US20020008422A1 - Bicycle hub for disc brake - Google Patents
Bicycle hub for disc brake Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20020008422A1 US20020008422A1 US09/964,772 US96477201A US2002008422A1 US 20020008422 A1 US20020008422 A1 US 20020008422A1 US 96477201 A US96477201 A US 96477201A US 2002008422 A1 US2002008422 A1 US 2002008422A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- spoke
- hub
- spokes
- bores
- spoke openings
- Prior art date
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Links
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- 210000002445 nipple Anatomy 0.000 description 9
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- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 2
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Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60B—VEHICLE WHEELS; CASTORS; AXLES FOR WHEELS OR CASTORS; INCREASING WHEEL ADHESION
- B60B1/00—Spoked wheels; Spokes thereof
- B60B1/02—Wheels with wire or other tension spokes
- B60B1/04—Attaching spokes to rim or hub
- B60B1/041—Attaching spokes to rim or hub of bicycle wheels
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60B—VEHICLE WHEELS; CASTORS; AXLES FOR WHEELS OR CASTORS; INCREASING WHEEL ADHESION
- B60B1/00—Spoked wheels; Spokes thereof
- B60B1/02—Wheels with wire or other tension spokes
- B60B1/04—Attaching spokes to rim or hub
- B60B1/042—Attaching spokes to hub
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60B—VEHICLE WHEELS; CASTORS; AXLES FOR WHEELS OR CASTORS; INCREASING WHEEL ADHESION
- B60B1/00—Spoked wheels; Spokes thereof
- B60B1/02—Wheels with wire or other tension spokes
- B60B1/04—Attaching spokes to rim or hub
- B60B1/043—Attaching spokes to rim
- B60B1/044—Attaching spokes to rim by the use of spoke nipples
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60B—VEHICLE WHEELS; CASTORS; AXLES FOR WHEELS OR CASTORS; INCREASING WHEEL ADHESION
- B60B21/00—Rims
- B60B21/02—Rims characterised by transverse section
- B60B21/025—Rims characterised by transverse section the transverse section being hollow
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60B—VEHICLE WHEELS; CASTORS; AXLES FOR WHEELS OR CASTORS; INCREASING WHEEL ADHESION
- B60B21/00—Rims
- B60B21/02—Rims characterised by transverse section
- B60B21/04—Rims characterised by transverse section with substantially radial flanges
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60B—VEHICLE WHEELS; CASTORS; AXLES FOR WHEELS OR CASTORS; INCREASING WHEEL ADHESION
- B60B21/00—Rims
- B60B21/06—Rims characterised by means for attaching spokes, i.e. spoke seats
- B60B21/062—Rims characterised by means for attaching spokes, i.e. spoke seats for bicycles
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60B—VEHICLE WHEELS; CASTORS; AXLES FOR WHEELS OR CASTORS; INCREASING WHEEL ADHESION
- B60B27/00—Hubs
- B60B27/0005—Hubs with ball bearings
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60B—VEHICLE WHEELS; CASTORS; AXLES FOR WHEELS OR CASTORS; INCREASING WHEEL ADHESION
- B60B27/00—Hubs
- B60B27/02—Hubs adapted to be rotatably arranged on axle
- B60B27/023—Hubs adapted to be rotatably arranged on axle specially adapted for bicycles
- B60B27/026—Hubs adapted to be rotatably arranged on axle specially adapted for bicycles comprising quick release devices
Definitions
- the nipples are installed in nipple holes formed in the rim.
- the spokes are inserted sideways through the holes in the hub flange until the enlarged head or flanges of the spokes engaging the areas surrounding the holes in the hub flange.
- the male threads on the ends of the spokes are threaded into the female threads of the spoke nipples installed in the openings of the rim.
- FIG. 22 is a side elevational view of the front brake disc hub with the spoke opening cover illustrated in FIG. 21 installed thereon;
- FIG. 23 is an inside elevational view of a third embodiment of a spoke opening cover for the hubs of the present invention.
- the spokes 24 , the rim 26 and spoke nipples 28 are all conventional parts that are used with the rear hub 22 of the present invention as seen in FIG. 3.
- the unique design of the rear hub 22 allows it to be used with conventional parts, e.g., tangential spokes 24 and a conventional rim 26 .
- the spokes 24 extend tangentially from an imaginary circle centered on the center axis of rotation of rear hub 22 .
- the rear hub 22 and the rim 26 has thirty-six of the spokes 24 coupled therebetween.
- the center annular flange 82 a is preferably aligned with a circumferentially passing through the centers axes C 1 of the insertion portions 61 of the first spoke openings 60 a .
- the center annular flange 82 a is positioned to axially separate the two retaining portions 62 of each of the first spoke openings 60 a from each other.
- the center annular flange 82 a is also positioned to keep spokes 24 in the retaining portions 62 of the first spoke openings 60 a .
- the brake rotor attachment portion 38 d ′ is integrally formed with the center tubular portion 38 c ′ of the hub body 38 ′ as a one-piece, unitary member.
- the brake rotor attachment portion 38 d ′ is formed with six attachment members or points with through bores 70 ′. While six individual attachment points are illustrated, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that fewer or more attachment points can be utilized. Moreover, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that the attachment portions could be a continuous flange, if needed and/or desired.
- the through bore 70 ′ can be threaded or unthreaded. By using through bores 70 ′ instead of blind bores, the front hub 22 ′ can be easily manufactured at a relatively lower cost.
- the bolts 32 a ′ extend into openings in the brake disc rotor 32 ′ and then through the through bores 70 ′.
- the free ends of the bolts 32 a ′ have nuts 32 b ′ threaded thereon for attaching the brake disc rotor 32 ′ to the hub body 38 ′.
- This arrangement allows the hub body 38 ′ and the brake rotor attachment portion 38 d ′ to be formed out of the same a lightweight material, such as aluminum.
- the hub body 38 ′ does not need to be replaced if the through bores 70 ′ become damaged.
- the center annular flange 82 a ′ is preferably aligned with a circumferentially passing through the centers axes C 1 ′ of the insertion portions 61 ′ of the first spoke openings 60 a ′.
- the center annular flange 82 a ′ is positioned to axially separate the two retaining portions 62 ′ of each of the first spoke openings 60 a ′ from each other.
- the center annular flange 82 a ′ is also positioned to keep spokes 24 in the retaining portions 62 ′ of the first spoke openings 60 a ′.
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Braking Arrangements (AREA)
Abstract
A bicycle brake disc hub is provided for use with tangential bicycle spokes. The bicycle hub basically has a hub axle and a hub body with a brake rotor attachment portion integral formed therewith as a one-piece, unitary member. The hub axle has a center axis extending between a first end and a second end. The hub body has an interior passageway with the hub axle being rotatably supported therein. The hub body also has a set of first spoke openings circumferentially arranged around the hub body. The brake rotor attachment portion is located at a first end section of the center tubular portion. The first spoke openings are located adjacent the brake rotor attachment portion. The first spoke openings extend through the first end section of the center tubular portion of the hub body. The brake rotor attachment portion having a plurality of through bores. The through bores receive a bolt therethrough with a nut coupled the end of the bolt
Description
- 1. Field of the Invention
- This invention generally relates to a bicycle disc brake hub. More specifically, the present invention relates a bicycle disc brake hub with an integral rotor mounting portion.
- 2. Background Information
- Bicycling is becoming an increasingly popular form of recreation as well as a means of transportation. Moreover, bicycling has become a very popular competitive sport. Whether the bicycle is used for recreation, transportation or competition, the bicycle industry is constantly improving their components. Recently, the braking systems for bicycles have included the use of disc brakes. The use of disc brakes has resulted in modifications to the bicycle hub of the bicycle wheel so that a brake rotor can be mounted thereon.
- The most basic bicycle wheels have a hub, a plurality of spokes and an annular rim. The hub is attached to a part of the frame of the bicycle for relative rotation. The inner ends of the spokes are coupled to the hub and extend outwardly from the hub. The annular rim is coupled to the outer ends of the spokes and has an outer portion for supporting a pneumatic tire thereon. Typically, the spokes of the bicycle wheel are thin metal wire spokes. The ends of the hub are provided with a flange that is used to couple the spokes to the hub. In particular, holes are provided in the hub flanges. The wire spokes are usually bent on their inner end and provided with an enlarged head or flange that is formed in the shape of a nail head. The inner end is supported in one of the holes in one of the hub flanges. The outer ends of the spokes typically are provided with threads for engaging spoke nipples, which secure the outer ends of the wire spokes to the rim. In particular, the spoke nipples have flanges, which engage the interior surface of the rim.
- With a spoke constructed in this manner, the nipples are installed in nipple holes formed in the rim. The spokes are inserted sideways through the holes in the hub flange until the enlarged head or flanges of the spokes engaging the areas surrounding the holes in the hub flange. The male threads on the ends of the spokes are threaded into the female threads of the spoke nipples installed in the openings of the rim.
- When the hub is a brake disc hub or is a rear hub, installation and/or replacement of the spokes can be difficult. In the case of a disk brake hub, one end of the hub usually has a rotor mounting portion. Often, the rotor mounting portion is a plurality of blind bores that receive bolts to directly mount the brake disc rotor to the end of the hub. Thus, the brake disc rotor makes it difficult to insert the spokes in a sideways direction. Likewise, if the hub is a rear hub, the sprockets can be obstacles to install or replace spokes.
- Moreover, the blind bores of the hubs are time consuming to form and often become damaged. When the blind bores become damaged, the entire hub must be replaced. Thus, these prior hubs are expensive to manufacture and replace.
- In view of the above, there exists a need for a bicycle hub which overcomes the above mentioned problems in the prior art. This invention addresses this need in the prior art as well as other needs, which will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure.
- One object of the present invention is to provide a bicycle hub that has an integrated brake rotor attachment portion.
- Another object of the present invention is to provide a bicycle hub that is relatively lightweight.
- The foregoing objects can be attained by providing a bicycle brake disc hub for use with bicycle spokes. The bicycle hub basically includes a hub axle and a hub body a brake rotor attachment portion. The hub axle has a center axis extending between a first end and a second end. The hub body has a center tubular portion defining an interior passageway with the hub axle being rotatably supported therein. The brake rotor attachment portion is located at a first end section of the center tubular portion. The first spoke openings are located adjacent the brake rotor attachment portion. The first spoke openings extend through the first end section of the center tubular portion of the hub body. The brake rotor attachment portion is integrally formed with the center tubular portion as a one-piece, unitary member. The brake rotor attachment portion having a plurality of through bores.
- These and other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which, taken in conjunction with the annexed drawings, discloses preferred embodiments of the present invention.
- Referring now to the attached drawings which form a part of this original disclosure:
- FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of a conventional bicycle with front and rear brake disc hubs in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention;
- FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the rear wheel of the bicycle illustrated in FIG. 1 with the sprockets removed;
- FIG. 3 is partially exploded perspective view of the rim, one of the spokes and one of the spoke nipples of the bicycle illustrated in FIG. 1;
- FIG. 4 is a side elevational view of the rear brake disc hub of the rear wheel illustrated in FIG. 2 with the sprockets removed;
- FIG. 5 is a side elevational view of the rear brake disc hub of the rear wheel illustrated in FIG. 3 with certain portions broken away for purposes of illustration;
- FIG. 6 is a left end elevational view of the rear brake disc hub body illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 with the brake disc rotor bolts mounted thereto;
- FIG. 7 is a left end elevational view of the rear brake disc hub body illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 with the brake disc rotor bolts removed;
- FIG. 8 is a left end elevational view of the rear brake disc hub body illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 with unthreaded bolt holes;
- FIG. 9 is a partial transverse cross-sectional view of the rear brake disc hub body illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 as seen along section line9-9 of FIG. 4;
- FIG. 10 is a partial transverse cross-sectional view of the rear brake disc hub body illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 as seen along section line10-10 of FIG. 4;
- FIG. 11 is a partial elevational view of one of the spoke openings of the rear brake disc hub body illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5;
- FIG. 12 is a schematic view of portion of the rear brake disc hub body illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 with two spokes extending outwardly therefrom;
- FIG. 13 is a partial cross-sectional view of the first seal for the rear brake disc hub body illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5;
- FIG. 14 is a partial cross-sectional view of the second seal for the rear brake disc hub body illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5;
- FIG. 15 is a side elevational view of the front brake disc hub of the front wheel illustrated in FIG. 1;
- FIG. 16 is a side elevational view of the front brake disc hub of the front wheel illustrated in FIG. 1 with certain portions broken away for purposes of illustration;
- FIG. 17 is a partial cross-sectional view of the first seal for the front brake disc hub body illustrated in FIGS. 15 and 16;
- FIG. 18 is a partial cross-sectional view of the second seal for the front brake disc hub body illustrated in FIGS. 15 and 16;
- FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a spoke opening cover for the hubs of the present invention;
- FIG. 20 is a side elevational view of the front brake disc hub with the spoke opening cover illustrated in FIG. 19 installed thereon;
- FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a spoke opening cover for the hubs of the present invention;
- FIG. 22 is a side elevational view of the front brake disc hub with the spoke opening cover illustrated in FIG. 21 installed thereon;
- FIG. 23 is an inside elevational view of a third embodiment of a spoke opening cover for the hubs of the present invention;
- FIG. 24 is an edge elevational view of the spoke opening cover illustrated in FIG. 23 for the hubs of the present invention;
- FIG. 25 is a side elevational view of the front brake disc hub with the spoke opening cover illustrated in FIGS. 23 and 24 installed thereon;
- FIG. 26 is a side elevational view of the rear brake disc hub in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention with the sprockets removed;
- FIG. 27 a side elevational view of the rear brake disc hub illustrated in FIG. 26 in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention with certain portions broken away for purposes of illustration;
- FIG. 28 is a side elevational view of the front brake disc hub in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention with the sprockets removed; and
- FIG. 29 a side elevational view of the front brake disc hub illustrated in FIG. 28 in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention with certain portions broken away for purposes of illustration.
- Referring initially to FIGS.1-3, a
bicycle 10 is illustrated with certain parts being modified in accordance with the present invention as discussed below. Thebicycle 10 basically has aframe 12 with afront fork 13 movably coupled thereto. Arear wheel 14 is rotatably coupled to a rear portion of theframe 12, while afront wheel 16 is rotatably coupled to thefront fork 13. Theframe 12 also has aseat 18 adjustably coupled toframe 12, a handlebar 19 coupled tofront fork 13 for turningfront wheel 16 and adrive train 20 for propellingbicycle 10. Thebicycle 10 is also provided with a pair ofdisc brake assemblies 21 having a caliper 21 a and a brake lever 21 b. - Since these parts of
bicycle 10 are well known in the art, these parts will not be discussed or illustrated in detail herein, except as they are modified in accordance with the present invention. Moreover, various conventional bicycle parts such as brakes, derailleurs, additional sprocket, etc., which are not illustrated and/or discussed in detail herein, can be used in conjunction with the present invention. - As seen in FIG. 2, the
rear wheel 14 has arear hub 22, a plurality ofspokes 24 extending outwardly from therear hub 22, arim 26 coupled to the outer ends ofspokes 24 by spokenipples 28, and atire 30 located on the outer surface ofrim 26. Therear hub 22 is also provided with abrake disc rotor 32 that is attached to therear hub 22 by sixblots 32 a and sixnuts 32 b, as explained below. While the illustrated embodiment is a thirty-six spoke wheel, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that other spoke arrangements are possible without departing from the present invention. For example, a thirty-two spoke wheel or a forty spoke wheel can be constructed in accordance with the present invention without departing from the present invention. Basically, the number of spoke openings depends upon the rim to be used with the hub of the present invention. - Preferably, the
spokes 24, therim 26 and spokenipples 28 are all conventional parts that are used with therear hub 22 of the present invention as seen in FIG. 3. In other words, the unique design of therear hub 22 allows it to be used with conventional parts, e.g.,tangential spokes 24 and aconventional rim 26. Accordingly, when therear wheel 14 is assembled, thespokes 24 extend tangentially from an imaginary circle centered on the center axis of rotation ofrear hub 22. In the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 2-5, therear hub 22 and therim 26 has thirty-six of thespokes 24 coupled therebetween. - The term “tangential spokes” are spokes that have a
straight section 24 a and abent end 24 b with an enlarged head 24 c such thatstraight section 24 a extends at an angle of about 95° relative to thebent end 24 b. Such spokes are well known in the bicycle art. As seen in FIG. 3, thespokes 24 of the illustrated embodiment each have an outer threadedend 24 d that is located at the opposite end of the centerstraight section 24 a from thebent end 24 b (inner end portion) with the enlarged head 24 c. Thebent end 24 b has a center axis that forms an angle of about 95° with the center axis of thestraight section 24 a. The bent ends 24 b of thespokes 24 are designed to be received within the first and second spoke openings. In particular, the enlarged heads 24 c of thespokes 24 engage an interior surface of thehub body 38 with thestraight sections 24 a extending substantially tangentially to an imaginary circle with a center on the center axis of rotation of therear hub 22. - The
rim 26 can be any conventional rim that has a plurality of spoke holes 34 for receiving the spoke nipples 28 for attaching the outer threaded ends 24 d of thespokes 24 thereto. In the illustrated embodiment, therim 26 is a conventional steel or alloy rim having a U-shaped cross section with thirty-six spoke holes 34. The spoke holes 34 are equally spaced apart in a circumferential direction. The spoke holes 34 are preferably lie in a single plane P that divides the cross section in half as seen in FIG. 3. Of course, rims with fewer or more spoke holes 34 can be used with a hub of the present invention, if needed and/or desired. For example, therim 26 can have thirty-two spoke holes instead of thirty-six spoke holes, if therear hub 22 is modified to have fewer holes as explained below. - As best seen in FIG. 5, the
rear hub 22 basically includes ahub axle 36, a hub body orshell 38, afirst bearing assembly 40 a, a second bearing assembly 40 b, afirst spoke seal 42 a, a second spoke seal 42 b, afreewheel 44 and aquick release mechanism 46. Of the parts ofrear hub 22, only thehub body 38 and the first and second spoke seals 42 a and 42 b are non-conventional parts. The remaining parts ofrear hub 22 are relatively conventional, and thus, the remaining parts ofrear hub 22 will not be discussed or illustrated in detail herein. - The
hub axle 36 has a center axis A extending between afirst end 36 a and a second end 36 b. Thequick release mechanism 46 extends through a center bore 36 c of thehub axle 36 such that thequick release mechanism 46 is coupled to thehub axle 36 in a conventional manner. The first and second ends 36 a and 36 b of thehub axle 36 are threaded for receiving a pair ofnuts hub body 38, the bearingassemblies 40 a and 40 b, the spoke seals 42 a and 42 b, and thefreewheel 44. First andsecond bearing assemblies 40 a and 40 b rotatably mount thehub body 38 with thefreewheel 44 on thehub axle 36. Thefreewheel 44 allows thehub axle 36 to rotate freely relative to thehub body 38 in one direction, but fixedly couples thehub axle 36 relative to thehub body 38 in the opposite rotational direction. - The
hub body 38 is illustrated in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, thehub body 38 is a hollow member that defines aninterior passageway 52 with thehub axle 36 being rotatably supported therein by the first andsecond bearing assemblies 40 a and 40 b. Thus, thehub body 38 is a substantially tubular member. Specifically, thehub body 38 has a center tubular portion 38 c with first andsecond end sections first end section 38 a has an integrally mounted brakerotor attachment portion 38 d, while asecond end section 38 b has thefreewheel 44 fixedly coupled thereto. - A set of first spoke
openings 60 a are provided at thefirst end section 38 a of thehub body 38 for receiving the bent ends 24 b of thespokes 24. Similarly, thesecond end section 38 b of thehub body 38 is provided with a second set of spoke openings 60 b for receiving the bent ends 24 b of thespokes 24. In the illustrated embodiment, thefirst end section 38 a is provided with nine of the first spokeopenings 60 a and thesecond end section 38 b is provided with nine of the second spoke openings 60 b. Thespoke openings 60 a and 60 b are equally spaced apart about the circumference of thehub body 38. Each of thespoke openings 60 a and 60 b are also designed to receive twospokes 24 as explained below. Accordingly, therear hub 22 is designed to have thirty-six spokes extending outwardly therefrom in a generally tangential direction. - Preferably, the first and second sets of
spoke openings 60 a and 60 b are identical. The first and second spokeopenings 60 a and 60 b are designed to be used with conventionaltangential spokes 24. Of course, it is possible that the first and second sets ofspoke openings 60 a and 60 b can be different such thattangential spokes 24 are used in one end of thehub body 38 and a different types of spokes are used in the other end of thehub body 38. The first spokeopenings 60 a are circumferentially arranged around thehub body 38 adjacent to the brakerotor attachment portion 38 d. Preferably, the first spokeopenings 60 a are spaced axially inward of the brakerotor attachment portion 38 d so thatbrake disc rotor 32 can be easily attached with thebolts 32 a and nuts 32 b. - In this embodiment, the first and second spoke
openings 60 a and 60 b are elongated slots that are each provided with aninsertion portion 61 and a pair of retainingportions 62. Accordingly, each of thespoke openings 60 a and 60 b is designed to have a pair ofspokes 24 retained therein with thespokes 24 extending in opposite directions. - The
insertion portion 61 of each spoke opening is located between the pair of retainingportions 62 of each spoke opening. Eachinsertion portion 61 is formed by a pair of opposedcurved surfaces 64 that are spaced apart so as to be equal to or slightly larger than the widths or diameters of the enlarged heads 24 c of thespokes 24. Thus, the inner ends (bent ends 24 b with enlarged heads 24 c) of thespokes 24 can be easily inserted into thespoke openings 60 a and 60 b through theinsertion portions 61. - The retaining
portions 62 have smaller widths or diameters than theinsertion portions 61. More specifically, the diameters or widths of the retainingportions 62 are smaller than the diameters or widths of the enlarged heads 24 c of thespokes 24 so as to retain thespokes 24 within thespoke openings 60 a and 60 b. The retainingportions 62 are each preferably defined by a partialcylindrical surface 66 that is connected to thecurved surfaces 64 of the associatedinsertion portion 61 by a pair ofstraight surfaces 68. - The
spoke openings 60 a and 60 b are formed as elongated slots that are angled relative to the axis A. Accordingly, theinsertion portions 61 are arranged in a circumferential pattern with one set of the retainingportions 62 being located axially outward from theinsertion portions 61 and the other set of retainingportions 62 being spaced axially inward from theinsertion portions 61. In other words, a first set of retainingportions 62 form an outer circumferential row of the retainingportions 62, and a second set of the retainingportions 62 form an inner circumferential row of retainingportions 62 with theinsertion portions 61 being located between the rows of retainingportions 62. - Preferably, the
insertion portion 61 and the retainingportions 62 of each spoke opening are formed simultaneously. Also preferably, the inner and outer ends of the retainingportions 62 of thespoke openings 60 a and 60 b are tapered to avoid sharp edges engaging thespokes 24. - Each of the
insertion portions 61 has a center longitudinal axis C1 that passes through the center axis A of thehub axle 36. The retainingportions 62, on the other hand, have center longitudinal axes C2 that are parallel to the center longitudinal axis C1 of theinsertion portion 61 for each of thespoke openings 60 a and 60 b. Thus, the center longitudinal axes C2 of the retainingportions 62 do not pass through the center axis of thehub axle 36. Rather, the center longitudinal axes C2 of the retainingportions 62 are angled with respect to center axis A. Preferably, the center longitudinal axis C2 of each retainingportion 62 is angled between about 5° and about 20° from a radial orientation in thehub body 38. In the illustrated embodiment, the retainingportions 62 are angled about 10° with respect to center axis A for a twenty-six inch rim with thirty-six spoke holes and a hub having a diameter approximately 22 millimeters. For a twenty-six inch rim with thirty-two spoke holes and a hub having a diameter approximately 22 millimeters, the retainingportions 62 are preferably angled about 11° with respect to center axis A. This angled configuration of the retainingportions 62 results in thestraight sections 24 a of thespokes 24 being easily arranged in a tangential direction relative to an imaginary circle centered on thehub body 38. Moreover, this angled configuration of the retainingportions 62 allows thestraight sections 24 a of thespokes 24 to be easily aligned with the spoke holes 34 of therim 26 without significant bending of thespokes 24. In the illustrated embodiment, thespokes 24 are not bent more than about five degrees. Of course, the less bending of thespokes 24, the better. - If the retaining
portions 62 were formed with their center axis passing through the center axis A of thehub axle 36, then theconventional spokes 24 would be placed under excessive bending forces, which could result in thespokes 24 breaking during use of the wheel. In particular, if the retainingportions 62 have their center axes passing through the center of thehub axle 36, then the centerstraight section 24 a would have to be bent from 95° to 108° for a twenty-six inch rim with thirty-six spoke holes and a hub having a diameter approximately 22 millimeters. In contrast, with the retainingportions 62 of thespokes 24 being angled, the amount of bending of thespokes 24 can be reduced and/or eliminated. - The brake
rotor attachment portion 38 d is integrally formed with the center tubular portion 38 c of thehub body 38 as a one-piece, unitary member. In the illustrated embodiment, the brakerotor attachment portion 38 d is formed with six attachment members or points with throughbores 70. While six individual attachment points are illustrated, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that fewer or more attachment points can be utilized. Moreover, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that the attachment portions could be a continuous flange, if needed and/or desired. The throughbore 70 can be threaded (FIG. 7) or unthreaded (bores 70′ of FIG. 8). By using throughbores 70 instead of blind bores, therear hub 22 can be easily manufactured at a relatively lower cost. - As seen in FIG. 8, the through bores70″ can be unthreaded bores. In the case of unthreaded through
bores 70″, thebolts 32 a extend into openings in thebrake disc rotor 32 and then through the through bores 70″. The free ends of thebolts 32 a have nuts 32 b threaded thereon for attaching thebrake disc rotor 32 to thehub body 38. This arrangement allows thehub body 38 and the brakerotor attachment portion 38 d to be formed out of the same a lightweight material, such as aluminum. In this arrangement, thehub body 38 does not need to be replaced if the through bores 70″ become damaged. - As seen in FIG. 7, the through bores70 are threaded. In the case of threaded through
bores 70, thebolts 32 a extend into openings in thebrake disc rotor 32 and then threaded into the through bores 70. Optionally, the free ends of thebolts 32 a can have the nuts 32 b threaded thereon for more securely attaching thebrake disc rotor 32 to thehub body 38. In this arrangement, if the threads of throughbores 70 become damaged, thehub body 38 does not need to be replaced. Rather, thebolts 32 a and the nuts 32 b securely attach thebrake disc rotor 32 to thehub body 38. -
Bearing assemblies 40 a and 40 b rotatably supportshub body 38 onhub axle 36. The bearingassembly 40 a basically includes a plurality of balls 74 a located between an inner race member 76 a and an outer race member 78 a. Similarly, the bearing assembly 40 b basically includes a plurality of balls 74 b located between an inner race member 76 b and an outer race member 78 b. Since bearingassemblies 40 a and 40 b are well known in the bicycle art, they will not be discussed or illustrated in detail herein. - Turning now to FIGS. 13 and 14, the spoke seals42 a and 42 b are arranged in the
interior passageway 52 of thehub body 38 so as to be adjacent thespoke openings 60 a and 60 b to isolate thespoke openings 60 a and 60 b from thehub axle 36. In other words, the spoke seals 42 a and 42 b prevent contaminants from entering therear hub 22 through thespoke openings 60 a and 60 b. The spoke seals 42 a and 42 b are preferably resilient members that are constructed of rubber or the like. Of course, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that the seals could be created from other types of materials, depending upon their shape and arrangement. Moreover, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that while the spoke seals 42 a and 42 b are illustrated as a pair of separate sealing members, the spoke seals 42 a and 42 b can be formed as a one-piece, unitary member. - In the preferred embodiment, the spoke seals42 a and 42 b also aid in the assembly of the
spokes 24 with thehub body 38 and therim 26. Specifically, in the preferred embodiments, theseals 42 a and 42 b are arranged so that they restrain movement of thespokes 24 within thespoke openings 60 a and 60 b so that the bent ends 24 b of thespokes 24 stays in the retainingportions 62 of thespoke openings 60 a and 60 b. - In the illustrated embodiment, the
spoke seal 42 a has atubular section 80 a and a centerannular flange 82 a. The centerannular flange 82 a extends in a circumferential direction about thetubular section 80 a. The centerannular flange 82 a can either contact the interior surface of thetubular section 80 a or be spaced from thetubular section 80 a. The ends 84 a and 86 a of thetubular section 80 a are configured to engage a ring member 88 a and anabutment 90 a of the inner surface of thehub body 38. Of course, the particular shape of the ends 84 a and 86 a will vary depending on the shape of thehub body 38 and its internal components. Preferably, ends 84 a and 86 a of thetubular section 80 a are annular flanges that contact the interior surface of thetubular section 80 a to form an isolated area beneath thespoke openings 60 a. This isolated area beneath thespoke openings 60 a is a continuous annular space. - When the
rear hub 22 is assembled, an axial force is applied to the ends 84 a and 86 a of thetubular section 80 a to form annular seals therebetween. Accordingly, thespoke seal 42 a isolates a first interior section of theinterior passageway 52 from the reminder of theinterior passageway 52. This interior section formed by thespoke seal 42 a is continuous annular first space located beneath thespoke openings 60 a. - The center
annular flange 82 a is preferably aligned with a circumferentially passing through the centers axes C1 of theinsertion portions 61 of the first spokeopenings 60 a. Thus, the centerannular flange 82 a is positioned to axially separate the two retainingportions 62 of each of the first spokeopenings 60 a from each other. The centerannular flange 82 a is also positioned to keepspokes 24 in the retainingportions 62 of the first spokeopenings 60 a. Accordingly, when the enlarged heads 24 c of thespokes 24 are inserted into theinsertion portions 61 of thespoke openings 60 a, the enlarged heads 24 c of thespokes 24 contact the centerannular flange 82 a. The enlarged heads 24 c then pushes or deforms the centerannular flange 82 a one way or the other so that the enlarged heads 24 c extends into theinsertion portions 61 of thespoke openings 60 a. Thespokes 24 are then moved or slid into one of the two retainingportions 62 of each of thespoke openings 60 a. The centerannular flange 82 a will prevent thespokes 24 from accidentally falling out of theinsertion portions 61 of thespoke openings 60 a. Thus, the centerannular flange 82 a aids in the assembly of therear wheel 14. In other words, the centerannular flange 82 a must be moved or deformed again before thespokes 24 can be removed from thespoke openings 60 a . For added resiliency, anannular groove 92 a can be formed in the outer peripheral surface of thecenter flange 82 a. - Similar to the
spoke seal 42 a, the spoke seal 42 b has a tubular section 80 b and a center annular flange 82 b. The centerannular flange 82 a extends in a circumferential direction about thetubular section 80 a. Alternatively, the centerannular flanges 82 a and 82 b of the spoke seals 42 a and 42 b can each have a pair of center annular flanges. The ends 84 b and 86 b of the tubular section 80 b are configured to engage a ring member 88 b and an abutment 90 b of the inner surface of thehub body 38. Of course, the particular shape of the ends 84 b and 86 b will vary depending on the shape of thehub body 38 and its internal components. Preferably, ends 84 b and 86 b of the tubular section 80 b are annular flanges that contact the interior surface of the tubular section 80 b to form an isolated area beneath the spoke openings 60 b. This isolated area beneath the spoke openings 60 b is a continuous annular space. - When the
rear hub 22 is assembled, an axial force is applied to the ends 84 b and 86 b of the tubular section 80 b to form annular seals therebetween. Accordingly, the spoke seal 42 b isolates a second interior section of theinterior passageway 52 from the reminder of theinterior passageway 52. This interior section formed by the spoke seal 42 b is continuous annular second space located beneath the spoke openings 60 b. - Similar to the center
annular flange 82 a, the center annular flange 82 b is preferably aligned with a circumferentially passing through the centers axes C1 of theinsertion portions 61 of the second spoke openings 60 b. Thus, the center annular flange 82 b is positioned to axially separate the two retainingportions 62 of each of the second spoke openings 60 b from each other. The center annular flange 82 b is also positioned to keepspokes 24 in the retainingportions 62 of the second spoke openings 60 b. Accordingly, when the enlarged heads 24 c of thespokes 24 are inserted into theinsertion portions 61 of the spoke openings 60 b, the enlarged heads 24 c of thespokes 24 contact the center annular flange 82 b. The enlarged heads 24 c then pushes or deforms the center annular flange 82 b one way or the other so that the enlarged heads 24 c extends into theinsertion portions 61 of the spoke openings 60 b. Thespokes 24 are then moved or slid into one of the two retainingportions 62 of each of the spoke openings 60 b. The center annular flange 82 b will prevent thespokes 24 from accidentally falling out of theinsertion portions 61 of the spoke openings 60 b. Thus, the center annular flange 82 b aids in the assembly of therear wheel 14. In other words, the center annular flange 82 b must be moved or deformed again before thespokes 24 can be removed from the spoke openings 60 b. For added resiliency, an annular groove 92 b can be formed in the outer peripheral surface of the center flange 82 b. - The freewheels, such as the
freewheel 44, are well known in the bicycle art, and thus, thefreewheel 44 will not be illustrated or discussed in detail herein. Thefreewheel 44 is used to transmit a driving force from the chain to the rear bicycle wheel in one rotation direction only. Thefreewheel 44 allows thebicycle 10 to advance freely without any rotation of the pedals. Thefreewheel 44 is fastened to therear hub 22 as integral part of therear hub 22 in a conventional manner. Thefreewheel 44 has an outertubular part 94, an innertubular part 96 and a one-way clutch 98. The innertubular part 96 is installed radially inwardly of the outertubular part 94 so that the innertubular part 96 is free to rotate relative to the outertubular part 94. The one-way clutch 98 is installed between the outertubular part 94 and innertubular part 96 for transmitting the driving force from the outertubular part 94 to the innertubular part 96 in one rotational direction only. The outertubular part 94 has a plurality of gears or sprockets (not shown) mounted thereon, while the innertubular part 96 is usually mounted on thehub axle 36. - Turning now to FIGS. 15 and 16, the
front hub 22′ is illustrated in accordance with the present invention. Thefront hub 22′ is substantially the same as therear hub 22, except that thefront hub 22′ does not have a freewheel and thespoke openings 60 a′ and 60 b′ are angled in the opposite direction from spokeopenings 60 a and 60 b of therear hub 22. Moreover, thefront hub 22′ is used withspokes 24 and rim 26 discussed above. Since thefront hub 22′ is substantially the same as therear hub 22, thefront hub 22′ will not be discussed or illustrated in detail herein. - The
front hub 22′ basically includes ahub axle 36′, a hub body or shell 38′, afirst bearing assembly 40 a′, a second bearing assembly 40 b′, afirst spoke seal 42 a′, a second spoke seal 42 b′ and aquick release mechanism 46′. Of the parts offront hub 22′, only thehub body 38′ and the first and second spoke seals 42 a′ and 42 b′ are non-conventional parts. The remaining parts offront hub 22′ are relatively conventional, and thus, the remaining parts offront hub 22′ will not be discussed or illustrated in detail herein. - The
hub axle 36′ has a center axis A extending between afirst end 36 a′ and a second end 36 b′. Thequick release mechanism 46′ extends through a center bore 36 c′ of thehub axle 36′ such that thequick release mechanism 46′ is coupled to thehub axle 36′ in a conventional manner. The first and second ends 36 a′ and 36 b′ of thehub axle 36′ are threaded for receiving a pair ofnuts 50 a′ and 50 b′ that applies an axial force on thehub body 38′, the bearingassemblies 40 a′ and 40 b′ and the spoke seals 42 a′ and 42 b′. First andsecond bearing assemblies 40 a′ and 40 b′ rotatably mount thehub body 38′ on thehub axle 36′. - The
hub body 38′ is illustrated in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, thehub body 38′ is a hollow member that defines aninterior passageway 52′ with thehub axle 36′ being rotatably supported therein by the first andsecond bearing assemblies 40 a′ and 40 b′. Thus, thehub body 38′ is a substantially tubular member. Specifically, thehub body 38′ has a center tubular portion 38 c′ with first andsecond end sections 38 a′ and 38 b′ being integral formed with the center tubular portion 38 c′ as a one-piece, unitary member. Thefirst end section 38 a′ has an integrally mounted brakerotor attachment portion 38 d′. - A set of first spoke
openings 60 a′ are provided at thefirst end section 38 a′ of thehub body 38′ for receiving the bent ends 24 b of thespokes 24. Similarly, thesecond end section 38 b′ of thehub body 38′ is provided with a second set of spoke openings 60 b′ for receiving the bent ends 24 b of thespokes 24. In the illustrated embodiment, thefirst end section 38 a′ is provided with nine of the first spokeopenings 60 a′ and thesecond end section 38 b′ is provided with nine of the second spoke openings 60 b′. Thespoke openings 60 a′ and 60 b′ are equally spaced apart about the circumference of thehub body 38′. Each of thespoke openings 60 a′ and 60 b′ are also designed to receive twospokes 24 as explained below. Accordingly, thefront hub 22′ is designed to have thirty-six spokes extending outwardly therefrom in a generally tangential direction. - Preferably, the first and second sets of
spoke openings 60 a′ and 60 b′ are identical. The first and second spokeopenings 60 a′ and 60 b′ are designed to be used with conventionaltangential spokes 24. Of course, it is possible that the first and second sets ofspoke openings 60 a′ and 60 b′ can be different such thattangential spokes 24 are used in one end of thehub body 38′ and a different types of spokes are used in the other end of thehub body 38′. The first spokeopenings 60 a′ are circumferentially arranged around thehub body 38′ adjacent to the brakerotor attachment portion 38 d′. Preferably, the first spokeopenings 60 a′ are spaced axially inward of the brakerotor attachment portion 38 d′ so thatbrake disc rotor 32′ can be easily attached with thebolts 32 a′ andnuts 32 b′. - In this embodiment, the first and second spoke
openings 60 a′ and 60 b′ are elongated slots that are each provided with aninsertion portion 61 ′ and a pair of retainingportions 62′. Accordingly, each of thespoke openings 60 a′ and 60 b′ is designed to have a pair ofspokes 24 retained therein with thespokes 24 extending in opposite directions. - The
insertion portion 61′ of each spoke opening is located between the pair of retainingportions 62′ of each spoke opening. Eachinsertion portion 61′ is formed by a pair of opposedcurved surfaces 64′ that are spaced apart so as to be equal to or slightly larger than the widths or diameters of the enlarged heads 24 c of thespokes 24. Thus, the inner ends (bent ends 24 b with enlarged heads 24 c) of thespokes 24 can be easily inserted into thespoke openings 60 a′ and 60 b′ through theinsertion portions 61′. - The retaining
portions 62′ have smaller widths or diameters than theinsertion portions 61′. More specifically, the diameters or widths of the retainingportions 62′ are smaller than the diameters or widths of the enlarged heads 24 c of thespokes 24 so as to retain thespokes 24 within thespoke openings 60 a′ and 60 b′. The retainingportions 62′ are each preferably defined by a partialcylindrical surface 66′ that is connected to thecurved surfaces 64′ of the associatedinsertion portion 61 ′ by a pair ofstraight surfaces 68′. - The
spoke openings 60 a′ and 60 b′ are formed elongated slots that are angled relative to the axis A′. Accordingly, theinsertion portions 61′ are arranged in a circumferential pattern with one set of the retainingportions 62′ being located axially outward from theinsertion portions 61′ and the other set of retainingportions 62′ being spaced axially inward from theinsertion portions 61′. In other words, a first set of retainingportions 62′ form an outer circumferential row of the retainingportions 62′, and a second set of the retainingportions 62′ form an inner circumferential row of retainingportions 62′ with theinsertion portions 61 ′ being located between the rows of retainingportions 62′. - Preferably, the
insertion portion 61′ and the retainingportions 62′ of each spoke opening are formed simultaneously. Also preferably, the inner and outer ends of the retainingportions 62′ of thespoke openings 60 a′ and 60 b′ are tapered to avoid sharp edges engaging thespokes 24. - Each of the
insertion portions 61′ has a center longitudinal axis C1′ that passes through the center axis A′ of thehub axle 36′. The retainingportions 62′, on the other hand, have center longitudinal axes C2′ that are parallel to the center longitudinal axis C1′ of theinsertion portion 61′ for each of thespoke openings 60 a′ and 60 b′. Thus, the center longitudinal axes C2′ of the retainingportions 62′ do not pass through the center axis of thehub axle 36′. Rather, the center longitudinal axes C2′ of the retainingportions 62′ are angled with respect to center axis A′. Preferably, the center longitudinal axis C2′ of each retainingportion 62′ is angled between about 5° and about 20° from a radial orientation in thehub body 38′. In the illustrated embodiment, the retainingportions 62′ are angled about 10° with respect to center axis A for a twenty-six inch rim with thirty-six spoke holes and a hub having a diameter approximately 22 millimeters. For a twenty-six inch rim with thirty-two spoke holes and a hub having a diameter approximately 22 millimeters, the retainingportions 62′ are preferably angled about 11° with respect to center axis A′. This angled configuration of the retainingportions 62′ results in thestraight sections 24 a of thespokes 24 being easily arranged in a tangential direction relative to an imaginary circle centered on thehub body 38′. Moreover, this angled configuration of the retainingportions 62′ allows thestraight sections 24 a of thespokes 24 to be easily aligned with the spoke holes 34 of therim 26 without significant bending of thespokes 24. In the illustrated embodiment, thespokes 24 are not bent more than about five degrees. - If the retaining
portions 62′ were formed with their center axis passing through the center axis A of thehub axle 36′, then theconventional spokes 24 would be placed under excessive bending forces, which could result in thespokes 24 breaking during use of the wheel. In particular, if the retainingportions 62′ have their center axes passing through the center of thehub axle 36′, then the centerstraight section 24 a would have to be bent from 95° to 108° for a twenty-six inch rim with thirty-six spoke holes and a hub having a diameter approximately 22 millimeters. In contrast, with the retainingportions 62′ of thespokes 24 being angled, the amount of bending of thespokes 24 can be reduced and/or eliminated. - The brake
rotor attachment portion 38 d′ is integrally formed with the center tubular portion 38 c′ of thehub body 38′ as a one-piece, unitary member. In the illustrated embodiment, the brakerotor attachment portion 38 d′ is formed with six attachment members or points with throughbores 70′. While six individual attachment points are illustrated, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that fewer or more attachment points can be utilized. Moreover, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that the attachment portions could be a continuous flange, if needed and/or desired. The through bore 70′ can be threaded or unthreaded. By using throughbores 70′ instead of blind bores, thefront hub 22′ can be easily manufactured at a relatively lower cost. - In the case of unthreaded through
bores 70′, thebolts 32 a′ extend into openings in thebrake disc rotor 32′ and then through the through bores 70′. The free ends of thebolts 32 a′ have nuts 32 b′ threaded thereon for attaching thebrake disc rotor 32′ to thehub body 38′. This arrangement allows thehub body 38′ and the brakerotor attachment portion 38 d′ to be formed out of the same a lightweight material, such as aluminum. Moreover, thehub body 38′ does not need to be replaced if the through bores 70′ become damaged. - In the case of threaded through
bores 70′, thebolts 32 a′ extend into openings in thebrake disc rotor 32′ and then threaded into the through bores 70′. Optionally, the free ends of thebolts 32 a′ can have the nuts 32 b′ threaded thereon for more securely attaching thebrake disc rotor 32′ to thehub body 38′. In this arrangement, if the threads of throughbores 70′ become damaged, thehub body 38′ does not need to be replaced. Rather, thebolts 32 a′ and the nuts 32 b′ securely attach thebrake disc rotor 32′ to thehub body 38′. -
Bearing assemblies 40 a′ and 40 b′ rotatably supportshub body 38′ onhub axle 36′. The bearingassembly 40 a′ basically includes a plurality of balls 74 a′ located between an inner race member 76 a′ and an outer race member 78 a′. Similarly, the bearing assembly 40 b′ basically includes a plurality of balls 74 b′ located between an inner race member 76 b′ and an outer race member 78 b′. Since bearingassemblies 40 a′ and 40 b′ are well know in the bicycle art, they will not be discussed or illustrated in detail herein. - Turning now to FIGS. 17 and 18, the spoke seals42 a′ and 42 b′ are arranged in the
interior passageway 52′ of thehub body 38′ so as to be adjacent thespoke openings 60 a′ and 60 b′ to isolate thespoke openings 60 a′ and 60 b′ from thehub axle 36. In other words, the spoke seals 42 a′ and 42 b′ prevent contaminants from entering thefront hub 22′ through thespoke openings 60 a′ and 60 b′. The spoke seals 42 a′ and 42 b′ are preferably resilient members that are constructed of rubber or the like. Of course, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that the seals could be created from other types of materials, depending upon their shape and arrangement. Moreover, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that while the spoke seals 42 a′ and 42 b′ are illustrated as a pair of separate sealing members, the spoke seals 42 a′ and 42 b′ can be formed as a one-piece, unitary member. - In the preferred embodiment, the spoke seals42 a′ and 42 b′ also aid in the assembly of the
spokes 24 with thehub body 38′ and therim 26. Specifically, in the preferred embodiments, theseals 42 a′ and 42 b′ are arranged so that they restrain movement of thespokes 24 within thespoke openings 60 a′ and 60 b′ so that the bent ends 24 b of thespokes 24 stays in the retainingportions 62′ of thespoke openings 60 a′ and 60 b′. - In the illustrated embodiment, the
spoke seal 42 a′ has atubular section 80 a′ and a centerannular flange 82 a′. The centerannular flange 82 a′ extends in a circumferential direction about thetubular section 80 a′. The ends 84 a′ and 86 a′ of thetubular section 80 a′ are configured to engage a ring member 88 a′ and anabutment 90 a′ of the inner surface of thehub body 38′. Of course, the particular shape of the ends 84 a′ and 86 a′ will vary depending on the shape of thehub body 38′ and its internal components. In other words, thespoke seal 42 a′ functions the same way as thespoke seal 42 a of therear hub 22, but has a slightly modified ends 84 a′ and 86 a′ to accommodatefront hub 22′. - When the
front hub 22′ is assembled, an axial force is applied to the ends 84 a′ and 86 a′ of thetubular section 80 a′ to form annular seals therebetween. Accordingly, thespoke seal 42 a′ isolates a first interior section of theinterior passageway 52′ from the reminder of theinterior passageway 52′. This interior section formed by thespoke seal 42 a′ is continuous annular first space located beneath thespoke openings 60 a′. - The center
annular flange 82 a′ is preferably aligned with a circumferentially passing through the centers axes C1′ of theinsertion portions 61 ′ of the first spokeopenings 60 a′. Thus, the centerannular flange 82 a′ is positioned to axially separate the two retainingportions 62′ of each of the first spokeopenings 60 a′ from each other. The centerannular flange 82 a′ is also positioned to keepspokes 24 in the retainingportions 62′ of the first spokeopenings 60 a′. Accordingly, when the enlarged heads 24 c of thespokes 24 are inserted into theinsertion portions 61 of thespoke openings 60 a′, the enlarged heads 24 c of thespokes 24 contact the centerannular flange 82 a′. The enlarged heads 24 c then pushes or deforms the centerannular flange 82 a′ one way or the other so that the enlarged heads 24 c extends into theinsertion portions 61′ of thespoke openings 60 a′. Thespokes 24 are then moved or slid into one of the two retainingportions 62′ of each of thespoke openings 60 a. The centerannular flange 82 a′ will prevent thespokes 24 from accidentally falling out of theinsertion portions 61′ of thespoke openings 60 a′. Thus, the centerannular flange 82 a′ aids in the assembly of thefront wheel 16. In other words, the centerannular flange 82 a′ must be moved or deformed again before thespokes 24 can be removed from thespoke openings 60 a′. For added resiliency, anannular groove 92 a′ can be formed in the outer peripheral surface of thecenter flange 82 a′. - Similar to the
spoke seal 42 a′, the spoke seal 42 b′ has a tubular section 80 b′ and a center annular flange 82 b′. The centerannular flange 82 a′ extends in a circumferential direction about thetubular section 80 a′. Alternatively, the centerannular flanges 82 a′ and 82 b′ of the spoke seals 42 a′ and 42 b′ can each have a pair of center annular flanges. The ends 84 b′ and 86 b′ of the tubular section 80 b′ are configured to engage a ring member 88 b′ and an abutment 90 b′ of the inner surface of thehub body 38′. Of course, the particular shape of the ends 84 b′ and 86 b′ will vary depending on the shape of thehub body 38′ and its internal components. When thefront hub 22′ is assembled, an axial force is applied to the ends 84 b′ and 86 b′ of the tubular section 80 b′ to form annular seals therebetween. Accordingly, the spoke seal 42 b′ isolates a second interior section of theinterior passageway 52′ from the reminder of theinterior passageway 52′. This interior section formed by the spoke seal 42 b′ is continuous annular second space located beneath the spoke openings 60 b′. - Similar to the center
annular flange 82 a′, the center annular flange 82 b′ is preferably aligned with a circumferentially passing through the centers axes C1 of theinsertion portions 61′ of the second spoke openings 60 b′. Thus, the center annular flange 82 b′ is positioned to axially separate the two retainingportions 62′ of each of the second spoke openings 60 b′ from each other. The center annular flange 82 b′ is also positioned to keepspokes 24 in the retainingportions 62′ of the second spoke openings 60 b′. Accordingly, when the enlarged heads 24 c of thespokes 24 are inserted into theinsertion portions 61′ of the spoke openings 60 b′, the enlarged heads 24 c of thespokes 24 contact the center annular flange 82 b′. The enlarged heads 24 c then pushes or deforms the center annular flange 82 b′ one way or the other so that the enlarged heads 24 c extends into theinsertion portions 61′ of the spoke openings 60 b′. Thespokes 24 are then moved or slid into one of the two retainingportions 62 of each of the spoke openings 60 b′. The center annular flange 82 b′ will prevent thespokes 24 from accidentally falling out of theinsertion portions 61′ of the spoke openings 60 b′. Thus, the center annular flange 82 b′ aids in the assembly of thefront wheel 16. In other words, the center annular flange 82 b′ must be moved or deformed again before thespokes 24 can be removed from the spoke openings 60 b′. For added resiliency, an annular groove 92 b′ can be formed in the outer peripheral surface of the center flange 82 b′. - As seen in FIGS. 19 and 20, a
spoke opening cover 100 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated for use with thefront hub 22′ of FIGS. 15 and 16. Of course, thespoke opening cover 100 can be used with therear hub 22 of FIGS. 4 and 5 by turning thespoke opening cover 100 inside out to reverse the direction of theslits 102. Although for purposes of brevity, thespoke opening cover 100 will only be illustrated with thefront hub 22′. - The
spoke opening cover 100 is used to limit or prevent contaminants from entering thehub body spoke openings spoke opening cover 100 can be used instead of the spoke seals 42 a, 42 a′ and 42 b, 42 b′, or in conjunction with the spoke seals 42 a, 42 a′ and 42 b, 42 b′. Thespoke opening cover 100 basically has a resilienttubular body 101 constructed from a flexible material such as rubber. Thespoke opening cover 100 has a plurality ofslits 102 spaced circumferential around thetubular body 101. Thetubular body 101 of thespoke opening cover 100 is configured and dimensioned to snugly fit around thebicycle hub 22′ so that the spoke openings are aligned with the slits. Thespoke opening cover 100 is installed on each end of thehub body 38′ prior to installation ofspokes 24. Since this embodiment is used with thebicycle hubs slits 102 extend diagonally relative a center axis of the tubular body. Theslits 102 have enlargedopenings 104 at each end. Theenlarged openings 104 align with the retainingportions 62′ of thespoke openings 60 a′ or 60 b′, while the center sections of theslits 102 overlie theinsertion portions 61′ of thespoke openings 60 a′ or 60 b′. Also, the center sections of theslits 102 hold thespokes 24 in the retainingportions 62′ to aid in the assembly of the wheel. - As seen in FIGS. 21 and 22, a
spoke opening cover 100′ in accordance with an alternate embodiment of the present invention is illustrated for use with the bicycle either therear hub 22 of FIGS. 4 and 5 or thefront hub 22′ of FIGS. 15 and 16. Although for purposes of brevity, thespoke opening cover 100′ will only be illustrated with thefront hub 22′. - The
spoke opening cover 100′ is used to limit or prevent contaminants from entering thehub body spoke openings spoke opening cover 100′ can be used instead of the spoke seals 42 a, 42 a′ and 42 b, 42 b′, or in conjunction with the spoke seals 42 a, 42 a′ and 42 b, 42 b′. In this embodiment, thespoke opening cover 100′ is a thin flexible strip orbody portion 101 ′ having afirst end 102′ and asecond end 104′ with a predetermined length therebetween. Thefirst end 102′ is provided with afirst protrusion 106′, while thesecond end 104′ is provided with asecond protrusion 108′. The first andsecond protrusions 106′ and 108′ are configured and dimensioned to be frictionally retained with theinsertion portions 61′ of thespoke openings 60 a′ or 60 b′. Accordingly, the first andsecond protrusions 106′ and 108′ have predetermined widths or diameters that are larger that a width of an enlarged head 24 c of aspoke 24. Preferably, thebody portion 101′ has a predetermined width that is larger that the widths or diameters of the enlarged heads 24 c of thespokes 24. In other words, thebody portion 101′ of thespoke opening cover 100′ has a predetermined width that is larger than a width ofinsertion portions 61′ of thespoke openings 60 a′ or 60 b′. Thespoke opening cover 100′ is designed to be installed on each end of thehub body 38′ after thespokes 24 have been installed into thespoke openings 60 a′ and 60 b′. - As seen in FIGS.23-25, a
spoke opening cover 100″ in accordance with another alternate embodiment of the present invention is illustrated for use with the bicycle either therear hub 22 of FIGS. 4 and 5 or thefront hub 22′ of FIGS. 15 and 16. Although for purposes of brevity, thespoke opening cover 100″ will only be illustrated with thefront hub 22′. - The
spoke opening cover 100″ is used to limit or prevent contaminants from entering thehub body spoke openings spoke opening cover 100″ can be used instead of the spoke seals 42 a, 42 a′ and 42 b, 42 b′, or in conjunction with the spoke seals 42 a, 42 a′ and 42 b, 42 b′. In this embodiment, thespoke opening cover 100″ is a thin flexible strip orbody portion 101″ having afirst end 102″ and asecond end 104″ with a predetermined length therebetween. - The
first end 102″ is provided with atubular connector 106″, while thesecond end 104″ is provided with amating connector 108″. Thetubular connector 106″ is a protrusion that is configured and dimensioned to be received in one of theinsertion portions 61′ of thespoke openings 60 a′ or 60 b′. Themating connector 108′ is a split protrusion in the form of a resilient detent. Thesecond end 104″ is configured and dimensioned to overlap thefirst end 102″ withmating connector 108″ being retained in the bore oftubular protrusion 106″ via a snap-fit. The length ofbody portion 101″ should be such that spoke openingcover 100″ snugly fits around thehub body 38′ when thedetent 108″ is snap-fitted into thetubular protrusion 106″. - Preferably, the
body portion 101″ has a predetermined width that is larger than the widths or diameters of the enlarged heads 24 c of thespokes 24. In other words, thebody portion 101″ of thespoke opening cover 100″ has a predetermined width that is larger than a width ofinsertion portions 61′ of thespoke openings 60 a′ or 60 b′. Thespoke opening cover 100″ is designed to be installed on each end of thehub body 38′ after thespokes 24 have been installed into thespoke openings 60 a′ and 60 b′. - Referring now to FIGS.26-29, bicycle rear and
front hubs front hubs spoke hole openings openings front hubs front hubs - Referring to FIGS. 26 and 27, the
rear hub 122 basically includes ahub axle 136, ahub body 138, afirst bearing assembly 140 a, a second bearing assembly 140 b, afirst spoke seal 142 a, a second spoke seal 142 b, afreewheel 144 and aquick release mechanism 146. Thehub axle 136 has a center axis A extending between afirst end 136 a and a second end 136 b. - The
quick release mechanism 146 extends through a center bore 136 c of thehub axle 136 such that thequick release mechanism 146 is coupled to thehub axle 136 in a conventional manner. The first and second ends 136 a and 136 b of thehub axle 136 are threaded for receiving a pair ofnuts 150 a and 150 b that applies an axial force on thehub body 138, the bearingassemblies 140 a and 140 b, the spoke seals 142 a and 142 b, and thefreewheel 144. First andsecond bearing assemblies 140 a and 140 b rotatably mount thehub body 138 with thefreewheel 144 on thehub axle 136. Thefreewheel 144 allows thehub axle 136 to rotate freely relative to thehub body 138 in one direction, but fixedly couples thehub axle 136 relative to thehub body 138 in the opposite rotational direction. - A set of first spoke
openings 160 a are provided at the first end section 138 a of thehub body 138 for receiving the bent ends 24 b of thespokes 24. Similarly, the second end section 138 b of thehub body 138 is provided with a second set of spoke openings 160 b for receiving the bent ends 24 b of thespokes 24. In the illustrated embodiment, the first end section 138 a is provided with eighteen of the first spokeopenings 160 a and the second end section 138 b is provided with eighteen of the second spoke openings 160 b. The spokeopenings 160 a and 160 b are grouped into pairs that are equally spaced apart about the circumference of thehub body 138. Accordingly, therear hub 122 is designed to have thirty-six spokes extending outwardly therefrom in a generally tangential direction. - Preferably, the first and second sets of
spoke openings 160 a and 160 b are arranged identical. The first and second spokeopenings 160 a and 160 b are designed to be used with conventionaltangential spokes 24. Of course, it is possible that the first and second sets ofspoke openings 160 a and 160 b can be different such thattangential spokes 24 are used in one end of thehub body 138 and a different types of spokes are used in the other end of thehub body 138. The first spokeopenings 160 a are circumferentially arranged around thehub body 138 adjacent to the brakerotor attachment portion 138 d. Preferably, the first spokeopenings 160 a are spaced axially inward of the brakerotor attachment portion 138 d so thatbrake disc rotor 132 can be easily attached with the bolts 132 a and nuts 132 b. - In this embodiment, the
spoke openings 160 a and 160 b are arranged to form two circumferential rows ofspoke openings 160 a at end section 138 a and two circumferential rows of spoke openings 160 b at end section 138 b. Each of thespoke openings 160 a and 160 b has an insertion portion 161 and a retainingportion 162. Adjacent pairs of thespoke openings 160 a and 160 b are oriented in opposite directions so that thespokes 24 extend in generally opposite directions from thehub body 138. - Each insertion portion161 is formed by a curved or partial cylindrical surface 164 that has a width or diameter that is equal to or slightly larger than the widths or diameters of the enlarged heads 24 c of the
spokes 24. Thus, the inner ends (bent ends 24 b with enlarged heads 24 c) of thespokes 24 can be easily inserted into thespoke openings 160 a and 160 b through the insertion portions 161. - The retaining
portions 162 have smaller widths or diameters than the insertion portions 161. More specifically, the diameters or widths of the retainingportions 162 are smaller than the diameters or widths of the enlarged heads 24 c of thespokes 24 so as to retain thespokes 24 within thespoke openings 160 a and 160 b. The retainingportions 162 are each preferably defined by a partialcylindrical surface 166 that is connected to the curved surface 164 of the associated insertion portion 161. - Preferably, the insertion portion161 and the retaining
portions 162 of each spoke opening are formed simultaneously. Also preferably, the inner and outer ends of the retainingportions 162 of thespoke openings 160 a and 160 b are tapered to avoid sharp edges engaging thespokes 24. - Similar to the first embodiment, discussed above, each of the insertion portions161 has a center longitudinal axis that passes through the center axis A of the
hub axle 136. The retainingportions 162, on the other hand, have center longitudinal axes that are parallel to the center longitudinal axis of the associated insertion portion 161 for each of thespoke openings 160 a and 160 b. Thus, the center longitudinal axes of the retainingportions 162 do not pass through the center axis of thehub axle 136, similar to the first embodiment. Rather, the center longitudinal axes of the retainingportions 162 are angled with respect to center axis A. Preferably, the center longitudinal axis of each retainingportion 162 is angled between about 5° and about 20° from a radial orientation in thehub body 138. In the illustrated embodiment, the retainingportions 162 are angled about 10° with respect to center axis A for a twenty-six inch rim with thirty-six spoke holes and a hub having a diameter approximately 22 millimeters. For a twenty-six inch rim with thirty-two spoke holes and a hub having a diameter approximately 22 millimeters, the retainingportions 162 are preferably angled about 11° with respect to center axis A. This angled configuration of the retainingportions 162 results in thestraight sections 24 a of thespokes 24 being easily arranged in a tangential direction relative to an imaginary circle centered on thehub body 138. Moreover, this angled configuration of the retainingportions 162 allows thestraight sections 24 a of thespokes 24 to be easily aligned with the spoke holes of the rim without significant bending of thespokes 24. In the illustrated embodiment, thespokes 24 are not bent more than about five degrees. - Referring to FIGS. 28 and 29, the
front hub 122′ basically includes ahub axle 136′, ahub body 138′, afirst bearing assembly 140 a′, a second bearing assembly 140 b′, afirst spoke seal 142 a′, a second spoke seal 142 b′, and aquick release mechanism 146′. Thehub axle 136′ has a center axis A′ extending between afirst end 136 a′ and a second end 136 b′. - The
quick release mechanism 146′ extends through a center bore 136 c′ of thehub axle 136′ such that thequick release mechanism 146′ is coupled to thehub axle 136′ in a conventional manner. The first and second ends 136 a′ and 136 b′ of thehub axle 136′ are threaded for receiving a pair ofnuts 150 a′ and 150 b′ that applies an axial force on thehub body 138′, the bearingassemblies 140 a′ and 140 b′ and the spoke seals 142 a′ and 142 b′. First andsecond bearing assemblies 140 a′ and 140 b′ rotatably mount thehub body 138′ on thehub axle 136′. - A set of first spoke
openings 160 a′ are provided at the first end section 138 a′ of thehub body 138′ for receiving the bent ends 24 b of thespokes 24. Similarly, the second end section 138 b′ of thehub body 138′ is provided with a second set of spoke openings 160 b′ for receiving the bent ends 24 b of thespokes 24. In the illustrated embodiment, the first end section 138 a′ is provided with eighteen of the first spokeopenings 160 a′ and the second end section 138 b′ is provided with eighteen of the second spoke openings 160 b′. The spokeopenings 160 a′ and 160 b′ are grouped into pairs that are equally spaced apart about the circumference of thehub body 138′. Accordingly, thefront hub 122′ is designed to have thirty-six spokes extending outwardly therefrom in a generally tangential direction. - The first spoke
openings 160 a′ are circumferentially arranged around thehub body 138′ adjacent to the brakerotor attachment portion 138 d′. Preferably, the first spokeopenings 160 a′ are spaced axially inward of the brakerotor attachment portion 138 d′ so thatbrake disc rotor 132′ can be easily attached with the bolts 132 a′ and nuts 132 b′. - In this embodiment, the
spoke openings 160 a′ and 160 b′ are arranged to form two circumferential rows ofspoke openings 160 a′ at end section 138 a′ and two circumferential rows of spoke openings 160 b′ at end section 138 b′. Each of thespoke openings 160 a′ and 160 b′ has an insertion portion 161′ and a retainingportion 162′. Adjacent pairs of thespoke openings 160 a′ and 160 b′ are oriented in opposite directions so that thespokes 24 extend in generally opposite directions from thehub body 138′. - Each insertion portion161′ is formed by a curved or partial cylindrical surface 164′ that has a width or diameter that is equal to or slightly larger than the widths or diameters of the enlarged heads 24 c of the
spokes 24. Thus, the inner ends (bent ends 24 b with enlarged heads 24 c) of thespokes 24 can be easily inserted into thespoke openings 160 a′ and 160 b′ through the insertion portions 161′. - The retaining
portions 162′ have smaller widths or diameters than the insertion portions 161′. More specifically, the diameters or widths of the retainingportions 162′ are smaller than the diameters or widths of the enlarged heads 24 c of thespokes 24 so as to retain thespokes 24 within thespoke openings 160 a′ and 160 b′. The retainingportions 162′ are each preferably defined by a partialcylindrical surface 166′ that is connected to the curved surface 164′ of the associated insertion portion 161′. - Preferably, the insertion portion161′ and the retaining
portions 162′ of each spoke opening are formed simultaneously. Also preferably, the inner and outer ends of the retainingportions 162′ of thespoke openings 160 a′ and 160 b′ are tapered to avoid sharp edges engaging thespokes 24. - Similar to the first embodiment, discussed above, each of the insertion portions161′ has a center longitudinal axis that passes through the center axis A′ of the
hub axle 136′. The retainingportions 162′, on the other hand, have center longitudinal axes that are parallel to the center longitudinal axis of the associated insertion portion 161′ for each of thespoke openings 160 a′ and 160 b′. Thus, the center longitudinal axes of the retainingportions 162′ do not pass through the center axis of thehub axle 136′, similar to the first embodiment. Rather, the center longitudinal axes of the retainingportions 162′ are angled with respect to center axis A′. Preferably, the center longitudinal axis of each retainingportion 162′ is angled between about 5° and about 20° from a radial orientation in thehub body 138′. In the illustrated embodiment, the retainingportions 162′ are angled about 10° with respect to center axis A′ for a twenty-six inch rim with thirty-six spoke holes and a hub having a diameter approximately 22 millimeters. For a twenty-six inch rim with thirty-two spoke holes and a hub having a diameter approximately 22 millimeters, the retainingportions 162′ are preferably angled about 11° with respect to center axis A′. This angled configuration of the retainingportions 162′ results in thestraight sections 24 a of thespokes 24 being easily arranged in a tangential direction relative to an imaginary circle centered on thehub body 138′. Moreover, this angled configuration of the retainingportions 162′ allows thestraight sections 24 a of thespokes 24 to be easily aligned with the spoke holes of the rim without significant bending of thespokes 24. In the illustrated embodiment, thespokes 24 are not bent more than about five degrees. - While only selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the present invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that various changes and modifications can be made herein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. Furthermore, the foregoing description of the embodiments according to the present invention are provided for illustration only, and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.
Claims (20)
1. A bicycle hub for use with bicycle spokes, said bicycle hub comprising:
a hub axle having a center axis extending between a first end and a second end; and
a hub body having a center tubular portion defining an interior passageway with said hub axle being rotatably supported therein, a brake rotor attachment portion located at a first end section of said center tubular portion, and a plurality of first spoke openings adjacent said brake rotor attachment portion,
said first spoke openings extending through said first end section of said center tubular portion of said hub body,
said brake rotor attachment portion being integrally formed with said center tubular portion as a one-piece, unitary member, said brake rotor attachment portion having a plurality of through bores.
2. A bicycle hub according to claim 1 , wherein
said through bores are unthreaded bores.
3. A bicycle hub according to claim 2 , further comprising
a bolt located in each of said through bores and a nut threadedly coupled to each of said bolts.
4. A bicycle hub according to claim 1 , further comprising
a bolt located in each of said through bores and a nut threadedly coupled to each of said bolts.
5. A bicycle hub according to claim 1 , wherein
said through bores are threaded bores.
6. A bicycle hub according to claim 5 , further comprising
a bolt threadedly coupled in each of said through bores.
7. A bicycle hub according to claim 6 , wherein
a nut threadedly coupled to each of said bolts.
8. A bicycle hub according to claim 1 , wherein
said center tubular portion with said brake rotor attachment portion being constructed of aluminum.
9. A bicycle hub according to claim 1 , wherein
said brake rotor attachment portion has six of said through bores.
10. A bicycle hub according to claim 1 , further comprising
a freewheel coupled to said second end of said axle adjacent a second end section of said hub body.
11. A bicycle hub according to claim 1 , wherein
said hub body has at least eight of said first spoke openings.
12. A bicycle hub according to claim 1 , wherein
said hub body has at least sixteen of said first spoke openings.
13. A bicycle hub according to claim 1 , wherein
each of said first spoke openings has a first insertion portion with a large width that permits an enlarged head portion of a spoke to pass therethrough and a first retaining portion with a width that is smaller than said width of said first insertion portion to retain the enlarged head portion of the spoke therein.
14. A bicycle hub according to claim 13 , wherein
each of said first spoke openings includes a second additional retaining portion to retain the enlarged head portions of two spokes within each of said first spoke openings.
15. A bicycle hub according to claim 13 , wherein
said through bores are unthreaded bores.
16. A bicycle hub according to claim 15 , further comprising
a bolt located in each of said through bores and a nut threadedly coupled to each of said bolts.
17. A bicycle hub according to claim 13 , wherein
said through bores are threaded bores.
18. A bicycle hub according to claim 17 , further comprising
a bolt threadedly coupled in each of said through bores.
19. A bicycle hub according to claim 18 , further comprising
a nut threadedly coupled to each of said bolts.
20. A bicycle hub according to claim 1 , wherein
said hub body further includes a set of second spoke openings circumferentially arranged around said hub body at a second end section that is axially spaced from said first spoke openings.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US09/964,772 US6431657B2 (en) | 2000-01-31 | 2001-09-28 | Bicycle hub for disc brake |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US09/494,543 US6352314B1 (en) | 2000-01-31 | 2000-01-31 | Bicycle hub for disc brake |
US09/964,772 US6431657B2 (en) | 2000-01-31 | 2001-09-28 | Bicycle hub for disc brake |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/494,543 Division US6352314B1 (en) | 2000-01-31 | 2000-01-31 | Bicycle hub for disc brake |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20020008422A1 true US20020008422A1 (en) | 2002-01-24 |
US6431657B2 US6431657B2 (en) | 2002-08-13 |
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ID=23964899
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Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/494,543 Expired - Fee Related US6352314B1 (en) | 2000-01-31 | 2000-01-31 | Bicycle hub for disc brake |
US09/964,772 Expired - Fee Related US6431657B2 (en) | 2000-01-31 | 2001-09-28 | Bicycle hub for disc brake |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/494,543 Expired - Fee Related US6352314B1 (en) | 2000-01-31 | 2000-01-31 | Bicycle hub for disc brake |
Country Status (5)
Country | Link |
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US (2) | US6352314B1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1122096A3 (en) |
JP (1) | JP3619458B2 (en) |
CN (1) | CN1275784C (en) |
TW (1) | TW524761B (en) |
Cited By (4)
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US20060191760A1 (en) * | 2005-02-28 | 2006-08-31 | Shimano Inc. | Internally geared bicycle hub cover |
US20070045079A1 (en) * | 2005-07-29 | 2007-03-01 | Shimano Inc. | Cap member for internally geared bicycle hub |
US20100194183A1 (en) * | 2009-02-03 | 2010-08-05 | Pi-Yun Chiang | Bicycle hub assembly |
US20130088075A1 (en) * | 2011-08-17 | 2013-04-11 | Stefan Spahr | Bicycle component and method for mounting of a bicycle component |
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US6409281B1 (en) * | 2000-12-04 | 2002-06-25 | Shimano Inc. | Bicycle hub with spacer and detachable freewheel |
US6485108B1 (en) * | 2001-05-31 | 2002-11-26 | Shimano Inc. | Bicycle hub |
US6540306B2 (en) | 2001-06-29 | 2003-04-01 | Shimano Inc. | Bicycle disc brake hub |
CA2415809A1 (en) | 2002-01-09 | 2003-07-09 | First Principles Engineering Inc. | Hub adapter for a bicycle disc brake |
JP3732182B2 (en) | 2003-01-09 | 2006-01-05 | 株式会社シマノ | Bicycle hub |
JP2005030565A (en) * | 2003-07-11 | 2005-02-03 | Shimano Inc | Disk rotor for bicycle |
US7029075B2 (en) * | 2004-02-20 | 2006-04-18 | Shimano Inc. | Bicycle hub sealing assembly |
DE602005003547T2 (en) * | 2005-01-27 | 2008-10-23 | Shimano Inc., Sakai | Fahrradantriebsnabe |
EP1724122A1 (en) * | 2005-05-16 | 2006-11-22 | Campagnolo S.R.L. | Spoke for a bicycle wheel and bicycle wheel comprising such a spoke |
US7461904B2 (en) * | 2005-06-17 | 2008-12-09 | Shimano Inc. | Bicycle hub sealing structure |
US7837213B2 (en) * | 2007-04-16 | 2010-11-23 | Trek Bicycle Corporation | Bicycle rear wheel suspension system |
JP2011201398A (en) * | 2010-03-25 | 2011-10-13 | Honda Motor Co Ltd | Motorcycle wheel |
TW201233919A (en) * | 2011-02-15 | 2012-08-16 | William B Shook | Bicycle and ring thereof |
US9897154B2 (en) * | 2011-03-31 | 2018-02-20 | Gunite Corporation | Disk brake hub assembly |
US10711857B2 (en) * | 2015-05-14 | 2020-07-14 | Shimano Inc. | Bicycle disc brake rotor |
DE102016107755A1 (en) * | 2016-04-26 | 2017-10-26 | Dt Swiss Ag | Hub and impeller |
US10480601B2 (en) * | 2016-06-22 | 2019-11-19 | Sram, Llc | Heat dissipating brake rotor |
IT201700116847A1 (en) * | 2017-10-17 | 2019-04-17 | Alfonso Orfello | SELECTION SYSTEM OF THE TRANSMISSION REPORT IN BICYCLES OR SIMILAR |
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2000
- 2000-01-31 US US09/494,543 patent/US6352314B1/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2000-10-13 TW TW089121403A patent/TW524761B/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2000-10-30 CN CN00133709.2A patent/CN1275784C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2001
- 2001-01-31 JP JP2001023007A patent/JP3619458B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2001-01-31 EP EP01102232A patent/EP1122096A3/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2001-09-28 US US09/964,772 patent/US6431657B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Cited By (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20060191760A1 (en) * | 2005-02-28 | 2006-08-31 | Shimano Inc. | Internally geared bicycle hub cover |
US7559612B2 (en) * | 2005-02-28 | 2009-07-14 | Shimano Inc. | Internally geared bicycle hub and cover therefor |
US20070045079A1 (en) * | 2005-07-29 | 2007-03-01 | Shimano Inc. | Cap member for internally geared bicycle hub |
US7478885B2 (en) * | 2005-07-29 | 2009-01-20 | Shimano Inc. | Cap member for internally geared bicycle hub |
US20100194183A1 (en) * | 2009-02-03 | 2010-08-05 | Pi-Yun Chiang | Bicycle hub assembly |
US8038225B2 (en) * | 2009-02-03 | 2011-10-18 | Joy Industrial Co., Ltd. | Bicycle hub assembly |
US20130088075A1 (en) * | 2011-08-17 | 2013-04-11 | Stefan Spahr | Bicycle component and method for mounting of a bicycle component |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP1122096A2 (en) | 2001-08-08 |
CN1275784C (en) | 2006-09-20 |
CN1306913A (en) | 2001-08-08 |
JP2001246904A (en) | 2001-09-11 |
US6352314B1 (en) | 2002-03-05 |
EP1122096A3 (en) | 2005-08-31 |
US6431657B2 (en) | 2002-08-13 |
JP3619458B2 (en) | 2005-02-09 |
TW524761B (en) | 2003-03-21 |
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