, down tubes, seat rails and upper tubes and a unit swing power unit swingably supported by the body frame. The seat rails have front ends joined to downwardly extending portions of the down tubes. The down tube has a second bending portion formed at the rear end of the horizontal extending portion and an obliquely upwardly extending portion extending rearwardly and upwardly at a position behind the second bending portion. The obliquely upwardly extending portion has a rear end joined to the seat rail. The power unit support portion is formed behind the bending portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2013Publication date: September 26, 2013Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.Inventors: Tomoyuki MARUYAMA, Hiroyuki SHINMURA, Masashi NAGAYAMA
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Publication number: 20130241169Abstract: A bicycle including a frame that has an elongated hollow frame member, a fork rotationally coupled to the frame, a wheel rotationally coupled to the fork, and a handlebar coupled to the fork for steering the wheel. The frame has an interior surface that defines a longitudinal groove with a groove width. The bicycle also includes a cable that is positioned in the longitudinal groove and that has a cable width less than the groove width.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 16, 2012Publication date: September 19, 2013Applicant: SPECIALIZED BICYCLE COMPONENTS, INC.Inventors: Jan Talavasek, Amber R. Lucas, Ian Hamilton, Robert F. Meyer, Holger Krauss
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Publication number: 20130221633Abstract: A frame for a bicycle that has a fork and a handlebar. The frame includes a head tube, a bottom bracket adapted to support a crankset, and a down tube coupled between the head tube and the bottom bracket. The frame also has a fork bumper that is coupled to and is disposed on an underside of the down tube.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 24, 2012Publication date: August 29, 2013Applicant: SPECIALIZED BICYCLE COMPONENTS, INC.Inventors: Robb H. Jankura, Brandon D. Sloan, David Allen, Jeffrey D. Juarez