Front Forks And Heads Patents (Class 280/279)
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Patent number: 7740263Abstract: A front wheel supporting structure for a motorcycle (1) includes a pair of front forks (10, 20) provided on the right and left sides of a front wheel (2) for supporting the front wheel (2) to a frame (5) of the motorcycle (1). The front forks (10, 20) includes a first front fork (20) which generates a damping force for damping a vibration of the front wheel (2) depending on an amplitude of the vibration, and a second front fork (10) which generates a damping force for damping a vibration of the front wheel not depending on the amplitude of the vibration. By thus combining the front forks (10, 20) having different damping force characteristics, the front wheel supporting structure can absorb vibrations of various velocities and amplitudes.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2007Date of Patent: June 22, 2010Assignee: Kayaba Industry Co., Ltd.Inventor: Hideo Inaguma
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Patent number: 7731445Abstract: A captured shim head set for a bicycle has a bearing set for mounting on the head tube of a bicycle; a member for axially loading the bearing set and radially affixing the bearing set to a steerer tube of a bicycle front fork; a top cap for covering the bearing set and with which an axial load is applied to the member; and at least one washer-shaped shim for adjusting the spacing between the top cap and member. A lost motion mechanism is formed between the member and top cap and at least one washer-shaped shim is selectively capturable in the lost motion mechanism for limiting the degree of movement between the member and top cap in a manner limiting the distance that the top cap is movable towards the member.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2007Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Cane Creek Cycling Components, Inc.Inventor: Joshua Coaplen
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Patent number: 7731214Abstract: A suspension for a two-wheeled vehicle includes first and second fork legs. Each fork leg includes a dropout. Each dropout has an opening therethrough. At least a portion of one of the openings is threaded. Each of the dropouts includes a split-clamp pinch bearing defining the opening and operable between an open position and a locked position, and a hand operable actuator pivoted to the bearing for operation thereof. The suspension further includes a one-piece axle. The axle is disposed through the openings. The axle has a threaded first end engaged with the threaded portion. The axle has an ergonomic grip formed at a second end. The bearing tightly engages an outer surface of the axle in the locked position, thereby rotationally coupling the axle to the dropout.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2009Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Fox Factory, Inc.Inventor: Andrew Laird
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Patent number: 7722069Abstract: A bicycle suspension system is provided with a damping unit and a damping control unit to control movement of upper and lower telescopically connected tubes. A damping force adjustment valve selectively adjusts a fluid flow rate of fluid passed a damping piston. The damping piston has a fluid flow port that is axially spaced with respect to a fluid flow passage of a damping lockout mechanism such that a flow path is formed in an axial direction by the fluid flow port of the damping piston and the fluid flow passage of the damping lockout mechanism when the damping lockout mechanism is in a non-lockout mode. A first actuating member operates the damping force adjustment valve and a second actuating member operates the damping lockout mechanism such that the damping force adjustment valve remains in a set position when the second actuating member is being operated.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2008Date of Patent: May 25, 2010Assignee: Shimano Inc.Inventor: Toyoto Shirai
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Publication number: 20100117330Abstract: A fork assembly for a bicycle includes a pair of forks and a steerer tube that extend in generally opposite directions from a fork crown. The assembly includes first and second means for securing the steerer tube to the fork crown. Preferably, the steerer tube is threaded and bonded to the fork crown. The fork crown includes a pair of cavities that each slidably receives a respective fork. Preferably, each fork is formed of a carbon fiber material and has an end whose shape substantially matches a shape of a respective cavity formed in the crown. The forks and crown cavities cooperate to efficiently communicate loads between the forks and the fork crown while maintaining a lightweight and robust fork, fork crown, and steerer tube assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 13, 2008Publication date: May 13, 2010Inventor: Barry Lewis
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Publication number: 20100109425Abstract: A wheel quick release system for a bicycle or other wheeled vehicle where the wheel can be easily removed by a manual operation on only one side of the wheel hub but is prevented from unexpected separation at all times while engaged with the wheel. A laterally moving skewer mounted concentrically inside a hollow axle is equipped with a “non-touch” nut on one end and is spring loaded toward a quick release cam on the other end thereby always urging the nut against the adjacent dropout. To remove the wheel, the quick release cam is operated and the quick release side assembly is pushed axially inward and a safety mechanism is operated and held in this position while the wheel is removed from the fork dropouts. When the wheel is again inserted into the wheel fork, the skewer automatically locks onto the dropouts, and subsequently if the quick release cam is inadvertently left open by the user, the wheel will be somewhat loose but will remain safely inserted in the wheel mounts.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 6, 2010Publication date: May 6, 2010Applicant: David MontagueInventors: David Montague, Harry Montague
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Patent number: 7703786Abstract: The head cap of a bicycle headset is configured with a shoulder sized to releasably receive an uncrimped bottle crown to cover a headset adjustment bolt in a decorative fashion.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2006Date of Patent: April 27, 2010Assignee: Niner, Inc.Inventors: Steve Domahidy, Chris Sugai
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Publication number: 20100096830Abstract: A top cover for a headset of a bicycle includes a bottom ring, a side wall, a C-shaped clip and a fastening unit. The side wall extends upwards from the bottom ring. The C-shaped clip extends upwards from a top end of the side wall and has a through hole at each of two distal ends thereof. The fastening unit passes through the through holes of the C-shaped clip for tightening the C-shaped clip. Thus, the top cover of the present invention can enhance convenience of assembly and disassembly of the bicycle, and prevent components of the headset from getting lost during assembly and disassembly of the bicycle.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 12, 2009Publication date: April 22, 2010Applicant: TANGE SEIKI TAICHUNG CO., LTD.Inventor: Satoshi TANGE
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Publication number: 20100096829Abstract: A motorcycle includes a fork assembly and a headlight. The fork assembly is provided with a cavity. The headlight is at least partially disposed within the cavity in the fork assembly and is configured to selectively provide illumination ahead of the motorcycle.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 21, 2008Publication date: April 22, 2010Inventors: Daisuke Nagao, Kenji Tamura
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Patent number: 7699332Abstract: A stem assembly for a bicycle has a body, a clamp and a connecting device. The body is connected to the bicycle between a head tube and a handlebar and has a handlebar mount and a fork mount having two smooth recesses. The clamp is mounted in the body and around the head tube and has two jaws. Each jaw is curved and has a convex hemisphere corresponding to the smooth recesses of the fork mount to allow an angle of the stem assembly to be adjusted. The connecting device is connected to the fork mount of the body and the clamp and the head tube and has a cap, a spacer and a fastener. The cap is mounted on the fork mount. The spacer is mounted on the cap. The fastener is presses against the spacer and is connected to the head tube.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2007Date of Patent: April 20, 2010Assignee: Chuhn-E Industries Co., Ltd.Inventor: Wu-Shih Lai
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Patent number: 7699331Abstract: A motorcycle-stance alteration kit is described. The kit includes a handlebar clamp, a fork clamp, and a footpeg extension. The handlebar clamp is formed to connect with a motorcycle's fork clamp and reposition the motorcycle's handlebar to alter a user's riding stance. The fork clamp is configured to be attached with motorcycle forks to the motorcycle's frame. The fork clamp includes a horizontal mounting surface that is formed to offset the fork's rake angle to cause the horizontal mounting surface to rest in a substantially horizontal alignment with respect to a ground surface. Finally, the footpeg extension is formed to connect with and between a motorcycle frame and footpeg. Thus, the footpeg extension effectively repositions the footpeg to alter the user's riding stance.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2007Date of Patent: April 20, 2010Inventor: Matthew McVickar
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Publication number: 20100090438Abstract: The present invention is directed to a bicycle fork steerer tube of fibre composite material with a layer of metal circumferentially about the exterior of the fibre composite material. The layer of metal assists in wear resistance and increases strength.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 21, 2009Publication date: April 15, 2010Inventor: Philip White
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Patent number: 7694987Abstract: A bicycle shock absorber and methods for differentiating between rider-induced forces and terrain-induced forces includes a first fluid chamber having fluid contained therein, a piston for compressing the fluid within the fluid chamber, a second fluid chamber coupled to the first fluid chamber by a fluid communication hose, and an inertial valve disposed within the second fluid chamber. The inertial valve opens in response to terrain-induced forces and provides communication of fluid compressed by the piston from the first fluid chamber to the second fluid chamber. The inertial valve does not open in response to rider-induced forces.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2007Date of Patent: April 13, 2010Assignee: Specialized Bicycle Components, Inc.Inventor: Michael McAndrews
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Patent number: 7693632Abstract: A motorcycle is provided with a fork-like wheel carrier, on the lower end of which a front wheel is supported, a handlebar by which the wheel carrier can be steered in a steering direction to the left or the right during travel, and a transmission unit by which the handlebar is coupled to the wheel carrier. The transmission unit is provided for transmitting steering forces, introduced into the handlebar, to the wheel carrier and bringing same into a corresponding steering position. The wheel carrier is mounted so as to be pivotable with respect to the handlebar, such that for a specified steering position, the wheel carrier can be moved, at least over a certain range, relative to the handlebar in the steering direction.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2008Date of Patent: April 6, 2010Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke AktiengesellschaftInventor: Josef Seidl
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Patent number: 7681901Abstract: A gauge mount for a motorcycle with a gauge encasement attached to a triple tree and one or more gauge mount locations attached to the gauge encasement. The gauge mount locations are located on the rearward facing side of the triple tree, facing the seat of the motorcycle. Each gauge mount location is adapted to receive a gauge housing. Each gauge housing connects a gauge to the gauge encasement. The gauges are preferably tilted upward to be more easily viewed by the rider while operating the motorcycle.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2007Date of Patent: March 23, 2010Inventor: Kerry J. LaCour
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Publication number: 20100066053Abstract: Foldable frame for vehicles with two or more wheels characterized in that it comprises a front fork connected in a usual way to a steering column tube. Said steering column tube is, in turn, connected to a main frame of the vehicle by means of a hinge and by means of a connecting rod which can be operated to make the fork rotate about the hinge to position it adjacent to the frame and thus reduce the overall longitudinal size of the folded vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 12, 2008Publication date: March 18, 2010Inventors: Carmelo Di Blasi, Carlo Mario Di Blasi
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Patent number: 7669871Abstract: A wheel securing adapter is provided in a bicycle fork to attach a skewer of a wheel securing axle thereto. The wheel securing adapter is disposed in an axle mounting opening of the fork. The wheel securing adapter has an internally threaded bore and an external surface configured and arranged to cooperate with the axle mounting opening to prevent at least one of relative axial movement and relative rotational movement of the wheel securing adapter within the axle mounting opening. The fork includes a pair of fork legs having upper ends coupled to the fork stem and lower ends with axle mounting openings. Preferably, a cutout surrounds one of the axle mounting openings on an inner side surface that faces the other fork leg to form the mounting opening for the wheel securing adapter.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2007Date of Patent: March 2, 2010Assignee: Shimano Inc.Inventor: Etsuyoshi Watarai
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Patent number: 7669872Abstract: The disclosed folding mechanism comprises a rear frame member of a bicycle, which has a combining structure positioned at a front portion thereof, wherein the combining structure includes a first joining surface; a front frame member of the bicycle, which has a second joining surface positioned at a rear portion thereof for being joined with the first joining surface; at least one pivot structure, which is provided at an edge of the combining structure for connecting the front frame member, such that the front and rear frame members can relatively move on the pivot structure; and at least one binder, which is deposited at the combining structure of the rear frame member and a position on the front frame member adjacent to the combining structure for fixing the second joining surface of the front frame member and the first joining surface of the rear frame member at a combining position where the two joining surfaces contact mutually.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2007Date of Patent: March 2, 2010Assignee: Cycling & Health Tech Industry R & D CenterInventors: Alfred Huang, Wen-Pin Chiu, Yung-Chen Lai, Yu-Che Huang
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Patent number: 7669870Abstract: An adjustable axle assembly for the front fork of a motorcycle. In the preferred embodiment, the axle is received within an eccentric axle carrier which in turn is received within mounting holes in the front fork. The mounting holes utilize a pinch bolts as a clamping method to secure the eccentric axle carrier within the fork. In the preferred embodiment, loosening the pinch bolts allows the eccentric axle carrier to be rotated effectively moving the position of the wheel relative to the fork. Moving the wheel forward and backwards changes the trail characteristic of the motorcycle's geometry.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2005Date of Patent: March 2, 2010Assignee: Rekluse Motor Sports, IncInventor: Alden R. Eaton
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Patent number: 7654546Abstract: A bicycle wheel securing structure includes an adapter, an axial retaining arrangement and a holding member. The adapter is configured and arranged to be mounted in an axle mounting opening of a bicycle fork and has an axial bore that is at least partially threaded. The axial retaining arrangement is disposed between the adapter and the mounting opening to prevent axial removal of the adapter from the mounting opening. The holding member is attached to the bicycle fork. The holding member and the adapter are configured and arranged such that the holding member prevents rotation of the adapter when the adapter is mounted in the axle mounting opening of the bicycle fork and engaged with the holding member.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2007Date of Patent: February 2, 2010Assignee: Shimano Inc.Inventor: Etsuyoshi Watarai
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Patent number: 7654548Abstract: A bicycle wheel securing structure is basically provided with a bicycle fork, an adapter and a holding member. The adapter includes a first portion defining a maximum width of the adapter and a second portion extending axially from the first portion with the second portion being disposed in a hole in an axle support portion of the a bicycle fork. The second portion has an axial bore that is at least partially threaded. The holding member is attached to the axle support portion. The holding member is selectively movable between a retaining position to prevent rotation of the adapter with respect to the bicycle fork and a releasing position to permit rotation of the adapter with respect to the bicycle fork. The holding member remains attached to the axle support portion in both of the retaining and releasing positions.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2008Date of Patent: February 2, 2010Assignee: Shimano Inc.Inventors: Takanori Kanehisa, Etsuyoshi Watarai
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Patent number: 7654547Abstract: The headset rotationally connects a fork pivoting tube (1) to a steering tube (2) of a cycle frame. It includes a lower roller bearing (3), an upper roller bearing (4), and an element (9, 10) for axially locking the lower and upper roller bearings (3, 4) against a lower or upper end of the steering tube (2). The mechanism for axial locking includes a first element of axial locking that consists of a circular groove (9) that is provided on the outside face of the pivoting tube (1) that works with a second element of axial locking that consists of a rib (10) with an essentially matching shape that is provided on an elastically deformable annular element (11) in a direction that is perpendicular to the axis (A-A) of the pivoting tube (1) and placed above the upper roller bearing (4) so as to exert a thrust against the latter.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2007Date of Patent: February 2, 2010Assignee: Look Cycle InternationalInventor: Julien Bouchez
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Publication number: 20100013185Abstract: A bicycle is provided on which a person can efficiently ride in a comfortable posture along a slope and effectively utilize the strength of the legs while pedaling along a level road.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2006Publication date: January 21, 2010Inventor: Hideo Hotoda
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Patent number: 7637520Abstract: A lower fork tube cover is comprised of a first cover member and a second cover member that is connectable to the first cover member. A mounting bracket attaches to an inner surface of the first cover member to mount the first cover member to a front brake caliper mount connected to the lower fork tube. An upper portion of the first cover member is configured to cover a first portion of the lower fork tube and the front brake caliper mount. A lower portion of the first cover member substantially surrounds a rear half of a second portion of the lower fork tube. A base wall extends from the lower portion. The second cover member is configured to substantially surround a front half of the lower fork tube. The second cover member includes a base wall at a lower end that overlaps with and is connectable to the base wall of the first cover member to cover a lower end of the lower fork tube. A front edge of the second cover member overlaps and is connectable to a front edge portion of the first cover member.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2008Date of Patent: December 29, 2009Assignee: Kuryakyn Holdings, Inc.Inventor: Kenneth E. Madden
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Patent number: 7637521Abstract: A bracket attaches rigidly to the steering head tube member at the front of a motorcycle frame, so that the fork steering assembly can be relocated and pivotally attached to the front of the bracket. This bracket permits the fork steering assembly to be mounted in a new position which is ahead of, and higher, or lower than its former, manufacturer's specified position. The steering axis can be positioned such that it is tilted at a greater angle of inclination from the vertical, permitting use of longer fork tubes. The bracket permits any motorcycle to be reversibly modified to have the appearance and handling characteristics of a chopper style motorcycle. No modifications to the motorcycles frame are needed, in order to relocate the fork steering assembly. Thus, the originality and value of the motorcycle, if the owner decides to, later, revert to the original appearance, is maintained.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2005Date of Patent: December 29, 2009Inventor: Robert William Grant
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Publication number: 20090315295Abstract: An axle for removably retaining a wheel on a vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 21, 2009Publication date: December 24, 2009Inventors: Andrew Laird, Mario Galasso, William Becker, David Haugen
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Publication number: 20090302568Abstract: A bicycle head set includes a first ring having an outer periphery secured to an inner periphery of a head tube of the bicycle. A bush is rotatably and horizontally mounted within the first ring. The bush has a ring structure with an outer annular side and an inner annular side, wherein at least one of the outer annular side and the inner annular side has a self-lubricating layer applied thereon for use as a rotating medium of the head set. A buckling ring is mounted to the bush. The buckling ring has an inner resisting surface securely surround a steering tube of the bicycle and an outer contact surface contacting with the inner annular side of the bush.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 8, 2008Publication date: December 10, 2009Inventor: Wen-Feng Tsai
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Patent number: 7628416Abstract: A bicycle wheel securing structure includes a shaft member, a head member, a lever member and a radial expansion structure. The shaft member has first and second end portions. The head member is coupled at the second end portion. The lever member is operatively mounted to move the shaft member in an axial direction relative to the head member in response to movement of the lever member. The radial expansion structure is disposed at the second end portion and includes an expansion member and the second end portion of the shaft member. The expansion member has a first inclined surface and the second end portion of the shaft member has a second inclined surface that cooperates with the first inclined surface to radially expand an outer diameter of the radial expansion structure in response to movement of the lever member from a release position to an attachment position.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 2007Date of Patent: December 8, 2009Assignee: Shimano Inc.Inventor: Nobukatsu Hara
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Publication number: 20090295121Abstract: A securing device for a bicycle front fork has a clamping sleeve, an upper pressing base and a lower pressing base. The clamping sleeve is hollow, is made of a resilient material and has a C-shaped cross section. The upper pressing base is attached to a top end of the clamping sleeve and has a threaded hole and an upper pressing surface. The threaded hole is defined in the upper pressing base to screw with a connecting bolt. The upper pressing surface is conical and pressing against the inner surface of the clamping sleeve. The lower pressing base is attached to a bottom end of the clamping sleeve, is connected to the upper pressing base in a thread manner and has a lower pressing surface. The lower pressing surface is conical and presses against the inner surface the clamping sleeve.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 30, 2008Publication date: December 3, 2009Inventor: Peng-Yu Tseng
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Patent number: 7625002Abstract: A vehicle frame includes a head tube, a fork, and a rotation limiting mechanism. The fork includes a steerer that extends rotatably through the head tube. The rotation limiting mechanism is operable so as to limit rotation of the steerer relative to the head tube, and includes first and second positioning units, and an engaging unit. The first positioning unit is coupled to the head tube. The second positioning unit is coupled to the steerer. The engaging unit engages releasably the first and second positioning units to thereby limit rotation of the steerer relative to the head tube.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2006Date of Patent: December 1, 2009Assignee: Gomier Manufacturing Co., Ltd.Inventor: Toshi Huang
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Patent number: 7621549Abstract: A bicycle fork assembly includes a steering tube configured and arranged to be rotatably mounted to a front part of a frame of a bicycle. A fork crown is secured to a lower end of the steering tube and includes first and second arms that extend laterally in opposite directions from the center portion. First and second suspension systems are secured to the arms of the fork crown and a lighting system is integrated into at least one of the first and second suspension systems. The lighting system preferably includes two lights that are configured such that the respective light beams overlap to provide a single operating beam to illuminate a travel path.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2007Date of Patent: November 24, 2009Assignee: Trek Bicycle CorporationInventor: Erik van Houweling
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Publication number: 20090283985Abstract: A bicycle front end assembly is provided which is configured to reduce aerodynamic drag. In particular, an axis shaft of a fork may be mounted to a head tube of a bicycle frame. A fork head may be disposed in front of the head tube for providing a front end assembly which is aerodynamically configured while providing an increased moment of inertia compared with traditional designs to reduce drag of the bicycle and increase steering stiffness. Also, the handlebar may be attached to the fork head such that when the bicycle is steered to the left, the fork head is rotated toward the left and when the bicycle is steered to the right, the fork head is rotated toward the right. In this manner, the fork head is alignable to the travel direction of the bicycle.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 27, 2009Publication date: November 19, 2009Inventor: Timothy Saul Lane
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Patent number: 7614632Abstract: The present invention discloses a folding bicycle comprising a head and a frame, wherein the head includes a handlebar, a handlebar stem, a folding joint, and a front fork, and the front fork has two fork blades each of which is inwardly recessed. When the handlebar is folded downwards with the handlebar stem, the handlebar can be further folded and placed in the recess of the fork blade without interfering with the fork blade. Thus, the folding bicycle can be further folded with a less folded volume.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2007Date of Patent: November 10, 2009Inventor: David Tak-Wei Hon
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Patent number: 7614633Abstract: In a rotor system, in particular for a bicycle (1), on which a frame (3) bears a fork (8) for the front wheel (10), and a handle bar (18) is connected to the fork (8) by means of a handle stem (14) on a fork shaft (12) of the fork (8), with a first line (52), for a fluid, associated with the handle bar (14), with a second line (55), for a fluid, associated with the frame (3), and a rotor that contains two components (14, 41) that can rotate relative to each other without limits and that, by intimate contact against each other, create a closed fluid connection between the first line (52) attached to one component (14) and the second line (55) attached to the second component (41) in order to transmit the actuation of an actuation mechanism (50) associated with the handle bar (18), the handle stem (14) is one of the two components (14, 41) that can rotate relative to each other without limits and contains at least one chamber (30) included in the fluid connection between the two lines (52, 55).Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2007Date of Patent: November 10, 2009Inventor: Thomas Göring
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Patent number: 7614631Abstract: A release device mounted in a bicycle includes a fork including a socket at a bent portion and two yoke arms extended downward from both sides of the socket to mount a front wheel at distal ends thereof; a sleeve fastened in the socket with an upper portion thereof projecting from the socket, the sleeve including at least one longitudinal top slit; an abutment tube including an upper extension passing a head tube to be threadedly secured to a stem; and a clamp put on an upper portion of the sleeve. The clamp is adapted to either fasten the sleeve and the abutment tube together by contracting the slit by exerting a force in a first direction or unfasten the sleeve and the abutment tube by exerting a force in a second direction opposing the first direction.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2006Date of Patent: November 10, 2009Inventor: Hung-Chang Chao
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Publication number: 20090261554Abstract: A rotator for a head tube of a bicycle has a mounting bracket, a rotating collar and a holding ring. The mounting bracket is mounted around the head tube and has a mounting ring and two legs. The mounting ring is mounted around the head tube and has a mounting channel, a kerf, an annular flange and a holding groove. The legs are oppositely mounted on the mounting ring. The rotating collar is rotatably mounted around the mounting bracket and has a chamber, an upper through hole, a lower through hole, a mounting channel and multiple balls. The holding ring is mounted in the mounting ring of the mounting bracket and has an engaging groove. The engaging groove engages the annular flange on the mounting ring.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 17, 2008Publication date: October 22, 2009Inventor: Chia-Wei Hsu
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Publication number: 20090261555Abstract: A suspension spring (S) and a double-rod damper (D) are installed in the interior of a front fork which comprises a body-side tube (1) and a wheel-side tube (2). The double-rod damper (D) comprises a piston (5) housed in a cylinder (3), and an upper rod (41) and a lower rod (42) connected to the piston (5). The upper rod (41) is formed to have a smaller diameter than the lower rod (42). By providing an orifice (6) which allows working oil in an upper oil chamber (R1) formed around the upper rod (41) to flow into a reservoir (R) while causing the pressure in the upper oil chamber (R1) to increase, expansion and contraction of air bubbles mixed the into working oil in the cylinder (3) is prevented, thereby improving the response of a damping force generated in the front fork.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 16, 2009Publication date: October 22, 2009Applicant: KAYABA INDUSTRY CO., LTD.Inventors: Takeshi Tomiuga, Yasuhiro Kitamura, Yuki Amano, Masato Kobayashi
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Publication number: 20090243251Abstract: Embodiments of a fork brace for a bicycle are disclosed herein. In one aspect, a brace portion is integrally formed along with two tubular fork members and an overlay fits in a mating relationship with the brace portion to create a unitary, tubular brace.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 26, 2009Publication date: October 1, 2009Inventors: Mario Galasso, William M. Becker, Andrew Laird
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Publication number: 20090236817Abstract: A combination bicycle fork and steering tube assembly is formed with a pair of downwardly directed, mutually converging end closure tabs that are bent over into abutment and welded together to define peripherally enclosed fork openings at the ends of the steerer tube. The upper ends of the hollow fork legs are configured to follow the surface contours of the lower end of the steerer tube and are welded to the end closure tabs about the circumferences of the enclosed fork openings at the lower end of the steering tube. The front wheel axle dropouts are formed directly in the lower ends of the fork legs, which include internal dropout support inserts. The dropout support inserts are sandwiched in between a pair of flat, mutually parallel dropout tabs defined directly in the lower ends of the fork legs.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 29, 2009Publication date: September 24, 2009Applicant: Bear CorporationInventor: George French
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Patent number: 7591474Abstract: A combination bicycle fork and steering tube assembly is formed with a pair of downwardly directed, mutually converging end closure tabs that are bent over into abutment and welded together to define peripherally enclosed fork openings at the ends of the steerer tube. The upper ends of the hollow fork legs are configured to follow the surface contours of the lower end of the steerer tube and are welded to the end closure tabs about the circumferences of the enclosed fork openings at the lower end of the steering tube. The front wheel axle dropouts are formed directly in the lower ends of the fork legs, which include internal dropout support inserts. The dropout support inserts are sandwiched in between a pair of flat, mutually parallel dropout tabs defined directly in the lower ends of the fork legs. The preload bolt has an internal partition that defines a wrench socket that is radially displaced from the axial center of the preload bolt.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2006Date of Patent: September 22, 2009Assignee: Bear CorporationInventor: George French
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Publication number: 20090224507Abstract: A head tube for a bicycle frame is aluminum alloy, is formed by stamping an aluminum alloy sheet, which may have an equal thickness or may be a special-shaped sheet having an unequal thickness, and has a rear side, an outer surface, a seam, a soldering layer and at least one bossed pattern. The seam is formed longitudinally on the rear side of the head tube. The soldering layer is formed in the seam of the head tube. The at least one bossed pattern is formed on the outer surface of the head tube and is non planar with the head tube. Because the head tube is formed by stamping, the at least one bossed pattern with intricate edges or corners can be formed easily on the outer surface of the head tube with low manufacturing costs to give the head tube an appeasing aesthetic appearance.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2008Publication date: September 10, 2009Applicant: ASTRO ENGINEERING CO., LTD.Inventor: Samuel Hu
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Publication number: 20090218785Abstract: A bicycle wire supporting frame includes a ring cover capable of being assembled to a head rod of a bicycle; the ring cover having an axial through hole for receiving the head rod; an extension portion extended from one end of the ring cover; and a wire hole penetrating through the extension portion along an axial direction. An upper opening of the through hole is connected to an inclined ring for receiving a receiving lower edge of a C ring so that the head rod is tightly engaged to the through hole of the ring cover. An inner side of the through hole is formed with an inclined surface so as to receive an inclined surface of the tapered ring so that the head rod is tightly engaged to the through hole of the ring cover. A slit penetrates through the extension portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 7, 2006Publication date: September 3, 2009Inventors: Wen-Feng Tsai, Tom Berlivet
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Patent number: 7578514Abstract: A motorcycle or bicycle front end having coaxial steering and suspension components, and having telescopic forks. Swing weight of the forks is dramatically reduced by removing their suspension components to the central location, coaxially within the steering tube. Ride height can be adjusted without loosening the forks in the triple clamps.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2006Date of Patent: August 25, 2009Assignee: Motoczysz LLCInventor: Michael Czysz
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Patent number: 7571919Abstract: This invention discloses a positioning device for a bicycle handlebar, wherein a pressing assembly, which is mounted on a front tube, is operated by the user so that it can be pressed against a positioning member, which is fixed to a front fork stem. Since the positioning member is flexible, an elastic resilience relative to the direction of pressing will be produced when the positioning member is pressed to resist the pressing force and the elastic resilience that comes in a reverse direction. As a result, the positioning member and the pressing assembly will be pressed to be positioned. Hence, the front tube will not pivotally rotate relative to the front fork stem, and the bicycle handlebar can be positioned in such a way that the bicycle is unlikely to fall, which also protects the members of the bicycle.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2006Date of Patent: August 11, 2009Inventor: Pi-Hsiang Wu
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Patent number: 7571920Abstract: A bicycle front end assembly is provided which is configured to reduce aerodynamic drag. In particular, an axis shaft of a fork may be mounted to a head tube of a bicycle frame. A fork head may be disposed in front of the head tube for providing a front end assembly which is aerodynamically configured while providing an increased moment of inertia compared with traditional designs to reduce drag of the bicycle and increase steering stiffness. Also, the handlebar may be attached to the fork head such that when the bicycle is steered to the left, the fork head is rotated toward the left and when the bicycle is steered to the right, the fork head is rotated toward the right. In this manner, the fork head is alignable to the travel direction of the bicycle.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2006Date of Patent: August 11, 2009Assignee: Felt Racing, LLCInventor: Timothy Saul Lane
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Patent number: 7568733Abstract: An apparatus which has an extension arm adapted to mount a handlebar to a steering post of a vehicle. The extension arm having a first end and a second end. A coupling body is provided for pivotally mounting the first end to the steering post. A coupling body is also provided for pivotally mounting the second end to the handlebar. A linkage with a locking pin is provided for locking the handlebar in a selected orientation relative to the mounting arm.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2006Date of Patent: August 4, 2009Inventor: Ken Bowers
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Publication number: 20090189367Abstract: An outer tube for a front fork having an FRP pipe body which is subjected to braiding processing using a braider, wherein the FRP pipe comprises a combination of braids interlacing with each other at an interlacing angle ±?° with respect to a center axis of the pipe and warp fibers having an angle 0° with respect to the pipe center axis, rigidity of the plurality of warp fibers disposed at positions in a circumferential direction of the pipe is varied depending upon the positions in the circumferential direction of the pipe, and bending rigidity of the FRP pipe in the longitudinal direction is varied in the circumferential direction of the pipe.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 16, 2008Publication date: July 30, 2009Applicant: SHOWA CORPORATIONInventors: Tomoya Toda, Makoto Hayashi, Masao Hirukawa
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Patent number: 7566065Abstract: A cable installation aiding device is used to aid in the installation of cable members (e.g., brake cables or the like) in a steerer tube of a bicycle. The cable installation aiding device has an attachment part and a first cable guide part. The attachment part is preferably attached to the inner circumferential surface of the steerer tube. The first cable guide part is configured and dimensioned to guide cable members passing through the steerer tube between a first axial end of the steerer tube and an outer circumferential side opening of the steerer tube that is spaced from a second axial end of the steerer tube.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2006Date of Patent: July 28, 2009Assignee: Shimano Inc.Inventor: Seiji Fukui
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Patent number: 7562889Abstract: A telescopic steering system for a cycle includes a frame, a handlebar, a guiding piece, a steering column fixed to the frame, a plunger sliding and rotating axially in the steering column, a fork fixed to an end of the plunger, and a front wheel of the cycle positioned on the fork. Additionally, the guiding piece transmits rotational movement from the handlebar to the plunger.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2005Date of Patent: July 21, 2009Inventor: Jérôme Cauwet
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Patent number: 7562942Abstract: A bicycle wheel release mechanism can be configured to fit between dropouts on a bicycle. The release mechanism can have a ramp member and a ramp interface that rotate relative to one another to define a secured position where the wheel is secured to a bicycle and an open position where the wheel is releasable from the bicycle. The ramp member can be keyed to the bicycle such that the release mechanism can be operated or adjusted via single-handed operation. The ramp member can be configured with a variable angle ramp to facilitate rapid application for initial rotation of the mechanism followed by slower application as clamping forces increase when the release mechanism approaches the secured position.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2006Date of Patent: July 21, 2009Assignee: Specialized Bicycle Components, Inc.Inventor: Chris D'Aluisio