WO2017199015A1

WO2017199015A1 - Foldable bicycle

Info

Publication number: WO2017199015A1
Application number: PCT/GB2017/051363
Authority: WO
Inventors: John Alan Jackson
Original assignee: John Alan Jackson
Priority date: 2016-05-18
Filing date: 2017-05-16
Publication date: 2017-11-23
Also published as: GB2550447A; GB201621254D0; GB201608707D0; GB2550447B

Abstract

A folding bicycle comprises a steerable front wheel (1) assembly including a front frame member (4) and a rear wheel (2) assembly including a lower frame member, a seat post member and a rear wheel, the lower frame member (3) comprising a first hinge connected to the seat post member (7) and operating on a horizontal axis to allow the bicycle to be folded, the steerable front wheel assembly comprising a hinged handlebar (30) operable in use to position the handlebar in contact with the rear wheel, thereby reducing the size of the bicycle.

Description

Foldab.e Bicycle

Field of the Invention

Embodiments of the invention relate to an improved foldable bicycle.

Background

Foldable commuter bicycles are a heavily used transport means in today's society. As a result, various approaches have been taken to reduce folding time and ease. The desired outcome is to produce a bicycle that is compact when folded, however the commonly used conventional pedal and crank drive system substantially dictates the design of the bicycle.

A wide zone of operation results from the protruding cranks arms, as mounted on the frame. Non-folding pedals are a common feature that further extend the occupied space of the folded bicycle. The front to rear wheel distance is consequently dictated by ride ability. Any encroachment on the space between the wheels can restrict the steering and balancing needed. One commonly used folding means features a hinge, or pivot, situated approximately midway along the frame, so as to arrange the front and rear wheels to be side by side when folded. In order to achieve this folded alignment, the fold defines the minimum distance between the wheels. The wheel hub width in the centre of the wheels, along with the fixings at each hub and the frame size dictates the overall width of each wheel, which in turn determines the width of the folded bicycle.

Current bicycles comprise wide folded means, which are more difficult for the user to carry, as they must be held away from the carrier's body so as to avoid projecting parts from unduly restricting walking, or snagging clothing. A benefit to using a foldable bicycle is to enable the user to use public transport means. Wide width folding means, however, require a larger space, which can cause inconvenience in peak hour travel, or raise objections from surrounding commuters. As a result of bulky folded bicycles, the weight can be more obtrusive, which will reduce the ease and comfort of carrying and managing the folded assembly. The current manufacturing processes and designs result in a bulky construction. The wheel size also governs the size of the folded bicycle. Whilst it is desirable to have a wheel size that results in a smaller folded bicycle, too small a wheel size results in the traction, comfort and ease of travelling being severely limited.

Accordingly, there is a requirement for a foldable bicycle that folds into a conveniently sized package and has a reduced weight for ease of transport. It is to these problems, that embodiments of the invention attempt to offer a solution.

Summary of the Invention

In a first broad aspect there is provided a folding bicycle comprising a steerable front wheel assembly including a front frame member and a rear wheel assembly including a lower frame member, a seat post member and a rear wheel, the lower frame member comprising a first hinge connected to the seat post member and operating on a horizontal axis to allow the bicycle to be folded, the steerable front wheel assembly comprising a hinged handlebar operable in use to position the handlebar in contact with the rear wheel, thereby reducing the size of the bicycle.

The folding bicycle is advantageously constructed to keep the folded assembly as slim as possible. The frame components are arranged so as to hinge on horizontal pivots from a forward orientation on a lower frame member, folding over a rear wheel. The advantageous use of frame components to lock or unlock the bicycle during the actual operations reduces the requirement for manual locking operations to a minimum. Preferably, said lower frame member further comprises a second hinge connected with the front frame member, wherein said second hinge in use, co-operates with the first hinge to fold the seat post member towards the front frame member.

Advantageously, the lower frame member houses the hinge joints connecting respectively, the seat post member and the handle bar support member to the lower member. The enclosed nature of the joins provides extra protection for the hinges from external knocks and dirt. The lower frame member provides a central portion of the bicycle from which folding occurs. The lower frame member provides the base on which the pedals and chain crank are fixed. The hinges may be constructed so as to operate, when activated, in unison with each other, folding the seat frame and front frame member together towards the rear wheel.

Preferably, the first or second hinge comprises an eccentric pivot pin and lower sleeve. The advantageous inclusion of the pivot pin allows a complementary fit of the hinge over the pin sleeve, which ensures a smooth roll, or glide, of operation of the hinge, in use.

Preferably, horizontal movement of the seat post member enables an actuation of the second hinge and frame member, the actuation comprising the disengagement of a latch means of the front frame member to thereby allow cooperation of the first and second hinges.

Advantageously, the hinges within the lower frame member are constructed so as to work in unison when folding the bicycle. The rear hinge, upon horizontal movement of the seat post towards the front frame, activates the motion of a lower frame member, in the form of a sliding or rotary latch, away from the grasp of a complementary shaped notch or arm. The notch or arm is so constructed to prevent the forward hinge from movement in use, as well as supporting downward force as applied through gravity and user weight. Once the notch or arm is beyond its grasp point the front frame member can move horizontally rear ward along the axis of the hinge which moves in unison with the seat post hinge.

Preferably, said first hinge comprises a complementary extension, and the lower member comprises a sliding plate or rotary latch, said extension being in contact with a receptive notch on the sliding plate, or arm of a rotary latch, said sliding plate, or rotary latch, in use, is positioned within said notch, or arm, grasp so as to prevent unwanted folding while in the unfolded state.

Advantageously, the latch means secures the hinge joints in their locked position whilst in use as an unfolded bicycle. The locking mechanism ensures the hinge joints remain locked in position by latch means, sitting within the latch complementary notch, or at the arm of a rotary latch Alternatively, the lock means comprises a sliding plate, or rotary arm featuring a projection for complementary fitting of a latch, as constructed on to the outer sleeve of the pivot pin of the hinge.

Preferably, said seat post member comprises a seat post support member, wherein, when the bicycle is unfolded, the seat post member is supported in an upright position.

Preferably, said seat post support member is fastenable to the rear wheel assembly by a latch means.

Preferably, said seat post support member is fastened by a third hinge to an internal sliding or rotary means, said sliding or rotary means situated within the seat post member. The advantageous inclusion of a support member to the rear of the seat post reduces the overall weight and subsequent size of the bicycle, by providing a smaller means that supports the seat post member from the rear frames situated over the rear wheel. This advantageous inclusion, reduces the need for a conventional bicycle top bar between the seat post and front frame members. Preferably, said seat post member comprises an internal sliding means for reducing seat post length, wherein seat post top member is slidable within a lower seat post portion. Advantageously, the bicycle comprises an internal sliding member, having a bracket attached to the front and sides of the seat tube, located forward of the slits on the rear wall. The bracket is attached to the latched support member at the rear of the seat post by a profiled boss, connected to a pivot spindle. The internal sliding member advantageously ensures that the seat post remains in the plane of movement that reduces rotation at the lower member hinge, whilst providing a support means, in use, for the rider. The sliding member allows the user to reduce the length of the seat post member, ensuring a smaller profile of the folded bicycle.

Preferably, a flexible retaining means is located internally and attached to the lower part of the seat post member at one end, and the other end attached to the upper part of the sliding seat post member. When the seat post top member slides, the flexible retaining means advantageously presets and limits the withdrawal distance of the seat post top member enabling the seat post top member to be used as an extended handle for wheeling the folded bicycle.

Preferably, said hinged handlebar is operable by latch means, to, secure the handlebars in an upright fixed position.

Advantageously, the latching means may comprise a tensioned spring, said spring draws the lever shut when in the open position, ensuring the tenons of the latch fit into complementary grooves on the handlebar tube mounting flanges. When the latch is in the open position, the spring urges the lever downwards in readiness to click in to the grooves. Alternatively, a substantial amount of force in the appropriate direction is suitable to overcome the locked handlebars in folding/unfolding. Preferably, said handlebar latch means secures a rotatable aspect, said rotatable aspect allowing up to 180 degree rotation of the handlebar when not latched in the upright position.

Advantageously, the handlebar members are rotatable about a 180 degree point. This rotation allows the user to fold the handlebars each side of the rear wheel when the bicycle is folded. Rotating the handlebars reduces the profile of the folded bicycle, and enables the user to lock the handlebars against the rear wheel.

Preferably, said front frame member comprises a fourth hinge and a latch means for securing a front wheel stanchion to the front frame member, wherein unlatching actuates folding, said folding positioning the front wheel alongside the folded frame members.

Advantageously, the front wheel latch means is individually unlatched, so as to enable differing fold positions that suit the user's transport requirements. The user can fold the bicycle, without unlatching the front wheel frame, so as to wheel the folded bicycle as they hold a designated grip point. If the user wishes to completely fold the bicycle, they can unlatch the front wheel frame and rotate the member alongside the folded frame members.

Preferably, said handlebar member comprises fasten projections situated forward of the handlebar, wherein the fasten projections, when rotated, form a grip-tight fasten with the rear wheel rim.

Advantageously, the handlebars have projections on their forward facing edge. These projections, when the handlebars are rotated alongside the rear wheel in folding, form a grip tight fasten against the rear wheel rim. This allows a user to press the handlebars in to place, to maintain the folded state of the bicycle.

Preferably, said lower frame and front frame members comprise tapered upper sides , said tapered sides forming a complementary tight shrouded clamp fit with corresponding shroud sides of the lower and front frame members, said contact being adjustable by rotation of pivot pin members to adjust shroud clamp force.

Advantageously, the tapered upper sides provide the join between the surfaces with a secondary gripping. The shroud sides form a fit whereby the surfaces on each mating surface fit between one another, ensuring a tight clamp between the front and lower frame members . The clamping force can be altered by rotation of pivot pin members, allowing the user to ensure the clamp fits their preference. More preferably, said lower frame member has profiled sides , said profiled sides forming a complementary tight shrouded wedge fit with corresponding shroud sides of the front frame member. Preferably, said bicycle comprises at least one folding pedal, said folding pedal reducing the folded profile of the bicycle.

Advantageously, the pedals can be folded alongside the bicycle in its folded state, so as to further reduce the profile of the folded bicycle. The pedals, by their very nature, extend the profile of a bicycle and can increase difficulty in transport of a folded bicycle, this is why it is advantageous to fold the pedals and allow the user to carry the bicycle at their side. Preferably, a folding bicycle, wherein said bicycle can be partially folded, said partial folding reducing the profile size for transport. Advantageously, there are provided a number of folding options, each with its own practical use. The folding stages form the process to completely fold the bicycle, however the user can select to refrain from further folding steps. Partial folding can result in the embodiment that allows the user to wheel the partially folded bicycle by gripping the folded handlebars and running the bicycle along the terrain by its front wheel, rear wheel folded. Partial folding the bicycle to use the seat post has a handle for pushing the bicycle in its folded state can be achieved by using the front wheel in its folded position and extending the seat post. Complete folding of the bicycle produces the slim profile folded bicycle that can be carried by the folded front frame member, generally used for carrying beside the user, and is ideal for use in a crowded commute. One step prior to this final folded position is the latched means is locked, securing the stanchion in its locked out state. This provides a longer profile fold, but reduces the stages of folding used by the user if a smaller profile of folded bicycle is not required.

Preferably, folding the bicycle enables the front wheel to be partial folded to act as a support, to prop the folded bicycle in a leaning upright position when it is parked.

In a second broad aspect, there is provided a method of folding a bicycle, the bicycle comprising a steerable front wheel assembly including a front frame member including handlebars and a rear wheel assembly including a lower frame member, a seat post member and a rear wheel, the lower frame member comprising a first hinge connected to the seat post member and operating on a horizontal axis to allow the bicycle to be folded, the steerable front wheel assembly comprising a hinged handlebar operable in use to position the handlebar in contact with the rear wheel, thereby reducing the size of the bicycle, the method comprising the steps of: a) Rotating the handlebars and associated front wheel 180 degrees,

b) Unlatching of seat post support member and pressing forward of a seat post to a position between said handlebar; and

c) Forward moving the seat post member, actuates the release of a front frame member from the lower frame latch.

Preferably, the method further comprises the steps of: d) Folding the seat post support member forwards to lie against the seat post member; e) Folding the front frame member and the seat post member horizontally towards a rear wheel in unison; and

f) Pressing a seat post sliding member into the seat post member. Preferably, the method further comprises the step of: g) Rotating the handlebar so as to lie alongside the folded frame members;

h) Locking either side of the rear wheel rim by handlebar projections to secure the bicycle in the folded position; and

i) Unlatching a front wheel stanchion to allow the front wheel to be rotated alongside the frame.

Alternatively, the steps of folding may be performed in reverse order. Brief Description of the Figures

Embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the Figures, of which: Figure 1 is an elevational side view of the unfolded bicycle;

Figure 2 is an elevational side view of the unfolded bicycle with cross-sectional cut line detail; Figure 3 is an elevational below view of the unfolded bicycle along cross-sectional line A-A; Figure 4 is an elevational right-hand side view of the folded bicycle;

Figure 5 is an elevational left-hand side view of the folded bicycle;

Figure 6 is a cross-sectional side view of the lower frame member along cross-sectional line D-D;

Figure 7 is a cross-sectional side view of the lower frame member along cross-sectional line D-D;

Figure 8 is a cross-sectional side view of the lower frame member along cross-sectional line D-D;

Figure 9 is a cross-sectional frontal view along cross-sectional line B-B of the rear hinge means;

Figure 10 is a cross-sectional frontal view along cross-sectional line C-C of the front hinge means;

Figure 1 1 is an elevational frontal view of the handlebars of the bicycle;

Figure 12 is an elevational side view of the handlebars of the bicycle;

Figure 13 is an elevational aerial view of the handlebars of the bicycle in rotation;

Figure 14 is an elevational cross-sectional view of the bicycle in a partially folded position;

Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view of the front wheel steering tube hinge and plate;

Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of the front wheel steering tube hinge and support member;

Figure 17 is a cross-sectional elevational view of the front wheel hinge means in the unlocked position;

Figure 18 is a cross-sectional elevational view of the front wheel hinge means in the locked position;

Figure 19 is a cross-sectional elevational view of the centreline of the locking cam;

Figure 20 is cross-sectional side view of the seat post and seat post support members; Figure 21 is a cross sectional side view of the seat post hinge;

Figure 22 is a cross-sectional rear view of the seat post hinge;

Figure 23 is a cross-sectional side view of the seat tube, internal sliding member and seat post means;

Figure 25 is a cross-sectional side view of the bicycle seat;

Figure 26 is an elevational side view of the first stage of folding the bicycle;

Figure 27 is an elevational side view of the second stage of folding the bicycle;

Figure 28 is an elevational side view of the third stage of folding the bicycle; Figure 29 is an elevational side view of the fourth stage of folding the bicycle;

Figure 30 is an elevational side view of the fifth stage of folding the bicycle;

Figure 31 is an elevational side view of the sixth stage of folding the bicycle;

Figure 32 is an elevational, aerial cross-sectional view of the folding bicycle;

Figure 33 is an elevational, aerial cross-sectional view of the partially folded bicycle;

Figure 34 is an elevational side view of the methods of carrying different stages of the folded bicycle;

Figure 35 is a cross-sectional side view the lower frame member;

Figure 36 is a cross sectional frontal view of the lower frame member along cross-sectional line D-D as shown in Figure 35;

Figure 37 is a cross sectional frontal view of the lower frame member along cross-sectional line E-E as shown in Figure 35;

Figure 38 is an elevational frontal view of the steering head and front wheel of the bicycle; Figure 39 is a cross-sectional top view of the front wheel steering head hinge;

Figure 40 is a cross-sectional top view of the steering head hinge with front wheel rotated 180 degrees;

Figure 41 is a cross-sectional side view of the steering tube of the bicycle;

Figure 42 is a cross-sectional view looking upwards of the steering tube along line F-F as shown in Figure 41, in the straight ahead position;

Figure 43 is a cross-sectional view looking upwards of the steering tube along line F-F as shown in Figure 41, rotated 90 degrees clockwise;

Figure 44 is a cross-sectional view looking upwards of the steering tube along line F-F as shown in Figure 41, rotated 180 degrees clockwise;

Figure 45 is a cross-sectional top view of the handlebar means of the bicycle;

Figure 46 is a cross sectional view looking forwards of the handlebar means of the bicycle;

Figure 47 is an elevational side view of the handlebar means of the bicycle;

Figure 48 is an elevational side view of an exemplary embodiment of the unfolded bicycle;

Figure 49(a) is an elevational side view of the bicycle of Figure 48, now folded;

Figures 49(b) and (c) respectively show cross-sectional views through the front pivot, the seat post pivot;

Figure 50 shows an enlarged partial side view of the unfolded bicycle shown in Figure 48. Detailed Description

Before the present systems and methods are described, it is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to particular embodiments described, as such may, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting.

At Figure 1, the references in the text and drawings containing the suffixes 'R' or 'L' respectively indicate the right hand and left hand sides of the bicycle and their equivalent numbered items.

Rear wheel 2 is mounted on extended members 16R and 16L and 17R and17L of a lower frame member 3. The lower frame member 3 supports rotary pedals 11 R and 1 1 L and crank bearing means 100. Extended frame members 16R and 17R are mounted to vertical frame members 18R and 18L and are arranged so as to allow frame members 14, 15, 17 and 18 to be positioned above, below and in line with, the drive system.

The frame members 16R and 16L are constructed so as to provide a cover for the drive system to be incorporated within the said frame members. The left-hand side frame members 16L and 17L which, can be of any suitable profile, are similarly positioned away from the bicycle centreline so as to support the left-hand side of the rear wheel 2.

Vertical frame member 18R is positioned inside the drive line and connects frame members15R, 16R, and17R in a triangular frame, forming a mounting member connecting crank hub 101 and lower frame member 3. A similar arrangement is provided on the left- hand side at vertical frame member 18L, with frame members 15L, 16L and 17L. Said arrangement permits the overall width of the rear wheel assembly to be kept to a minimum by utilising the rear wheel support frame members 14, 15, 17, and 22 on the drive (right) side of the rear wheel as covers for the drive system. An additional cover 12 is added, wherein the cover 12 fully encloses the drive system.

The rear wheel drive sprocket 102 is enclosed in cup shaped hub 21 R, said cup shaped hub rigidly attached to the ends of the rear wheel 2 support frame members14R, 16R and 17R. The cup shaped hub 21 R, located at the drive side hub has cut out sections in its outer wall, allowing the chain drive to pass through the cup 21 R walls, accessing the rear wheel sprocket. Provision is provided for chain adjustment and rear wheel 2 alignment by eccentric bushes 22R and 22L that can be rotated to position the rear wheel 2 spindle. The eccentric bushes 22R and 22L have an outer flange with a series of holes radially spaced, enabling a locking screw to be positioned so as to retain the eccentric bush 22R and 22L in a set position.

Lower frame member 3 provides support for the unfolded embodiment by housing locking and pivoting means at its forward extension for front frame member 4 and seat tube 7. The front frame member 4 supports the steering head 5, which incorporates steering tube 6. Handlebars 30R and 30L are supported at the handlebar centre tube 6. Locking means 37 is provided at the top of handlebar centre tube 6. When in an unlocked state, it enables the individual handlebars 30R and 30L to be rotated when folding. Front wheel 1 is mounted on, and supported at one side by only one stanchion tube13. Front wheel locking and pivoting means 49 and 50 are provided at the top of stanchion tube 13.

The seat tube 7 is pivoted at its lower end at bearing 31, as supported in lower frame 3. The upper end of saddle tube 8 supports saddle 9. Saddle tube 8 is slidable inside seat tube 7 and can be locked in position by rotating support stay 10 to the support position shown in Figure 1. Retaining safety clip 40 is provided at the free end of support stay 10. This retaining safety clip 40 is located over the horizontal member 20 located above rear wheel 2. The horizontal member 20 rigidly connects support stays 14R&L and 15R&L, positioned each side of the rear wheel, forming a connecting point for support stay 10.

Figure 2 is an elevational side view of the bicycle as shown in Figure 1. Figure 2 shows section viewpoints and directional views as described in subsequent drawings and descriptions.

Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view along cutline A-A as shown in Figure 2, displaying additional sectional viewpoints further described in the subsequent drawings and description. Figure 4 is an elevational right-hand side view of the bicycle in its fully folded position. It should be noted that the drive system and the folded front wheel 1 could be positioned on either side of the bicycle as desired. This figure shows the drive system on the right hand side and the front wheel folded to the left hand side.

Figure 5 is an elevational left-hand side view of the bicycle shown in its fully folded position.

Referring to Figure 6 which is an enlarged sectional view on line D-D as shown in Figure 3. Front frame member 4 is shown in the locked position for riding, by the most forward extension of latch 26 engaging indent 29 on the forward extension of the pivot hub of the front frame member 4. The pivot hub of the front frame member 4 is pivoted on a fixed spacer 28, which is rigidly bolted between the vertical sides of the lower frame member 3.

Further described with reference to Figure 9, seat post 7 can pivot horizontally on the fixed pivot spacer 31, which is also rigidly clamped, but with adjustable positional means, between the vertical sides of the lower frame member 3. Spaced in a downward radial and central direction from the seat tube pivot boss 44 centre, is pin 24 with sleeved roller 33 located in a central vertical slot in the seat tube pivot boss. The pin 24 and sleeved roller 33 that form the hinge at the seat post 7 base move in a rotary motion to allow folding of the seat post 7, this results in the horizontal movement of the seat post 7, arguably a pivoting motion about the central point of the hinge occurs, thus pivoting the seat post 7.

Further described with reference to Figure 10, at the rear of latch 26 are shown two upward, centrally located, projections with profiled outline surfaces between the projections, forming a wide vee shaped notch. The sleeved roller 33 on pin 24 is located within said wide vee shaped notch on latch 26. Latch 26 is retained in the vertical direction by bolted, spaced washers 25, located in central slots allowing fore and aft close slidable movement of the latch. The latch 26 is also further slidably guided in shallow grooves in the vertical sides of the lower frame member 3. Latch 26 is held in position to lock the front frame member 4 by rotating the seat post 7 and therefore the seat tube pivot boss 44 in an anticlockwise (rearwards) direction causing sleeve 33 on pin 24 to urge the latch 26 forward by contacting the forward contoured surface of the vee shaped notch located at the rear of the latch 26, sliding the most forward extension of the latch to engage into the closely fitting indent 29 on the most forward extension of the front frame 4 pivot hub. The angle of the seat post 7 when in the riding position is not critical to ensure positive locking of the front frame member 4 in position. Further anticlockwise rotation of the seat post 7 will produce no further forward movement of the latch 26 due to the curved profile of the forward vee notch surface of the latch 26. This aspect of the invention can be employed advantageously by enabling a spring suspension unit to be used at the seat tube 8. This is further described in the text description of figure 20. Said provision for positional adjustment at the seat post 7 pivot enables a positive lock to be set and maintained.

Figure 7 shows the seat post 7 that has been rotated on the fixed pivot tube 31 in a clockwise (forwards) direction causing the sleeve 33 on pin 24 to contact the rear sloped surface of the notch in latch 26 withdrawing the most forward end of the latch from its engagement in indent 29 in the front frame member 4 and unlocking the front frame member 4. It can be seen that the leverage ratio enabled by the long extension of the seat tube 7 and the distance to the pin 24 from the pivot spacer 31 enables a positive force to be exerted to slide the closely fitting latch 26 with relative ease at the upper handled location of the seat tube 8.

Figure 8 shows the latch 26 withdrawn, with both the front frame member 4 and the seat tube 7 at their folded positions. The folding of the front frame member 4 and seat post 7 occur at right angles to the riding direction of the bicycle. This action has caused the latch 26 to be moved forward to what would have been a locking position, however as front frame member 4 has also been rotated away from the latch, no locking occurs. When the bicycle is unfolded to form the riding position both the seat tube 7 and front frame member 4 are folded together, arriving at the stopped position shown in Figure 7, where the lower face of the pivot hub on the front frame member 4 contacts the upper surface of the latch 26, then only the seat tube 7 is folded horizontally to the riding position which will lock the frame as shown in Figure 6. In an alternative embodiment, the latch 26 housed within the lower frame member 4 is slidably moved so as to engage or dis-engage the hooked grasp of the lower frame member 4.

Referring to Figure 9, which is a section on line B-B shown in Figure 2, the lower frame member 3 comprises a U-shaped profile. The fixed spacer 28 closely fits between the vertical sides of the lower frame member 3 and is secured in position by screws 29. The front frame member 4 fits closely between the sides of the lower frame member 3 to minimise slackness in connection between lower frame 3 and front frame 4 members. Latch 26 fits below the outer surface of the pivot hub on the front frame member 4 and is slidably guided in shallow grooves in the side walls of the lower frame member 3 and is slidably retained to the horizontal base of the lower frame member 3 by spaced washers 25 via screws 27 in two positions along the latch length. The dotted vertical rectangular shape on Figure 9 is the outline of the raised vee notch at the centre and rear of latch 26.

Referring to Figure 10, which is a cross-sectional view on line C-C as shown in Figure 2, the U-shape of lower frame member 3 is visible as housing for the pivot boss 44 of the seat tube 7 when rotatably mounted on fixed spacer 31. Bushes 30R and 30L feature tapered bores and are rigidly fixed, coaxially, in each of the vertical sides of the lower frame member 3. Spigots 32R and 32L have matching tapered head pieces but the parallel cylindrical extensions of the tapered heads are eccentrically positioned relative to the tapered heads. The spigots 32R and 32L are inserted from each side into the bushes 30R and 30L. The parallel cylindrical extensions fit closely inside the fixed spacer 31 and are aligned by screws fitted from each side that enable both spigots to be rotated in unison thus providing adjustment via the eccentric tapered heads of the spigots 32R and 32L as they are rotated. When fitted in position there remains a space between the ends of spigots 32R and 32L allowing the screws to pull the tapered heads into gripping contact with the tapered bores of bushes 30R and 30L. Adjustment is made by slackening the screws and rotating the spigots 32R and 32L to position the fixed spacer 31 for full engagement and disengagement of the latch 26 in the slot 29 of the front frame member 4. The screws are fully tightened, bringing the tapered heads into gripping contact with the tapered bores of bushes 30R and 32L and rigidly clamping the fixed spacer 31 in position.

The width of the seat post 7 pivot boss 44 and the fixed spacer 31 are set so that the seat post 7 can be rotated on the fixed spacer 31 with minimal lateral movement. Sleeve 33 is shown mounted on pin 24, below the fixed spacer 31 with the latch 26 at the horizontal section of the lower frame member 3.

Figures 1 1, 12 and 13 are front, side and plan views of the handlebars 30, respectively. The single handlebar tube 30R has a vertical section that is rotatable on spigot 36R, which is rigidly mounted on plate 35. From the top of spigot 36R, the handlebar tube 30 is bent at a shallow angle and the tube is extended until it is bent at an angle so as to produce the horizontal portion for the hand grip. When viewed from the side, as is shown in Figure 12, said bends in the handlebar tube 30R can be seen to lie in one plane. At the base of the handlebar tube 30R where it contacts plate 35, contoured plate 39R is rigidly attached to the handlebar tube 30. The contoured shape of plate 39R enables the handlebar tube 30R to be rotated to a stopped, operating position against a central locking clamp means, whereupon it can be clamped rigidly in position by the lever 37 actuating the clamp means. The clamp means is releasable by lever 37 allowing the handle bar tube 30R to be rotated to a folded position, as shown by chain dotting in Figure 13. A similar but opposite hand handlebar tube 30L and contoured plate 39L is shown mounted on spigot 36L which is rigidly attached to plate 35 diametrically opposed and at an equal distance from the steering tube 38 as spigot 36R. The distance between spigots 36R and 36L, and thus the distance between the vertical sections of handlebars 30 and 31, is shown as dimension 'X' in figure 13. When the handlebars 30R and 30L are rotated to the folded position, shown by chain dotting in figure 13, the full length of the handlebars 30R and 30L are parallel to each other and spaced apart as shown by dimension 'X'. The remaining space between the outside surfaces of the handlebar tubes is arranged by setting dimension 'X' to be about less than the width of the rear tyre and around a wider width than the wheel rim. Therefore when the bicycle is in the folded position the unfolded handlebars lie each side of the rear wheel where there is adequate space between the handlebars in the operating position. When the handlebars are rotated to the folded position and lie parallel to one another they will grip the ballooned sides of the rear tyre along the now parallel external surfaces of the handlebars 30. This provides a strong grip on the tyre, locking the folded bicycle with the front and rear wheels in line with one another, resulting in a slim, folded package. Additionally, projections 80R and 80L extend from the handlebars and are positioned to fit under the rear wheel rim when the handlebars, are folded ensuring a secure lock. In an alternative embodiment, the handlebars 30 can be folded separately of one another due to their individual nature, comprising two separate handlebars, as opposed to one singular handlebar 30.

In this folded position, the assembly can be carried using the steering tube 6 as a convenient handle, as it becomes centrally positioned at the top of the folded assembly. It is also conveniently possible for the assembly to be wheeled in an approximate vertical position via the front wheel, thus easing carrying in this folded state. The individual handlebar tubes are open at each end, enabling these tubes to be used as conduits to contain and route operating cables for brakes etc. This reduces the ever possible entanglement or damage to the cables when folding or unfolding the bicycle.

Referring to Figure 14, which displays a cross-sectional aerial view of the hinge, as displayed in figures 15 and 16 respectively. A conventional steering tube 6, mounted in the head tube 5 has a plate 74 rigidly attached at its lower end. Plate 75 is rigidly mounted to the top of the front wheel 1 support stanchion 72. An angled hinge comprising an upper part 71, which is integrally mounted in plate 74 and lower part 77, mounted integrally in plate 75 and at the top of stanchion 72. The upper and lower parts of the hinge 70 is held together by a central screw 78 which screws into lower hinge 77 and brings the hinge 70 contact faces together, enabling the hinge 70 to pivot on the screw shank and be retained in construction by the screw head. The hinge 70 component is central and in line with the stanchion 72. The joint mating face between the hinge 70 components and the angled hinge axis are arranged to coincide at the mating faces of the upper and lower mounting plates 74 and 75. The hinge 70 is arranged so as to allow the front wheel 1 and its stanchion 72 to be folded to an angle of 180 degrees and is set at an angle to the steering head 6 that enables the front wheel 1 when folded, to be positioned to minimise the envelope width of the folded bicycle.

Referring to Figure 14, the front wheel 1 bearing means are mounted on spindle 79 which has a flanged end, held in position by fixing screws against the inside end face of the recessed cup 73, rigidly fixed at the end of the front wheel stanchion 72 and extending through and attached to both tube walls of the rectangular tubular stanchion 72. This method enables the inner wheel bearing to be positioned inside the cup 73 recess, reducing cantilevered overhang of the front wheel 1 as well as reducing the front wheel 1 width at the bearing hub.

Referring to Figures 15, 16, 17, 18 and 19, on plate 74 attached to the steering tube, positioned on the other side of the steering tube centreline, is integral housing 76 that contains locking cam 7 that extends to cover the width of the stanchion mounting plate 75. The locking cam 70 has full diameter end bearings and a central eccentric reduced diameter that is also cut away to form a remaining 'D' shape covering the width of the stanchion mounting plate 75. Lever 49, positioned at the rear of housing 76, rotates the eccentric cam 70. The unlocked and locked orientations of the eccentric cam 70 and the profiled edge 78 of the stanchion mounting plate 75 in contact with locking cam 70 are shown in enlarged sectional views in Figures 17 and 18. Thus, when unlocked, (as shown in Figure 17) the front wheel 1 can be rotated on the hinge axis to fold closely against the folded bicycle and when the front wheel is rotated to the riding position, the eccentric cam 70 is rotated to the locked position (as shown in Figure 18), forcing the upper steering tube plate 74 and the lower plate stanchion mounting 75 together for the riding position.

Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view on the centreline of the locking cam 70 showing its full diameter supports at each end and the reduced 'D' shaped eccentric centre portion mounted in the housing 76.

Referring to Figures 20 and 23 the seat post 7 has a rectangular tubular section. The saddle tube 8 has a reduced, similar shaped section, enabling it to fit slidably inside the seat tube 7. A profiled boss 64 attached at the upper end of stay 10 closely fits between the bracket 65 side members. The seat post 7 has slits 62 cut through each side wall and the bracket 65 is attached only to the front and sides of the seat tube 7 that are forward of the slits 62 to enable the rear wall of the seat post 7 to flex locally. Stay 10 is rotatably mounted on pivot spindle 66, mounted on the bracket 65, and clip 40 attached to the other end of stay 10, connects onto the rear frame mounting spacer 20 to support and brace the seat tube in the riding position. The semi-circular profile at the free end of stay 10 is arranged to be the same width as spacer 20 , to centrally position the stay. When stay 10 is rotated outwards to support the seat post 7 the internal saddle tube 8 is locked in position by the cam profiled mounting boss 64 rotating on the pivot spindle 66. The profiled boss 64 is contoured so that as it is rotated, subsequently its increasing external cam profile is brought into contact with the rear face of the load spreading pad 63, causing it to deflect the rear wall of the seat post 7 and push with sufficient force to lock the saddle tube 8 within the seat post 7. The section of pivot spindle 66 that the profiled boss 64 rotates on, is eccentric to the bracket 65 mounting holes and provision is made so that the spindle can be rotated and locked in its lug mountings to adjust the position of the profiled boss 64 thus setting the locking force. When stay 10 is undipped from its rear frame connection, after releasing clip 40, it is folded downwards against the rear of the seat post 7, the saddle tube 8 is thereby released by the profile of the pivot boss 64 cam surface moving away from the load spreading pad 63 allowing the saddle tube to be freely slid down its full extent into the seat post 7. It is also possible to fit an alternative saddle stay 10A, which incorporates a damped spring suspension unit. This can be used in place of the fixed saddle stay 10 enabling the seat post 7 to rotate at its pivot point against the suspension unit to provide a more comfortable ride over uneven surfaces. The advantage of rectangular, or non-circular section profiles for the seat post 7 and saddle tube 8, is that the inner tube cannot rotate inside the outer tube as can occur within a circular section. This means that a lower locking force is required to ensure positive locking. With a circular section, the inner tube can be locked sufficiently to prevent the inner tube from sliding down in the outer tube but a much greater locking force is required to prevent the saddle from twisting which can be disconcerting if not dangerous when riding. Retaining cord 67 is located inside the seat tube 7 and saddle tube 8, this works to set the saddle 9 height and prevent the saddle 9 from being extended beyond a preset amount. This also allows the saddle 9 to be freely retracted or extended to the set allowable extension and prevent further extension when in the folded state, enabling it to be used as an extended handle, for wheeling the folded assembly via the folded front wheel 1.

Referring to Figures 21 and 22, which are cross-sectional side and rear views at the lower end of the seat tube 7 showing its pivot boss 44. The central slot cut away 42 is shown in the pivot boss 44 together with the pivot spacer 31 and pin 24 with sleeve 33 in position. At the lower rear face of the seat post 7 are two holes 41. A flexible cord 67 is looped through the holes 41 from the outside and threaded up inside the seat tube 7. The cord is can be comprised of other flexible and suitably strong materials. The purpose of the cord 67 is to limit and adjust the saddle position when the saddle is raised from the folded position, to a previous set position that suits the individual rider. It also prevents the saddle tube 8 from being fully withdrawn or raised to a position, which is beyond its safe upper setting. The inner sliding tube 8 needs a minimum insertion distance into the outer seat post to prevent damage due to bending to the inner and outer walls of the saddle tube 8 or seat post 7. The inner cord 67 also prevents the saddle being lost or stolen when unattended. This arrangement also permits the saddle tube 8 to be freely withdrawn to its preset limit to form a lifting handle for wheeling the folded assembly. In the folded position the saddle tube is not locked in the seat tube so it can be freely withdrawn to its maximum limit set by the inner cord 67 or fully inserted as required.

Referring to Figures 24 and 25, which consist of an enlarged side view of the saddle, and an enlarged cross-sectional view of the saddle tube 8 with the saddle 9 removed, respectively. The flexible cord 67 is threaded inside the seat post 7 and the saddle tube 8. At the top of the saddle tube 8, the cord 67 is clamped against the inner rear surface of the saddle tube 8 by clamp block 68 pulled against the cords by locking screw 69, this sandwiches the cords 67 between the clamp block 68 and saddle tube 8 inner rear surface. The clamp block 68 is prevented from rotation by a complementary fit against the inner side surfaces of the saddle tube 8. The cords 67 are over length, with the extra length being passed down the inside of the saddle tube 8. Adjustment of the saddle height is made by slackening the locking screw 69, pulling the extended over length of the cords 67 taut, then moving the saddle 9 to the desired height and retightening the locking screw 69. After adjustment the over length cord 67 can be kept tidy by being again threaded back inside the saddle tube 8. When the saddle 9 is slid down in the folded position the cord 67 can fold unobtrusively into the inner recesses of the seat 9 and saddle tubes 8 without affecting the saddle tube 8 movement in the seat tube 8. The following description details the subsequent stages of folding of the bicycle.

Referring to Figure 26, which displays an elevated side view of the bicycle at the first stage of the folding process. The handlebars and front wheel are rotated 180 degrees via the steering head; this also brings the front wheel closer to the front frame member.

Referring to Figure 27, which displays an elevational side view of the bicycle at the second stage of folding. The spring clip 44 is released and the combined seat 8 and saddle tube 7 are rotated forward to contact the stop between the handlebar 30 uprights disconnecting the seat tube support stay 10 from the rear support frame 14. Rotating the combined seat 8 and saddle tube 7 forward also withdraws the latch 26 to unlock the front frame member 4 from the lower frame member 3.

Referring to Figure 28, which displays an elevational a side view of the bicycle at the third stage of folding. The seat tube support stay 10 is now folded down against the seat post 7. This folding unlocks the saddle tube 8 allowing it to be slid down inside the seat post 7. It is not necessary yet to push the saddle tube down inside the saddle tube, it is preferable to perform this after the handlebars are folded, subsequently locking the assembly together. Referring to Figure 29, which displays an elevational a side view of the bicycle at the fourth stage of being folded. The combined seat and saddle tubes together with the front frame 3 and front wheel 1 assembly are now folded down over the rear wheel 2 to contact the rear support frame 20 positioning the handlebar uprights 30 each side of the upper part of the rear wheel 2.

Referring to Figure 30, which displays an elevational a side view of the bicycle at the fifth stage of the folding process. The handlebars 30 are now unlocked and folded flat against the rear wheel 2. This enables the handlebar uprights 30 to grip the rear tyre 2 and move the handlebar projections 80R and 80L in place to lock the folded assembly together and positioning the front 1 and rear 2 wheels in alignment. The handlebars 30 can be relocked if desired but it is not absolutely necessary to do this, as the grip on the tyre and the projections 80R and 80L will keep the handlebars 30 in position. The saddle tube 8 is now pushed down its full extent inside the seat tube 7 and the pedals 11 if they are of a folding type can be folded to reduce the overall width of the folded package. At this stage the folded assembly can be carried. The steering tube 6 forms a convenient handle located at the top and approximately at the centre of gravity. The assembly can also be wheeled in a more upright position via the front wheel. Referring to Figure 31, which displays an elevational a side view of the bicycle at the final stage of the folding process. The front wheel 1 is located folded alongside the folded frame members, so as to maintain a slim folded profile. The folded size can be reduced still further by, unlocking the front wheel 1 at the top of its support stanchion 13 and folding the front wheel 1 back to lie closely alongside the folded frame. Before folding the front wheel 1 the left-hand side pedal 11 L should be rotated to a position that clears the folded front wheel 1. These operations can be carried out while walking and carrying the folded assembly.

Referring to Figure 32, which displays an elevational a side view of the bicycle shown in figure 31. This plan view of the folded assembly has folding pedals 11 shown in the folded position and shows the compact overall width of the package for ease of handling and storage.

Referring to Figure 33, which displays an elevational a side view of the bicycle shown in figure 32. The folded assembly can be parked in a near vertical position by using the front wheel 1 to prop the assembly in this position. By rotating the front wheel 1 assembly on its angled hinge 50 at the top of stanchion 72 so that the front wheel 1 is positioned away from its fully folded position it thereby forms a support the folded assembly, in a leaning upright position. The front wheel 1 can freely rotate but the assembly will not move because the folded handlebars lock the rear wheel 2 and this prevents the assembly from moving.

To return the folded bicycle to the riding position, the user essentially reverses the folding steps described in figures 26 to 31. The front wheel 1 is unfolded and locked in position as shown in figure 30. The saddle 9 is pulled out to its full pre-set position. Next the handlebars 30 are rotated to their riding position and locked. The combined seat 9 and saddle tubes 7, 8 and front wheel 1 assembly are both rotated forward to their maximum extent in the lower frame member 3. To lock the saddle tube 8 in the seat post 7, the user rotates the stay to the riding position. The combined seat 9 and saddle post 7, 8 only, are rotated to the riding position. This engages the latch 26 to lock the front 4 and lower frame members 3 together. The retaining latch 40 is then held open while the stay 10 is positioned on the rear frame support 10 to position and retain the saddle tube 8. The handlebars 30 are then rotated 180 degrees and finally the pedals 1 1 (if they are of the folding type) are folded to their operating position. Referring to Figure 34. Elevational side views A, B, C, D and E illustrate the riding, wheeling and carrying operations, respectively.

View A illustrates the unfolded riding position. View B illustrates how the assembly can be wheeled via the front wheel 1 when the bicycle has been folded but the front wheel 1 kept in the unfolded position.

View C illustrates how the folded bicycle in view B can be carried. View D illustrates how the bicycle in the most compact folded state can be carried.

View E illustrates how the bicycle can be wheeled in the state shown in view D by raising the saddle 9 to its full extent and using it as a handle to wheel the bicycle on the folded front wheel 1. The front wheel 1 can be folded or unfolded while the assembly is being carried. The front wheel 1 locking lever 49 is positioned at the top of the assembly to facilitate this.

Figure 35 displays a cross-sectional view of the front frame member 4 and seat post member 7 within the lower member 3. This alternative embodiment features a tapered profile forward of the parallel pivot area 122 to the sides of the lower member 3, and a matching pivoted shroud 120 on the pivot of the front frame member 4. The shroud tapered sides are, in use, positioned against the tapered sides of the lower frame member 3 forming a tight,, wedged contact when the slide is pushed into position. It will be appreciated that the fitting parts do not necessarily need to be tapered but maybe curved for example. The lower frame member 3 therefore comprises profiled sides forming a complementary tight fit with corresponding sides of the front frame member. The slide 26 has an enlarged section at the engagement point and reduces to a lower profile section towards the seat post. A spring is also added to assist and maintain engagement. A slot is also added to the slide to enable the rear brake cable 150 to pass inside the lower frame member 3.This example seeks to provide a greater rigidity at the pivoted joint with the lower frame. Adjustment can also be advantageously included by enabling a small eccentricity at the pivot pin so as to set the desired clamping force Figure 36 is a cross-sectional cut away of the lower frame member 3, showing the pivot for the front frame member 4 and displaying the shroud 120 in position over the tapered sides 122 of the lower member 3. The rear brake cable 150 is shown routed inside the front and lower frame members, and through the latch 26. Figure 37 is a cross-sectional cut away of the lower frame member 3 showing the pivot for the seat post member 7. This example seeks to provide a lighter and more rigid joint. The rear brake cable 150 is shown routed inside the lower frame 3.

Figures 38 and 39 display elevated side and front views respectively, of the steering head with the front wheel 1 in the straight ahead positioning. The top part of the pivot retaining collar 133 has a modified shape that extends downwards alongside the upper pivot bush. The collar is rigidly fixed to the pivot spindle 131, the lower end of the downward extension is shaped so as to clear the upper sloped surface of the lower bearing mounting sleeve 136. This extension prevents the front wheel 1 from being rotated to the folded position in the bicycle's normal operating mode.

A sector of the sloped surface is locally cut away, and radially located, so that the handlebars 30 and front wheel 1 can be rotated 180 degrees to the first stage of folding. The downward extension is subsequently then positioned over the cut away zone of the sloped surface, allowing the front wheel 1 to be folded into position, alongside the folded frame. This, subsequently, provides an interlock, preventing the front wheel 1 from unfolding at an earlier stage.

The upper end of the pivoted latch 134 is positioned in, and moved by the grooved recess in the outer circumference of the fixed lower bearing mounting sleeve 136. In the steering arc of the normal riding position, the groove is so constructed to be wider, offering no input to the pivoted latch 134 but is profiled to rotate and disengage the latch 134 when the handlebars 30 are rotated from 90 degrees anticlockwise to 180 degrees anticlockwise, and to re-engage the latch 134 when this rotation is reversed. The lower part of the latch 134 is profiled so as to allow flex, and is sprung in position into the groove in the lower plate 137. This final springing position of the latch 134 moves the upper part of the latch 134 away from its actuating groove so that it does not make contact in the normal riding position. The pivot for the latch 134 has eccentric support points so it can be rotated and locked in position to adjust the spring force applied to lock the lower plate 137 in position. When the latch 134 is released, desirably, it does not fully clear the plate 137. A slight interference zone is permitted, which is used to retain the lower plate 137 when the front wheel 1 is unfolded and moved into the straight ahead position, which 'clicks' when performed correctly.

Figure 39 displays a cross-sectional cut away section view on the front wheel steering head, showing the front wheel hinge and lower bearing mounting sleeve 136 when the front wheel 1 is in the straight ahead position. Anticlockwise rotation of the handlebars 30 releases the latch 134. Clockwise rotation engages the latch 134. When in the normal riding position, no contact occurs between the grooves and the plate means. As displayed by Figure 40, the chamfered section of the lower bearing mounting sleeve 136 is locally cut away to clear the pivot spindles downward extension 133, allowing the front wheel 1 to be folded against the folded frame. The sides of the cut away zone are sloped so as to provide the user with ease of movement into and out of the zone.

On the mirrored side of the latching means, no groove is present. The upper part of the pivoted latch 134 contacts the end of the groove to stop undesired further rotation, preventing more than 90 degrees clockwise rotation of the handlebars 30. This avoids tangling of the front brake cable. A pivot retaining collar 133 with downward extension is rigidly attached to the pivot spindlel 31. Figure 40 displays a cross-sectional view section on the front wheel 1 steering head, showing the front wheel 1 folded alongside the folded frame (not shown). The front wheel 1 and handlebars 30 have been rotated 180 degrees and the front wheel 1 is folded alongside the folded frame. The lower bearing mounting sleeve is fixed in position on the steering head so it does not rotate. In this position the pivot spindle's downward extension is positioned over the cut away zone allowing the front wheel 1 to be folded or unfolded.

Figure 41 displays a cross-sectional side view of the steering head 6 and front support member 4. The solid circular centre section has a similar moment of inertia as the circular tube parts of the steering tube 5. The crescent shaped slot allows the cable 150 to be routed in a gentle curve.

A reinforced connection for the steering tube 5 features a crescent shaped slot and a solid eccentric reduced diameter, allowing the rear brake cable 150 to be routed down the steering tube 5 and inside the front frame member 4. A spiral wound Bowden cable can be twisted over a relatively long length, with minimal or no impact on the function of its operation.

Separate handlebars 30 can be used to conceal the brake cables 150 routed inside the bars 30. This feature is suitable for the front brake, providing the handlebars 30 can only be rotated 90 degrees clockwise to prevent tangling with the frame. The rear brake cable 150 presents a larger challenge, because the cable 150 will tangle within the frame when the handlebars 30 are rotated 180 degrees, in order to fold the bicycle. The rotatory aspect of folding the handlebars ranges from about 90 degrees to around 180 degrees. The limit on the rotation is controlled by the arrangement as shown in Figure 40, or by an extension to the upper pivot 50 in Figure 1. The device shown in Figure 41 enables the rear brake cable to be routed internally and achieve the desired rotations. Not shown is the further downward route of the rear brake cable 150, which will emerge from the frame lower down in order to permit the front frame folding. Figures 42, 43 and 44 are cross sectional views of the rear brake cable 150 through the frame at various rotations, including, straight ahead, 90 degrees clockwise, and 180 degrees clockwise, respectively. These drawings are composed at points F to F as detailed on Figure 41. The steering tube 5 is locally reinforced to allow a cut away offset reduced section that enables a concealed operating cable to be routed inside the steering tube 5 and into the surrounding fixed frame members 4 and 6, yet permits the steering tube 5 to be rotated for steering the bicycle and rotating the handlebars 30 into the folding position without impairing the capabilities of any cables.

Figure 45 is a plan view of the handlebars 30. The contoured shape of the plate 160 at the end of each handlebar 30 tube features a deep square section groove set 162, cut at a slight angle in the upper surface of the plate 160. A pivoted lever 165 has a matching tenon 164 for each of the grooves in the left and right handlebar plates 160. When the handlebars 30 are rotated to a stopped operating position, each groove 162 lines up with the tenon's 164 on the pivoted lever 165. A strong spring urges the tenon's 164 into the grooves 162 to lock the handlebars 30 in the operating position. The sides of the grooves 162 and tenon's 164 can beneficially be slightly tapered to enable easy entry and avoid slackness when locked. The splayed angle of the tenon's 164, positions the tenon's on the upper surface of each contoured plate 160 when the handlebars 30 are in any folded position with a spring urging the lever 165 downwards in readiness to click into the grooves 162.

When the bicycle is folded into its first stage, the forward extension of the lever 165 makes contact with the upper part of the saddle tube 8 and is forced into the unlocked position by the downward force applied to the handlebars 30 when they are being folded. This releases the handlebars allowing them to be folded down to lock the projections 88R and 88L on the handlebars 30 under the upper part of the rear wheel 2 rim. Figures 46 and 47 are cross-sectional views of the handlebar 30 latch system, from a frontal and side on view, respectively. The lever 165 position, as displayed, is positioned in the upper mounting plate, which is closely fitted to retain the handlebars 30 allowing minimum vertical slackness. The long handlebar 30 and long lever extension enable adequate leverage to be applied to overcome the spring force at the lever. Thus, making the folding operation more efficient, by avoiding having to unlock and lock the handlebars in the folding/unfolding position.

The rear brake cable 150 is visibly routed down the left-hand handlebar 30L, through specifically cut grooves to allow easy passage of the cable down the steering tube.

The bicycle wheels 1 and 2 have a central hub and a connecting structure between the hub and wheel rim. The connecting structure comprise a number of means, including wheel spokes or a connecting plate.

Figure 48 is a side view of a preferred embodiment of the unfolded bicycle. Compared to the bicycle of Figure 1, the differences are the lower latch system for the front frame member, seat post member and lower frame member in that a cantilevered rearward facing extension is used on the front frame member, which is locked in the unfolded position by a rotary latch instead of a sliding latch. This enables the latch mechanism to be enclosed inside a sealed casing. The front frame and seat post members are mounted on extended spindles projecting on either side outside the casing. The operation of the folding system is essentially the same as described for the sliding latch system. Figure 49 (a) shows an elevational view of the bicycle shown in Figure 48 in the final folded state - in all other respects it is essentially the same as Figures 4 and 5.

Figures 49(b) and 49(c) are cross sectional views at the pivots for the front frame and seat post respectively, showing that the internal components can be profiled to match the casing internal shape.

Figure 50 shows enlarged, partial side view of the unfolded bicycle shown in Figure 48. The front frame member 178 is locked in the unfolded position by an extended arm 171 mounted on the front frame pivot spindle inside casing 170. A rotary latch 172 rotates about pivot 175 and locks the arm in position when the latch is moved into its forward position by the lobe 174 at the seat post 177. A spring 180 assists in keeping the latch 172 locked. Rotating the seat post forwards enables lobe 176 to move the latch rearwards to disengage the latch and move it to the position shown at 173 against the spring tension.

Accordingly, features broadly disclosed herein, for the means provided, are to operate and propel a bicycle that can also be folded, and locked, in the folded position, to a slim, manageable, package allowing it to be wheeled or carried. Accordingly, further preferred features broadly disclosed herein enable the bicycle to be locked in the operating position and unlocked to enable the bicycle to be folded into a portable package which can also be locked in the folded position by using the frame components to substantially participate and actuate in the folding and locking means, thereby reducing the additional locking and unlocking means to a minimum.

The folded bicycle may optionally comprise an alternative power, or power assisted drive system, so as to provide the user with a motor to propel the bicycle. The folding bicycle power system may comprise a motor, electric or otherwise.

Claims

1. A folding bicycle comprising a steerable front wheel assembly including a front frame member and a rear wheel assembly including a lower frame member, a seat post member and a rear wheel, the lower frame member comprising a first hinge connected to the seat post member and operating on a horizontal axis to allow the bicycle to be folded, the steerable front wheel assembly comprising hinged handlebars operable in use to position the handlebars in contact with the rear wheel, thereby reducing the size of the bicycle.

2. A folding bicycle according to claim 1, wherein, said lower frame member further comprises a second hinge connected with the front frame member, wherein said second hinge in use, co-operates with the first hinge to fold the seat post member towards the front frame member.

3. A folding bicycle according to claim 2, wherein the first or second hinge comprises an eccentric pivot pin and lower sleeve.

4. A folding bicycle according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein, in use, horizontal movement of the seat post member enables an actuation of the second hinge and front frame member, the actuation comprising a movement of a latch in the lower frame member engaging a receptive latch means of the front frame member to be disengaged from the latch in the lower frame member, to thereby allow cooperation of the first and second hinges.

5. A folding bicycle according to claim 4, wherein said first hinge comprises at least one complementary extension for maintaining operable contact with the latch means of the front frame member, so as to prevent unwanted folding while in the unfolded state.

6. A folding bicycle according to any preceding claim, wherein said seat post member comprises a seat post support member, wherein, when the bicycle is unfolded, the seat post member is supported in an upright position; and wherein said seat post support member is fastenable to the rear wheel assembly by a latch means.

7. A folding bicycle according to claim 6, wherein said seat post support member is fastened by a third hinge to an internal sliding means, said sliding means situated within the seat post member and locked or unlocked by the unfolded or folded positions respectively of the seat post support member.

8. A folding bicycle according to claim 7, wherein said seat post member comprises an internal sliding means for reducing seat post length, wherein seat post top member is slidable within a lower seat portion.

9 A folding bicycle according to claim 8, wherein a flexible retaining means, located internally and attached to the lower part of the seat post member at one end, and the other end attached to the upper part of the sliding seat post member, the flexible retaining means, in use, when the seat post top member slides, presets and limits the withdrawal distance of the seat post top member enabling the seat post top member to be used as an extended handle for wheeling the folded bicycle.

10. A folded bicycle according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said hinged handlebar is operable by latch means, to, secure the handlebars in an upright fixed position.

11. A folded bicycle according to claim 10, wherein said handlebar latch means secures a rotatable aspect, said rotatable aspect allowing up to 180 degree rotation of the handlebars when not latched in the upright position.

12. A folding bicycle according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said front frame member comprises a fourth hinge and a latch means for securing a front wheel stanchion to the front frame member, wherein unlatching actuates folding, said folding positioning the front wheel alongside the folded frame.

13. A folding bicycle according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said handlebar member comprises fasten projections situated forward of the handlebar, wherein the fasten projections, when rotated, form a grip-tight fasten with the rear wheel rim.

14. A folding bicycle according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said lower frame member has profiled sides , said profiled sides forming a complementary tight shrouded wedge fit with corresponding shroud sides of the front frame member,

15. A folding bicycle according to claim 14 whereby contact being adjustable by rotation of pivot pin members to adjust shroud clamp force.

16. A folding bicycle according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said bicycle comprises at least one folding pedal, said folding pedal reducing the folded profile of the bicycle.

17. A method of folding a bicycle, the bicycle comprising a steerable front wheel assembly including a front frame member including handlebars and a rear wheel assembly including a lower frame member, a seat post member and a rear wheel, the lower frame member comprising a first hinge connected to the seat post member and rotatable about a horizontal axis to allow the bicycle to be folded, the steerable front wheel assembly comprising a hinged handlebar operable in use to position the handlebar in contact with the rear wheel, thereby reducing the size of the bicycle, the method comprising the steps of:

(a) Rotating the handlebars and associated front wheel 180 degrees;

(b) Rotating forward the seat post member to a position between said handlebars; and

(c) Forward moving the seat post member, actuates the release of a front a frame member from the lower frame latch means.

18. A method according to claim 17, further comprising the steps of:

d) Folding the seat post support member to unlock a seat post sliding member; and e) Folding the front frame member and the seat post member horizontally towards a rear wheel in unison; and

f) Pressing a seat post sliding member into a lower section of the seat post member during folding of said front frame and seat post members toward the rear wheel.

19. A method according to any of claims 17 to 18, further comprising the step of:

g) Rotating the handlebars so as to lie alongside the folded frame members; h) Locking either side of the rear wheel rim by handlebar projections to secure the bicycle in the folded position; and

20. A method according to any of claims 17 to 19, wherein the steps are performed in reverse order.