Bicycle component

Abstract

A bicycle component 10 is provided with a substantially stationary member 60, a stationary plate 62, and a fastening member 64. The stationary member 60 includes a cable arrangement portion 70. The stationary plate 62 includes a stationary portion 76 and an extension portion 78. The fastening member 64 is configured to fasten the stationary plate 62 to the stationary member 60 in a fastening direction D. The extension portion 78 extends from the stationary portion 76, thereby forming a space 80 between the stationary member 60 and the extension portion 78 of the stationary plate 62. The stationary portion 76 is configured to sandwich a cable 14 between the stationary portion 76 and the stationary member 60 in a state where the cable 14 is arranged at the cable arrangement portion 70. The extension portion 78 includes an overlapping portion that overlaps the groove 72a when viewed from the fastening direction D.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates generally to a bicycle component. More specifically, the present invention relates to a bicycle component to which a cable is attached. BACKGROUND

[0002] Many bicycles include bicycle components that are operated by a cable and / or bicycle components that pull or release a cable. For example, in a bicycle, cable operated bicycle components include a brake device, a gear shifting device (e.g., a derailleur), a seat post, a suspension, etc. A user operates a component such as a shifter, which is an example of a bicycle component that pulls or releases a cable. A conventional cable for a cable operated bicycle component includes an inner wire and an outer casing that covers the inner wire. In particular, a Bowden cable is often used to operably couple a user operated component, such as a shifter, to a cable operated bicycle component, such as a derailleur.

[0003] In general, the present invention is directed to various features of a bicycle component to which a cable is attached. A rear derailleur and a rim brake are shown as examples of bicycle components to which a cable is attached. SUMMARY

[0004] In view of the state of the art, and according to a first aspect of the present invention, a bicycle component is provided that essentially comprises a fixed member, a fixed plate and a fastening member. The fixed member comprises a cable arrangement. The fixed plate comprises a fixed portion and an extension portion. The fastening member is configured to fasten the fixed plate to the fixed member in a fastening direction. The extension portion extends from the fixed portion, thereby forming a space between the fixed member and the extension portion of the fixed plate. The fixed portion is configured to clamp a cable between the fixed portion and the fixed member in a state in which the cable is arranged in the cable arrangement. The extension portion comprises an overlap portion that overlaps with a groove when viewed in the fastening direction.

[0005] With the bicycle component according to the first aspect, a cable can be easily attached to the bicycle component.

[0006] According to a second aspect of the present invention, the bicycle component according to the first aspect is configured such that the fixed member comprises a base portion and a receiving portion. The base portion has a through hole or a recess. The receiving portion receives the fixed portion of the fixed plate in a state in which the fastening member fastens the fixed plate to the fixed member. The receiving portion is at least partially located in the through hole and is non-rotatably engaged with the through hole or the recess.

[0007] With the bicycle component according to the second aspect, the fixed member can be easily manufactured.

[0008] According to a third aspect of the present invention, the bicycle component according to the second aspect is configured such that the base portion is made of a first material and the receiving portion is made of a second material. The first material is different from the second material.

[0009] By the bicycle part according to the third aspect, the base portion and the receiving portion can be made of different materials.

[0010] According to a fourth aspect of the present application, the bicycle part according to any one of the first to third aspects is configured such that the extension portion comprises an inclined portion inclined with respect to the fixing portion.

[0011] By the bicycle part according to the fourth aspect, the cable can be easily moved between the fixing member and the fixing plate.

[0012] According to a fifth aspect of the present application, the bicycle part according to any one of the first to fourth aspects is configured such that the extension portion comprises a deviated portion deviated from the cable arrangement portion when viewed from the fastening direction.

[0013] By the bicycle part according to the fifth aspect, the cable can be inserted into the space between the extension portion and the fixing member before the cable is moved into the cable arrangement portion.

[0014] According to a sixth aspect of the present application, the bicycle part according to the fifth aspect is configured such that the fastening member comprises a bolt having a head portion and a stem portion defining a bolt axis. The deviated portion is located outside the cable arrangement portion in a radial direction with respect to the bolt axis.

[0015] By the bicycle part according to the sixth aspect, the deviated portion can be suitably positioned so as to easily receive the cable between the fixing member and the fixing plate.

[0016] According to a seventh aspect of the present application, the bicycle part according to the sixth aspect is configured such that the receiving portion has a threaded hole configured to engage with the stem portion.

[0017] By the bicycle part according to the seventh aspect, the fastening member can be easily fastened to the receiving portion of the fixing member.

[0018] According to an eighth aspect of the present application, the bicycle part according to the seventh aspect further comprises a nut having a threaded hole configured to engage with the stem portion.

[0019] By the bicycle part according to the eighth aspect, the fastening member can be easily fastened to the nut so as to attach the fixing plate to the fixing member.

[0020] According to a ninth aspect of the present application, the bicycle part according to any one of the first to eighth aspects is configured such that the fixing plate comprises an anti-rotation portion extending from the fixing portion in a first direction. The extension portion extends from the fixing portion in a second direction different from the first direction.

[0021] For the bicycle part according to the ninth aspect, the fixing plate can be suitably positioned such that the extension portion is positioned for receiving the cable.

[0022] According to a tenth aspect of the present application, the bicycle part according to the ninth aspect is configured such that the anti-rotation portion is positioned opposite the tilt portion with respect to the fastening member.

[0023] For the bicycle part according to the tenth aspect, the fixing plate can be further suitably positioned such that the tilt portion is positioned for receiving the cable.

[0024] According to an eleventh aspect of the present application, the bicycle part according to any one of the first to tenth aspects is configured such that the cable arrangement portion comprises a groove.

[0025] With the bicycle part according to the eleventh aspect, the cable can be suitably arranged.

[0026] According to a twelfth aspect of the present application, the bicycle part according to the eleventh aspect is configured such that the groove comprises a first groove and a second groove. The first groove is offset from the fixing plate. The second groove overlaps the fixing plate when viewed from the fastening direction. The first groove is arranged with respect to the second groove such that the cable can be arranged in the first groove in a state in which the cable is not arranged in the second groove. The second groove is arranged with respect to the fixing plate and the fixing member such that a portion of the cable in the second groove is sandwiched between the fixing plate and the fixing member in a state in which the cable is arranged in the first groove and the second groove.

[0027] With the bicycle part according to the twelfth aspect, the cable can be easily installed between the fixing plate and the fixing member.

[0028] According to a thirteenth aspect of the present application, the bicycle part according to the twelfth aspect is configured such that the first groove is wider than the second groove.

[0029] With the bicycle part according to the thirteenth aspect, the cable can be easily inserted first into the first groove and then moved into the second groove, such that the cable is suitably positioned.

[0030] According to a fourteenth aspect of the present application, the bicycle part according to the twelfth aspect or the thirteenth aspect is configured such that the fixing member comprises two protrusions between which the first groove is defined.

[0031] With the bicycle part according to the fourteenth aspect, the first groove can be easily formed.

[0032] According to a fifteenth aspect of the present application, the bicycle part according to any one of the first to fourteenth aspects is configured such that the bicycle part comprises a bicycle derailleur.

[0033] With the bicycle part according to the fifteenth aspect, the cable can be easily attached to the bicycle derailleur.

[0034] According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle part according to the fifteenth aspect is configured such that the bicycle derailleur further comprises a base member, a movable member, and a link member. The link member movably couples the movable member to the base member. The link member comprises the fixed member.

[0035] With the bicycle part according to the sixteenth aspect, the movable member can be moved relative to the base member by pulling or releasing the cable.

[0036] According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle part according to the fifteenth aspect is configured such that the link member comprises an inner link and an outer link. The outer link is positioned, in a state in which the base member is mounted to a center plane of the bicycle, partially farther from the center plane of the bicycle than the inner link. The inner link comprises the fixed member. The center plane of the bicycle passes through a center of the bicycle frame in a width direction of the bicycle frame.

[0037] With the bicycle part according to the seventeenth aspect, the cable can be easily attached to the inner link for moving the movable member relative to the base member.

[0038] Further objects, features, aspects and advantages of the disclosed bicycle part will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which disclose preferred embodiments of the bicycle part. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0039] Reference will now be made to the drawings, which constitute a part of this specification.

[0040] Figure 1 is a side elevational view of a bicycle derailleur (i.e., bicycle part) having a cable attachment structure according to one illustrated embodiment.

[0041] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the bicycle derailleur illustrated in Figure 1 is a profile view of a bicycle of the bicycle derailleur illustrated in

[0042] Figure 3 is a perspective view of Figure 1 is a partial perspective view of the bicycle derailleur illustrated in

[0043] Figure 4 is a perspective view of Figure 1 and Figure 3 is a perspective view of the inner link of the bicycle derailleur illustrated in

[0044] Figure 5 is a perspective view of Figure 4 is a magnified perspective view of the cable attachment structure of the inner link illustrated in

[0045] Figure 6 is Figure 4 and Figure 5 Another enlarged perspective view of the cable attachment structure shown in

[0046] Figure 7 is Figures 4 to 6 Another enlarged perspective view of the cable attachment structure shown in

[0047] Figure 8 is Figures 4 to 7 An isometric view of the cable attachment structure shown in

[0048] Figure 9 is Figures 4 to 8 Another isometric view of the cable attachment structure shown in

[0049] Figure 10 is Figures 4 to 9 An exploded perspective view of the cable attachment structure shown in

[0050] Figure 11 is Figures 4 to 10 A further exploded perspective view of the cable attachment structure shown in

[0051] Figure 12 is Figures 4 to 11 A still further exploded perspective view of the cable attachment structure shown in

[0052] Figure 13 is Figures 4 to 12 An isometric view of the cable attachment structure shown in

[0053] Figure 14 is Figure 13 An exploded isometric view of the cable attachment structure shown in

[0054] Figure 15 is Figure 14 An exploded perspective view of the cable attachment structure shown in

[0055] Figure 16 is Figure 4 A perspective view of an initial step of coupling a cable to an inner link shown in

[0056] Figure 17 is Figure 16 A cross-sectional view of the inner link cable and cable attachment structure shown in

[0057] Figure 18 is Figure 16 A perspective view of a subsequent step of coupling a cable to an inner link.

[0058] Figure 19is a perspective view showing a subsequent step of coupling the cable to the inner link Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view of the inner link cable and cable attachment structure shown in

[0059] Figure 20 is a perspective view showing a subsequent step of coupling the cable to the inner link Figure 16 and Figure 18 is a perspective view showing a subsequent step of coupling the cable to the inner link

[0060] Figure 21 is a perspective view showing a subsequent step of coupling the cable to the inner link Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view of the inner link cable and cable attachment structure shown in

[0061] Figure 22 is an exploded perspective view of a variant cable attachment structure for coupling a cable to an inner link of a bicycle derailleur as shown in Figure 1

[0062] Figure 23 is an exploded perspective view of another variant cable attachment structure for coupling a cable to a variant inner link of a bicycle derailleur as shown in Figure 1

[0063] Figure 24 is an exploded perspective view of another variant cable attachment structure for coupling a cable to another variant inner link of a bicycle derailleur as shown in Figure 1

[0064] Figure 25 is a front elevational view of a bicycle rim brake (i.e., a bicycle component) having a cable attachment structure according to another illustrated embodiment.

[0065] Figure 26 is a side elevational view of a portion of the bicycle rim brake shown in Figure 25

[0066] Figure 27 is a rear elevational view of a portion of the bicycle rim brake shown in Figure 25 and Figure 26

[0067] REFERENCE NUMERALS:

[0068] 10: bicycle component

[0069] 12: cable attachment structure

[0070] 14: cable

[0071] 14a: outer shell

[0072] 14b: inner wire

[0073] ​​​​​16: bicycle derailleur

[0074] 20: base member

[0075] 22: movable member

[0076] 24: link member

[0077] 26: derailleur fastener

[0078] 28: housing receiving member

[0079] 30: inner link

[0080] 30': inner link

[0081] 30": inner link

[0082] 32: outer link

[0083] 34: first pivot pin

[0084] 36: second pivot pin

[0085] 38: third pivot pin

[0086] 40: fourth pivot pin

[0087] 42: biasing element

[0088] 44: pin

[0089] 46: chain guide

[0090] 48: first chain cage

[0091] 50: second chain cage

[0092] 52: guide pulley

[0093] 54: tension pulley

[0094] 60: fixed member

[0095] 60': fixed member

[0096] 60": fixed member

[0097] 62: fixed plate

[0098] 64: fastening member

[0099] 64a: head

[0100] 64b: shank

[0101] 66: base portion

[0102] 66a: through hole

[0103] 66' : base portion

[0104] 66a' : through hole

[0105] 66" : base portion

[0106] 68 : receiving portion

[0107] 68a : threaded hole

[0108] 68b : end flange

[0109] 68c : non-circular outer peripheral surface

[0110] 68d : cable receiving groove

[0111] 68d1 : protrusion

[0112] 70 : cable arrangement portion

[0113] 70' : cable arrangement portion

[0114] 70" : cable arrangement portion

[0115] 72 : groove

[0116] 72a : first groove

[0117] 72b : second groove

[0118] 74 : protrusion

[0119] 76 : fixing portion

[0120] 76a : opening

[0121] 78 : extension portion

[0122] 78a : inclined portion

[0123] 78a1 : overlapping portion

[0124] 78a2 : deviated portion

[0125] 80 : space

[0126] 82 : anti-rotation portion

[0127] 90 : nut

[0128] 90a : threaded hole

[0129] 110 : bicycle rim brake

[0130] 112 : cable attachment structure

[0131] 114 : cable

[0132] 114a : housing receiving member

[0133] 114b: Inside line

[0134] 116: First fixing bolt

[0135] 118: Second fixing bolt

[0136] 120: First brake arm

[0137] 120a: First brake shoe attachment structure

[0138] 120b: Housing receiving structure

[0139] 122: Second brake arm

[0140] 122a: First brake shoe attachment structure

[0141] 122b: Base section

[0142] 124: Brake pads

[0143] 126: Friction Components

[0144] 128: Attachment bolts

[0145] 130: Cylinder regulator

[0146] 134: First component

[0147] 136: Second component

[0148] 138: Cable Conditioner

[0149] 140: Threaded fasteners

[0150] 160: Fixed component

[0151] 162: Fixing plate

[0152] 164: Fastening components

[0153] A: Bolt axis

[0154] B: Bicycle

[0155] CP: Center plane

[0156] D: Fastening direction

[0157] F: Bicycle frame

[0158] H: Handle

[0159] P1: First pivot axis

[0160] P2: Second pivot axis

[0161] R1: First direction

[0162] R2: second direction

[0163] S: seat

[0164] W: wheel DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0165] Selected embodiments will now be explained with reference to the drawings. In accordance with the present disclosure, those skilled in the art of bicycles will appreciate that the following description of the embodiments is made merely to illustrate and not to limit the present invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0166] Referring first to Figures 1 to 3 , according to one exemplary embodiment, a bicycle component 10 is shown equipped with a cable attachment structure 12 for attaching a cable 14 thereto. Here, in Figure 1 , the bicycle component 10 comprises a bicycle derailleur 16. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle derailleur 16 is a cable-operated derailleur that is coupled to a shifter (i.e., an operator component) by the cable 14. However, the cable attachment structure 12 can be applied to other bicycle components.

[0167] Referring to Figure 2 , a profile view of a bicycle B equipped with a bicycle derailleur is shown as viewed from the front of the bicycle B in a longitudinal direction to show a bicycle center plane CP that vertically bisects a frame F of the bicycle B. The bicycle center plane CP passes through the center of the bicycle frame F in a widthwise direction of the bicycle frame F. The bicycle center plane CP separates a left side of the bicycle B from a right side of the bicycle B. The following directional terms “front,” “rear,” “forward,” “rearward,” “left,” “right,” “lateral,” “longitudinal,” “upward,” and “downward,” as well as any other similar directional terms, refer to those directions determined based on a rider standing upright on a seat S of the bicycle B while facing a handlebar H of the bicycle B.

[0168] As shown in Figure 1 , the bicycle derailleur 16 comprises a cable attachment structure 12 for attaching a cable 14 thereto. Here, the cable 14 is a conventional Bowden cable. Thus, the cable 14 comprises an outer housing 14a and an inner wire 14b. The inner wire 14b is operable by a shifter (i.e., a user-operated type of bicycle component) to shift the bicycle derailleur 16 between shift level positions by operation of the shifter.

[0169] The bicycle derailleur 16 further comprises a base member 20, a movable member 22 and a linkage member 24. The base member 20 is configured to be mounted to the bicycle B by fasteners 26, e.g. fastening bolts. In particular, the bicycle derailleur 16 is fixed to a rear portion of the bicycle frame F by the fasteners 26 in a conventional manner. The movable member 22 is movably coupled to the base member 20 for movement in a lateral direction relative to the bicycle frame F. In particular, the linkage member 24 movably couples the movable member 22 to the base member 20. The base member 20 has a housing receiving member 28 for receiving the housing 14a of the cable 14. The inner wire 14b of the cable 14 passes through the housing receiving member 28 and is connected to the cable attachment structure 12. The cable attachment structure 12 is provided to the linkage member 24.

[0170] The base member 20 is a rigid member made of a suitable material, such as a metallic material or a fiber reinforced plastic material. Preferably, as in the shown embodiment, the base member 20 is integrally formed as a one-piece member. The base member 20 is configured to be pivotally mounted to the bicycle frame F about a first pivot axis PI by the fasteners 26. Here, for example, the base member 20 is directly mounted to a suspended portion of the bicycle frame F by the fasteners 26 forming a B-axle.

[0171] In the shown embodiment, the linkage member 24 comprises an inner linkage 30 and an outer linkage 32. In a state in which the base member 20 is mounted to the bicycle center plane CP, the outer linkage 32 is positioned further away from the bicycle center plane CP than the inner linkage 30. In other words, in a state in which the base member 20 is mounted to the bicycle center plane CP, the inner linkage 30 is positioned closer to the bicycle center plane CP than the outer linkage 32. The inner linkage 30 is pivotally coupled to the base member 20 by a first pivot pin 34 (see Fig. 2) and pivotally coupled to the movable member 22 by a second pivot pin 36. The outer linkage 32 is pivotally coupled to the base member 20 by a third pivot pin 38 and pivotally coupled to the movable member 22 by a fourth pivot pin 40. However, it will be apparent from the present disclosure that other structures for attaching the base member 20 to the movable member 22 can be used as desired and / or as desired. Figure 3

[0172] ​In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle derailleur 16 further includes a biasing element 42 that biases the movable member 22 relative to the base member 20 toward the highest gear. As used herein, the term "highest gear" refers to the operating position of the rear derailleur 16 corresponding to the positioning of the bicycle chain to the smallest sprocket that is located furthest from the center plane of the bicycle frame F. In the illustrated embodiment, the biasing element 42 is a helical tension spring having a first end connected to the third pivot pin 38 and a second end connected to a pin 44 disposed on the inner link 30 proximate to the second pivot pin 36. Of course, it will be apparent from the present disclosure that the bicycle derailleur 16 can be provided with a biasing element that biases the movable member 22 relative to the base member 20 toward the low gear.

[0173] The movable member 22 is a rigid member made of a suitable material such as a metallic material or a fiber-reinforced plastic material. As mentioned above, the movable member 22 is movably coupled to the base member 20 by the link member 24. A chain guide 46 is pivotally mounted to the movable member 22 such that the chain guide 46 is pivotable about a second pivot axis P2. The chain guide 46 substantially includes a first chain cage 48 and a second chain cage 50. In the illustrated embodiment, the first chain cage 48 is an outer chain cage. The first chain cage 48 can be an inner chain cage. Further, here, the chain guide 46 further includes a guide pulley 52 and a tension pulley 54. The guide pulley 52 and the tension pulley 54 are rotatably disposed between the first chain cage 48 and the second chain cage 50. The first chain cage 48 and the second chain cage 50 define a chain receiving slot for receiving a bicycle chain.

[0174] As Figure 1 and Figure 3 illustrated, the cable attachment structure 12 is provided to the link member 24. More specifically, the cable attachment structure 12 is provided to the inner link 30. The cable attachment structure 12 of the bicycle component 10 substantially includes a fixing member 60, a fixing plate 62, and a fastening member 64. Here, the link member 24 includes the fixing member 60. More specifically, the inner link 30 includes the fixing member 60. The fastening member 64 is configured to fasten the fixing plate 62 to the fixing member 60 in a fastening direction D. Here, as Figures 10 to 12 illustrated, the fastening member 64 includes a bolt, wherein the bolt has a head 64a and a shank 64b defining a bolt axis A.

[0175] In general, the fixing member 60 includes a base portion 66 and a receiving portion 68. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner link 30 and the base portion 66 are integrally formed as a single workpiece, while the receiving portion 68 is a separate workpiece that is attached to the inner link 30 by the fastening member 64. In this way, the base portion 66 is made of a first material, while the receiving portion 68 is made of a second material. The first material is different from the second material. In this way, the first material can be a lightweight material, while the second material can be particularly suitable for accommodating the fastening member 64. For example, a resin material can be used as the first material. Also, for example, a metal material can be used as the second material.

[0176] The base portion 66 has a through-hole or recess. The receiving portion 68 is at least partially located in the through-hole and non-rotatably engaged with the through-hole or recess. Here, in the illustrated embodiment, the base portion 66 has a through-hole 66a, and the receiving portion 68 is at least partially located in the through-hole 66a and non-rotatably engaged with the through-hole 66a. The through-hole 66a is preferably non-circular to non-rotatably engage with the receiving portion 68. For example, as illustrated, the through-hole 66a can be generally square when viewed from the fastening direction D. Alternatively, the through-hole 66a can have an elliptical shape, a star shape, a regular polygonal shape, an irregular polygonal shape, or the like when viewed from the fastening direction D.

[0177] The fixing member 60 also includes a cable arrangement portion 70. In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, the cable arrangement portion 70 is provided to the base portion 66. Preferably, the cable arrangement portion 70 includes a groove 72. More preferably, the groove 72 includes a first groove 72a and a second groove 72b. Here, the fixing member 60 includes two protrusions 74 that define the first groove 72a therebetween. The second groove 72b is a recess that extends from the through-hole 66a. Preferably, the first groove 72a is wider than the second groove 72b. In this way, the inner wire 14b of the cable 14 can be easily inserted into the first groove 72a during the cable attachment operation. The first groove 72a is offset from the fixing plate 62. The second groove 72b overlaps the fixing plate 62 when viewed from the fastening direction D. The first groove 72a is arranged relative to the second groove 72b such that the cable 14 can be arranged in the first groove 72a in a state where the cable 14 is not arranged in the second groove 72b. The second groove 72b is arranged relative to the fixing plate 62 and the fixing member 60 such that a portion of the cable 14 in the second groove 72b is pinched between the fixing plate 62 and the fixing member 60 in a state where the cable 14 is arranged in the first groove 72a and the second groove 72b.

[0178] Here, in the illustrated embodiment, the receiving portion 68 has a threaded hole 68a configured to engage with the stem portion 64b of the fastening member 64. The stem portion 64b of the fastening member 64 is screwed into the threaded hole 68a for coupling the fixing plate 62 to the fixing member 60. The receiving portion 68 further includes an end flange 68b, a non-circular outer peripheral surface 68c, and a cable receiving groove 68d. The end flange 68b is sized larger than the cross-sectional dimension of the through hole 66a so that the receiving portion 68 cannot pass completely through the through hole 66b. Thus, the end flange 68b abuts against the base portion 66 of the fixing member 60 to prevent the receiving portion 68 from passing completely through the through hole 66a. The non-circular outer peripheral surface 68c of the receiving portion 68 is configured to cooperate with the through hole 66a of the base portion 66 of the fixing member 60 to prevent the receiving portion 68 from rotating with respect to the base portion 66. Here, in the illustrated embodiment, the non-circular outer peripheral surface 68c of the receiving portion 68 has a substantially square shape when viewed from the fastening direction D. Alternatively, the receiving portion 68 can have an elliptical shape, a star shape, a regular polygonal shape, an irregular polygonal shape, or the like when viewed from the fastening direction D. In any case, the receiving portion 68 must cooperate with the through hole 66a so as to prevent the receiving portion 68 from rotating with respect to the base portion 66. The cable receiving groove 68d is sized to accommodate the inner wire 14b. Thus, the cable receiving groove 68d is aligned with the second groove 72b. Preferably, as shown, the cable receiving groove 68d has one or more protrusions protruding from the bottom of the cable receiving groove 68d. Here, the cable receiving groove 68d has two protrusions 68dl protruding from the bottom of the cable receiving groove 68d. The protrusions 68dl are configured to engage with the inner wire 14b. In this way, the inner wire 14b is fixedly held between the fixing plate 62 and the receiving portion 68. Figure 15

[0179] ​In essence, the fixing plate 62 comprises a fixing portion 76 and an extension portion 78. The fixing portion 76 has an opening 76a for receiving the shaft portion 64b of the fastening member 64 therethrough. In a state where the fastening member 64 fastens the fixing plate 62 to the fixing member 60, the receiving portion 68 receives the fixing portion 76 of the fixing plate 62. The extension portion 78 extends from the fixing portion 76, thereby forming a space 80 between the fixing member 60 and the extension portion 78 of the fixing plate 62. Preferably, the extension portion 78 comprises an inclined portion 78a inclined with respect to the fixing portion 76. However, it will be apparent from the present disclosure that the extension portion 78 is not necessarily inclined to form the space 80. Rather, the extension portion 78 can have a stepped portion forming the space 80. In any case, the space 80 is configured to receive the inner wire 14b of the cable 14 during the cable attachment operation. Once the inner wire 14b of the cable 14 is located in the space 80 between the fixing member 60 and the extension portion 78, the inner wire 14b of the cable 14 can be easily moved under the fixing portion 76 to the cable arrangement portion 70. In this way, the fixing portion 76 is configured to sandwich the cable 14 between the fixing portion 76 and the fixing member 60 in a state where the cable 14 is disposed at the cable arrangement portion 70.

[0180] As shown in Figure 5 the extension portion 78 comprises an overlapping portion 78a1 overlapping the groove 72 as viewed from the fastening direction D. Preferably, the extension portion 78 further comprises a deviating portion 78a2 deviating from the cable arrangement portion 70 as viewed from the fastening direction D. The deviating portion 78a2 is located outside the cable arrangement portion 70 in a radial direction with respect to the bolt axis A.

[0181] Preferably, the fixing plate 62 comprises an anti-rotation portion 82 extending from the fixing portion 76 in a second direction R2. The extension portion 78 extends from the fixing portion 76 in a first direction R1 different from the second direction R2. For example, the second direction R2 is substantially parallel to the fastening direction D. Further, for example, the first direction R1 is angled with respect to the fastening direction D. In the illustrated embodiment, the first direction R1 is angled at about forty-five degrees with respect to the fastening direction D. Further, the anti-rotation portion 82 is located at a second side of the fixing portion 76, and the extension portion 78 is located at a first side of the fixing portion 76. The first side of the fixing portion 76 faces the head portion 64a of the fastening member 64, and the second side of the fixing portion 76 faces away from the head portion 64a. Here, the anti-rotation portion 82 is positioned opposite the inclined portion 78a with respect to the fastening member 64.

[0182] Reference is now made to Figure 22FIG. 4 illustrates a variant cable attachment structure for coupling the cable 14 to the inner link 30 of the bicycle derailleur 16. Here, the variant cable attachment structure includes the fixed member 60, the fixed plate 62, and the fastening member 64. However, in this variant, the fixed member 60 includes a receiving portion 88 having a non-threaded hole 88a. Similar to the previous embodiments, the receiving portion 88 is non-rotatably received in the through hole 66a of the base portion 66. In addition, the variant cable attachment structure of the bicycle component 10 also includes a nut 90 having a threaded hole 90a configured to engage with the stem portion 64b. Thus, the fixed member 60 includes the nut 90 for attaching the fixed plate 62 to the fixed member 60 via the fastening member 64.

[0183] Referring now to Figure 23 FIG. 5 illustrates another variant cable attachment structure for coupling the cable 14 to a variant inner link 30' that can be used in place of the inner link 30 of the bicycle derailleur 16. Here, the variant cable attachment structure includes a variant fixed member 60' and the fixed plate 62 and the fastening member 64 of the previous embodiments. In this variant, the fixed member 60' does not include a receiving portion. Rather, the fixed member 60' includes the nut 90 of the previous variant, and the fixed member 60' has a variant base portion 66' having a non-threaded through hole 66a' for receiving the stem portion 64b of the fastening member 64. Thus, the fixed member 60' includes the nut 90 for attaching the fixed plate 62 to the fixed member 60' via the fastening member 64.

[0184] Referring now to Figure 24 FIG. 6 illustrates another variant cable attachment structure for coupling the cable 14 to a variant inner link 30" that can be used in place of the inner link 30 of the bicycle derailleur 16. Here, the variant cable attachment structure includes a variant fixed member 60" and the fixed plate 62 and the fastening member 64 of the previous embodiments. In this variant, the fixed member 60" does not include a receiving portion. Rather, the fixed member 60" includes a variant base portion 66" having a threaded through hole 66a" for threadably receiving the stem portion 64b of the fastening member 64.

[0185] Referring now to Figures 25 to 27A bicycle rim brake 110 (i.e., a bicycle component) having a cable attachment structure 112 according to another illustrated embodiment will now be explained. Basically, the bicycle rim brake 110 is operated by a cable 114 having a housing 114a covering an inner wire 114b. The cable attachment structure 112 is attached to the inner wire 114b of the cable 114. In the illustrated embodiment, the cable 114 is a Bowden cable in which the inner wire 114b is slidably housed within the housing 114a. A bicycle operating device operates the bicycle rim brake 110 by selectively pulling and releasing the inner wire 114b. In this manner, the bicycle rim brake 110 selectively applies a braking force to a bicycle rim of a bicycle wheel W.

[0186] Here, the bicycle rim brake 110 is directly mounted to a bicycle frame F (e.g., a front fork) of a bicycle B by a first fixed bolt 116 and a second fixed bolt 118. More specifically, the rim brake 110 further includes a first brake arm 120 and a second brake arm 122. The first brake arm 120 is pivotally mounted to the bicycle frame F by the first fixed bolt 116, while the second brake arm 122 is pivotally mounted to the bicycle frame F by the second fixed bolt 118. In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle rim brake 110 is a symmetrical dual-pivot rim (caliper) brake, which is a direct-mount brake caliper. However, the cable attachment structure 112 can be used with other types of rim (caliper) brakes, such as a single-pivot rim (caliper) brake and a dual-pivot rim (caliper) brake as an indirect mount. Moreover, the cable attachment structure 112 can be used with any other type of bicycle component, such as a mechanical disc brake caliper, an internally geared hub derailleur, etc.

[0187] The first brake arm 120 includes a first brake shoe attachment structure 120a and a housing receiving structure 120b. The second brake arm 122 includes a second brake shoe attachment structure 122a and a base portion 122b. The bicycle rim brake 110 further includes a pair of brake shoes 124, each of which includes a friction member 126. The brake shoes 124 are adjustably attached to the first brake shoe attachment structure 120a and the second brake shoe attachment structure 122a by a pair of attachment bolts 128. Here, the housing receiving structure 120b is provided with a barrel adjuster 130 that adjusts an end position of an end of the housing 114a of the cable 114.

[0188] In essence, the bicycle operating device operates the bicycle rim brake 110 by selectively pulling and releasing the inner wire 114b, which in turn rotates the first brake arm 120 and the second brake arm 122. In this manner, the friction member 126 of the bicycle rim brake 110 contacts the bicycle rim to apply a braking force to the bicycle rim. Since the rim brake is well known, the conventional components of the bicycle rim brake 110 will not be discussed in detail here for the sake of brevity.

[0189] Here, the cable attachment structure 112 is integrated into a cable adjuster 138, which is attached to the base portion 122b of the second brake arm 122. The cable adjuster 138 essentially includes a first member 134 and a second member 136. The cable attachment structure 112 is rotatably supported on the first member 134. In essence, the first member 134 is configured to be rotatably mounted to the base portion 122b about a first axis, while the second member 136 is attached to the first member 134 to rotate relative to the first member 134 about a second axis that is offset from and parallel to the first axis. The cable adjuster 138 further includes a threaded fastener 140 that attaches the cable attachment structure 112 to the first member 134 to enable the cable attachment structure 112 to rotate relative to the first member 134. The threaded fastener 140 also attaches the second member 136 to the first member 134. Here, the cable attachment structure 112 is secured to the base portion 122b of the second brake arm 122 by the threaded fastener 140. Alternatively, the cable attachment structure 112 can be partially formed by the base portion 122b of the second brake arm 122, as described below.

[0190] The cable attachment structure 112 is essentially the same as the cable attachment structure 12 described above, except that the cable attachment structure 112 is integrated into a cable adjuster of a brake device, such as the bicycle rim brake 110. The cable attachment structure 112 essentially includes a securing member 160, a securing plate 162, and a fastening member 164. Here, the securing member 160 is secured to the base portion 122b of the second brake arm 122 by the threaded fastener 140 and disposed to the cable adjuster 138. Alternatively, the cable adjuster 138 and the threaded fastener 140 can be omitted, and the securing member 160 can be a component integral with the base portion 122b of the second brake arm 122.

[0191] Here, the securing plate 162 and the fastening member 164 are the same as the securing plate 62 and the fastening member 64. The securing member 160 can be configured to be coupled to the fastening member 164 using a receiving portion with a threaded hole, as shown in Figure 12 Alternatively, the securing member 160 can be configured to be coupled to the fastening member 164 using a receiving portion with a threaded hole, as shown in Figure 22The illustrated embodiment uses a receiving portion with a non-threaded hole and a nut to couple to the fastening member 164. Alternatively, the securing member 160 can be configured similar to Figure 23 The illustrated embodiment uses a nut to couple to the fastening member 164 without a receiving portion. Alternatively, the securing member 160 can be configured similar to Figure 24 The illustrated embodiment has the securing member 160 provided with a threaded hole to couple to the fastening member 164.

[0192] In understanding the scope of the present invention, the term “comprising” or “comprises” as used herein is intended to mean that there are other items or components that are not named in the specification that are optional in nature and that the specific recitation of components is not a limitation on the scope of the invention. This concept applies to other terms used in the specification such as “including”, “has”, “have”, “having”, “contain”, “contains”, “containing”, “include”, “includes”, “included”, and / or the like. Also, the term “or” as used herein is intended to mean an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive “or”. That is, unless specified otherwise, or clear from the context, the phrase “X employs A or B” is intended to mean that the alternative of “A or B” is the inclusive “or” that also can be “A and / or B”. Moreover, the term “a” or “an” as used herein is intended to mean “one or more” unless specified otherwise or clear from the context to be directed to a singular form. Also, the term “about” as used herein when preceding a recitation of a value or a numerical range is intended to mean that the value or the numerical range is “within 10% of the recited value or range”.

[0193] As used herein, the directional terms “frame-facing side”, “non-frame-facing side”, “forward”, “rearward”, “front”, “back”, “up”, “down”, “above”, “below”, “upward”, “downward”, “top”, “bottom”, “side”, “vertical”, “horizontal”, “perpendicular”, and “transverse”, and any other like directional terms refer to those of a bicycle in an upright riding position and equipped with the bicycle component. Accordingly, these directional terms used to describe a bicycle component should be interpreted with respect to a bicycle in an upright riding position on a horizontal plane and equipped with the bicycle component. The terms “left” and “right” are used to indicate “right” when referenced from the right side when viewed from the rear of the bicycle, and “left” when referenced from the left side when viewed from the rear of the bicycle.

[0194] The phrase “at least one”, as used in the present disclosure, means “one or more”. For example, if the number of selections is two, the phrase “at least one”, as used in the present disclosure, means “only one single selection” or “both of the two selections”. As another example, if the number of selections is equal to or more than three, the phrase “at least one”, as used in the present disclosure, means “only one single selection” or “any combination of equal to or more than two selections”. Furthermore, the term “and / or”, as used in the present disclosure, means “one or both”.

[0195] Furthermore, it should be understood that although the terms "first" and "second" can be used herein to describe various components, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from another. Thus, a first component discussed above could be termed a second component, and, similarly, a second component could be termed a first component without departing from the teachings of the present application.

[0196] The terms "attach" or "attached" as used herein include configurations wherein an element is secured to another element directly with the element adhered directly to the other element; indirectly with the element adhered to an intermediate member which in turn is adhered to the other element; and configurations wherein one element is integral with the other element, i.e., the element is essentially a portion of the other element. This definition also applies to words of similar meaning, for example, "coupled", "connected", "engage", "mount", "bond", "secure" and derivatives thereof. Finally, the terms "substantially", "approximately", and "about" as used herein mean an acceptable quantity that a term can be modified to allow for a degree of error, for example, a degree of error acceptable in art of the technology.

[0197] While only selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the present application, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that various changes and modifications can be made herein without departing from the scope of the present application as defined in the appended claims. For example, the size, shape, location or arrangement of the various components can be changed as needed and / or desired, unless such changes and modifications fundamentally change the nature of the present application. Unless otherwise specified, components shown as directly connected or contacting one another can have intermediate structures disposed between them, so long as such changes do not fundamentally change the nature of the present application. The functions of one element can be performed by two, and vice versa. Unless otherwise specified, the structures and functions of one embodiment can be adopted in another embodiment. Not all of the advantages or attendant benefits of the present application need be achieved in a particular embodiment. Each feature disclosed in this specification, both singularly and in combination, and / or with varying numbers of things being variously claimed in dependent claims, should be treated as examples of the unique aspects that should be individually recognized as applied in or encompassing this disclosure. Therefore, the foregoing description of embodiments of the present application is not intended to be limiting. Rather, it is meant to provide an overview of the application sufficient to understand the nature of the application. Other embodiments can be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the application disclosed herein. Therefore, the present application is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A bicycle component comprising: a fixing member including a cable arrangement portion; a fixing plate including a fixing portion and an extension portion; and a fastening member configured to fasten the fixing plate to the fixing member in a fastening direction, wherein the extension portion extends from the fixing portion to form a space between the fixing member and the extension portion of the fixing plate, the fixing portion is configured to sandwich a cable between the fixing portion and the fixing member in a state where the cable is disposed in the cable arrangement portion, the extension portion includes an overlapping portion overlapping the cable arrangement portion when viewed from the fastening direction, the extension portion includes an inclined portion inclined with respect to the fixing portion, the cable arrangement portion includes a groove, the inclined portion overlaps the groove when viewed from the fastening direction.

2. The bicycle component according to claim 1, wherein the fixing member includes a base portion having a through hole or a recess, and a receiving portion receiving the fixing portion of the fixing plate in a state where the fastening member fastens the fixing plate to the fixing member, the receiving portion being at least partially located in the through hole and being non-rotatably engaged with the through hole or the recess.

3. The bicycle component according to claim 2, wherein the base portion is made of a first material and the receiving portion is made of a second material, the first material being different from the second material.

4. The bicycle component according to claim 2, wherein the extension portion includes a deviated portion deviated from the cable arrangement portion when viewed from the fastening direction.

5. The bicycle component according to claim 4, wherein the fastening member includes a bolt having a head portion and a shaft portion defining a bolt axis, and the deviated portion is located outside the cable arrangement portion in a radial direction with respect to the bolt axis.

6. The bicycle component according to claim 5, wherein the receiving portion has a threaded hole configured to be engaged with the shaft portion.

7. The bicycle component according to claim 6, further comprising: a nut having a threaded hole configured to be engaged with the shaft portion.

8. The bicycle component according to claim 1, wherein the fixing plate includes an anti-rotation portion extending from the fixing portion in a first direction, and the extension portion extends from the fixing portion in a second direction different from the first direction.

9. The bicycle component according to claim 8, wherein the anti-rotation portion is positioned opposite the inclined portion with respect to the fastening member.

10. The bicycle component according to claim 1, wherein the groove includes a first groove deviated from the fixing plate and a second groove overlapping the fixing plate when viewed from the fastening direction, the first groove is arranged with respect to the second groove such that the cable can be disposed in the first groove in a state where the cable is not disposed in the second groove, and the first groove is arranged with respect to the second groove such that the cable can be disposed in the first groove in a state where the cable is not disposed in the second groove, and The second groove is arranged relative to the fixed plate and the fixed member such that a portion of the cable in the second groove is sandwiched between the fixed plate and the fixed member in a state where the cable is arranged in the first groove and the second groove.

11. The bicycle component of claim 10, wherein The first groove is wider than the second groove.

12. The bicycle component of claim 10, wherein The fixed member includes two protrusions that define the first groove therebetween.

13. The bicycle component of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein The bicycle component includes a derailleur.

14. The bicycle component of claim 13, wherein The derailleur further includes: a base member; a movable member; and a link member that movably couples the movable member to the base member, the link member including the fixed member.

15. The bicycle component of claim 14, wherein The link member includes an inner link and an outer link, the outer link being positioned, in a state where the base member is mounted to a center plane of a bicycle, partially farther from the center plane of the bicycle than the inner link, the inner link including the fixed member, and the center plane of the bicycle passing through a center of a bicycle frame in a width direction of the bicycle frame.

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