Abstract: A bicycle drop out comprising a seat stay mount having a first receiving portion, a chain stay mount having a second receiving portion, a back plate releasably connected to the seat stay mount and the chain stay mount, the back plate comprising a first member for engaging the first receiving portion and a second member for engaging the second receiving portion, the back plate comprising a third slot for receiving an axle, the slot cooperatively disposed between the seat stay mount and the chain stay mount, and the seat stay mount and the chain stay mount having a gap therebetween for receiving a belt.

Abstract: A durable, airless, chainless bicycle multiple riders of differing heights is disclosed. The bicycle is propelled by a drive shaft instead of a chain, making the drive assembly more dependable. The tires are made from a solid material and cannot go flat. The frame and other components of the bicycle are either inherently rust resistant or are coated to increase their rust resistance. The bicycle also has a front basket that is mounted such that the basket does not turn when the front wheel turns. Finally, the bicycle has a seat adjustment mechanism which allows the seat height to be adjusted without tools.

Abstract: A rear frame support structure mounts a bicycle wheel for rotation about an axis during bicycle motion, and has a pair of arms spaced axially apart of each other and axially offset from a same axial side of the wheel to enable axial movement of the wheel relative to the arms when the bicycle is not in motion. A drive mechanism is supported by both arms, for enabling the wheel to be driven during bicycle motion. The drive mechanism remains supported by both arms during the axial movement of the wheel.

Abstract: An overlay for a motorcycle inner fairing including a conformal overlay that conforms to dimensional features of an inner fairing substrate, the inner fairing substrate includes a plurality of associated peripheral edges defining an inner surface, an outer surface, and an associated thickness t.

Abstract: The invention relates to suspension systems comprising, in certain embodiments, a pivoting means concentric to a wheel rotation axis so that braking forces can be controlled by placement of an instant force center, and so that acceleration forces can be controlled by a swinging wheel link.

Abstract: A cap member of a swing arm for a rear wheel of a vehicle can be structured to provide an excellent outer appearance to the swing arm and to increase strength and be made thinner. The cap member to be attached to a rear end of the swing arm supporting the rear wheel of the vehicle is formed with a rounded outer surface shape which is approximately continuously connected to an outer surface shape of the swing arm.

Abstract: A rear suspension system includes a bottom bracket integrally connected between two respective first ends of two chain stays and the bottom bracket is engaged with a recess defined between two lugs on the conjunction end of the seat tube and the down tube. The chain stay unit includes two first pivot points and two second pivot points. A first link unit has a first end pivotably connected to the first pivot points and a second end of the first link unit is pivotably connected to one of the two lugs. A second link unit has a first end pivotably connected to the second pivot points and a second end of the second link unit is pivotably connected to the other one of the two lugs. The distance between the bottom bracket and the rear wheel axle is not changed when the rear suspension system is activated.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A cycle wheel mounting system wherein a cycle wheel hub is rotatably mounted on an axle rod having threaded portions. Structure associated with the cycle wheel hub and the axle rod, including projections on the hub casing of the cycle wheel hub, and receivers for the projections on the cycle frame ensures proper alignment of the cycle wheel when mounted.

Abstract: A saddle type vehicle includes a down tube extending downward from a head pipe for supporting a front fork, a rear wheel pivot unit provided on the down tube, and a rear wheel suspension device for supporting a rear wheel of the vehicle such that the rear wheel can pivot substantially upward and downward around the rear wheel pivot unit. The rear wheel pivot unit is disposed before an engine in the advancing direction of the vehicle. The engine is attached to the rear wheel suspension device such that the engine can pivot with the rear wheel suspension device.

Abstract: A rear motorcycle suspension for a motorcycle frame pivotally attaching to the rear portion of a motorcycle frame, having an air shock horizontally affixing an upper suspension arm of the rear suspension frame member to the motorcycle frame to absorb the upward vibrational movement and shock upon the rear wheel of the motorcycle without transfer to the motorcycle frame, the rear suspension frame member pivotally attaching between the frame components of the modified motorcycle frame.

Abstract: A bicycle rear frame includes a mandrel, a hub mounted on the mandrel, a freewheel secured on the hub, two rear fork end members each mounted on the mandrel and each formed with a first tapered face, two rear stays each mounted on a respective rear fork end member, two press members each mounted on the mandrel and each formed with a second tapered face rested on the first tapered face of a respective rear fork end member, and two locking nuts each screwed onto the mandrel and each rested on a respective press member. Thus, the second tapered face of each of the press members presses the first tapered face of the respective rear fork end member to prevent the freewheel and the hub from being pulled forward by the chain, thereby preventing the chain from becoming loosened.

Abstract: A releasable clamp system for clamping a wheel component to a vehicle includes a frame member and a cover plate that is pivotally coupled to the frame member. The cover plate is movable between a closed portion where the cover plate and the frame member encompass the wheel component and an open position that permits removal of the wheel component. A lever is pivotally attached to the cover plate and a hook member is pivotally attached to the lever. An adjustment system is used to adjust the clamping force applied to the wheel component by the frame member and the cover plate.

Abstract: A rear arm for a straddle-type vehicle that satisfies rigidity requirements and is manufactured more easily. The rear arm includes a pair of arms that support end sections of a wheel axle, and a cross member that connects the arms. The cross member is formed by bending a singular tabular member. A rear end section of the cross member has a recessed shape that is recessed toward pivot members.

Abstract: A progressive rear suspension linkage is used in the rear suspension of an ATV to aid in ride quality and safety by changing leverage ratio thru the travel of the rear suspension. The rear shock attaches to it as well as to the frame. The linkage system attaches to the frame at one end and to the rear suspension arm at the other end and changes leverage as the mounting point on the frame and the rear suspension arm come closer together or further apart as the rear suspension arms moves thru its travel. This in turn lets some linkages move in a scissors type movement with the rear shock bolted to it at a given point. This invention provides an improvement to the OEM designs, making for improved handling and safer control of ATVs.

Abstract: The present invention includes a front fork assembly for a cycle. The assembly includes a steering tube, front furcations fixed to the steering tube, and a drop-out bracket device fixed to a distal end of each front furcation. The drop-out bracket device has a tubular member having multiple drop-out brackets directed towards a front side of the cycle, a back side of the cycle, or both. Each drop-out bracket has a substantially planar fastening member and an opening.

Abstract: There is disclosed a bicycle to which a trailer can be connected and from which the trailer can be detached without jeopardizing the integrity thereof. The bicycle includes a frame and two hooks. The frame includes two rear ends. Each of the hooks includes a first end detachably connected to a related one of the rear ends of the frame and a second end for connection to the trailer. A positioning device is used to precisely position each of the hooks with respect to a related one of the rear ends of the frame.

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for securing and positioning an axle relative to a cycle frame are provided. An adjustor block is placed in a cavity of the cycle frame. The block can slide longitudinally within the frame cavity. An axle bolt is inserted into the cavity and seated against a bearing surface of the adjustor block for engagement with the adjustor block. The axle bolt is threadedly engaged with the axle, thereby coupling the axle to the adjustor block. An adjustor bolt is inserted into a bore in the cycle frame and used to move the adjustor block longitudinally within the frame cavity, which in turn moves the axle longitudinally relative to the frame. The frame and axle assembly are both functional and aesthetically pleasing without the use of axle covers.

Abstract: A wheel support portion for a bicycle, such as a front fork assembly, arranged to reduce vibrations that originate at the bicycle wheel and are transmitted to the rider of the bicycle through the wheel support. Desirably, the front fork assembly is configured to be supported by a bicycle frame and includes a pair of fork legs, which extend in a downward direction along opposing sides of a front wheel of the bicycle. Preferably, the fork legs are configured to support the front wheel at their lower ends. An intermediate portion of each of the fork legs defines a cavity. A damping member comprised of a vibration damping material is positioned within the cavity. Preferably, the cavity passes completely through each fork leg in a lateral direction and the damping member is retained within the cavity by a friction fit therebetween.

Abstract: A structural member (38, 40) is designed to have a first portion having a first composite layup, a second portion having a second composite layup, and at least one center portion having at least a third composite layup such that it can flex near a desired point of the structural member. The structural member may be used as a chain stay (26) in a bicycle frame (10). The chain stays are designed to have a geometry that will allow for flexing or bending at or in the vicinity of a desired point. They may be pre-loaded for flex in both a positive and negative direction. The chain stays are designed having a varying cross sectional area. The bending or flexing location of the chain stays has a narrower height from the side view than the ends of the chain stay allowing the chain stay to flex. Additionally, the bending or flexing location has a wider width from the top view than the ends of the chain stay for additional torsional and lateral stiffness.

Abstract: A frame assembly for a bicycle having a front wheel and a rear wheel. The frame assembly preferably includes a main frame and a sub-frame, which is movable relative to the main frame and configured to carry the rear wheel. A shock absorber extends between and is connected to the main frame and the sub-frame. The main frame includes a down tube and a monolithic bottom bracket support. The monolithic bottom bracket support is connected to a rearward end of the down tube and preferably includes an opening configured to support a pedal crank assembly for rotation about a crank axis. Preferably, the shock absorber is connected to the main frame for rotation about a pivot axis positioned forward of the opening of the bottom bracket support. Desirably, the shock absorber pivot axis is positioned forward of a line passing through the crank axis and a center point of the down tube at the junction of the down tube and the head tube.

Abstract: A wheel assembly includes spaced first and second lateral supports. The first lateral support includes a first mount and the second lateral support includes a second mount that is axially aligned with the first mount. All space between the first mount and the second mount is devoid of any structural component that directly interconnects the first and second lateral supports. The wheel assembly also includes a circumferential rim structure that is adapted to support a tire. The first and second lateral supports attach to the rim structure at first and second locations, respectively, that are radially spaced from the first and second mounts, respectively. Vehicles and swing-arm assemblies including exemplary wheel assemblies are also provided.

Abstract: A rear wheel is axially removable from a bicycle frame after a support arm is pivoted away from an initial position overlying the rear wheel. A bicycle drive mechanism is not removed together with the rear wheel, but instead, is left mounted on another support arm. Both support arms straddle the rear wheel during bicycle use and are pivotable to fold the bicycle for compact storage.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a shock absorbing wheel suspension apparatus and related method. The preferred wheel suspension includes upper and lower rocker arms pivotably attached to a bicycle frame, rear shockstays pivotably attached to the upper and lower rocker arms, and a shock absorbing element. The preferred configuration of the wheel suspension results in improved performance through the desirable alignment of various force and torque lines over a wide range of loading conditions.

Abstract: Improved mechanical structure for increased efficiency in the transfer of the peddling force applied to a pedal crank assembly to the rear wheel of a bicycle is disclosed. This structure increases efficiency by decreasing the loss of exerted energy when peddling at dead spots, which dead spots are the common terminology used to refer to when the legs are either at down-stroke and up-stroke positions.

Abstract: A bicycle hub assembly has a hub axle with a nut, a hub shell rotatably support the hub axle by a bearing assembly disposed between the hub axle and the hub. The hub axle and the nut form a bicycle hub axle assembly that is especially configured to permit easy removal and/or installation of a rear derailleur. The hub axle includes a shaft portion having a threaded section at a first axle end and a head portion fixed to a second axle end. The nut has a body portion with a projection extending axially from a frame engaging surface, and a threaded bore threadedly engaged with the threaded section of the shaft portion to secure the bicycle hub axle assembly to the bicycle frame. The projection is configured to engage a slot in a bicycle frame to prevent rotation of the nut relative to the bicycle frame.

Abstract: A wheel support portion for a bicycle, such as a front fork assembly, arranged to reduce vibrations that originate at the bicycle wheel and are transmitted to the rider of the bicycle through the wheel support. Desirably, the front fork assembly is configured to be supported by a bicycle frame and includes a pair of fork legs, which extend in a downward direction along opposing sides of a front wheel of the bicycle. Preferably, the fork legs are configured to support the front wheel at their lower ends. An intermediate portion of each of the fork legs defines a cavity. A damping member comprised of a vibration damping material is positioned within the cavity. Preferably, the cavity passes completely through each fork leg in a lateral direction and the damping member is retained within the cavity by a friction fit therebetween.

Abstract: A connecting element, particularly for connecting rear forks, also known as monostays, made of carbon to bicycle frames. The connecting element is constituted by a first insert and a second insert which are mutually detachably associable at a first end by way of mechanical connection element. The first and second inserts are respectively associated, at a second end, advantageously by way of adhesives, with the stem of a carbon monostay, and are associable with, or rigidly coupled to, a tubular extension of the frame.

Abstract: A bicycle brake device is coupled to a bicycle frame section, which includes one or more bicycle brake mounting structures. The bicycle frame section can be either a portion of a front fork or rear fork of a bicycle. The brake device is preferably a caliper brake device such as a cantilever brake device, a side pull brake device, or a center pull brake device. The caliper brake device has a pair of brake arms, which are pivotally coupled to either the front fork or rear fork for selectively engaging the rim of the bicycle wheel. In certain embodiments, the bicycle brake mounting structures are U-shaped brackets, which are fixedly coupled to the frame member or members. In other embodiments, the bicycle brake mounting structures are formed by a pair of separate tubular frame members, which are fixedly coupled top the remainder of the bicycle frame section.

Abstract: A method for simulating a particular adhesive joint having an elasticity modulus which changes over a particular period of time and/or over a range of temperature is disclosed wherein the method provides a more accurate simulation of the particular adhesive joint. The method includes collecting stress and strain values for the adhesive joint over the particular period of time and/or over the range of temperatures such that an elastic modulus may be determined for the adhesive joint as a function of time and/or temperature. Once the elastic modulus is determined, a simulated joint is formed based upon the adhesive joint, and the simulated joint is capable of producing strain values by using the elastic modulus when data related to stress is entered into the simulated joint.

Abstract: A bicycle shock absorber enhancement comprises a seat pipe having its top connected to a cushion, and its rear portion secured with a connector, which secures the upper portion of a shock absorber. The seat pipe has its low end secured to a rear fork of the bicycle frame, which has a rear wheel secured thereat. The rear fork of the bicycle comprises a reinforcing rib to receive and support the lower end of the shock absorber to reinforce its shock absorbing ability.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a mountain bike frame (10) for use with a rear wheel (118). The frame is a “diamond-type” frame that includes seat stay tubes (32, 34). The seat stay tubes (32, 34) are spaced apart to define a gap distance (C) between the inner surface of the seat stay tubes (32, 34) at a tire intersection point that at a minimum is greater than about 2 inches. In addition, the seat stay tubes (32, 34) have a modulus of elasticity value multiplied times the moment of inertia value is between about 1.0 lb×inches2 and about 10 lb×inches2. The frame is for use with only a rear disc brake mounted to one of the seat stay tubes (32,34).

Abstract: Lack of torsional rigidity is a problem all suspension forks have to one degree or another. This leads to problems with control and tracking. This invention solves the problem by using a new process with modifications to the design of existing components. Torsional load problems are solved at their origin by transmitting torsional loads between the fork legs. This reduces independent leg motion, resulting in precise steering performance.

Abstract: A motorcycle accommodates an enlarged rear tire by interposing an intermediate shaft between the transmission output gear and the rear wheel drive gear. The intermediate shaft includes a power input gear disposed in the same vertical plane as the transmission output gear, and a first drive belt couples the two together. The intermediate shaft also includes a power output gear disposed in the same vertical plane as the rear wheel drive gear, and a second drive belt couples the two together. The first vertical plane lies closer to the central longitudinal axis of the support frame than does the second vertical plane, allowing the center of mass of the engine and transmission to be maintained substantially along the central longitudinal axis. When incorporated into a soft-tail type motorcycle frame, the intermediate shaft is coincident with the pivot axis of the soft-tail suspension.

Abstract: In a screw thread arrangement for the angular positioning, in the circumferential direction, of a first component having a multiple-thread pattern screw thread relative to a second component having a complementary multiple-thread screw thread pattern, in particular for a threaded closure cap relative to a container member, wherein a first angular spacing of adjacent runouts when viewed in a circumferential direction differs from angular spacing of adjacent runouts . As an alternative the dimensions of at least one thread turn of each multiple-thread screw thread pattern is different from those of a second thread turn. By such measures, when configurations of the components are rotationally asymmetrical, the two parts are always positively brought into alignment when the one component has been firmly screwed onto the other.

Abstract: The improved bicycle frame is designed for adult bicycles. It is made of single tubes only. The chainstay and the seatstay are of slightly larger diameters than the neck tube, top tube, down tube, and seat tube. This is so because more than half of the load is carried in the rear part of the bicycle. Therefore, the chainstay and the seatstay are the stronger members of the frame. The fork for the rear wheel is attached at an angle of 45° in order to reduce the vertical component of the load at the rear. The improved bicycle frame is designed to have small wheels only. The wheels are less than half the diameters of the big wheels in use today. The small wheels reduce the effort needed to push the pedals. The improved bicycle frame is strong, sturdy, and stable. The bicycle using the improved bicycle frame is a quality bicycle.

Abstract: A bicycle upper rear fork unit (1) comprises a one-piece body (10) and presents a fork (13) connected to a lower rear fork unit (4) of the bicycle, the upper fork unit (1) having a tubular end portion (12) arranged to cooperate with a saddle connection element (5) connecting the fork unit (1) to the remaining portion of the bicycle frame (2), the one-piece body (10) presenting a substantially triangular portion (15) interposed between the tubular portion (12) and the arms (14) of the fork (13). The saddle connection element (5) receives within one of its parts the tubular end portion (12) of the upper rear fork unit (1), said terminal portion (12) projecting from the said part of the saddle connection element (5) for a maximum distance of 2 centimeters measured from that vertex (17) of the triangular portion (15) close to the tubular portion to ensure a high resistance to rear flexural and torsional stresses.

Abstract: To enable common use of the vehicle body frame even when the rear wheel diameter has been changed. In a rear wheel supporting device for a vehicle, the pivot member is removably attached to a rear portion of the vehicle body frame. The swing member is vertically swingably attached on the pivot member. The rear wheel is rotatably mounted on the rear portion of the swing member. A plurality of mounting portions, which are vertically arranged, are provided on the vehicle body frame. The plurality of vertically arranged mounting portions are selected in accordance with the rear wheel diameter. The pivot member is installed, so that the mounting height of the pivot member will be freely adjustable.

Abstract: A bicycle brake device is coupled to a bicycle frame section, which includes one or more bicycle brake mounting structures. The bicycle frame section can be either a portion of a front fork or rear fork of a bicycle. The brake device is preferably a caliper brake device such as a cantilever brake device, a side pull brake device, or a center pull brake device. The caliper brake device has a pair of brake arms, which are pivotally coupled to either the front fork or rear fork for selectively engaging the rim of the bicycle wheel. In certain embodiments, the bicycle brake mounting structures are U-shaped brackets, which are fixedly coupled to the frame member or members. In other embodiments, the bicycle brake mounting structures are formed by a pair of separate tubular frame members, which are fixedly coupled to the remainder of the bicycle frame section.

Abstract: Disclosed is a wheel support structure for a vehicle is provided having a swingarm operatively attached to the vehicle. An axle shaft is connected to the swingarm at essentially a distal end thereof; and a wheel rotatably supported via the axle shaft, the wheel having a wheel hub through which the axle shaft passes. The axle shaft is constituted by a head section and a base section, the head section having a cross-sectional thickness greater than a cross-sectional thickness of the base section.

Abstract: A two-wheel folding bicycle is described which can be folded together in the plane of the bicycle frame. For this purpose, the bicycle frame is designed of two rigid partial frames, specifically a main frame with a receiving device for the seat pillar and a front wheel fork and a partial frame for the rear wheel. The two frame parts are connected with one another by way of two hinged supporters and are fixed to one another in a ready-to-ride condition.

Abstract: A high production net shape filament winding manufacturing process and resulting products are disclosed. The manufacture of bicycle frame and their components from filament wound components which have been cut from a section of filament wound stock is disclosed. Also disclosed is a bicycle frame and its manufacturing process and a composite bicycle fork and components thereof.

Abstract: A pivot frame is formed as a casting of an aluminum alloy in a substantially U-shaped manner to be open toward a front side. Attaching bosses of a crankcase are placed between a left sidewall and a right sidewall of the pivot frame. Bearing portions of a rear swing arm are coaxially arranged on outer sides of the pivot frame. A pivot bolt is penetrated from one side and is fastened by a nut on the other side. An adjustment collar is interposed between the attaching boss and the right sidewall of the pivot frame. A side of a fixed portion of the adjustment collar is fixed to the right sidewall, and a side of a movable portion of the adjustment collar is pivoted by a tool. The adjustment collar allows the fastening torque of the nut to be constant, thereby preventing deformation from occurring in a fastening operation even when a pivot plate of an aluminum alloy is used.

Abstract: A spokeless bicycle system for providing a bicycle that does not have spokes within the wheels. The inventive device includes a frame having a seat structure and handle bars, a rear bracket having rear bearings within that rotatably engages a rear wheel, a front bracket having front bearings within that rotatably engages a front wheel, and a drive train that engages the rear wheel for driving the rear wheel. The rear rim of the rear wheel includes a rear groove that receives the plurality of rear bearings. The rear rim of the rear wheel includes a rear gear that is engaged by a drive sprocket from the drive train. The front rim of the front wheel includes a front groove that receives the plurality of front bearings.

Abstract: A rear swingarm is made by casting an aluminum alloy having a front cross member with pivots at a front end thereof, a rear cross member having axle holders at the rear end thereof, and a pair of hollow arms connecting the front and rear cross members along the length of a buggy. The rear swingarm has an opening for cut-away excess metal, which is in the shape of an egg when viewed from above. A front wall, an inner wall and a rear wall, constituting the opening, are rounded with curvatures R1, R2 and R3, respectively. The inner wall is uniformly rounded with the curvature R2. A width of the arms is gradually increased from the front end thereof toward the rear end of the buggy.

Abstract: A tapered rectangular pipe is formed into the rectangular raw pipe by an extrusion forming under any optional irregular thickness condition in a first step. Then the rectangular raw pipe is reduced to form a tapered part to make a tapered, irregular thickness, rectangular pipe member in a second step.

Abstract: A bicycle frame that provides a damping capability includes a downtube having a first end and a second end, a seat tube integrally extending from the downtube, a pair of chain stays pivotally connected to the downtube between the ends, a pair of linking rods each having a first arm pivotally connected to the second end of the downtube, a second arm and a third arm, a first damper having a cylinder body pivotally connected to the pair of chain stays and a first piston rod pivotally connected to the pair of linking rods between the first arms, a second damper having a second cylinder body pivotally connected to the seat tube, a second piston rod pivotally connected to the pair of linking rods between the second arms, and a spring disposed between the second cylinder and the second piston rod.

Abstract: A suspension assembly for a bicycle frame which elastically supports a rear frame member, which in turn rotatably supports the rear wheel. The suspension assembly is positioned around the bottom bracket such that the rear frame member pivots about the axis of the bicycle crank axle of the bottom bracket. This arrangement allows the rear wheel and rear frame member to move relative to the main frame, without any adverse affects to the drive train assembly. In the preferred embodiments, drive train assembly can be either a chain drive or a shaft drive. The suspension assembly includes an inner suspension member with the crank axle mounted therein, an intermediate suspension member surrounding the inner suspension member with at least one shock-absorbing element interposed therebetween, and an outer suspension member surrounding the intermediate suspension member with at least one shock-absorbing element interposed therebetween.

Abstract: A suspension assembly for a bicycle frame which elastically supports a rear frame member, which in turn rotatably supports the rear wheel. Preferably, the frame is a two-piece construction with the suspension assembly interconnecting the rear frame to the main frame. The suspension assembly is positioned around the bottom bracket such that the rear frame member pivots about the axis of the bicycle crank axle of the bottom bracket. This arrangement allows the rear wheel and rear frame member to move relative to the main frame, without any adverse affects to the drive train assembly. In the preferred embodiments, drive train assembly can be either a chain drive or a shaft drive. The suspension assembly includes an inner suspension member with the crank axle mounted therein and an outer suspension member surrounding the inner suspension member with a shock absorbing element interposed therebetween. In the preferred embodiment, the shock absorbing element includes a plurality of biasing members.

Abstract: A bicycle hub is provided that includes a hub axle, a hub body, a sprocket support member and a spacer. The spacer is movable to allow the hub body to be axially separated from the freewheel without removing the freewheel from the rear fork of the bicycle. The hub axle has a first portion and a second portion releasably coupled to the first portion. The hub body has an outer tubular portion and an interior passageway with the first portion of the hub axle rotatably supported therein. The sprocket support member has a portion releasably and non-rotatably coupled to the outer tubular portion of the hub body. The sprocket support member is mounted on the second portion of the hub axle. The spacer is supported on the first portion of the hub axle adjacent a free end of the hub body. The spacer has a spacing portion and is configured to move in a transverse direction relative to the hub axle between a first position and a second position without removing the first portion of the hub axle from the hub body.