WO2017106336A1

WO2017106336A1 - Bicycle pedal configured for shoes of various height and shape

Info

Publication number: WO2017106336A1
Application number: PCT/US2016/066643
Authority: WO
Inventors: Nevena ROUSSEVA; Muhammad TAUQEER
Original assignee: Rousseva Nevena
Priority date: 2015-12-15
Filing date: 2016-12-14
Publication date: 2017-06-22

Abstract

A bicycle pedal adapted for shoes of differing height and shape, such as high-heeled shoes, platform shoes, clogs, sneakers, cowboy boots, work boots, and the like. In one embodiment, the pedal includes a frame having a front upper support surface and a rear upper support surface, an inner side support wall and an outer side support wall, and a curved planar center cavity defined between the front upper support surface and a rear upper support surface and joined at respective sides thereof to the inner side support wall and the outer side support wall. The pedal may optionally include an insert removably disposed within the curved planar center cavity and having an external shape which corresponds to the contours of curved planar center cavity.

Description

BICYCLE PEDAL CONFIGURED FOR SHOES

OF VARIOUS HEIGHT AND SHAPE

FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to bicycle pedals suitable for use with shoes of various height and shape.

BACKGROUND

[0002] A conventional bicycle pedal is typically rotatably mounted on a crank arm and typically includes a simple platform on which a user's foot rests during use. Enhancements to the conventional pedal include cage pedals and clip-less pedals. The cage pedals have an adjustable strap stretching across the width of the pedal that is tightened against the shoe of the rider. The clip-less pedal utilizes a cleat mounted on the bottom portion of a corresponding shoe that selectively engages a clip of the pedal for a secure connection.

[0003] The clip-less pedals are generally geared toward professional riders because they allow for improved pedaling efficiency. However, the clip-less pedals require special shoes and may be difficult to disconnect during accidents, which raises the risk of injury.

[0004] With regard to cage pedals, the strap has to be adjusted and the pedals offer a less stable connection to the user, and thus decreased pedaling efficiency over conventional platform pedals. Cage pedals are also harder to disconnect from during accidents, especially when over-tightened. Typically, cage pedals are for use with closed toe shoes and are not suitable for use with open toe shoes or shoes where the top of the feet are greatly exposed, such as, for example, sandals and ballerina flats.

[0005] Both clip-less pedals and cage pedals are geared toward dedicated cyclists and speed. The casual and/or utility cyclist who may prefer to cycle in high heeled shoes, sandals, or ballerina flats is unable to properly attain the benefits of these types of pedals since they are not designed for these types of shoes. [0006] For example, a person riding a bicycle while wearing high heeled shoes may find that the high heeled shoe easily slips off the pedal, or the high heel is damaged or broken while riding. Furthermore, high heeled shoes do not properly fit onto conventional pedals, which cause a decrease in speed control in addition to discomfort for the rider.

[0007] Thus, a need exists for a pedal that is useful for a rider wearing shoes of various height and shape that provides the benefits of comfort and ease of use.

SUMMARY

[0008] In one aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a bicycle pedal adapted for shoes of differing height and shape. The pedal includes a frame having a front upper support surface and a rear upper support surface, an inner side support wall and an outer side support wall, and a curved planar center cavity defined between the front upper support surface and a rear upper support surface and joined at respective sides thereof to the inner side support wall and the outer side support wall.

[0009] In some embodiments, the bicycle pedal includes a mounting boss extending laterally inward from the inner side support wall. A cylindrical bore is defined in the mounting boss and dimensioned to receive a pivoting assembly. The pivoting assembly includes an outer bearing and an inner bearing in axial alignment within the bore, a tubular spacer axially aligned within the bore and disposed between the inner bearing and the outer bearing, and a mounting shaft axially disposed through the outer bearing, the inner bearing, and the tubular spacer. The mounting shaft includes an externally-threaded innermost end configured to couple to a bicycle crank, an opening defined at the outermost end of the mounting shaft and dimensioned to receive a retaining fastener, and a retaining fastener engaging the opening of the mounting shaft. In some embodiments, the retaining fastener is a retaining bolt and the opening defined at the outermost end of the mounting shaft includes internal threads which mate to the retaining bolt.

[0010] In some embodiments, the bicycle pedal include a dust cover fixed to an inner end of the mounting boss to protect the pivoting assembly from rain, dirt, and other contaminants.

[0011] In some embodiments, the bicycle pedal includes an opening defined in the curved planar center cavity to allow water and other debris to drain therethrough. In some embodiments, the bicycle pedal includes a reflector affixed to a surface thereof.

[0012] In some embodiments, the bicycle pedal includes an insert removably disposed within the curved planar center cavity. The insert has a flat upper surface and a lower portion having a shape which corresponds, at least in part, to the contours of curved planar center cavity to enable the insert to fit securely into the pedal. The flat upper surface of the insert may include a friction-enhancing material. In embodiments, at least one of the front upper support surface, the rear upper support surface, and/or the curved planar center cavity includes a friction-enhancing material. The friction-enhancing material may include rubber, fur, fabric, memory foam, memory gel, soft plastic, silicone, and/or thermoplastic rubber.

[0013] In another aspect, the present disclosure is directed to any bicycle pedal substantially as described herein.

[0014] In yet another aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a pedal comprising a body having an anterior and posterior end and a support member having a proximal and a distal end.

[0015] Other embodiments, aspects, and features of the disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the present disclosures, including the following detailed description, the accompanying drawings, and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0016] Various non-limiting embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure are described herein with reference to the drawings wherein:

[0017] Fig. 1A is a rear oblique view of a bicycle pedal in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0018] Fig. IB is a detail view of a pawl mechanism of the Fig. 1A embodiment;

[0019] Fig. 2 is a top view of the Fig. 1A embodiment;

[0020] Fig. 3 is a bottom view of a bicycle pedal in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0021] Fig. 4 is a side view of the Fig. 3 embodiment showing the relationship thereof with a high-heeled shoe;

[0022] Fig. 5 is a side, oblique view of the Fig. 3 embodiment;

[0023] Fig. 6 is a bottom view of the Fig. 3 embodiment;

[0024] Fig. 7 is a rear view of the Fig. 3 embodiment;

[0025] Fig. 8 is a front view of the Fig. 3 embodiment;

[0026] Fig. 9 is a rear, oblique view of the Fig. 3 embodiment;

[0027] Fig. 10 is a side view of the Fig. 3 embodiment;

[0028] Fig. 1 1 is a side view of the Fig. 3 embodiment showing aspects of an adjustment mechanism;

[0029] Fig. 12 is a front view of the Fig. 3 embodiment showing aspects of a support member;

[0030] Fig. 13A is a front view of a bicycle pedal in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure in use with a first type of shoe; [0031] Fig. 13B is a front view of the bicycle pedal of Fig. 13A in use with a second type of shoe;

[0032] Fig. 13C is a top view of a shoe-contacting surface of the Fig. 13A bicycle pedal;

[0033] Fig. 14A is a side, oblique view of in accordance with yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure in use with a high-heeled shoe;

[0034] Fig. 14B is a view of a shoe -contacting surface of the Fig. 14A pedal;

[0035] Fig. 14C is view of a friction surface of the Fig. 14A pedal;

[0036] Fig. 15A is a side view of in accordance with still another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure in use with a high-heeled shoe;

[0037] Fig. 15B is a side view of the Fig. 15A pedal in use with a platform- style shoe;

[0038] Fig. 15C is a side view of the Fig. 15A pedal in use with a high-heeled shoe;

[0039] Fig 16A is a detail view of a pawl mechanism in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0040] Fig 16B is an exploded view of a pawl mechanism in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0041] Fig. 17A is a side view of a further exemplary embodiment in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0042] Fig. 17B is a front view of the Fig. 17A embodiment;

[0043] Fig. 17C is a side view showing aspects of the Fig. 17A embodiment;

[0044] Fig. 17D is a side view showing additional aspects of the Fig. 17A embodiment;

[0045] Fig. 17E is a side view showing an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure; [0046] Fig. 17F is a side view of the Fig. 17A embodiment in use with a high-heeled shoe;

[0047] Fig. 17G is a side view of the Fig. 17A embodiment in use with a high-heeled shoe;

[0048] Fig. 17H is a side view of an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure in use with a high-heeled shoe;

[0049] Fig. 171 is a side view of an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure in use with a platform-style shoe;

[0050] Fig. 18A is an oblique view of still another exemplary embodiment of a bicycle pedal in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0051] Fig. 18B is a top view of the Fig. 18A embodiment;

[0052] Fig. 18C is a front view of the Fig. 18A embodiment;

[0053] Fig. 18D is an oblique view of the Fig. 18A embodiment;

[0054] Fig. 18E is a side view of the Fig. 18A embodiment;

[0055] Fig. 18F is a side, oblique view of the Fig. 18A embodiment in use with a high- heeled shoe;

[0056] Fig. 18G is a side view of the Fig. 18A embodiment in use with a platform-style shoe;

[0057] Fig. 19A is an oblique view of yet still another exemplary embodiment of a bicycle pedal in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0058] Fig. 19B is a side view of the Fig. 19A embodiment;

[0059] Fig. 19C is a top view of the Fig. 19A embodiment; [0060] Fig. 19D is an exploded view of the Fig. 19A embodiment;

[0061] Fig. 19E is another exploded view of the Fig. 19A embodiment;

[0062] Fig. 19F is a side, oblique view of the Fig. 19A embodiment in use with a high- heeled shoe;

[0063] Fig. 19G is another side, oblique view of the Fig. 19A embodiment in use with a high-heeled shoe; and

[0064] Fig. 19H is a side, oblique view of the Fig. 19A embodiment in use with a platform-style shoe.

[0065] The various aspects of the present disclosure mentioned above are described in further detail with reference to the aforementioned figures and the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0066] In various embodiments, the technology described pertains to a pedal for shoes with varying heel shapes and designs that comprises a base having at least a sole portion and a heel portion. In certain embodiments, a heel portion is adjustable both linearly and between a relatively flat position and an elevated position. The pedals described herein may be produced in a variety of different sizes to best accommodate different sized shoes.

[0067] The various embodiments contemplated herein have numerous unique features, including, for example, (1) providing maximum comfort to the user by providing cushioning against shocks from external force; (2) permitting proper grip by providing sufficient friction to safely secure the shoe of any dimensions into desired position without slippage; (3) enhancing the aerodynamic flow of air around the pedal; and (4) providing maximum capabilities to adjust the pedal to properly fit any shoes of various height and shape. [0068] In certain embodiments, the pedal comprises a soft and/or flexible materials such as memory foam, memory gel, fur, fabric, synthetic polymer, plastic, steel, silicone, rubber or thermoplastic rubber on the top surface of the pedal to provide ample grip and comfortably position the location of the foot, as well as provide support against and mitigate both external and internal shocks to the user. As used herein, "top surface" is used to refer to the surface area of the pedal that functions as a contact area for any portion of the bottom of the shoe of the user.

[0069] With continued reference now to Figs. 1A through Fig. 12, in an exemplary embodiment the pedal comprises a frame 100 that holds the components, including a sole step 1, a support member 8 rotatable about an axle 101, to provide structural integrity to perform the functions of a pedal as stated herein. In certain embodiments, the frame is comprised of either a single uniform structure with no separate pieces assembled together, or an assembly of one or more units that construct the features of a pedal frame that performs the functions herein. As used herein, a "support member" 8 is a structure that is configured to contact the rear part of the shoe, including the heel and any other elevated portion. As used herein, an "axle for the support member" 101 is a rotational axle that supports the support member unit or provides rotational adjustment for the user as necessary. Frame 100 includes a shaft 10 extending laterally therefrom and rotatably fixed thereto by a bearing assembly 7 to enable attachment of the pedal to a bicycle crank.

[0070] In certain embodiments, the pedal is configured to minimize its surface area in a manner that decreases drag against the wind and enhances the aerodynamic performance of the pedal.

[0071] In certain embodiments, the support member is linearly adjustable to support heels of varying height. For example, as shown in Fig. 4, the support member 8 can support the high arches of a high heeled shoe so the entire shoe can be positioned consistently in a leveled horizontal plane while pedaling.

[0072] In certain embodiments, linear adjustment can be made using a fastener such as, without limitation, a screw-type peg 4 shown in Fig. 1A, a push button adjustment system 6 shown in Fig. 2, or any suitable rotational locking mechanism adapted to secure the support's length to fit the arch of the shoe. For example as shown in Fig. 2, the length of the support member can be adjusted according to official shoe measuring standards, such as U.S. shoe sizes. In certain embodiments, the length of the support member may be adjustable between U.S. shoe sizes 5 to 10, but is not limited to such sizes, labeled with embossed, silk-screened, or other markers on the support member 8 accordingly.

[0073] As shown in Figs. 11 and 12, support member 8 is vertically adjustable by varying angles from about 0 degrees to about 90 degrees from the horizontal axis (upright position to completely flat) to allow compatibility of varying shapes of shoes. For example, as shown in Fig. 1 1, an angle of 0° means that the support member 8 is substantially horizontal in relation to the frame 100. As used herein, the angle a may vary over certain angles smaller than 90°, such as: 0° to about 20°, 0° to about 35°, 0° to about 45°, 0° to about 60°, 0° to about 85° or 0° to about 87°.

[0074] As shown in Fig. 12, a rearward end 106 of the support member 8 comprises a "Y" shaped flange 5, where the two arms 105 of the Y are separated by an angle of about 20° to about 170°. In certain embodiments, a forward end 107 of the support member 8 comprises a greater width or circumference than the rearward end 106 of the support member 8.

[0075] In use, if the heel is relatively narrow, the shoe can be positioned with the heel contacting the center groove 108 of the "Y" shaped flange. [0076] In other embodiments, the support member 8 comprises a triangular shaped flange, wherein the base of the triangle is configured to contact a shoe and the vertex opposite the base is configured to attach to the rotatable axle of the pedal, or directly to the frame of the pedal. In such embodiments, the two arms of the "Y" can be joined together to provide greater support for the shoe; for example in the case of a shoe having a relatively wide heel.

[0077] In certain embodiments, as shown, for example, in Fig. IB, the vertical rotational adjustment of support member is provided by a ratchet system comprising a gear 2 and a pawl 3 attached to the posterior end of the base. In certain embodiments, the ratchet system comprises a round gear 2 having a plurality of teeth, and a pawl 3 which can, in certain embodiments, be pivoting or spring-loaded that engages the teeth to secure the gear into a desired position. For example as shown in Fig. IB, the gear rotates with the axle, as support member rotates vertically into the desired position, and is locked into place by securing the pawl 3 to fit into one of the teeth positions on the gear. In certain embodiments, releasing the pawl releases the gear into free rotational movement, granting further vertical adjustment to the support member. In certain embodiments, when the pawl is released from the gear, the support member rotates into its native flat position or parallel position to the surface of the pedal base.

[0078] In certain embodiments, the pedal comprises one or more longitudinal support beams 9 extending between side sections 103 of the frame 100. As used herein, a "longitudinal support beam" is a member that provides structural integrity of the pedal and a firm structure to support the weight of any object or individual contacted with the pedal. In certain embodiments, one or more longitudinal support beams 9 are positioned along an indented plane with the steepest incline placed on the forward end 104 of the pedal, as shown in an exemplary embodiment in Fig. 5. In certain embodiments, one or more of the longitudinal support beams includes a coating configured to provide sufficient grip against slippage. As used herein, a "coating" refers to any compound or material that is capable of creating friction, and can be applied to the longitudinal support beam by methods including but not limited to: spraying, attaching, slip-on, glued-on, printed, overmolding, or laid on or around. As used herein, the coating comprises materials such as fabric, powder-based coat, sticker with abrasive surface, rubber, silicone, thermoplastic rubber, synthetic polymer, or plastic that provides friction to prevent an object, e.g., a shoe sole, from slipping.

[0079] Turning to Figs. 13A-C, in certain embodiments, the pedal comprises an articulating frame 13 with a shape that concaves upwards at an angle, converging to a rotatable hinge 12 located at the center of the vertices at the central portion of the pedal, further comprising a surface 13 above the rotatable hinge configured to contact a shoe. For example, in an exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 13B, upon contact with a shoe, the weight pushes against the hinge of the frame 13, wrapping the frame along the side of the shoe preventing it from lateral movement. As used herein, the angle a as shown in 14 is adjustable from 0° to 180° from the horizontal axis, functioning to wrap the pedal frame around the shoe or object to prevent lateral slippage. The surface 14 does not need to be flat but rather can be curved, rounded, concave, or convex.

[0080] In exemplary embodiments shown in Figs. 14A-15C, the pedal comprises a frame with hard outer shell 17 having a concave center section 16 to comfortably fit the front sole of a shoe as the shoe sinks into and conforms to concave center section 16, and a surface plane with a coarse texture 18, 18A to provide sufficient friction for grip to prevent slippage during use, e.g., while pedaling. An axle 110 forms a half-moon crank having a series of ratchet teeth 1 11 that engage a bore 112 having a series of corresponding teeth 1 13. The axle teeth 1 11 and bore teeth 113 are configured to enable limited vertical adjustment to the posterior and anterior end of the pedal and to help keep the pedal upright, yet are able to be spun with the application of moderate force by the user. A stop 114 prevents the pedal from turning completely upside down.

[0081] As shown in Fig. 15B, the front sole of a platform-style shoe engages the textured surface plane 18 of the pedal base. In an exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 15C, the front sole of a high-heeled shoe is sunk into the central portion 16 of the pedal base, which is partially or fully filled with a soft, shock absorbent material 109, including but not limited to: rubber, fur, fabric, memory foam, soft plastic, silicone, or thermoplastic rubber. This material conforms to the curves of the shoe, protecting the leg from shocks from road, protecting the shoe from damage, and preventing slippage against lateral or forward- backward motion. As used herein, the "hard outer shell" comprises a firm material such as aluminum, carbon fiber, or metal, to provide structural integrity and support for the pedal. Alternatively, the materials for the pedal may include steel or any metal, wood, bamboo, plastic or any polymeric material, or titanium. In certain embodiments, the center of the pedal comprises soft material such as memory foam, gel, polymer-based comfort foam, silicone, rubber or thermoplastic rubber, that is capable of being compressed when applied pressure and decompressed thereafter, intended to provide shock support and to prevent slippage of any object laid on top of the pedal. In certain embodiments, the exposed surface plane of the frame comprises a coating to provide grip for the shoe. For example, as shown in Fig. 15 A, the exposed surface plane of the frame includes material 18 that has a coarse texture that provides grip on any object that is placed on top of the pedal. As used herein, the material is any material that can be applied to a surface to provide grip, such as rubber, silicone, thermoplastic rubber, fur, fabric, or synthetic polymer configured to induce friction.

[0082] As seen in Fig. 15A, in certain embodiments, one or more end points of the frame comprises a flat or angled surface 19 configured to support the varying dimension of a shoe or an object placed on the pedal. [0083] In certain embodiments, as shown in exemplary examples in Figs. 16A and 16B, the axle includes a ratchet system having a round gear with teeth 20 and a pawl system that locks the gear into a desired position. As used herein, the pawl system comprises a five-piece mechanism including two pawl springs 23 ("dual springs"), pawls 21 on each side of a handle 22 that the user flips back and forth to lock the pawls and the gear into a desired position, as shown in Figs. 16A and 16B. The ratchet system includes a housing 117, which may be integrated into a crank arm 1 18, and cover plate 116 secured by cover plate screw 1 15.

[0084] In certain embodiments, shown for example in Fig. 17A through Fig. 17D, counter weights 27, 28 are positioned below a curved rotatable pivot assembly 25 that protrudes upward into the top surface of the pedal. These counter weights 27, 28 can regulate the center of balance and keep the pedal in a substantially upright position. For example, in an exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 17D, the center of gravity 26 is positioned downwards by the placement of two heavier counter-weights 27 and 28. In some embodiments, for example, as shown in Fig. 17E, a single counterweight 31 is positioned below rotatable pivot assembly 25 and no curved extension protrudes into the top surface. In other embodiments, for example, as shown in Figs. 17C, 17E and 171, the center of gravity 25 is positioned upwards due to hollow holes 1 19 in lieu of or in addition to the weights. As used herein, the counter-weights can comprise metallic materials including but not limited to steel, tin, nickel, copper, brass, cast iron, delta metal, manganese bronze, stainless steel, wrought iron, or yellow brass. In various embodiments, the two counter-weights can comprise material of the same or differing weight.

[0085] In various embodiments, dimensions of the pedal can range from lengths of about 4 inches to about 10 inches, widths of about 2 inches to about 10 inches. The thickness or height or depth of various embodiments of pedals may be about 0.5 inches to about 5 inches. [0086] In certain embodiments, shown for example in Fig. 17H and 171, the width of the pedal measures about 3 inches and is extended with a concave curvature of about 120 degrees at the tips, which is suitable for a U.S. women's size 6 shoe. In other embodiments, the concave curvature may be greater than or less than 120 degrees to accommodate larger or smaller shoe sizes, respectively (see, e.g., Fig. 17G).

[0087] As shown in Figs. 17A and 17C- 17H, the central portion 121 of the pedal base includes a soft, shock absorbent material 29 (including but not limited to: rubber, fur, fabric, memory foam, soft plastic, silicone or thermoplastic rubber), which conforms to the curves of the shoe, protecting the leg from shocks from road, protecting the shoe from damage, and preventing slippage against lateral or forward-backward motion. As used herein, the "central portion" of the pedal base is the area comprising the middle section of the pedal base, and may be flat or curved. In exemplary embodiments shown, for example, in Fig. 171, a flat- soled shoe rests above the concave central portion 121 of the pedal base on two ridged platforms 120 located at the front and back end of the pedal. The ridged platforms 120 prevent slippage against lateral or forward-backward motion. A lateral support 24 surrounds the concave central portion 121 to prevent the user's show from slipping off the pedal in a sideways direction. In embodiments, lateral support 24 may be formed from rigid materials, while in other embodiments, lateral support 24 may be formed from elastomeric materials.

[0088] In certain embodiments, the ridged platforms 120 are coated in whole or in part with materials that prevent slippage. Coating material may be composed of any material that decreases the chance of slippage or increases the friction on the surface, including but not limited to: rubber, fur, fabric, memory foam, soft plastic, plastic, rubber silicone, or thermoplastic rubber, or any other coating materials mentioned herein regarding other portions of the pedals herein, including longitudinal support beams. [0089] Yet another exemplary embodiment shown in Figs. 18A-18G includes a pedal 122 that includes a pair of fixed lateral supports 32 having a concave semicircular contour and which extend from either side of pedal 122, and front and rear top surface 123. The pedal 122 is configured such that its center of gravity 26 is lower than the point at which the crank spindle connects to it, thus allowing the pedal to rest in an upright position with the top surface 123 pointed upwards (Fig. 18E). Fixed lateral supports 32 provide support for portions of the shoe that may rest thereupon and can include a coating 33 which may be formed from coating materials described herein regarding other portions of the pedals, e.g., to absorb shock and/or prevent the shoe from slipping.

[0090] In another exemplary embodiment shown in Figs. 19A-H, a pedal 300 according to the present disclosure includes frame 306 that includes a concave center cavity 34 having a curved planar shape defined between upper support surfaces 305 and a pair of side support walls 304. Frame 306 comprises a mounting boss 301 extending from one of the side walls 304 that includes a bore 307 laterally disposed therein and dimensioned to receive a pivoting assembly 308. Pivoting assembly 308 includes a pair of bearings 37 separated by a tubular spacer 38, each dimensioned to receive a rotating mounting shaft 40. Mounting shaft 40 includes an externally-threaded outer end 302 configured to couple pedal 300 to a bicycle crank, and an inner end having a threaded opening 310 defined therein and dimensioned to receive mounting bolt 36. A dust cover 39 is fixed to mounting boss 301 by one or more fixing means such as mounting tabs 309, screws, adhesives, welding, and so forth.

[0091] The sole of a user's shoe can contact, e.g., rest inside cavity 34, which provides vertical and horizontal support for the shoe, helping to prevent it from slipping out of the pedal while pedaling and ensure efficient transfer of power from the user to the bicycle. Pedal 300 may optionally be fitted with insert 41 having an external shape which corresponds, at least in part, to the contours of concave center cavity 34 to provide a flat sole support surface 35 in situations where a flat pedal is more suitable than a dished pedal. In this regard, embodiments of the present disclosure may readily be adapted to any footwear style or comfort preference of a user. For example, Fig. 19F illustrates pedal 300 in use sans insert 41 with a high-heeled shoe; Fig. 19G illustrates pedal 300 in use together with insert 41 and a high-heeled shoe; and Fig. 19H illustrates pedal 300 in use in use sans insert 41 with a platform-style shoe. Sole support surface 35 may include a textured or shock-absorbing coating as described hereinabove.

[0092] In certain embodiments, a pedal according to the present disclosure further comprises one or more openings 303 at or near the bottom of the pedal's base which may allow pooled water and other debris to drain from the pedal. For example, in certain embodiments, the opening can comprise one or more longitudinal slits at the bottom of the pedal's base, and in other embodiments, it can comprise one or more circular or elliptical openings.

[0093] In certain embodiments, a pedal according the present disclosure further comprises one or more reflectors affixed to the pedal, to increase its visibility. For example, in certain embodiments, the reflector is comprised of a material that increases visibility during sub-optimal conditions, including but not limited to fog, rain, or in the dark.

[0094] The present disclosure also contemplates, in various other embodiments, methods of riding, propelling or operating a vehicle using the pedals disclosed herein.

[0095] Although the present technology has been described in relation to particular embodiments thereof, these embodiments and examples are merely exemplary and not intended to be limiting. Many other variations and modifications and other uses will become apparent to those skilled in the art. The present technology should, therefore, not be limited by the specific disclosure herein, and may be embodied in other forms not explicitly described here, without departing from the spirit thereof.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A bicycle pedal adapted for shoes of differing height and shape, comprising: a frame having a front upper support surface and a rear upper support surface;

an inner side support wall and an outer side support wall; and

a curved planar center cavity defined between the front upper support surface and a rear upper support surface and joined at respective sides thereof to the inner side support wall and the outer side support wall.

2. The bicycle pedal in accordance with claim 1, further comprising a mounting boss extending laterally inward from the inner side support wall.

3. The bicycle pedal in accordance with claim 2, further comprising a cylindrical bore defined in the mounting boss and dimensioned to receive a pivoting assembly.

4. The bicycle pedal in accordance with claim 3, further comprising a pivoting assembly, the pivoting assembly comprising:

an outer bearing and an inner bearing in axial alignment within the bore ;

a tubular spacer axially aligned within the bore and disposed between the inner bearing and the outer bearing;

a mounting shaft axially disposed through the outer bearing, the inner bearing, and the tubular spacer, the mounting shaft comprising an externally-threaded innermost end configured to couple to a bicycle crank and an opening defined at the outermost end of the mounting shaft and dimensioned to receive a retaining fastener; and

a retaining fastener engaging the opening of the mounting shaft.

5. The bicycle pedal in accordance with claim 4, wherein the retaining fastener includes a retaining bolt; and opening defined at the outermost end of the mounting shaft includes internal threads dimensioned to receive the retaining bolt.

6. The bicycle pedal in accordance with claim 2, further comprising a dust cover fixed to an inner end of the mounting boss.

7. The bicycle pedal in accordance with claim 1, further comprising an opening defined in the curved planar center cavity to allow water and other debris to drain therethrough.

8. The bicycle pedal in accordance with claim 1, further comprising a reflector affixed to a surface thereof.

9. The bicycle pedal in accordance with claim 1, further comprising an insert removably disposed within the curved planar center cavity and having an external shape comprising a flat upper surface and a lower portion which corresponds, at least in part, to the contours of curved planar center cavity.

10. The bicycle pedal in accordance with claim 9, wherein the flat upper surface of the insert includes a friction-enhancing material disposed thereon.

1 1. The bicycle pedal in accordance with claim 1, wherein at least one of the front upper support surface, the rear upper support surface, and the curved planar center cavity includes a friction-enhancing material disposed thereon.

12. The bicycle pedal in accordance with claim 10 or 11, wherein the friction- enhancing material includes rubber, fur, fabric, memory foam, memory gel, soft plastic, silicone, and/or thermoplastic rubber.

13. Any bicycle pedal substantially as described herein.