Load carrier, additional wheel carrier, wheel carrier kit, bicycle carrier, spacer and securing strip

Abstract

The utility model discloses a load bearing frame which can be installed on a trailer connecting piece of a vehicle, for example, the load bearing frame is constructed to support a two-wheeled vehicle, and the load bearing frame comprises a load bearing frame connecting piece and a bearing frame which extends in a first direction and is constructed to support a load to be transported, for example, a bicycle. And an asymmetric support frame extending from the carrier frame in a second direction transverse to the first direction, for example perpendicular to the first direction, and configured to provide a side support for the load to be transported, characterized in that the support frame is configured to provide an enlarged load space for a load to be transported on a load side of the support frame and to provide sufficient space for a user to access the load carrier link on an opposite side of the support frame, for example on a load carrier link side. Additional wheel brackets, bicycle carriers, spacers and securing strips are also disclosed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a load carrier mountable to a trailer hitch of a vehicle and components of such a load carrier, for example additional parts such as wheel brackets or support arms for supporting bicycles and a support frame for the load carrier. Background Art

[0002] Load carrier systems that can be mounted to a trailer hitch of a vehicle are known in the art. Such systems need to meet the highest safety standards while being easy to use for the user.

[0003] Known systems have the disadvantage that they are often cumbersome to use and are not adapted to new requirements, such as those resulting from developments in sports equipment. Summary of the invention

[0004] The present disclosure relates to improvements in load carrier systems of the type described above. In particular, the present disclosure relates to improvements in load carriers and add-on parts for load carriers, such as bicycle arms or add-on wheel brackets.

[0005] An object is to provide an enhanced load carrier system and / or components of a load carrier system.

[0006] This object is solved by the configurations, aspects as set forth in the claims as well as by the exemplary configurations, examples and embodiments as described herein.

[0007] Advantageous further developments emerge from the dependent claims and the following description.

[0008] According to one aspect, a load carrier mountable on a trailer coupling of a vehicle is provided. The load carrier comprises a load carrier coupling. The load carrier coupling may be configured to couple the load carrier to the trailer coupling. The load carrier further comprises a carrying frame extending in a first direction and configured to support a load to be transported. The load carrier may be configured as a bicycle carrier. The carrying frame may be configured to support one or more bicycles.

[0009] The load carrier may also include an asymmetric support frame extending from the load carrier frame in a second direction transverse to the first direction. For example, in some configurations, the support frame extends perpendicular to the first direction. The support frame is configured to provide lateral support for the load to be transported. For example, the support frame may be configured to support a spacer for fixedly connecting a portion of a bicycle to the support frame so as to securely hold the bicycle in an upright position.

[0010] The support frame may extend in a transverse direction of the load carrier. For example, the transverse direction of the load carrier may correspond to a transverse direction of a vehicle to which the load carrier is mounted. The transverse direction may extend perpendicularly to the longitudinal direction of the load carrier. The longitudinal direction of the load carrier may correspond to a longitudinal direction of the vehicle to which the load carrier is mounted. The load carrier coupling may be arranged in a first longitudinal end portion of the load carrier or on a first longitudinal side of the load carrier. The first longitudinal end portion corresponds to a portion facing the vehicle to which the load carrier is mounted and may also be referred to as a vehicle side portion. The first longitudinal end portion may also be referred to as a rear portion of the load carrier. The load carrier may comprise a wheel support, which may comprise a wheel bracket. The wheel support may be arranged along a path extending in a transverse direction of the load carrier.

[0011] In one embodiment, the support frame is configured to provide an enlarged load space for the load to be transported on the load side of the support frame, and to provide sufficient space for a user to access the load carrier coupling on the opposite side of the support frame. The opposite side may be the load carrier coupling side of the support frame. In other words, the opposite side may be the side of the support frame facing the load carrier coupling. Thus, the support frame may be formed so that additional space is provided where needed. When the load carrier is mounted to the vehicle, the load side of the support frame may be the side of the support frame facing away from the vehicle. The load side of the support frame may be the side of the load carrier coupling side facing away from the load carrier. The load side of the support frame may be the side facing the front end portion of the load carrier. In one embodiment, the support frame may be configured so that it extends or is arranged closer to the vehicle or the load carrier side end on one side of the longitudinal center of the load carrier, and is arranged farther away from the vehicle or the load carrier side end on the other side of the longitudinal center of the load carrier.

[0012] In one embodiment, the support frame includes a protruding portion that protrudes in a first direction. The protruding portion provides a receiving space that is configured to receive a portion of the load to be transported. For example, the protruding portion may be formed at a location where a portion of the crank arrangement of the bicycle is positioned when the bicycle is supported on the load carrier. The protruding portion may be formed to provide a recess, a recessed portion or a notch on or in the support frame that is configured to receive a portion of the load to be transported. The protruding portion may be formed by creating one or more stepped sections.

[0013] The protrusion may be provided in a lower end portion of the support frame. For example, the protrusion may be provided such that a portion of the support frame is offset relative to an adjacent portion in a first direction, for example towards a load carrier coupling-side end of the load carrier.

[0014] The support frame may be configured as an upright frame extending in an upward direction from the carrier frame. For example, the support frame may extend perpendicularly to the carrier frame.

[0015] The support frame may include a base portion. The base portion may be configured to support a spacer or bicycle arm for coupling a portion of a bicycle to the support frame. The base portion may include two legs extending from the base portion. For example, the legs may extend from opposite ends of the base portion. The legs may include a first end portion. Each leg may be coupled to the base portion at the first end portion or may be integrally formed with the base portion. Each leg may be coupled to the load-bearing frame at its second end portion. The second end portion may be coupled to the load-bearing frame via a connecting portion. The base portion and the legs may form a U-shape. The base portion may include a straight section. The straight section may extend in a transverse direction of the load-bearing frame.

[0016] Each leg may include a first leg portion and a second leg portion. The first leg portion may be a lower portion of the leg, and each second leg portion may be an upper portion of the leg. The first leg portion may include a free end portion of the leg. The first leg portion may be coupled to the load-bearing frame.

[0017] A first leg portion of a first one of the legs may be at least partially offset to a first leg portion of a second one of the legs in a direction transverse to a main extension direction of the support frame and / or in a longitudinal direction of the load carrier.

[0018] A first leg portion (e.g., a single first leg portion), the second leg portion, and / or the base portion may extend in a first plane. A first leg portion may extend at least partially outside the first plane. For example, a first leg portion may extend at least partially in a second plane extending parallel to the first plane.

[0019] In some embodiments, the first leg portion and / or the second leg portion may include straight sections. The straight sections may extend parallel to each other.

[0020] In some embodiments, the support frame is coupled to the load-bearing frame by a connecting portion coupled to the load-bearing frame. For example, the connecting portion may be coupled to the rear end of the load-bearing frame. The connecting portion may be configured to support the support frame at different longitudinal positions of the load-bearing frame. In addition or alternatively, the connecting portion is arranged offset from each other in the longitudinal direction of the load-bearing frame. In some embodiments, the load-bearing frame includes different attachment portions offset from each other in the longitudinal direction of the load-bearing frame. The load-bearing frame may include two longitudinally extending support members with different lengths. The first end portion of the support member may be arranged at the same longitudinal position and the opposite end may be arranged at different longitudinal positions so that they terminate offset from each other in the longitudinal direction. In some embodiments, the load-bearing frame may include a single support member, such as a beam, on which an attachment portion is formed in a longitudinally offset manner. One attachment portion may be arranged on an end or end portion of a single support member, and another attachment portion may be arranged in a cutout formed in the single support member.

[0021] In some embodiments, one leg may be coupled to the carrying frame at a first longitudinal position, which is located between the carrying frame and the load carrier coupling or the operating region of the load carrier coupling, in particular the movement region of the operating member. The other leg may be coupled to the carrying frame at a second longitudinal position, which is located in the transverse direction of the load carrier, in addition to the load carrier coupling or in addition to the operating region of the load carrier coupling.

[0022] According to another aspect, an additional wheel bracket for a rear mounted bicycle carrier is provided.The bicycle carrier may, for example, be configured similarly to the load carriers described above.

[0023] The additional wheel bracket includes a support structure configured to support a wheel of a bicycle. The additional wheel bracket also includes a coupling structure configured to securely connect the support structure to the bicycle carrier.

[0024] In some embodiments, the support structure is switchable between a use configuration and a space-saving storage configuration. In some embodiments, the coupling structure is configured to switch between a use configuration and a space-saving storage configuration. In some embodiments, the support structure and the coupling structure are configured to switch between a use configuration and a space-saving storage configuration.

[0025] In the use configuration, the support structure has an enlarged size. In the storage configuration, the support structure has a reduced size. Thus, the support structure can be brought into a situation in which the support structure requires less space for storage purposes. In the use configuration, parts and / or portions of the coupling structure can be positioned on or coupled to the support structure in a deployed or extended configuration to allow attachment to the bicycle carrier, and in the storage configuration, parts and / or portions of the coupling structure can be moved relative to the support structure to a retracted and / or folded configuration.

[0026] In some embodiments, the support structure includes a first support portion and a second support portion. Each support portion can be configured to support a wheel of a bicycle. The first support portion and the second support portion can move relative to each other. In the use configuration, the distance between the first support portion and the second support portion is greater than the distance in the storage configuration.

[0027] In some embodiments, the support structure is foldable. The support structure can be folded into two parts. In other configurations, the support structure can be folded into three or more parts. In some configurations, the first support portion and the second support portion are hingedly connected. The first support portion and the second support portion can be directly hingedly connected to each other, or indirectly hingedly connected to each other via an intermediate portion. In some embodiments, the first support portion and the second support portion are configured to be foldable into a V-shape. In some embodiments, the movement of the first support portion and the second support portion relative to each other can be temporarily locked in the use configuration and / or storage configuration. In some embodiments, the first support portion and the second support portion are arranged to be pivotable around a pivot axis, wherein the pivot axis can be offset from the first support portion and the second support portion, for example, when the first support portion and the second support portion are in the expanded configuration, they are offset in an upward direction. In some embodiments, the support structure includes two or more folding sections. In some embodiments, the support structure includes a stop configuration that defines and / or fixes the corresponding positions of the first support portion and the second support portion in the use configuration. The stop configuration can limit movement of the first support portion and the second support portion in the direction of application of a force exerted on the first support portion or the second support portion by the wheel of the supported bicycle. In some configurations, the support structure includes a fixing portion or fixing device for holding the first support portion and the second support portion in the storage configuration, such as so that they remain folded together. In some embodiments, the support structure is configured to be foldable together with a foldable wheel bracket of the bicycle carrier when an additional wheel bracket is coupled to the bicycle carrier.

[0028] In some embodiments, the support structure is retractable. Thus, the support structure can be converted between a use configuration and a storage configuration by a telescopic action. At least one of the first support portion and the second support portion can be translationally movable relative to the other. The first support portion and the second support portion can be translationally movable relative to each other. At least one of the first support portion and the second support portion can be movably supported on an elongated guide member (e.g., an elongated profile).

[0029] In some embodiments, the coupling structure includes at least one fixed arm. The fixed arm may include a tubular profile. The fixed arm may include a coupling section and a support section. The support section may be configured to be coupled to the support structure. The coupling section may be configured to be removably mounted to the bicycle carrier. The coupling section may be configured to be removably mounted to the bicycle carrier from vertically above. The coupling section may be configured to engage with the bicycle carrier. The coupling section may be configured for snap-on engagement. The coupling section may be configured to interlock with a designated attachment portion of the bicycle carrier. The designated attachment portion may be a retainer. The coupling section may be configured to interlock directly with the attachment portion by direct engagement. Alternatively, the coupling section may be configured to interlock indirectly with the attachment portion via an adapter mounted on the attachment portion. In some embodiments, the coupling section may be formed as a first coupling partner of a plug and socket type coupling arrangement. In some embodiments, the attachment portion and / or the adapter mounted on the attachment portion may form a second coupling partner of a plug and socket type coupling arrangement.

[0030] In some embodiments, the coupling section may be configured to automatically engage with the attachment section on the bicycle carrier when the coupling section is inserted into the attachment section. In some embodiments, the coupling section may be configured to automatically engage with the adapter in the attachment section arranged on the bicycle carrier when the coupling section is inserted into the adapter. In some embodiments, the coupling section includes an engagement portion configured to engage with the attachment section or the adapter. The engagement portion can be a biased engagement portion biased by a push member (e.g., a spring). The coupling section may be configured as a male part, which is configured to be received in a female part. For example, the attachment section or the adapter may form a female part. Alternatively, the coupling section may be configured as a female part, which will slide on the adapter or receive a part of the adapter or receive a part of the attachment section therein. The engaging portion may be arranged in the connecting section so that it can move between a protruding position, in which it protrudes from an opening in the connecting section and can engage with a recess formed in the adapter or the attachment portion, and a retracted position, in which it does not protrude from the opening and / or is retracted into the connecting section.

[0031] The additional wheel bracket may include a release mechanism for releasing the engagement of the coupling section with the attachment portion and / or the adapter. The release mechanism may include an operating member operatively coupled to the coupling section, for example operatively coupled to the engagement portion. The operating member may be movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The operating member may be arranged on the fixed arm. The operating member may be a lever. The operating member may be arranged on the fixed arm and may be configured to allow operation of the operating member and to hold the fixed arm with one hand. The operating member may be configured and arranged on the fixed arm so that it can be operated by the index finger of a user's hand, for example like a pistol-type trigger.

[0032] In some embodiments, at least one fixing arm is convertible between an extended configuration, in which the fixing arm is positioned for coupling with the bicycle carrier, and a retracted configuration, in which the fixing arm is folded towards the support structure or towards a part of the support structure to which the fixing arm is attached. At least one fixing arm is pivotable about a pivot axis, wherein the pivot axis may be different from the pivot axis about which the rotatable support structure part is pivotable (if the support structure is configured to be foldable). In some embodiments, the pivot axis may extend parallel to the pivot axis of the support structure, or may extend at an angle relative to the pivot axis of the support structure, or may extend perpendicularly to a main extension direction of the support structure or at an angle relative to a main extension direction of the support structure. The fixing arm may comprise a tubular profile.

[0033] In some embodiments, the support section may be coupled to a pivot of the support structure or may form part of a pivot of the support structure. At least a portion of the support structure (e.g., a first support portion and a second support portion each configured to support a wheel of a bicycle) may rotate around the support section. The support section may form a hinge pin for the support portion. In some embodiments, two of the fixed arms are provided, wherein the free end portions of the support sections of the fixed arms may be coupled to each other by a fixed arm coupling portion, such that the fixed arms form part of an integral support unit. The integral support unit may be configured with a fixed arm coupling portion forming a base and a fixed arm forming a leg protruding from the base. The leg may protrude from the opposite end portion or opposite end of the base. The support section may extend in a first direction, wherein the support sections may extend parallel to each other. The coupling section may extend in a second direction. The fixed arm coupling portion may extend in a third direction. The fixed arm coupling portion may be configured to be straight. The first direction and the second direction may extend perpendicularly relative to each other. The first direction and the third direction may extend perpendicularly to each other. The second direction and the third direction may extend obliquely to each other.

[0034] According to one aspect, an additional wheel carrier is provided, the additional wheel carrier comprising: a support structure configured to support a wheel of a bicycle; and a coupling structure configured to securely connect the support structure to a bicycle carrier. The support structure and / or the coupling structure may be configured as described in other configurations. In addition to the coupling structure configured to be connected to the carrier frame of the bicycle carrier via one or more attachment portions and / or adapters as described above, the additional wheel carrier according to this aspect comprises an additional support to which the additional wheel carrier can be mounted, which supports the support structure on the outermost wheel carrier of the bicycle carrier.

[0035] According to one aspect, a load carrier system is disclosed, in which an additional wheel carrier (e.g., as described above) is coupled to an attachment portion of the load carrier via an adapter that adapts the size of the attachment portion to the size of the coupling section of the additional wheel carrier, wherein the adapter can be configured to be attachable to the attachment portion by a user.

[0036] According to one aspect, an additional wheel bracket kit is provided. The additional wheel bracket kit includes: a wheel bracket, such as the wheel bracket described above; and an adapter, the adapter being configured to be fixedly attached to an attachment portion on a bicycle carrier and configured to detachably receive a coupling structure of the wheel bracket, wherein the adapter can be configured as described in the configuration described in the specification.

[0037] According to one aspect, a bicycle carrier is provided. The bicycle carrier may include the features of the load carrier mentioned in the specification. The bicycle carrier includes a base frame connected to the load carrier coupling. The bicycle carrier also includes at least one wheel bracket supported on the base frame. In addition, the bicycle carrier includes an attachment portion for receiving an additional wheel bracket, for example, an additional wheel bracket as described in other configurations of the present specification. The attachment portion may be configured to directly receive a fixed arm of the wheel bracket and may be configured to engage with the fixed arm. Alternatively, the attachment portion may be configured to receive an adapter that acts as an interface between the attachment portion and the fixed arm. The attachment portion may be arranged on the base frame between the base frame and the license plate holder.

[0038] According to one aspect, a spacer for a load carrier mountable on a vehicle is provided. The spacer comprises a carrier-side fastening unit configured to be placed on and locked with a support portion of the load carrier. The fastening unit is configured to accommodate the support portion and is configured to be convertible between a locked configuration, in which the fastening unit is held (e.g., non-detachably fixed) on the support portion, and an unlocked configuration, in which the fastening unit is mountable to and removable from the support portion. The fastening unit is configured to be convertible into the locked configuration by pushing the fastening unit onto the support portion.

[0039] According to one aspect, a spacer for a load carrier that can be mounted on a vehicle is provided. The spacer includes a carrier side fastening unit, which is configured to be placed on a support portion of the load carrier and locked with the support portion of the load carrier. The spacer also includes a load side attachment unit, which is configured to be fixed to the load portion, such as a frame portion of a bicycle. The spacer also includes a connecting structure, which is configured to connect the carrier side fastening unit and the load side attachment unit to each other. The fastening unit is configured to accommodate the support portion and is configured to be convertible between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration, in which the fastening unit is retained (e.g., non-detachably fixed) on the support portion, and in the unlocked configuration, the fastening unit can be mounted to the support portion and can be removed from the support portion. The carrier side fastening unit is configured to be converted into a locked configuration by manually applying a force on the load side attachment unit toward the carrier side fastening unit. Additionally or alternatively, the carrier-side fastening unit is configured to be convertible into the unlocked configuration by exerting a force on the load-side attachment unit in a direction away from the carrier-side fastening unit.

[0040] According to one aspect, a spacer for a load carrier that can be mounted on a vehicle is provided. The spacer includes a carrier side fastening unit, which is configured to be placed on a support portion of the load carrier and locked with the support portion of the load carrier. The spacer also includes a load side attachment unit, which is configured to be fixed to the load portion, such as a frame portion of a bicycle. The spacer also includes a connecting structure, which is configured to connect the carrier side fastening unit and the load side attachment unit to each other. The fastening unit is configured to accommodate the support portion and is configured to be convertible between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration, in which the fastening unit is retained (e.g., non-detachably fixed) on the support portion, and in which the fastening unit is mountable to and removable from the support portion. The carrier side fastening unit is configured to be convertible to the locked configuration by manually moving the load side attachment unit relative to and toward the support portion received in the carrier side fastening unit. Additionally or alternatively, the carrier-side fastening unit can be converted into the unlocked configuration by manually moving the load-side attachment unit in a direction away from and relative to the support portion in the carrier-side fastening unit.

[0041] According to one aspect, a spacer for a load carrier mountable on a vehicle is provided. The spacer comprises a carrier-side fastening unit configured to be placed on and locked with a support portion of the load carrier. The carrier-side fastening unit comprises an arrangement for actively locking the support portion between at least two locking members. The first locking member comprises a first receiving section for at least partially accommodating the support portion. The second locking member comprises a second receiving section for at least partially accommodating the support portion. The first receiving section is configured to be at least partially retractable into the second receiving section, such that the support portion can be accommodated between the first receiving section and the second receiving section, such that a circumferential portion of the support portion is circumferentially enclosed by both the first receiving section and the second receiving section.

[0042] In some embodiments, the first receiving section is U-shaped. Additionally or alternatively, the second receiving section can be U-shaped. In some embodiments, the first receiving section and the second receiving section are oriented in different directions. In some embodiments, the first receiving section and the second receiving section are oriented in directions extending at an angle of 90 degrees relative to each other.

[0043] According to one aspect, a spacer for a load carrier mountable on a vehicle is provided. The spacer may include a carrier side fastening unit configured to be placed on and locked with a support portion of the load carrier. The carrier side fastening unit is configured to accommodate the support portion and is configured to be convertible between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration, in which the fastening unit is non-detachably fixed to the support portion and in which the fastening unit is mountable to and removable from the support portion. The spacer also includes a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism may be embodied as a snap in the locking mechanism. The locking mechanism is configured to lock the fastening unit in the locked configuration when the carrier side fastening unit is converted from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration. The locking mechanism may be configured to automatically lock the fastening unit in the locked configuration.

[0044] The locking mechanism may include a blocking portion movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the blocking portion may directly or indirectly prevent any movement for converting the fastening unit into the unlocked configuration. In the unlocked position, the blocking portion may allow any movement for converting the fastening unit into the unlocked configuration.

[0045] In some embodiments, the carrier-side fastening unit comprises a locking member, which can be moved between a locking position in which it actively locks the support portion and an unlocked position. When the locking member is in the locking position, the fastening unit can be in the locked configuration.

[0046] In some embodiments, the spacer further comprises a load-side attachment unit configured to be attached to a portion of a load, such as a portion of a bicycle. In some embodiments, the load-side attachment unit is coupled to the carrier-side fastening unit via a connecting structure (e.g., comprising a hollow profile). The snap-on locking mechanism may be provided on the load-side attachment unit.

[0047] In some embodiments, the spacer further comprises a force transfer member. The force transfer member may be a rod. The force transfer member extends between the load-side attachment unit and the carrier-side fastening unit. The force transfer member may be coupled to the carrier-side fastening unit so as to be movable between a first position corresponding to a locked configuration of the carrier-side fastening unit and a second position corresponding to an unlocked configuration of the carrier-side fastening unit. The snap-on locking mechanism may be configured to block and release movement of the force transfer member.

[0048] In some embodiments, the spacer also includes an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the longitudinal position of the snap-on locking mechanism relative to the force transfer member and / or relative to the connecting structure and / or relative to the carrier side fastening unit and / or relative to the load side attachment unit.

[0049] According to one aspect, a spacer for a load carrier that can be mounted on a vehicle is provided. The spacer includes a carrier side fastening unit, which is configured to be placed on a support portion of the load carrier and locked with the support portion of the load carrier. The carrier side fastening unit includes a locking member that can move between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the locking member actively locks the support portion. The spacer also includes a load side attachment unit, which is configured to be fixed to the load portion, such as a frame portion of a bicycle. The spacer also includes a connecting structure, which is configured to connect the carrier side fastening unit and the load side attachment unit to each other. The spacer also includes a locking mechanism, which is used to prevent the locking member from moving away from the locking position. The position of the locking mechanism relative to the locking member can be adjusted by an adjustment mechanism.

[0050] In some embodiments, the load-side attachment unit is coupled to the connection structure by an adjustment mechanism for longitudinally adjusting the position of the load-side attachment unit relative to the connection structure and / or relative to the carrier-side fastening unit.

[0051] According to one aspect, a spacer for a load carrier that can be mounted on a vehicle is provided. The spacer includes a carrier side fastening unit, which is configured to be placed on a support portion of the load carrier and locked with the support portion of the load carrier. The spacer also includes a load side attachment unit, which is configured to be fixed to a load portion, such as a frame portion of a bicycle. The spacer also includes a connecting structure, which is configured to connect the carrier side fastening unit and the load side attachment unit to each other. In this aspect and all other aspects and embodiments, the connecting structure can be a rigid structure that rigidly connects the carrier side fastening unit and the load side attachment unit. In this aspect, the load side attachment unit is connected to the connecting structure by an adjustment mechanism, which is used to longitudinally adjust the position of the load side attachment unit relative to the connecting structure and / or relative to the carrier side fastening unit.

[0052] In some embodiments, the load-side attachment unit comprises a locking mechanism for preventing movement of a locking member arranged on the carrier-side fastening unit, such as the locking member described in connection with other aspects and embodiments.

[0053] According to some embodiments, the fastening unit comprises an arrangement for actively locking the support portion between at least two locking members.

[0054] According to some embodiments, the fastening unit comprises an arrangement for actively locking the support portion between at least two locking members, a first locking member of the locking members being arranged to be movable in a first direction relative to a second locking member of the locking members so as to actively lock the support portion in the fastening unit when the fastening unit is in the locked configuration. The first direction may be a direction along a portion of the second locking member and / or towards and away from the second locking member.

[0055] In some embodiments, the first locking member includes a first receiving section. The first receiving section can be a U-shaped receiving section and / or a hook-shaped receiving section. The first receiving section can be configured to at least partially receive the support portion. At least one of the locking members can form a clamping portion that is configured to apply a clamping force on the support portion when the fastening unit is in the locked configuration. In some embodiments, the receiving section can be configured so that it can be placed on the support portion by moving the fastening unit in a second direction, wherein the second direction extends transversely to the first direction in which the first locking member is movable.

[0056] The second locking member may include a second receiving section. The second receiving section may be U-shaped, and the first receiving section and the second receiving section may each be U-shaped. The first receiving section may be rotated 90 degrees relative to the second receiving section. In other words, the receiving directions in the first receiving section and the second receiving section may extend perpendicularly to each other. The first receiving section may be configured to be at least partially retracted into the second receiving section. The first locking member may be guided in the second locking member so that it can be moved translationally along the first direction, but cannot be rotated around an axis extending parallel to the first direction. The second locking member may be configured to be coupled to a connecting structure, such as a hollow profile, which connects the fastening unit with a load-side attachment unit, which is configured to be fixed to a load part, such as a frame part of a bicycle. The second locking member may be configured to guide the first locking member to the outside of the connecting structure. At least the guided portion of the first locking member may comprise a non-circular outer periphery guided in the guiding portion of the second locking member defining a non-circular receiving section, the first locking member may comprise a hook-like configuration, in particular a hook-like free end portion.

[0057] In some embodiments, the fastening unit is configured to at least partially automatically convert to the locked configuration when the support portion is received in the fastening unit.In the context of the present disclosure, at least partially automatically converting may mean that the conversion is at least partially assisted by a suitable force application.

[0058] In some embodiments, the spacer further comprises a locking unit for preventing the first locking member from moving in at least a third direction opposite to the first direction. The locking unit may comprise a blocking portion movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, in which the blocking portion directly or indirectly prevents the movement of the first locking member in the third direction, and in which the blocking portion allows the movement of the first locking member in the third direction. The blocking portion may be part of an inserted strip. In some configurations, the fixed end portion of the strip may be operably coupled to the first locking member so that when the strip is tightened, the first locking member is pulled to remain in the locked position.

[0059] In some embodiments, the blocking portion is biased toward the locking position by a biasing member, such as a spring, so that when the first locking member has moved a predetermined distance toward the active locking position, the blocking portion can automatically engage with the first locking member and prevent movement of the first locking member. The active locking position is a position of the first locking member in which the inserted support portion is actively interconnected with the fastening unit.

[0060] In some embodiments, the spacer may include an operating portion for returning at least the blocking portion to the unlocked position. The operating portion may include a pushing member or a pulling member or a rotating member. The operating portion may be operatively coupled to the blocking portion so that when the operating portion is operated, the blocking portion moves toward the unlocked position.

[0061] In some embodiments, the spacer may include a force transfer portion. The force transfer portion may be part of a force transfer member. The force transfer portion may be coupled to or integrally formed with the movable locking member, and the blocking portion may be configured to engage with the force transfer portion. The force transfer portion may include a rod or may be part of a rod. The force transfer portion may include an engagement section that provides a contact surface that may be contacted by the blocking portion. The force transfer portion may include a tapered end portion that tapers toward the end of the force transfer portion.

[0062] In some embodiments, the blocking portion is arranged in the locking unit in a translationally movable manner, preferably in a displaceable manner. The blocking portion can be radially moved toward and away from the force transmission portion. The blocking portion can be configured to engage behind a protrusion or widened section arranged on the force transmission portion and forming the engagement section. The blocking portion can alternatively be configured to engage into a recess formed in the force transmission portion. The blocking portion may include an opening for receiving the engagement section of the force transmission portion. The opening may include a narrow section and a wide section. The wide section includes a size that allows the engagement section to pass through the opening, and the narrow section includes a size that is smaller than the outer size of the engagement section.

[0063] In some embodiments, the blocking portion is pivotably movably arranged in the locking unit.The blocking portion may include a pivot arm pivotably supported about a pivot axis at a first end portion thereof and including a contact portion at a second end portion thereof.

[0064] In some embodiments, the spacer further includes a load-side attachment unit configured to be secured to a load portion, such as a frame portion of a bicycle.

[0065] In some embodiments, the first locking member is arranged to be pivotally movable relative to the second locking member. The first locking member may be biased in a direction away from the second locking member. The pushing member may be arranged between the first locking member and the second locking member.

[0066] According to one aspect, a spacer is provided for coupling two bicycles to each other while holding them at a predetermined distance from each other. The spacer includes two attachment portions. Each attachment portion includes a fastening mechanism. Each fastening mechanism is convertible between a closed configuration, in which the fastening mechanism can be securely attached to the bicycle, and an open configuration, in which the fastening mechanism can be placed on and removed from the respective bicycle.

[0067] In some embodiments, the attachment portions are configured to rotate independently relative to each other, such as about a common axis of rotation.

[0068] In some embodiments, at least one attachment portion can be configured to contact the bicycle at a contact portion disposed on a periphery of the attachment portion.

[0069] The spacer may further include a locking mechanism configured to lock the fastening mechanism in the closed configuration.

[0070] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism includes an operating unit that is operable by a user and is configured such that the user can lock the two fastening mechanisms in the closed configuration by performing a single operating step.

[0071] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism is configured to simultaneously lock the fastening mechanism in the closed configuration.

[0072] In some embodiments, at least one fastening mechanism (e.g., each fastening mechanism) includes a strap and a strap receiver. Each strap includes a free end portion that can be inserted into the strap receiver to form a fixed loop. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism is configured to prevent the free end portion from being removed from the strap receiver after the free end portion has been received in the strap receiver.

[0073] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism includes an operating unit that is operable by a user and is configured such that the user can prevent the detachment of the free end portion by performing a single operating step.

[0074] In some embodiments, the operating unit includes a movable operating member configured to be moved by the user. In some embodiments, the movable operating member can be translationally and / or rotationally movable. In some embodiments, the movable operating member can include a lock cylinder. The lock cylinder can be operated by a key and can therefore include a keyhole. In some embodiments, the movable operating member can include a translationally movable part, such as a sleeve part that can be moved along the main extension direction of the spacer. In some embodiments, the movable operating member can include a rotationally movable part.

[0075] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism is configured to lock each of the free end portions simultaneously.

[0076] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism includes a first locking portion associated with a first attachment portion of the two attachment portions and a second locking portion associated with a second attachment portion of the two attachment portions. The movable operating member can be operably connected to the first locking portion and the second locking portion so as to convert each of the first locking portion and the second locking portion between an unlocked configuration and a locked configuration. The operating member can be operably connected to the first locking portion through a first force transmission portion and operably connected to the second locking portion through a second force transmission portion. The force transmission portion can be arranged on a separate force transmission member. The force transmission member may include a rod and / or other elongated members and / or a cable. The force transmission portion can alternatively be arranged on a single force transmission member. The force transmission portion can be configured to move translationally and / or along its corresponding longitudinal axis.

[0077] In some embodiments, the first locking portion includes a first engagement member configured to engage with a first of the strips, and the second locking portion includes a second engagement member configured to engage with a second of the strips. The first engagement member and / or the second engagement member may be rotatable about an axis of rotation. The axis of rotation may extend perpendicularly to the main extension direction of the spacer.

[0078] In some embodiments, the first locking portion includes a first engagement member configured to engage with a first of the strips, and the second locking portion includes a second engagement member configured to engage with a second of the strips. The first engagement member and / or the second engagement member may be translationally movable.

[0079] In some embodiments, the first engagement member and / or the second engagement member include a through hole for receiving a corresponding strip therein, and can be configured to engage with an inserted strip extending through the through hole. Each engagement member may include an engagement portion (e.g., one or more teeth) for engaging with teeth on the strip. Each engagement portion may be biased toward the disengaged position. An operating member may be operably coupled to each engagement member so that each engagement member moves toward and / or away from the disengaged position when operating the operating member.

[0080] In some embodiments, the two attachment portions are configured such that insertion of the free end portion of the first strap into the first attachment portion permits access to the second attachment portion for the free end portion of the second strap.

[0081] In some embodiments, at least one fastening mechanism includes a gripping unit for gripping a portion of a bicycle, for example including a claw. One fastening mechanism may include a gripping unit having a claw with one or two jaws, and the other fastening mechanism may include a strap and a strap receiver. In some configurations, both fastening mechanisms include a gripping unit.

[0082] In some embodiments, each strap includes a fixed end portion fixed to the attachment portion. The fixed end portion may be arranged between the bicycle contact portion of the attachment portion and the strap receiver and / or between the bicycle contact portion and the center of the spacer. The strap path or strap channel in each of the attachment portions may be configured so that when the free end portion has passed through the strap receiver, the free end portions of the strap are closer to each other than the fixed end portion. The strap path or strap channel in the attachment portion may be configured so that the insertion opening into the strap path or strap channel is arranged in the opposite longitudinal end face of the spacer, and the receiving opening of the strap path or strap channel is arranged closer to the longitudinal center of the spacer, for example, on the side where the bicycle contact portion is arranged. The spacer may be configured to provide a side support for the bicycle portion. The side support may be provided by a support portion extending in the longitudinal direction of the spacer and facing in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction. The spacer may be configured to provide an end support for the bicycle portion, wherein the end support may be arranged on the longitudinal end of the spacer and may face the longitudinal direction of the spacer.

[0083] According to another aspect, a spacer for a load carrier mountable on a vehicle is provided. The spacer comprises a carrier-side fastening unit, which can be switched between a closed configuration, in which the fastening unit grips around a support portion of the load carrier, and an open configuration, in which the fastening unit allows the fastening unit to be coupled to and detached from the support portion. The spacer also comprises a load-side attachment unit, which is configured to be fixed to a load portion (e.g., a frame of a bicycle). The attachment unit comprises a tensioning device for tensioning a clamping member of the attachment unit. The attachment unit can be switched between an active configuration, in which the fixation of the attachment unit on the load portion is possible, and an inactive configuration, in which the fixation of the attachment unit on the load portion is not possible. In the inactive configuration, at least an engagement portion of the tensioning device is moved to a position in which such interaction with the clamping member is not possible, and when the tensioning device is operated, the engagement portion usually interacts with the clamping member to apply and / or maintain a tensioning force.

[0084] In some embodiments, the tensioning device is movable between a blocking position, in which insertion of the clamping member into the tensioning device is prevented or impossible, and a receiving position, in which the clamping member can be inserted into the tensioning device. When the tensioning device is in the blocking position, the attachment unit is in an inactive configuration.

[0085] In some embodiments, the tensioning device is translationally movable or rotationally movable and / or wherein the tensioning device is movable between a retracted position and an extended position. The attachment portion may include a housing, wherein the tensioning device is at least partially retractable into the housing when the tensioning device is in the retracted position. The tensioning device may be slidably received in the housing. The tensioning device may be retained in or on the housing so as to be pivotable about a predefined pivot axis.

[0086] In some embodiments, the engagement portion of the tensioning device is movable between a blocking position, in which the engagement portion blocks the insertion of the clamping member into the tensioning device, and a release position, in which the engagement portion cannot engage with the inserted clamping member. When the attachment unit is in the inactive configuration, the engagement portion can be maintained in the blocking position or the release position.

[0087] The engagement portion may be rotationally movable and / or may comprise an opening for receiving a clamping member. When the attachment unit is in the inactive configuration, the opening may extend in a direction that is not suitable for receiving a clamping member.

[0088] In some embodiments, the attachment unit is operatively coupled to the fastening unit such that when the fastening unit is transformed from the closed configuration to the open configuration, the attachment unit is transformed into the inactive configuration.

[0089] In some embodiments, the clamping member comprises a strap, such as a toothed strap. The tensioning device may comprise a strap receiver, such as a pump buckle mechanism. The pump buckle mechanism may comprise a tensioning lever and an engagement portion, such as a pawl, rotatably supported on a base defining a support surface for the strap.

[0090] According to one aspect, a spacer for a load carrier is provided, in particular a spacer for coupling two bicycles to each other while keeping them at a predetermined distance from each other. The spacer comprises a first attachment portion. The first attachment portion comprises a first support portion for contacting a first coupling portion of a first bicycle to be fixed to the first attachment portion. The first coupling portion of the first bicycle may be a first frame portion of the first bicycle. The first attachment portion further comprises a first fastening mechanism for clamping the first coupling portion on the first support portion. The fastening mechanism comprises a first strap and a first strap receiver. The first strap comprises a fixed end portion and a free end portion. The free end portion is configured to be detachably coupled to the first strap receiver to form a fixed loop extending above the first support portion of the coupling portion. The fastening mechanism is configured to move the first strap receiver and / or the fixed end portion of the first strap relative to the first support portion for applying a clamping force on the first coupling portion via the strap.

[0091] In some embodiments, the first fastening mechanism comprises a movable support. The movable support may be arranged on the rear side of the support portion. The movable support may include a fixing section for fixing a fixed end portion of the strap. The fixed end portion and / or the first strap receiver may be fixed to the movable support or movably connected to the movable support. The strap receiver may be configured to detachably receive the free end portion. The first strap receiving portion may include a hook portion, on which the free end portion may be hooked. The movable support may be movable toward and away from the support portion.

[0092] In some embodiments, the spacer also includes a second attachment portion. The second attachment portion includes a second support portion for contacting a second coupling portion of a second bicycle to be fixed on the second attachment portion. The second coupling portion may be a frame portion of the second bicycle. The second attachment portion also includes a second fastening mechanism for clamping the second coupling portion on the second support portion. The second fastening mechanism includes a second strap and a second strap receiver. The second strap includes a fixed end portion and a free end portion. The free end portion is configured to be detachably coupled to the second strap receiver to form a fixed loop extending above the second support portion and the second coupling portion. The second strap is operatively coupled to the movable support. For example, the second strap may be coupled to a coupling portion on the movable support. In some embodiments, the fixed end portion of the second strap is attached to a coupling portion on the movable support. The coupling portion may be configured to allow rotation of the movable support relative to the second strap. The first attachment portion and the second attachment portion may thus be arranged to be rotatable relative to each other without twisting the second strap. The second strap receiver may include a pump buckle mechanism.

[0093] According to one aspect, a spacer for a load carrier mountable on a vehicle is provided. The spacer comprises an attachment portion, such as a load-side attachment unit, which is configured to be fixed to a load portion, such as a frame portion of a two-wheeled vehicle. The spacer also comprises a fastening mechanism having a strap and a strap receiver. The spacer also comprises a strap channel provided in the attachment portion and accessible via an insertion portion on the attachment portion. The insertion portion may be an opening. The strap receiver is arranged on the attachment portion such that the strap can be passed into the strap receiver via the strap channel.

[0094] In some embodiments, the spacer includes a strip channel blocking portion configured to move between a non-blocking position in which it does not block the strip channel and a blocking position in which it blocks the strip channel. The strip channel blocking portion can rotate between the non-blocking position and the blocking position.

[0095] In some embodiments, the strip channel blocking portion may rotate about an axis perpendicular to the strip channel extension path and / or parallel to the strip channel extension surface. The strip channel blocking portion may be arranged so that the axis is located in the strip channel or extends in the strip channel.

[0096] In some embodiments, the strip channel blocking portion includes a through hole for receiving the strip. When the strip channel blocking portion is in a non-blocking position, the through hole may be aligned with the strip channel. When the strip channel blocking portion is in a blocking position, the through hole may not be aligned with the strip channel.

[0097] In some embodiments, the spacer includes a strap locking member configured to move between an unlocked position in which the strap locking member does not lock an inserted strap in the strap channel and a locked position in which the strap locking member blocks the strap in the strap channel. In some embodiments, the strap locking member is rotatable between the unlocked position and the locked position.

[0098] In some embodiments, the strap locking member may be rotatable about an axis of rotation perpendicular to the strap channel extension path and / or parallel to the strap channel extension surface.The strap locking member may be arranged such that the axis of rotation is located in the strap channel.

[0099] In some embodiments, the strip locking portion defines a passage for receiving the strip and is configured to engage with an inserted strip. In some embodiments, the strip locking portion is engageable with an inserted strip. In some embodiments, the strip locking portion includes an engagement portion engageable with the strip. In some embodiments, the strip locking portion includes a sleeve, such as a cylindrical sleeve. In some embodiments, the strip locking portion or member is arranged around the strip channel blocking portion. In some embodiments, the strip channel blocking portion is accommodated in the strip locking portion. In some embodiments, the strip locking portion and the strip channel blocking portion are coaxially arranged. In some embodiments, the strip locking portion and the strip channel blocking portion can move independently.

[0100] In some embodiments, the spacer also includes a strap locking mechanism including an operating member, such as a lock cylinder operable by a key. In some embodiments, the operating member is operatively coupled to the strap locking portion such that movement of the operating member to the locked position moves the strap locking portion to the locked position.

[0101] In some embodiments, the spacer also includes another attachment portion, such as a carrier side fastening unit for attaching a support portion of a load carrier. The other attachment portion can be configured to be converted between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration, in which the fastening unit is non-detachably fixed to the support portion, and in the unlocked configuration, the fastening unit can be mounted to the support portion and can be removed from the support portion. The spacer also includes an attachment portion locking mechanism, which is configured to lock the other attachment portion in a locked configuration. The spacer may include a release mechanism for unlocking the other attachment portion. The strip locking mechanism can be operably connected to the release mechanism so that when the operating portion is in a locked position, the release mechanism is blocked, for example, by preventing the movement of the operating portion (e.g., a pushing member or a pulling member) of the release mechanism.

[0102] In some embodiments, the support frame of one of the aforementioned load carriers may include a support portion for supporting the attachment portion of the spacer. Typically, the load carrier may include a load carrier frame that extends in a first direction and is configured to support a load to be transported (e.g., a bicycle), and includes a support frame that extends from the load carrier frame in a second direction that is transverse to the first direction or inclined to the first direction (e.g., perpendicular to the first direction) and is configured to provide a side support for the load to be transported, wherein the support frame includes a support portion for supporting the attachment portion of the spacer. The support portion may include a movement prevention portion for preventing lateral movement of the attachment portion of the spacer. In addition or alternatively, the movement prevention portion may be configured to prevent movement along the main extension direction of the support portion when the attachment portion is mounted on the support portion.

[0103] In some embodiments, the movement preventing portion is configured to geometrically and / or frictionally prevent movement.

[0104] In some embodiments, the movement preventing portion comprises at least one stop portion for preventing a lateral movement of the attachment portion and along a main extension direction of the support portion when the attachment portion is mounted on the support portion.

[0105] The stop portion may comprise a protrusion protruding from the support portion in a radial direction. For example, the protrusion may protrude from the support portion perpendicularly to a main extension direction of the support portion.

[0106] The support part may comprise two or more separate support sections for supporting the attachment part. The support sections may be separated by at least one stop portion. The support part may be configured so that the clamping part or the locking member of the attachment part can only be supported on the support section. Thus, the geometry of the attachment part and / or the support part may be configured and adapted to each other so that it is not possible to receive the support part in the attachment part at a position where the stop portion is provided.

[0107] At least one support section may be limited by two stop portions. The stop portions may be configured to guide the attachment portion (e.g., the clamping portion or the locking member of the attachment portion) into the support section. The stop portions may be configured such that the distance between them expands toward the free edge portion of the stop portions.

[0108] The stop portion may be formed to taper in a radial direction away from the support portion towards the free end portion. Additionally or alternatively, the stop portion may be at least partially formed to taper in a circumferential direction around the support portion.

[0109] In some embodiments, the stop portions may be arranged at least or only on the support portions such that they protrude away from the support frame in a rearward direction of the load carrier. When the load carrier is mounted on a vehicle, the stop portions may protrude towards the vehicle. In some configurations, the stop portions may be arranged at least or only on the support portions such that they protrude away from a loaded two-wheeled vehicle, such as a bicycle.

[0110] In some configurations, at least one stop portion is integrally formed on the support frame. For example, the support frame can be deformed so that a local material deviation occurs on the outer surface of the support frame. In some configurations, the stop portion can also be disposed on the support frame by, for example, bonding the stop portion to the support frame using an adhesive.

[0111] In some embodiments, at least one stop portion is mounted on the periphery of the support portion. The stop portion and the support section may be disposed on a blocking member that may be mounted on the support portion. The blocking member may be configured to be mounted on the support portion by one or more fastening members. The fastening members may be screws or rivets.

[0112] In some configurations, the movement preventing portion comprises or is made of a material that provides a higher friction than the surface of the support frame. The movement preventing portion may be made of rubber or include a rubber coating. The movement preventing portion may include a surface portion having an increased surface deviation compared to other portions on the support frame. For example, the surface portion may include an increased waviness or periodic deviation. In other configurations, the surface portion may include an increased roughness compared to the surface on other portions of the support frame. The surface portion may include corrugations and / or grooves and / or notches and / or scratches.

[0113] The load carrier may comprise a spacer. The overall outer dimension of the support portion including the stop portion may be larger than the inner diameter of the receiving section of the attachment portion of the spacer. The width of the receiving section of the spacer may correspond to the width of the support section of the support portion and / or wherein the width of the receiving section is at most 5 mm larger than the width of the receiving section.

[0114] In some configurations, the aforementioned load carrier may include at least one spacer having an attachment portion configured to be supported on the movement preventing portion. The attachment portion and the movement preventing portion may be configured so that the movement prevention is effective only when the spacer is positioned on the movement preventing portion within a first angular orientation range, and is ineffective when the spacer is positioned within a second angular orientation range. The attachment portion and the movement preventing portion may be mechanically encoded. For example, the attachment portion may be permanently attached to the support frame and / or may include a groove or channel having a size that allows the attachment portion to pass over one or more protrusions in the movement preventing portion, so that the attachment portion can be moved from one support section to another support section without having to remove the attachment portion from the movement preventing portion.

[0115] The support portion may be a straight portion on the support frame. For example, the support portion may be a straight portion extending in the transverse direction of the load carrier.

[0116] The locking member of the attachment portion may include a narrow width. As mentioned in conjunction with other configurations, the locking member may include a hook-shaped configuration. For example, the width of the locking member may be 2 cm or less, such as 1 cm or less. In some configurations, the width of the locking member may be less than half of the internal dimension of the receiving section formed in the locking member. In other configurations, the width of the locking member may be less than the width of a strip disposed in another attachment portion of the spacer (e.g., disposed in the load-side attachment unit of the spacer). In some configurations, the width of the locking member may be half of the width of the strip or less than half of the width of the strip, or may be one-third of the width of the strip or less. In some embodiments, the width of the locking member may be up to 5 mm smaller than the width of the support section between the stop portions.

[0117] According to another aspect, a fixing strip for a load carrier is provided. The fixing strip may be used on a spacer of the load carrier. The fixing strip may, for example, be arranged in a load-side attachment unit of the spacer. Thus, the spacer may include an attachment portion having such a fixing strip. The fixing strip includes an engagement portion that can engage with a strip receiver. The engagement portion may be a toothed portion. The fixing strip also includes a coupling portion for fixedly attaching the fixing strip to the attachment portion of the spacer. The coupling portion includes a receiving section for receiving a fixing member. The receiving section may include or define an insertion opening. The fixing member may be a screw. The coupling portion may include an energy absorbing configuration, which is configured to partially absorb the force transmitted from the fixing strip on the inserted fixing member when a predetermined tensile force acting on the fixing strip is exceeded. By providing an energy absorbing configuration, some of the forces acting on the connection between the strip and the housing of the spacer can be absorbed.

[0118] The coupling portion may be configured to perform a relative movement with respect to the inserted fixing member against a predetermined resistance force when a predetermined tensile force on the fixing strip is exceeded.

[0119] The fixing strip may further include a base portion having a first opening for receiving the fixing member. The inner dimensions of the first opening are larger than the outer dimensions of the fixing member. The fixing strip may further include a resistance portion for providing resistance to movement of the inserted fixing member within the first opening. The resistance portion may be a deformable portion. For example, the resistance portion may be a plastically or elastically deformable portion that deforms (e.g., compresses) when the coupling portion moves relative to the inserted fixing member. The first opening may be a slotted opening that may extend in the longitudinal direction of the fixing strip. The base portion may be a reinforcing member. The base portion may be made of metal and / or may include a sheet-like structure.

[0120] The fixing strip may further comprise a covering portion fixedly and immovably arranged on the base portion. The covering portion may form the resistance portion. A portion of the coupling portion (which may also be referred to as a deformation portion) may extend into the first opening. The covering portion may be made of a material that is less rigid than the material of the base portion.

[0121] The cover portion may be moulded onto the base portion, for example such that the first opening is partially filled with material of the cover portion.

[0122] The covering portion may include a second opening. A front end portion of the first opening, which is closer to the engagement portion than a rear end portion of the first opening, and at least a rear end portion of the second opening overlap each other to jointly define an insertion opening for the fixing member.

[0123] The covering portion may be configured to deform, e.g., plastically and / or elastically, when a predetermined tension on the fixing strip is exceeded and the covering portion is pulled or pushed against the inserted fixing member. The covering portion may be configured so that the inserted fixing member may tear open the covering portion, e.g., tear open a second opening in the covering portion in which the fixing member may be received.

[0124] In some configurations, a spacer for a load carrier mountable on a vehicle is provided. The spacer includes a first attachment portion and a second attachment portion coupled to each other by a connecting structure. The first attachment portion and / or the second attachment portion and / or the connecting structure may be constructed as described in conjunction with other configurations in the specification. The first attachment portion and / or the second attachment portion include a fixing strip. The fixing strip may be constructed according to one of the aforementioned fixing strips.

[0125] In some configurations, the fixing strip is fixed to the attachment portion by a fixing member, so that the fixing member does not exert a clamping force on the coupling portion. The fixing member may attach the fixing strip only in a form-locking manner and without friction locking on the housing of the spacer. In this way, it is ensured that the forces acting on the strip are completely transmitted via the fixing member.

[0126] Other features of the invention will be apparent from consideration of the information contained above and from the following or in conjunction with the following detailed description, drawings and claims, as well as from the configurations presented in the following sub-items of the various aspects.The invention is illustrated in the accompanying drawings by way of example and not limitation. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0127] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form a part of the specification, illustrate possible configurations of the embodiments and, together with the description, further serve to explain the principles of the embodiments and enable those skilled in the art to make and use the embodiments. It should be noted that the same or similar parts in different drawings are represented by the same reference numerals.

[0128] Figure 1 Shown is a side view of a load carrier according to one embodiment.

[0129] Figure 2 Shown according to Figure 1 Side view of the rear portion of the load carrier frame.

[0130] Figure 3 Shown according to Figure 1 Detail of the rear section of the load carrier.

[0131] Figure 4 Shown according to Figure 1 Front view of the load carrier.

[0132] Figure 5 A perspective view of a support structure according to one embodiment is shown, wherein the support structure is in a use configuration.

[0133] Figure 6 Shown in storage configuration Figure 5 support structure.

[0134] Figure 7 A perspective view of a support structure according to another embodiment is shown, wherein the support structure is in a use configuration.

[0135] Figure 8 Shown in storage configuration Figure 7 support structure.

[0136] Fig. 9A perspective view of a support structure according to another embodiment is shown, wherein the support structure is in a use configuration.

[0137] Fig.10 Shown in storage configuration Fig. 9 support structure.

[0138] Fig.11 A perspective view of a support structure according to another embodiment is shown, wherein the support structure is in a use configuration.

[0139] Fig.12 Shown in storage configuration Fig.11 support structure.

[0140] Fig.13 A perspective view of a load carrier with additional wheel brackets is shown according to one embodiment.

[0141] Fig.14 Shows Fig.13 A perspective view of the front portion of the load carrier frame.

[0142] Fig.15 A perspective view of an attachment portion on a load carrier is shown, wherein the attachment portion is configured for attachment of an additional wheel bracket.

[0143] Fig.16 A perspective view of a securing arm of an additional wheel bracket and an adapter coupled to the securing arm is shown.

[0144] Fig.17 An enlarged perspective view of the upper portion of the adapter is shown with the securement arm inserted therein.

[0145] Fig.18 Shown is a perspective view of a coupling section of a fixation arm according to one embodiment.

[0146] Fig.19 Shows Fig.18 The unlocked state of the connection segment.

[0147] Fig. 20 A perspective view of the attachment portion to which the adapter is mounted is shown.

[0148] Fig.21 A perspective view of a locking unit for coupling a fixation arm to an adapter is shown according to one embodiment.

[0149] Fig. 22 A perspective view of another locking unit according to an embodiment is shown.

[0150] Fig.23 A perspective view of another locking unit according to an embodiment is shown.

[0151] Fig.24 A perspective cross-sectional view of another locking unit according to an embodiment is shown.

[0152] Fig.25 A cross-sectional view of another locking unit according to an embodiment is shown.

[0153] Fig.26 A cross-sectional view of another locking unit according to an embodiment is shown.

[0154] Fig. 27 A perspective view of an adapter mounted to an attachment portion is shown according to one embodiment.

[0155] Fig.28 A cross-sectional view of an adapter according to one embodiment is shown.

[0156] Fig.29 A perspective view from the rear is shown of an additional wheel carrier according to one embodiment.

[0157] Fig.30 Shows Fig.29 A perspective front view of an additional wheel bracket.

[0158] Fig.31 Shows Fig.29 Perspective and partial cutaway views of the front portion of the load carrier frame to which the additional wheel bracket is mounted.

[0159] Fig.32 Shows that there is Fig.29 A perspective view of a load carrier of an additional wheel bracket of FIG. 1 , wherein the additional wheel bracket is in a storage configuration.

[0160] Fig.33 A perspective view of a spacer according to one embodiment is shown.

[0161] Fig.34 A perspective view of a spacer according to another embodiment is shown.

[0162] Fig.35 Shows Fig.34 Exploded perspective view of the spacer.

[0163] Fig.36 Shows Fig.34 A perspective view of a spacer.

[0164] Fig.37 is a perspective view of a load-side attachment portion of a spacer according to another embodiment.

[0165] Fig.38 Shown according to Fig.37 A cross-sectional view of a spacer along the longitudinal direction.

[0166] Fig.39 Shows Fig.38 A cross-sectional view of a spacer along the longitudinal direction.

[0167] Fig.40 A cross-sectional view in the longitudinal direction of a spacer according to another embodiment is shown.

[0168] Fig.41 A side view of a spacer according to another embodiment is shown.

[0169] Fig.42 A carrier-side fastening unit according to an embodiment is shown in an open configuration.

[0170] Fig.43 Shown in closed configuration Fig.42 The carrier frame side fastening unit.

[0171] Fig.44 A load-side attachment unit according to one embodiment is shown.

[0172] Fig.45 Shown in an inactive configuration Fig.44 Load side attachment unit.

[0173] Fig.46 Shown in an inactive configuration Fig.44 Details of the load side attachment unit.

[0174] Fig.47 Shown in active configuration Fig.44 Details of the load side attachment unit.

[0175] Fig.48 A perspective view of a spacer according to another embodiment is shown.

[0176] Fig.49 Shown by Fig.48 A cross-sectional view in the longitudinal direction of the load-side attachment unit of the spacer.

[0177] Fig.50 A perspective view of a spacer according to another embodiment is shown.

[0178] Fig.51 Shows Fig.50 Detail of the load side attachment unit of the spacer.

[0179] Fig.52 Shows Fig.50 Further details of the load side attachment unit of the spacer.

[0180] Fig.53 Shows Fig.50 Further details of the load side attachment unit of the spacer.

[0181] Fig.54 A carrier-side fastening unit according to an embodiment is shown in an open configuration.

[0182] Fig.55 Shown in closed configuration according to Fig.54 The carrier frame side fastening unit.

[0183] Fig.56 A spacer according to another embodiment is shown.

[0184] Fig.57 Shows the support portion mounted to the load carrier according to Fig.56 spacer.

[0185] Fig.58 Shown according to Fig.57 A cross-sectional view of a spacer.

[0186] Fig.59 Shown according to Fig.57 A cross-sectional view of a spacer.

[0187] Fig.60 Shown according to Fig.57 A cross-sectional view of a spacer.

[0188] Fig.61 Shown by Fig.57 A cross-sectional view of the load-side attachment portion of the spacer.

[0189] Fig.62 Shown by Fig.57 A cross-sectional view of the load-side attachment portion of the spacer.

[0190] Figure 63 to Figure 67 Different states of a spacer according to another embodiment are shown.

[0191] Figures 68 to 72 Different states of a spacer according to another embodiment are shown.

[0192] Fig.73 A perspective view of a spacer according to one embodiment is shown.

[0193] Fig.74 The cross-sectional view along the longitudinal mid-plane of the spacer is shown. Fig.73 A perspective view of a spacer.

[0194] Fig.75 Shows Fig.73 and Fig.74 Side view of the spacer.

[0195] Figure 76 to Figure 79 A cross-sectional view of a spacer according to another embodiment is shown.

[0196] Fig.80 and Fig.81 Different views of a spacer according to another embodiment are shown.

[0197] Fig.82 and Fig.83 A possible configuration of a carrier-side fastening unit according to one embodiment is shown.

[0198] Figures 84 to 91 Different possible configurations of the load-side attachment unit according to embodiments are shown.

[0199] Fig.92 A perspective view of a spacer according to another embodiment is shown.

[0200] Figure 93 to Figure 95 A spacer according to another embodiment is shown.

[0201] Figures 96 to 100 The functionality of a load-side attachment unit according to an embodiment is shown.

[0202] Figure 101 to Figure 103 The function of another configuration of a load-side attachment unit according to one embodiment is shown.

[0203] Figures 104 to 108 Another embodiment of a load-side attachment unit is shown.

[0204] Fig.109 A perspective view of an adjustment mechanism for adjusting a locking unit for locking a carrier-side fastening unit in a closed configuration is shown.

[0205] Fig.110 Another perspective view of the adjustment mechanism is shown.

[0206] Fig.111 A side view of a spacer including an adjustment mechanism is shown.

[0207] Fig.112 Shown from below Fig.111 spacer.

[0208] Fig.113 The internal configuration of the attachment portion according to one embodiment is shown.

[0209] Fig.114 Shown according to Fig.113 A cross-sectional view of the attachment portion.

[0210] Fig.115Shown according to Fig.113 The attachment portion is in an unlocked configuration.

[0211] Fig.116 Shown according to Fig.113 A perspective view of an attachment portion of wherein the attachment portion is in a locked configuration.

[0212] Fig.117 A cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of a spacer is shown.

[0213] Fig.118 A side view of a spacer according to one embodiment is shown.

[0214] Fig.119 Shows Fig.118 A cross-sectional view of a spacer.

[0215] Fig.120 A cross-sectional side view of a spacer according to one embodiment is shown.

[0216] Figures 121 to 124 A detail of a spacer according to another embodiment is shown.

[0217] Fig.125 and Fig.126 Details of a spacer according to another embodiment are shown.

[0218] Figures 127 to 131 A detail of a spacer according to another embodiment is shown.

[0219] Figures 132 to 135 Details of a load-side attachment unit according to one embodiment are shown.

[0220] Fig.136 A cross-sectional view of a load-side attachment unit according to one embodiment is shown.

[0221] Fig.137 Shown by Fig.109 A cross-sectional view of the adjustment mechanism.

[0222] Fig.138 A perspective view of an upper portion of a support frame including a movement preventing portion is shown.

[0223] Fig.139 and Fig.140 Different views of the rear end portion of the fixing strip are shown.

[0224] All figures are merely schematic depictions of exemplary embodiments, wherein in particular distances and size relations are not presented to scale.

[0225] The features and advantages of the embodiments will become more apparent from the detailed description given below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals always represent corresponding elements. In the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals generally represent the same, functionally similar and / or structurally similar elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0226] The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the application and uses. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any theory presented in the preceding background or summary or the following detailed description.

[0227] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail with reference to the embodiments as shown in the accompanying drawings. References to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "some embodiments," etc. indicate that the described embodiments may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but each embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Furthermore, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in conjunction with an embodiment, it should be considered that it is within the knowledge of a technician in the field to implement such feature, structure, or characteristic in conjunction with other embodiments (whether or not explicitly described).

[0228] Spatially relative terms, such as "below," "below," "lower," "above," "on," "upper," "relative to," and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another element or feature as shown in the figures. The spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. The device may be otherwise oriented (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations), and the spatially relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0229] Terms describing parts or components as "releasable" and / or "detachable" refer to configurations in which a part or component can be separated from at least another part or component without destroying one of the cooperating parts or components. These terms can also describe configurations in which parts and components can be separated or disengaged without tools (toolless). Terms describing parts or components as "actively locking" and / or "actively coupled" refer to configurations in which parts or components are in active engagement, active mechanical engagement, interlocking contact.

[0230] exist Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Fig.13 and Fig.32An exemplary load carrier 1 is shown in FIG. The load carrier 1 comprises a base 10 configured to support a load to be transported from below. The base 10 may comprise a support structure 11. The support structure 11 may comprise support portions, such as two support portions 12, 13. Each support portion 12, 13 may comprise an elongated member, such as a tubular member. In a state in which the load carrier 1 is mounted on a trailer coupling 2 of a vehicle, the elongated member may extend in a longitudinal rearward direction of the vehicle. The support structure 11 may comprise a fork-like structure, wherein the elongated members form the prongs of the fork-like structure. The support structure 11 may be U-shaped, wherein the elongated members form the legs of such a U-shape and are coupled to each other via connecting portions.

[0231] The base 10 may include a load carrier coupling 14. The support structure 11 is coupled to the load carrier coupling 14. For example, a connecting portion of the support structure may be coupled to the load carrier coupling 14. The load carrier coupling 14 may include an operating member 15, such as a lever. The operating member 15 may be arranged on the upper side of the base 10. The operating member 15 may be configured to convert the load carrier coupling 14 between a clamped state, in which the load carrier coupling 14 may be fixedly held on the trailer coupling 2, and a released state, in which the load carrier coupling 14 may be placed on or removed from the trailer coupling 2. The operating member 15 is configured to be grasped and moved by a user. The operating member 15 may be configured to pivot about a pivot axis 16. The operating member 15 may be configured to move between a clamped position, in which the load carrier coupling 14 is in a clamped state, and a released position, in which the load carrier coupling 14 is in a released state. In some embodiments, the pivot axis 16 extends in the extension direction of the elongated member of the support portion. In some embodiments, the load carrier 1 is configured so that when the load carrier 1 is mounted on a vehicle, the pivot axis 16 extends in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. In the clamping position, the operating member 15 can extend in the transverse direction of the vehicle and / or the load carrier 1 and / or in the transverse direction of the support portion 12, 13 (e.g. perpendicular to the support portion). In the release position, the operating member 15 can extend in an upward direction and can extend substantially upright. The load carrier 1 can be configured so that the operating member 15 can be operated and approached from the side of the load carrier 1. To this end, the load carrier 1 can be specifically configured as will become apparent later in the description.

[0232] The load carrier 1 may be configured as a bicycle carrier. The load carrier 1 may include wheel supports 17, 18, 19 fixedly mounted on the support structure 11 of the base 10. Each of the wheel supports 17, 18, 19 is configured to support a wheel of a bicycle. The wheel supports 17, 18, 19 may be at least partially formed in a cradle shape. Such wheel supports 17, 18, 19 may also be referred to as wheel cradles. The wheel supports 17, 18, 19 may be foldable for storing the load carrier 1. The wheel supports 17, 18, 19 may include wheel support sections pivotably coupled to the support structure 11.

[0233] The load carrier may include a load frame 20, which is coupled to the support structure 11, for example, in a manner such that the load frame 20 can be moved relative to the support structure 11, for example, to allow access to a vehicle trunk. Wheel supports 17, 18, 19 may be provided on the load frame 20. In some embodiments, the load frame 20 is configured to be pivotable by a user to allow access to a vehicle trunk. The load frame 20 may be coupled to the support structure 11 by a pivot 21, for example, to the end portions of the elongated members 12, 13. A release mechanism 22 operable by a user, for example, by foot, may be provided and configured to release the load frame 20 for pivotal movement when operated. A license plate holder 23 may be provided on the front end portion of the load frame 20 at a position above an operating member 24 of the release mechanism 22. In some embodiments, the load frame 20 and the support structure 11 are integrally formed. The load frame 20 does not necessarily have to be pivotable. In some configurations, the load frame 20 may be fixed to the support structure 11 or integrally formed with the support structure 11, so that it cannot be moved between different positions. In some configurations, the carrier frame may be displaced along a predetermined path (eg, a straight path or a curved path) to move the carrier frame 20 relative to the support structure 11 .

[0234] At the front part of the carrying frame 20, at least one additional wheel bracket attachment part 25, 26 may be provided. In the example shown in the figure, two attachment parts 25, 26 are provided. Each attachment part 25, 26 may be configured to directly support the additional wheel bracket 50 or directly establish a connection with the additional wheel bracket or may be configured to receive an adapter 30 for converting the attachment part 25, 26 into a coupling member for attaching a coupling interface of the additional wheel bracket 50.

[0235] On the rear part of the load carrier 20, a support frame 27 may be provided. The support frame 27 may limit the loading space on the rear part of the load carrier 1. The support frame 27 may be configured to support a spacer 100 for coupling the load to be transported to the support frame 27. The support frame 27 may be coupled to the load carrier 20 via connecting portions 28, 29. The connecting portions 28, 29 may be provided on the rear end portion of the load carrier 20 so that the connecting portions 28, 29 and the support frame 27 may pivot together with the load carrier 20 in case the load carrier 20 is pivotable. The load carrier 20, the connecting portions 28, 29 and the support frame 27 may form an integral unit. The support frame 27 may be a tubular frame.

[0236] The support frame 27 may include a base portion 31 extending in a transverse direction of the load carrier 1. The base portion 31 may be configured to support a spacer 100, such as a bicycle arm. The base portion 31 may be straight. When mounted on a vehicle, the transverse direction of the load carrier 1 may correspond to the transverse direction of the vehicle. The support frame 27 may include legs 32, 33. The legs 32, 33 may extend from the base portion 31. Figures 1 to 4 and Fig.13In the embodiment shown, the support frame comprises two legs 32, 33. The base portion 31 and the legs 32, 33 may form a U-shape, for example when viewed in the front-to-back direction of the load carrier 1. Each leg 32, 33 may comprise a first leg portion 34, 35 and a second leg portion 36, 37. The first leg portion 34, 35 may be a lower portion of the leg 32, 33. The first leg portion 34, 35 may comprise a free end portion of the leg 32, 33. The free end portion may be coupled to the connecting portion 28, 29. The second leg portion 36, 37 may be an upper portion of the leg 32, 33 connected to the base portion 31 at one end and to the first leg portion 34, 35 at the other end. Each first leg portion 34, 35 may comprise a straight section 38, 39. The straight sections 38, 39 of the first leg portions 34, 35 may run parallel to each other. Each second leg portion 36, 37 may comprise a straight section 40, 41. The straight sections 40, 41 of the second leg portions 36, 37 may extend parallel to each other. At least one straight section 40, 41 of the second leg portions 36, 37 may extend parallel to at least one straight section 38, 39 of the first leg portions 36, 37. The base portion 31 and the first leg portions 34, 35 may be configured to extend in a first plane P1. In some embodiments, one of the second leg portions 36, 37 extends in the first plane P1. Therefore, the base portion 31 and the first leg portions 34, 35 and one second leg portion 34 may be formed in the first plane P1. The second leg portion 35 of the second leg portions 34, 35 may extend outside the first plane P1, for example, in a second plane P2 that may be parallel to the first plane P1 or angled relative to the first plane P1.

[0237] The support frame 27 may include a protruding portion 42. In the protruding portion 42, the support frame 27 protrudes in the rearward direction of the load carrier 1, i.e. towards the load carrier coupling side end of the load carrier 1. In the protruding portion 42, a part of the support frame 27 may protrude in the rearward direction of the load carrier 1, or protrude in the rearward direction, or extend in a manner offset to the rear compared to other parts of the support frame 27. In this way, additional storage space on the load carrier can be provided in the protruding portion of the support frame 27, for example in one of the two legs of the support frame 27. This can add additional space for the load to be transported. The protruding portion 42 can be configured to provide an additional accommodation space 43 on the front side of the support frame 27 by including a recess on the load side, for example on the front side or on the side facing towards the front of the load carrier 1, on the side facing the user when the load is placed on the load carrier. Such an accommodation space can be designed to accommodate parts of a bicycle, for example a crank arrangement of a bicycle. In other words, the protruding portion 42 provides more space in the longitudinal direction on one side of the support frame 27, for example by defining a recess on the front side and a protruding portion on the rear side. In order to form the protruding portion, the first leg portions 34, 35 can be offset from each other in the front-to-back direction of the load carrier 1. One first leg portion 34 can extend near the operating area of ​​the operating member 15 of the load carrier coupling 14 or near the access area for accessing the operating member 15, so that access and operation of the operating member 15 are possible. This first leg portion 34 can also be provided without the above protruding portion. The other first leg portion 35 can include or define a protruding portion and extend further back on the load carrier 1 than the first leg portion 34.

[0238] The support frame 27 may be configured to be asymmetrical with respect to a middle plane extending through the center of the base portion 31 of the support frame 27. The middle plane may extend perpendicularly to the first plane P1 and the second plane P2. The middle plane may intersect the base portion 31 in a longitudinal middle portion of the base portion 31. The base portion 31 may also be formed to be straight. The support frame 27 may be configured so that a portion located on a first side of the middle plane is offset at the same level along the middle plane relative to a portion located on a second side of the middle plane.

[0239] The connection parts 28, 29 may be arranged offset from each other in the front-rear direction of the load carrier 1. The first connection part 28 may be arranged further back on the load carrier than the second connection part 29. In this way, more space is available behind the second connection part 29, thereby allowing a user to access the operating member 15 of the load carrier coupling 14. Figure 3 As shown, the connecting portions 28, 29 may be configured to support the first leg portions 34, 35 at different heights. The connecting portions 28, 29 may have different lengths in the upward direction.

[0240] In the transverse direction, the distance between the lower leg parts can be reduced compared to the distance between the upper leg parts. This makes the support frame 27 compact while providing a sufficiently large base part 31.

[0241] The wheel supports 17, 18, 19 may each include two wheel support sections. At least one wheel support 19 may be configured to provide additional functions in addition to supporting the wheels of the bicycle. For example, in some embodiments, the front wheel support 19 may include additional features, such as a rear light 27 of the load carrier 1 or an additional wheel carrier support portion 19.1 for providing support for an additional wheel carrier 50. Different types of additional wheel carriers will be described later. In addition to being supported on the support structure 11, such additional wheel carriers 50 may also be configured to be supported on the wheel support 19. In this way, such additional wheel carriers 50 can carry a higher weight.

[0242] As previously mentioned, the carrier frame 20 may be configured to support additional wheel brackets 50, such as, for example Figure 1 , Figure 4 , Fig.13 and Fig.31 To this end, at least one additional wheel bracket attachment portion 25, 26 may be provided on the front portion of the carrying frame 20, such as Figures 13 to 15 , Fig. 20 , Fig. 27 and Fig.31 In the example, two attachment portions 25, 26 are provided. Each attachment portion 25, 26 can be configured to directly support the additional wheel bracket 50 or directly establish a connection with the additional wheel bracket (e.g. Fig.31 ) or may be configured to receive an adapter 30 (e.g. Fig.15 , Fig.16 and Fig.17 Adapter shown) for converting the attachment portions 25, 26 into a coupling member for attaching a coupling interface of an additional wheel bracket 50, see e.g. Fig.15 , Fig. 20 and Fig. 27 , wherein the adapter 30 is inserted into the wheel bracket attachment portion.

[0243] In such Fig.31 In the example shown, the carrier frame includes an attachment portion 25 configured to receive a fixing member 83.1 for attaching the additional wheel bracket 50. The fixing member 83.1 is a bolt. However, it should be noted that other fixing members can be used instead of the bolt. The attachment portion 25 can include a threaded opening for engaging with a threaded portion of the bolt. The attachment portion 25 can also be provided at the longitudinal front end of the carrier frame 20.

[0244] In such Fig.14 , Fig.15 , Fig. 20 and Fig. 27 In the example shown, the attachment portions 25, 26 are configured to receive the adapter 30. In some examples, the attachment portions are configured to receive the adapter from above. In other words, the attachment portions may include a recessed portion that allows the adapter to be inserted into the attachment portion from above. In some examples, the attachment portions may be configured to allow the adapter 30 to be secured to the attachment portions by a fastening device 56 (such as a screw).

[0245] According to one aspect, an additional wheel carrier 50 for a rear mounted bicycle carrier is provided. The additional wheel carrier, which may also be referred to as an accessory wheel carrier, is configured to be installed by a user on the bicycle carrier for increasing the number of bicycles that can be supported on the bicycle carrier. The additional wheel carrier 50 includes a support structure 60 that is configured to support the wheels of the bicycles. The support structure 60 is configured to be convertible between a use configuration and a storage configuration, in which the use configuration, the support structure 60 has an enlarged size and in which the storage configuration, the support structure 60 has a reduced size. The additional wheel carrier 50 may include a coupling structure 80 that is configured to securely connect the support structure 60 to a bicycle carrier (e.g., a bicycle carrier 1 as described in other parts of this specification).

[0246] The support structure 60 includes a first support portion 61 and a second support portion 62. Each support portion is configured to support a wheel of a bicycle. Each support portion may include a fixing arrangement for fixing the wheel to the support portion. For example, each support portion may include a strap mounted on one lateral side of the support portion and a strap receiver mounted on an opposite lateral side of the support portion, wherein the strap receiver is configured to receive and lock a free end portion of the strap.

[0247] The support structure may be configured such that in the use configuration, the distance between the first support portion 61 and the second support portion 62 is greater than in the storage configuration. To this end, the support portions may be arranged to be movable relative to each other. Specifically, the support portions may be arranged on the support structure to be movable translationally and / or rotationally relative to each other, thereby being used to convert the support structure between the use configuration and the storage configuration.

[0248] In some embodiments, the support structure 60 is foldable. For example, the support structure can be Fig. 9 As shown, it can be folded in two parts, or it can be folded as shown, for example Fig.11 The first support portion 61 and the second support portion 62 can be hingedly connected to each other. Fig. 9 , Fig.10 , Fig.13 and Fig.32As shown, the first support portion 61 and the second support portion 62 may be directly hingedly connected to each other. In this configuration, the first support portion 61 and the second support portion 62 may be arranged to be movable about a single pivot axis S1 defined by a hinge 65 that connects the support portions to each other. In some configurations, the first support portion 61 and the second support portion 62 are configured to be foldable into a V shape. In another configuration, the first support portion 61 and the second support portion 62 may be indirectly connected to each other via an intermediate portion 63. Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Fig.11 , Fig.12 , Fig.29 and Fig.30 An exemplary configuration including such an intermediate portion 63 is shown in . Each support portion 61, 62 is hingedly coupled to the intermediate portion 63. For example, the first support portion 61 may be hingedly coupled to the intermediate portion 63 by a hinge 65 so that it can rotate about a first pivot axis S2, and the second support portion 62 may be hingedly coupled to the intermediate portion 63 by a hinge so that it can rotate about a second pivot axis S3. The configuration may be such that the first pivot axis S2 and the second pivot axis S3 extend parallel to each other and / or such that when the additional wheel bracket 50 is mounted on the load carrier 1, both pivot axes extend in the longitudinal direction of the load carrier.

[0249] In some configurations, one or more of the hinges 65 that directly or indirectly couple the support portions to each other can be configured so that the pivot axis defined by the respective hinge extends offset relative to the support portion. The hinge can be configured so that the pivot axis is arranged at a distance from the support portion or other portion of the support structure. In other words, when the first support portion and the second support portion are in the deployed configuration, the pivot axis and the respective hinge can be offset in an upward direction. The hinge can be configured to keep the end portion of the respective support portion rotatable about the pivot axis and at a distance from the pivot axis.

[0250] In some configurations, the support structure 60 includes a stop configuration that limits the position of the first support portion 61 and the second support portion 62 in the use configuration. As previously described, a hinge can be provided in which the pivot axis is offset relative to the support portion. Thus, in the use configuration, the end portions of the support portion that are coupled to the hinge can abut each other. Other configurations can be implemented. The stop configuration can limit movement of the first support portion 61 and the second support portion 62 in the direction of application of a force applied to the first support portion 61 or the second support portion 62 by the wheel of the supported bicycle. In some configurations, the support structure includes a fixing portion that is used to hold the first support portion 61 and the second support portion 62 together in the storage configuration, such as, for example Fig.10For example, a snap mechanism may be provided, by which the first support portion 61 and the second support portion 62 are temporarily locked in the folded configuration for storage purposes. The fixing portion may be provided in a hinge 65 connecting the first support portion 61 and the second support portion 62.

[0251] The support structure 60 can be configured to be foldable together with the foldable wheel carrier of the bicycle carrier when the additional wheel carrier is coupled to the bicycle carrier. For example, each of the first support portion 61 and the second support portion 62 can be operatively coupled to a foldable portion of a frontmost wheel carrier on the bicycle carrier, such that folding the wheel carrier on the bicycle carrier results in folding of the additional wheel carrier.

[0252] In another configuration, the support structure 60 can be configured to be retractable. The first support portion 61 and the second support portion 62 can be configured to be translationally movable relative to each other. For example, the first support portion 61 and the second support portion 62 can be movably supported on the elongated guide member 64. This configuration is as shown in FIG. Figure 5 and Figure 6 shown. Figure 5 The support structure 60 is shown in an extended configuration and Figure 6 A retracted configuration of the support structure 60 is shown. The elongated guide member 64 may be a support profile that is suitably configured to displaceably support the first support portion and the second support portion. In some configurations, the first support portion 61 and the second support portion 62 are movably guided on the intermediate portion 63. The intermediate portion 63 may include the elongated guide member 64 or may be formed integrally with the elongated guide member. The intermediate portion 63 may be an integral part of a coupling structure 80 for coupling the support structure 62 to a bicycle carrier. In some configurations, the intermediate portion 63 may be configured as or may include a fixed arm coupling portion 87 of the coupling structure 80, such as, for example Figure 7 and Figure 8 shown.

[0253] According to one aspect, a coupling structure 80 is provided for coupling an additional wheel carrier 50 to a bicycle carrier 1. The coupling structure 80 can be suitably used in an additional wheel carrier 50 as described above, in particular in an additional wheel carrier 50 comprising a support structure 60 that can be converted between a use configuration and a storage configuration. However, it should be noted that the coupling structure 80 can also be used in an additional wheel carrier having a support structure that cannot be converted between a use configuration and a storage configuration, such as an additional wheel carrier 50 comprising a single continuous support portion, such as formed by a continuous profile, such as Figure 4 shown.

[0254] exist Figures 7 to 12 as well as Figure 29 to Figure 30, an exemplary configuration of a coupling structure 80 is shown. Typically, the coupling structure 80 includes at least one fixing arm 81, 82. In the illustrated embodiment, the coupling structure 80 includes two fixing arms 81, 82. Each fixing arm 81, 82 may include a tubular profile. Each fixing arm 81, 82 may include a coupling section 83, 84 and a support section 85, 86.

[0255] The support segments 85, 86 are configured to be coupled to the support structure 60 of the additional wheel bracket 50. The support segments 85, 86 may include a straight portion. The support segments 85, 86 may be configured to be pivotally attached to the support structure 60, for example, from below. The support segments 85, 86 may be configured to be hingedly mounted on the support structure 60, for example, by a bracket that is configured to be attached to the support structure 60 and is configured to hold the support segments 85, 86 pivotally movable about the pivot axes F1, F2. In some configurations, the support segments 85, 86 include a straight portion and the pivot axis coincides with the middle axis of the straight portion. In some embodiments, the support sections 85, 86 may be coupled to the support structure 60 such that the pivot axes F1, F2 extend transversely to the main extension direction of the support structure 60 and / or in some configurations transversely to the pivot axes S1, S2, S3 about which the support portions 61, 62 may pivot, for example at an angle of about 45 degrees relative to the main extension direction. The main extension direction of the support structure 60 may be the longitudinal direction of the support structure 60. In some configurations, the support sections 85, 86 and the coupling sections 83, 84 of the respective fixed arms may extend at an angle of 90 degrees.

[0256] The coupling sections 83, 84 are configured to be removably mounted to the bicycle carrier 1. In some embodiments, the coupling sections 83, 84 are configured to be mounted to and removed from the bicycle carrier 1 without tools. In other words, the coupling structure 80 can be configured for tool-free operation by a user. In other embodiments, each coupling section 83, 84 is configured to be fixed to the bicycle carrier 1 using a tool (see, e.g., Fig.31 1, wherein the bolt 83.1 is used as a fixing member for connecting the connecting section 83 to the bicycle carrier 1). In some embodiments, the connecting sections 83, 84 are configured to be detachably mounted to the bicycle carrier 1 from vertically above when the bicycle carrier is mounted on a vehicle, such as, for example Figures 7 to 12 For example, each coupling segment 83, 84 can be configured to be inserted into the attachment portion 25, 26 from vertically above and / or into the adapter 30 mounted on the attachment portion 25, 26. In some configurations, each coupling segment 83, 84 can be formed straight or can include a straight portion to be received in the attachment portion 25, 26 and / or in the adapter 30.

[0257] In some embodiments, at least one coupling section 83, 84 (e.g., each coupling section 83, 84) may be configured for engagement with the bicycle carrier 1. For example, at least one coupling section 83, 84 may be configured for snap engagement. At least one coupling section 83, 84 may be configured to interlock with the attachment portion 25, 26 of the bicycle carrier 1. In some configurations, at least one coupling section 83, 84 may be directly engaged with the attachment portion 25, 26. In other configurations, at least one coupling section 83, 84 may be indirectly engaged with the attachment portion 25, 26 via an adapter 30 mounted on the attachment portion 25, 26. The adapter 30 may include a body 51 and a recess 52 for receiving the coupling section. The recess 52 may be a cylindrical opening. The body 51 may include an engagement portion 53 configured for insertion into a corresponding recess in the attachment portion 25, 26. The engagement portion 53 may be formed as a hook portion. The engaging portion 53 may be formed on the main body so that it can be hooked into the attachment portions 25, 26 from above. In order to fix the main body 51 to the attachment portions 25, 26, the main body includes a fixing opening 54 for receiving a fastening member 56 (such as a screw). The opening 54 may be provided in the lower end portion of the main body 51, and the engaging portion may be provided on the upper portion of the main body 51.

[0258] At least one coupling section 83 , 84 can be formed as a first coupling partner of a plug and socket type coupling arrangement, wherein a second coupling partner of such a coupling arrangement can be formed by the aforementioned attachment part 25 , 26 or the aforementioned adapter 30 .

[0259] At least one coupling section 83 , 84 may be configured to automatically engage with the attachment portion 25 , 26 or the adapter 30 when the coupling section 83 , 84 is inserted into the attachment portion 25 , 26 or the adapter 30 .

[0260] In general, an engagement configuration may be provided by which engagement is achieved by interlocking the coupling structure 80 with the load carrier 1 (e.g., with the attachment portion 25, 26 of the load carrier 1 or with the adapter 30 received in the attachment portion 25, 26). The engagement configuration may include a movable engagement portion 88 and a receiving portion 55, such as an opening 89, a recess, a cutout or a protrusion in the attachment portion 25, 26 or in the adapter 30. The engagement portion 88 may be biased toward a locked position, such as by a urging member 95 (e.g., by a spring), in which the engagement portion is able to engage with the receiving portion 55.

[0261] In some configurations, the movable engagement portion 88 is disposed on the coupling structure 80 and the receiving portion 55 is disposed on the adapter 30 or on the attachment portions 25, 26. Figures 16 to 19 and Figure 21 to Figure 24An example of a coupling structure 80 including a movable engagement portion 88 is shown in FIG.

[0262] In some of these configurations, the engagement portion 88 is configured to engage with the receiving portion 55 from the outside, such as in Fig.21 , Fig. 22 and Fig.23 In some of these configurations, the engagement portion 88 is configured to engage with the receiving portion 55 from the inside, such as in Fig.16 , Fig.19 and Fig.24 The manner shown. An engagement mechanism including such an engagement portion may be provided on the coupling structure 80.

[0263] At least one of the coupling segments 83, 84 may include an engagement unit having an engagement portion 88. In some embodiments, the engagement portion 88 may be biased toward a locked position in which the engagement portion 88 protrudes from the coupling segments 83, 84. In some embodiments, the coupling segments 83, 84 may be configured as a male portion configured to be received in a female portion (e.g., the adapter 30 or the attachment portions 25, 26) (see, e.g., Fig.15 26). In other embodiments, the coupling segments 83, 84 may be configured as female portions that are configured to slide over the adapter 30 or the attachment portions 25, 26, or to receive a portion of the adapter 30 or the attachment portions 25, 26 therein. In some embodiments, the engagement portion 88 may be disposed in the coupling segments 83, 84 such that it is movable between a protruding position, in which it protrudes from an opening 89 in the coupling segments 83, 84 and can engage with a recess 55 formed in the adapter 30, and a retracted position, in which it does not protrude from the opening 89.

[0264] The release mechanism 90 may be provided for releasing the engagement of the engagement portion. The release mechanism and the engagement unit including the engagement portion 88 may form a locking unit. The locking unit may be provided on the coupling structure 80 (see, for example, Fig.18 , Fig.19 , Figure 21 to Figure 24 ), disposed on the adapter 30 (see, for example Figure 25 to Figure 28) or directly arranged on the attachment parts 25, 26. The release mechanism 90 includes an operating member 91, which is arranged as a first lever part and is operatively connected to the engagement part 88. The operating member 91 can be a lever. The lever 91 can be biased toward a locked position by a pushing member 95, in which the engagement part 88 is in the engagement position. The pushing member can apply a force on a second lever part 94 arranged on the opposite side of the pivoting member 92, and the operating member 91 can pivot around the pivoting member. The operating member can be supported in the coupling sections 83, 84 or can be supported on a housing 96 connected to the outside of the coupling sections. The operating part 91 can be manually operated by a user.

[0265] The engagement portion 88 may be supported on the end portion of a spring 95 arranged in the coupling sections 83, 84 (see Fig.24 ). The operating member 91 may be coupled to the end portion and may protrude outwardly from the coupling sections 83, 84. The user may push the operating member 91 radially inwardly, which releases the engagement of the engagement member 88 (see Fig.24 ).

[0266] According to one aspect, an additional wheel carrier kit is provided. The additional wheel carrier kit includes an additional wheel carrier 50 (e.g., the additional wheel carrier 50 described above), and an adapter 30 for adapting a designated attachment portion 25, 26 on a bicycle carrier 1 to a coupling section 83, 84 of the additional wheel carrier 50. The adapter 30 can be installed by a user to the attachment portion 25, 26. Once the adapter 30 is installed, the additional wheel carrier 50 can be coupled to the bicycle carrier 1 by coupling the coupling section 83, 84 to the attachment portion 25, 26 via the adapter 30. The attachment portion can be constructed and positioned on the bicycle carrier 1 as described in other parts of this specification.

[0267] Optionally, the load carrier 1 may include auxiliary support sections 19.1, 19.2 that provide support for the additional wheel carrier 50, which are arranged more outwardly than the attachment parts 25, 26 in the transverse direction of the load carrier. Such support sections may be arranged on the frontmost or outermost wheel carrier on the load carrier at a position that may be located outside the extended area of ​​the load carrier frame 20. In this way, the additional wheel carrier can be supported at the outer part, which provides additional stability, better load distribution and even higher load capacity on the additional wheel carrier. In some embodiments, in addition to the fixed arms 81, 82, additional support members are also provided. Compared with the fixed arms 81, 82, the additional support members can be arranged further outwardly toward the free end of the wheel carrier. In some configurations, at least one of the first support portion 61 and the second support portion 62 includes support members 61.1, 62.1, which are configured to support the support portions 61, 62 on the outermost wheel carrier 19 of the bicycle carrier 1. The supports 61.1, 62.1 may be provided on the first support portion 61 and the second support portion 62 such that they extend from the support portion toward the outermost wheel bracket 19. Each support may be configured to contact a designated auxiliary support portion 19.1, 19.2 (see, e.g. Fig.31 and Fig.32 ). The auxiliary support sections 19.1, 19.2 may include protrusions or projections provided on the respective support portions. Typically, the supports 61.1, 62.1 may be configured to engage with designated auxiliary support portions 19.1, 19.2 on the respective support portions 61, 62 when the additional wheel carrier 50 is mounted on the bicycle carrier, and optionally to be converted into the use configuration if the additional wheel carrier 50 is configured to be convertible between a use configuration and a storage configuration, for example in the manner described above. The lighting configuration 27 may be provided on the outermost wheel carrier 19.

[0268] Also disclosed are spacers 100, 200 for the load carrier 1. In bicycle carriers, spacers 100, 200 are also referred to as bicycle arms. Such spacers 100, 200 may be configured for different purposes. For example, there is a spacer 100 configured to support a portion of the load to be transported on the load carrier 1. In bicycle carriers, such spacers 100 are also referred to as bicycle to frame arms. The spacer 100 may then have the function of fixing a portion of the bicycle on, for example, a bicycle frame relative to a support portion 31 on the load carrier 1. There is also a spacer 200 that is configured to couple different loads to each other while keeping them at a distance from each other. In bicycle carriers, such spacers 200 may also be referred to as bicycle to bicycle arms and are typically used to couple a bicycle carried by an additional wheel carrier 50 to an adjacent bicycle on the load carrier 1.

[0269] exist Figure 33 to Figure 126 Examples of spacers are shown in , with some examples showing a bicycle-to-frame arm 100 and other examples showing a bicycle-to-bicycle arm 200 .

[0270] Such a spacer 100, 200 may include a first attachment portion 101, 201 and a second attachment portion 102, 202. In some examples, the first attachment portion 101 is configured to be removably coupled to the support portion 31 of the load carrier 1. In some examples, the first attachment portion 201 is configured to be removably coupled to a bicycle. In all examples, the second attachment portion 102, 202 is configured to be removably coupled to a bicycle.

[0271] The first attachment portion 101, 201 and the second attachment portion 102, 202 are connected to each other by a connecting structure 103, 203. The connecting structure 103, 203 may include a hollow profile 104, 204, such as a tube. The hollow profile 104, 204 may be elongated. The connecting structure 103, 203 may be a rigid structure or may be configured so that it can be converted into a rigid state during the use of the spacer 100, 200. For example, the connecting structure 103, 203 may be composed of several parts, which are connected to each other by a pivot if necessary to be movable relative to each other, and these parts may be interlocked with each other to prevent movement. In this way, the spacer can be folded into a non-use configuration or can be flexibly adapted in shape, such as adapting to the shape of the load. The spacer 100, 200 may include a force transmission arrangement 105 accommodated in the spacer 100, 200 (e.g., at least partially accommodated in the connecting structure 103, 203). The force transmitting arrangement 105 may be configured to transmit pushing and / or pulling forces and may include a rod, a bar or a wire, such as a Bowden cable.

[0272] Fig.33 A first example of components of a spacer 100 according to an embodiment is shown. The spacer 100 comprises a first attachment portion (not shown) and a second attachment portion 102. The second attachment portion 102 is coupled to the first attachment portion by a connection structure 103. The connection structure 103 comprises a hollow profile 104.

[0273] The second attachment portion 102 is configured as a load-side attachment unit 150. The spacer 100 is configured as a bicycle-to-frame arm for coupling a portion of a bicycle to a frame structure of a load carrier. More specifically, the second attachment portion 102 is configured to attach to a frame of a bicycle, while the first attachment portion is configured to attach to a frame of a load carrier.

[0274] The load-side attachment unit 150 includes a housing 151. A contact portion 152 is disposed on the housing 151. In this embodiment, the contact portion 152 is disposed at a position of the housing 151 that allows contact with the bicycle frame from above or from below. The contact portion 152 may be disposed on the outer circumference of the housing 151. The housing 151 may be rotatably coupled to the connection structure 103, for example, such that the housing 151 may be rotatable about a rotation axis that is co-linear with the main extension axis of the connection structure 103. For example, the housing 151 may be rotatable 360 ​​degrees.

[0275] The contact portion 152 may include a contact surface 159. The contact portion 152 may include a filling and / or elastic material to prevent any damage to the bicycle frame. The contact surface 159 may then be formed by the filling and / or elastic material. The contact surface may be shaped so that it deviates from the rotation axis of the second attachment portion 102. For example, the contact surface 159 may be configured to follow a path along the rotation axis. The path may be straight. The path may extend parallel to the rotation axis. The path may extend so that when following a path toward the connection structure 103 and / or the first attachment portion, the path approaches the rotation axis. The path may be curved. The bend may cause the path to bulge toward the housing 151. The contact surface 159 and / or the path of the contact surface 159 may include a first end and a second end. The contact surface 159 or the path along which the contact surface may be formed may be shaped so that between the first end and the second end, it extends only on one side of an imaginary line extending through the first end and the second end of the contact surface 159. The first end and the second end can be positioned so that an imaginary straight line extending through the first end and the second end passes through the housing (for example, near the connection portion between the housing 151 and the connecting structure 103), or passes through the connecting structure 103, or passes through the first attachment portion, or extends parallel to the rotation axis of the housing 151.

[0276] The attachment unit 150 also includes a fastening mechanism 153. The fastening mechanism 153 is configured to firmly hold the attachment unit 150 in contact with the bicycle frame. The fastening mechanism 153 is configured to removably attach the attachment unit 150 to the bicycle frame. The fastening mechanism includes a strap 154. The strap 154 ​​is fixedly connected to the housing 151 at a fixed end portion 156. The fastening mechanism also includes a strap receiver 157 configured to receive a free end portion 155 of the strap 154. The fastening mechanism can also be configured to automatically lock the movement of the strap 154 ​​in a direction opposite to the insertion direction when the strap 154 ​​is received in the strap receiver 157. The strap receiver 157 includes an operating member 158. The operating member 158 can be a lever. The lever can be arranged and configured so that in an unoperated state, the lever extends substantially perpendicular to the rotation axis of the housing 151. The operating member 158 is disposed on the end face of the spacer 100 so that when the spacer 100 is installed, the operating member 158 faces the user. The operating member may be configured to apply a tensioning force on the strip 154 ​​when it moves in a first direction (e.g., is pulled). In this embodiment, the strip 154 ​​is a toothed strip. The operating member 158 may be configured to engage with the teeth of the toothed strip. The operating member 158 may also be configured to unlock the blocking of the inserted strip when the inserted strip 154 ​​moves in a second direction opposite to the first direction (e.g., when it is pushed). The operating member 158 is pivotally arranged on the housing 151. The operating member 158 may be disposed on the housing 151 so that the operating member 158 faces the user and is easily accessible to the user. The strip receiver 157 and / or the housing 151 define a strip path. The strip path may be configured so that it extends at least partially substantially perpendicular to the rotation axis of the housing 151.

[0277] Fig.33 The general concept of the configuration in can be described as providing an attachment portion (e.g., a load-side attachment portion 150) of the spacer 100, wherein the attachment portion is configured for lateral support against a load to be transported (e.g., a two-wheeled vehicle such as a bicycle), and / or providing a tensioning mechanism (e.g., a strap receiver 157) so that it is accessible from the front of the spacer 100, for example, by providing the strap receiver 157 on an end face. For lateral support, the attachment portion 150 may include a contact portion 152 provided on the periphery of the housing 151 and / or radially away from the housing 151.

[0278] Figure 34 to Figure 36Another embodiment of a spacer 100 is shown. Again, the spacer 100 is configured to couple a bicycle frame to the support portion 31 of a load carrier. In this example, the strap 154 ​​is a fabric strap. The operating member 158 in this embodiment is a biased clamping member that allows the strap 154 ​​to pass in one direction and prevents movement of the inserted strap 154 ​​in the opposite direction. By pushing the operating member 158, the user can disengage the operating member 158 and release the strap 154.

[0279] Again, the load-side attachment unit 150 includes a housing 151 rotatably coupled to the connection structure 103. In this embodiment, the housing 151 is rotatable 360 ​​degrees. The connection structure 103 is embodied as a tubular hollow profile 104. In this embodiment, the contact portion 152 faces the direction of the rotation axis of the housing 151 and away from the connection structure 103. In other words, the contact portion 152 is provided on the second attachment portion 102 or the front portion of the load-side attachment unit 150. The contact portion 152 may include a recessed portion for receiving and accommodating a portion of the bicycle frame 3. The recessed portion may be U-shaped or V-shaped. The strap 154 ​​may be arranged to close the opening of the recessed portion. The fixed positions of the strap receiver 157 and the fixed end portion 156 of the strap 154 ​​are provided on opposite sides of the recessed portion. The strap receiver 157 may be provided on the upper portion of the housing 151, and the fixed end portion 156 of the strap 154 ​​may be attached to the housing 151 on the lower portion of the housing 151.

[0280] In this embodiment, a possible configuration of the first attachment portion 101 is shown. Although this example of the first attachment portion is shown in combination with a specific second attachment portion 102, it should be noted that this type of first attachment portion can be used in other spacers disclosed in this specification. In general, as long as the first attachment portion 101 and the second attachment portion 102 are separate operating units that are not operatively coupled, examples of the first attachment portion 101 and examples of the second attachment portion 102 can be freely combined.

[0281] The fastening unit 110 includes a first locking portion 111 and a second locking portion 112. The first locking portion 111 and the second locking portion 112 are configured to receive the support portion 31 between them. The first locking portion 111 and the second locking portion 112 can be converted between an open state and a closed state, in which the first locking portion and the second locking portion can at least move away from each other, and in which the movement away from each other is blocked. The first locking portion 111 and the second locking portion 112 can be biased toward each other. The closed state can be a state in which the first locking portion and the second locking portion 112 present a position in which the support portion 31 is enclosed and actively engaged or a clamping force is applied on the support portion 31. The first locking portion 11 and the second locking portion 112 can be configured to normally move to a closed position when they are unloaded.

[0282] In this embodiment, the fastening unit 110 is configured as a quick locking arrangement. The quick locking arrangement includes a clamping arrangement 300. The clamp 300 is formed by two clamping members 301, 302 (e.g., jaws) comprising a first locking portion 111 and a second locking portion 112. The clamping members 301, 302 are connected to each other so as to allow limited movement relative to each other, such as rotational movement. The clamping members 301, 302 can be pivotally connected to each other or can be connected to each other, such as by a bridging portion 303 that connects the end portions of the clamping members 301, 302 to each other (in a manner that allows them to move away from each other by elastic deformation). In this embodiment, the clamp 300 is partially accommodated in the hollow profile 104 and is configured to be pulled out from the end portion of the hollow profile 300 so that the spacer is ready to snap onto the support portion 31. The clamping members 301, 302 and the bridging portion form a U-shape, wherein the clamping members 301, 302 form the legs of the U-shape and the bridging portion 303 forms the base from which the clamping members 301, 302 extend. The clamping members can be arranged in a plane symmetrical manner relative to the middle plane. The clamp 300 is configured to be movably received in the end portion of the hollow profile on one side so that it can be axially moved between an unlocked position and a locked position relative to the hollow profile 300, in which the leg portion extends to a greater extent outside the hollow profile 300 than in the locked position. In the unlocked position, the leg portion can be bent. When the clamp 300 is moved to the unlocked position, the clamp can be snapped onto the support portion 31 (e.g., a bicycle carrier tube). Then, the thrust received on the clamp 300 causes the clamp 300 to move relative to the hollow profile 104 until a position in which the clamp automatically stops in place. The clamp 300 may include a biasing protrusion 304. The biasing protrusion 304 may include a first portion 305, such as a locking section 305, which is configured to engage with the opening 104.3 in the hollow profile 104, so that the upper end portion 307 of the protrusion 304 protrudes from the outer surface of the hollow profile 104. The opening 104.3 may be an end portion of a slot 104.1 provided in the hollow profile 104. The opening 104.3 may be an opening with an enlarged size. The remaining portion 104.2 of the slot may have a smaller size. The locking section 305 may include a size corresponding to the size of the opening 104.3, so that when the clamp is in the locked position, the locking section may automatically engage with the opening 104.3. The protrusion 304 may also include a second portion 306, such as a guide and / or indication section 306, whose size is smaller than the size of the locking section 305 and corresponds to the size of the slot 104.1. The second part 306 is arranged above the first part 305 so that when the first part 304 is received in the opening 104.3, the second part 306 may protrude from the hollow profile 104. The second part 306 may be provided with a specific color (eg green) to signal to the user that the clamp 300 is in a locked position.To pull out the clamp 300 , the user may push the protrusion 304 to disengage the first portion 305 from the opening 104 . 3 and pull out the clamp 300 .

[0283] Will refer to Figure 37 to Figure 39 Another embodiment of a spacer 100 is described. The spacer 100 comprises a first attachment portion 101 and a second attachment portion 102. The first attachment portion 101 is configured as a carrier-side fastening unit 110. The second attachment portion 102 is configured as a load-side attachment unit 150. The first attachment portion 101 and the second attachment portion 102 are coupled to each other via a connecting structure 103 comprising a hollow profile 104. The hollow profile 104 is embodied as a tube.

[0284] The carrier-side fastening unit 110 comprises a clamping arrangement 300. The clamping arrangement 300 comprises a first clamping member 301, which is embodied as a fixed clamping member. The first clamping member 301 is coupled to a first end portion of the hollow profile 104. The clamping arrangement 300 further comprises a second clamping member 302, which can be pivoted towards and away from the first clamping member 301. The second clamping member 302 can be pivotally coupled to the first clamping member 301 by a pivot pin 310.

[0285] The load-side fastening unit 150 includes a strap receiver 157. The strap receiver 157 is movably arranged on the housing 151 of the fastening unit 150. In this embodiment, the strap receiver 157 is movable along a straight path on the housing 151. The strap receiver 157 may be disposed on the housing 151 or include a carriage slidably supported on the housing. The strap receiver 157 may define a strap path into which the strap 154 ​​may be inserted and through the strap receiver 157. The strap path may be a straight path. The strap path may extend substantially parallel to the straight path along which the strap receiver 157 is movable on the housing 151.

[0286] The strap receiver 157 is operatively coupled to the second clamping member 302. Thus, the second clamping member 302 and the strap receiver 157 are configured to move together. In this way, the second clamping member 302 can be moved to the open position by the movement of the strap receiver 157. In addition, the second clamping member 300 can be maintained in the locked position by preventing the movement of the strap receiver 157. The strap receiver 157 can be operatively coupled to the second clamping member 302 by the force transmitting member 106, which can be embodied as a rod 107. The force transmitting member 106 can be coupled to the second clamping member 302 at a first end portion thereof and can be coupled to the strap receiver 157 at a second end portion thereof. The force transmitting member 106 and / or the entire force transmitting arrangement 105 can be accommodated in the spacer 100. The force transmitting member 106 can be accommodated in the hollow profile 104 and / or extend through the hollow profile.

[0287] The strap receiver 157 is movable between a first position corresponding to an open position of the clamp 300 and a second position corresponding to a closed position of the clamp 300. Fig.38 In FIG. 1 , the strip receiver 157 is shown in a first position and in FIG. Fig.39 , the strap receiver 157 is shown in the second position. The strap receiver 157 can be biased toward the second position by the pushing member 108. Therefore, the strap receiver 157 is biased to normally move toward the second position in which the clamp 300 is closed. In other words, in such embodiments, the user can open the clamp 300 simply by moving the strap receiver 157 to overcome the pushing force applied to it by the pushing member 108. The pushing member can be a spring, such as a coil spring arranged around the rod 107.

[0288] The housing 151 may include a finger support portion 151.1. The finger support portion 151.1 may be a protrusion protruding from the housing 151 at a side where the strap receiver 157 is movably disposed on the housing 151. The finger support portion 151.1 may include a through hole that allows the strap 154 ​​to pass therethrough. When a force is applied to the strap receiver 157 to move the strap receiver toward the first position and overcome the urging force, the finger support portion 151.1 may provide a better grip for the user.

[0289] When the strap receiver 157 is in the second position and the strap 154 ​​is inserted therein and tightened, the bicycle frame portion 3 is firmly held on the contact portion 152 provided on the housing 151 by being clamped by the strap 154. In this state, the inserted strap 154 ​​prevents the strap receiver 157 from moving toward the first position and thus prevents the clamp 300 from opening. Therefore, the strap 154 ​​inserted into the strap receiver 157 can stop the strap receiver 157, thereby blocking the clamp 300.

[0290] The strap receiver 157 may be part of the tightening mechanism 153. The strap tensioning mechanism may include an operating member 158, such as a lever. The strap tightening mechanism may be configured to apply a tensioning force on the strap 154. Applying a tensioning force on the strap 154 ​​generates a displacement force on the strap receiver 157, thereby urging the strap receiver toward the second position in which the clamp 300 is closed. Thus, tightening the strap results in applying a force on the strap receiver 157 toward the second position and thereby tightening the clamp 300 toward the interlocked state.

[0291] It should be noted that instead of the strap receiver 157, a general fastening mechanism 153 may be provided that is capable of clamping the bicycle frame part 3 on the load-side attachment unit 150. For example, instead of a strap as a clamping member, a bracket or other type of clamping member may be provided instead.

[0292] In some embodiments, the strap receiver 157 includes a pump buckle mechanism 400. The pump buckle mechanism 400 includes a tensioning lever 404 pivotally arranged on the support portion 402. The tensioning lever 404 includes a toothed end portion 405. The strap channel 401 is defined between the toothed end portion 405 and the support portion 402. If the strap 154 ​​is disposed in the strap channel 401, the pivotal movement of the tensioning lever 404 causes engagement between the toothed end portion 405 and the teeth on the strap 154, thereby converting the rotation of the tensioning lever 404 into a translational movement of the strap 154. The pump buckle mechanism 400 also includes a ratchet 406. The ratchet 406 can be a biased pivoting lever or a translationally movable engagement portion, which includes an engagement portion for engaging with the teeth on the strap 154. An urging member 408 (e.g., a spring) can be provided for biasing the ratchet 406. The ratchet 406 is biased toward a locked position in which it engages the strap 154 ​​and blocks movement of the strap 154 ​​in a removal direction. The removal direction is the direction in which the strap 154 ​​is pulled out of the strap receiver 157.

[0293] Will refer to Fig.40 Another embodiment of a spacer 100 is described. The spacer 100 comprises a first attachment portion 101 and a second attachment portion 102. The first attachment portion 101 is configured as a carrier-side fastening unit 110. The second attachment portion 102 is configured as a load-side attachment unit 150. The first attachment portion 101 and the second attachment portion 102 are coupled to each other via a connecting structure 103 comprising a hollow profile 104. The hollow profile 104 is again embodied as a tube. In addition, the carrier-side fastening unit 110 comprises a clamping arrangement 300. The clamping arrangement 300 is configured to be coupled to the carrier-side fastening unit 110. Figure 37 to Figure 39The embodiment shown is constructed in the same manner as the clamping arrangement 300 described in the embodiment shown. Again, the second attachment portion 102 is configured as a load-side attachment unit 150. The load-side attachment unit 150 is configured to be attached to a portion of a bicycle frame. The load-side attachment unit 150 includes a housing 151, which is provided with a contact portion 152 for contacting a portion of the bicycle frame. The contact portion 152 defines a contact surface 159. The contact portion 152 is disposed on a lower portion of the housing 151. The housing 151 is rotatably disposed on an end portion of the hollow profile 104 so as to be rotatable around an extension axis of the hollow profile 104. A fastening mechanism 153 is disposed on the housing 151. Again, as described in other parts of this specification, the fastening mechanism 153 may include a strap receiver 157 having a pump buckle mechanism 400. In this embodiment, the fastening mechanism 153 is fixedly disposed on the housing 151. The fastening mechanism 153 is configured to receive a fixing member. In this embodiment, the fixing member is again a strap 154. The strap 154 ​​includes a fixed end portion 156 and a free end portion 155. The strap receiver 157 is configured to receive the free end portion 155. In this embodiment, the fixed end portion 156 of the strap 154 ​​is operatively coupled to the movable clamping member 302 via the force transfer member 106. Again, the force transfer member 106 is embodied as a rod 107. The fixed end portion 156 is coupled to the rod 107 via a tilt lever. The tilt lever converts the tension applied thereto by the fixed end portion 156 into a tension acting on the rod 107 in a direction for closing the movable clamping member 302. Therefore, when the strap 154 ​​is tightened, the force in the closing direction is transferred to the movable clamping member 302. In addition, when the strap 154 ​​is tightened, the rod 107 is prevented from moving in a direction for opening the movable clamping member 302. The load-side attachment unit 150 also includes a release lever 109. The release lever 109 is configured to exert a force on the rod 107 in a direction for opening the movable clamping member 302 when operated by a user. Again, a push member 108 is provided, which exerts a force on the rod 107 in the closing direction. In this embodiment, the release lever 109 is configured to exert a force on the longitudinal ends of the rod 107. Therefore, the user can open the clamp 300 by loosening the tensioned strap 154 ​​and then operating the release lever 109 to open the movable clamping member 302.

[0294] Now refer to Fig.41 describe Fig.40 Again, a spacer 100 is provided, which includes a first attachment portion 101 and a second attachment portion 102. The first attachment portion 101 is configured to be combined with Fig.40 The first attachment portion 101 is the same as the second attachment portion 102. Fig.40The embodiment shown is different in that the mechanism for locking the rod 107 in the locked position is different. Again, the second attachment part 102 includes a release lever 109. The release lever 109 is pivotally arranged and is configured to apply a thrust force on the end portion of the rod 107.

[0295] The locking mechanism comprises a first locking ring 420 and a second locking ring 423. The rod 107 extends through the first locking ring 420 and the second locking ring 423. The first locking ring 420 is pivotably arranged on the support 422. The first locking ring 420 is pivotable about a pivot axis that is offset from the middle axis of the rod 107 and extends perpendicularly to the middle axis of the rod 107. The first locking ring 420 defines an opening through which the rod 107 extends. Fig.41 A state is shown in which the first locking ring 420 is tilted into a locked position in which the first locking ring 420 extends transversely to the middle axis of the rod 107 so that the upper inner portion of the first locking ring 420 and the lower inner portion of the first locking ring 420 are pushed onto the rod 107, thereby generating friction between the first locking ring 420 and the rod 107. Thus, friction locking is achieved. The upper portion of the first locking ring 420 is coupled to the arm portion of the release lever 109 by a force transmission member 421 on the side of the pivot axis of the release lever 109 opposite to the upper portion of the release lever 109, which is configured to exert a force on the end portion of the rod 107. Thus, operating the release lever 109 causes the pivoting movement of the first locking ring 420 to release the friction locking and causes a force to be exerted on the end portion of the rod 107 to move the rod 107 so that the clamp 300 is opened. The second locking ring 423 functions according to the same principle as described above with respect to the first locking ring 420. The second locking ring 423 is not pivotally supported. Instead, the second locking ring 423 is provided on the rod 107 at a position between the first locking ring 420 and the end portion of the rod 107 that contacts the release lever 109. The second locking ring 423 is interposed between two springs 425, 426 provided on the rod 107. In other words, the springs 425, 426 and the second locking ring 423 form an urging member that biases the rod 107 in the closing direction. Fig.41 The state in which the rod 107 is in the closed position is shown. The locking mechanism further includes a pivoting member 424. The pivoting member may be a lever. The fixed end portion 156 of the strap 154 ​​is coupled to a first end of the pivoting member 424. The second end of the pivoting member 424 is constructed and arranged so that it extends into an area where the second locking ring 423 is provided. When the strap 154 ​​is tightened, the pivoting member 424 overcomes the restoring force generated by the springs 425, 426 and pivots, so that the second end of the pivoting member 424 applies a force on a portion of the second locking ring 423 for tilting it and generating friction between the rod 107 and the second locking ring 423.

[0296] In one embodiment, the first attachment portion 101 comprises a carrier side fastening unit 110, such as Fig.42 and Fig.43 As shown. The carrier-side fastening unit 110 is configured to be placed on the support portion 31 of the load carrier 1 and locked with the support portion of the load carrier. The fastening unit 110 is configured to accommodate the support portion 31. The fastening unit 110 is configured to be convertible between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration. In the locked configuration, the fastening unit 110 is in a state in which the support portion 31 is non-detachably fixed to the support portion 31 when the support portion 31 is accommodated in the fastening unit 110. In the unlocked configuration, the fastening unit 110 is in a state in which the fastening unit 110 can be mounted to the support portion 31 and can be removed from the support portion.

[0297] The fastening unit 110 may comprise a receiving section 113 for at least partially receiving the support portion 31. The receiving section 113 may comprise, for example, a recess formed in the housing 151. The receiving section 113 may extend in a direction transverse to a main extension direction or longitudinal direction of the fastening unit 110, for example perpendicular to a main extension direction or longitudinal direction of the fastening unit 110 and / or the spacer 100.

[0298] The fastening unit 110 may include a locking member 111. The locking member 111 may be movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. When the locking member 111 is in the locked position, the fastening unit 110 is in a locked configuration. When the locking member 111 is in the unlocked position, the fastening unit 110 is in an unlocked configuration. The locking member 111 is operatively coupled to the force transfer arrangement 105. For example, the first end portion 120 of the force transfer portion 115 may be coupled to the attachment portion 111.3 of the locking member 111. When the locking member 111 moves, a force is exerted on the force transfer portion 115, and vice versa.

[0299] The locking member 111 may include a blocking section 111.1, which is configured to be moved into and out of the receiving section 113 to open or block access to the receiving section and lock the supporting section 31 in the receiving section 113 when the fastening unit 110 is placed on the supporting section 31. The locking member 111 may also include an abutment portion 111.2, which protrudes into the receiving section 113, such as in a recess, when the locking member 111 is in the unlocked position. Although the abutment portion 111.2 is an integral part of the locking member 111 in this embodiment, it should be noted that the abutment portion can be provided as a separate member, which is operatively coupled to the locking member so that the movement of the abutment portion triggers the movement of the locking member towards the locked position. The abutment portion 111.2 can be used as a trigger for releasing the movement of the locking member 111 towards the locked position when a force is applied thereon by contact with the supporting section 31.

[0300] The locking member 111 may be biased so that the locking member 111 is normally held in the unlocked position, but is pushed toward the locked position when the locking member 111 is moved beyond the equilibrium position. In this configuration, the locking member 111 needs to first overcome the urging force to move until the equilibrium position and then move and be pushed toward the locked position by the urging force. With this configuration, the locking member 111 can be held in the locked position and the unlocked position by, for example, a urging force applied by a single urging member. The urging member may be arranged to apply the urging force to the free end portion of the locking member 111, for example near the attachment portion 111.3.

[0301] The locking member 111 may comprise a fork-like portion, wherein two prongs protrude from a common base portion and form a receiving space therebetween for receiving the support portion 31. The locking member 111 may be pivotably coupled to the housing 151 by a pivot pin 111.4. One of the prongs may form an abutment portion 111.2 and one of the prongs may form a blocking section 111.1.

[0302] The second attachment portion 102 includes a load-side attachment unit 150. The load-side attachment unit 150 includes a housing 151. A contact portion 152 for contacting the bicycle frame portion 3 is provided on the housing 151 on a lower portion thereof. The load-side attachment unit 150 also includes a fastening mechanism 153. The fastening mechanism 153 includes a strap 154 ​​having a fixed end portion 156 attached to the housing 151 near the contact portion 152. The fastening mechanism 153 also includes a strap receiver 157 configured to receive a free end portion 155 of the strap 154. The strap receiver 157 is movably supported on the housing 151. The strap receiver 157 is configured to move between an active position, in which the strap receiver 157 can receive the free end portion 155 of the strap 154, and an inactive position, in which the strap receiver 157 cannot receive the free end portion 155. In this embodiment, the strap receiver 157 is configured to pivot between an active position and an inactive position. The strap receiver 157 is operatively coupled to the fastening unit 110. Specifically, the strap receiver 157 is coupled to the fastening unit 110 via the force transmission arrangement 105. The connection between the strap receiver 157 and the fastening unit 110 is such that when the fastening unit 110 is in the locked configuration, the strap receiver 157 is positioned in the active position, and when the fastening unit 110 is in the unlocked configuration, the strap receiver 157 is positioned in the active position.

[0303] Configuration includes an operating mechanism 434 having an operating lever 109. The operating mechanism is configured to convert the fastening unit 110 from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration while moving the strap receiver 157 from an active position to an inactive position. The operating lever 109 includes a receiving portion 436 for receiving the second end portion 122 of the force transmission portion 150. In this embodiment, the force transmission portion 150 includes a cable 124. The receiving portion 436 can be configured to receive the second end portion 122. The second end portion 122 can include a coupling portion 126, such as a spherical coupling portion 126. The receiving portion 436 is configured to accommodate the coupling portion 126 while allowing the coupling member to move out of the receiving portion 436 in one direction. In other words, the operating lever 109 is configured to exert a pulling force on the cable 124 when it moves in a first direction, and can move relative to the coupling portion 126 in an opposite direction. Therefore, the operating lever 109 can be used to pull the cable 124 to an open position in which the carrier-side fastening unit 110 is in an open configuration.

[0304] The operating lever 109 is pivotably coupled to the housing 151 about a pivot axis 438. The pivot axis 438 may be defined by a pivot pin. The receiving portion 436 may be provided on the same side of the operating lever 109 on which a user of the operating lever 109 applies force to the operating lever 109 for operating the operating lever.

[0305] The movable support 430 is pivotally connected to the housing 151, for example, by a pivot pin 432. In this embodiment, the movable support 430 is a lever, which is connected to the housing 151 at its first end portion and supports the strip receiver 157 on its lever arm portion. The lever arm portion is retractable into the housing 151 together with the strip receiver 157. The operating lever 109 is operatively connected to the movable support 430. The operating lever 109 includes a connecting portion 440. The connecting portion 440 is arranged on the lever 109 on the side opposite to the side where the receiving portion 436 is arranged with respect to the pivot axis 438. The movable support 430 includes a connecting section 444. The connecting portion 440 and the connecting section 444 are connected to each other by a force transmission member 442. The connecting section 444 includes a narrow slot. The end portion of the force transmission member 442 is received in the narrow slot. The slot and the force transfer member are configured so that the movable support 430 can move relative to the force transfer member so that the movable support 430 can move to an active position independently of the force transfer member. On the other hand, the slot is defined so that when the user operates the lever 109, the movable support 430 can be pulled into the housing 151 by the force transfer member 442.

[0306] The operating mechanism 434 includes a ratchet mechanism that holds the movable support 430 in the retracted position. A first engagement portion 446 including one or more teeth is provided on the movable support 430. A second engagement portion 448 is provided to be fixed relative to the housing 151. The second engagement portion 448 is configured to engage with the first engagement portion 446 and may include one or more teeth. The first engagement portion 446 and the second engagement portion 448 are configured to engage when the movable support 430 is moved to the retracted position or the inactive position. Once the movable support 430 is in the inactive position and the engagement is established, the movable support 430 is maintained in this position until the engagement is released. In order to release the engagement, the operating mechanism 434 includes a release portion 450 that is operatively connected to the cable 124 via a coupling portion 452. The release portion 450 is configured to disengage the first engagement portion 446 and the second engagement portion 448 from each other when the cable 124 is moved to a position where the carrier-side fastening unit 110 is in a locked configuration (see Fig.43 , Fig.44 , Fig.47). The release portion 450 may include a separation portion 454 configured to move between the first engagement portion 446 and the second engagement portion 448 to push the latter portions away from each other. The second engagement portion 448 may include a sliding surface 449 on its free end portion. The sliding surface 448 is tapered so that a gap is created between at least a portion of the sliding surface 448 and the first engagement portion 446. The gap is large enough to allow the separation portion 454 to enter the gap. When the separation portion 454 then moves further between the first engagement portion 446 and the second engagement portion 448, the first engagement portion 446 and the second engagement portion 448 are separated due to the inclined sliding surface 448, through which the force applied thereto pushes the second engagement portion 448 in a direction away from the first engagement portion 446 until they disengage from each other. The first engagement portion 446 and the second engagement portion 448 can then move relative to each other, thereby allowing the movable support 430 and the strip receiver 157 to move to an active position.

[0307] The strap receiver 157 may include a pump buckle mechanism 400 as described elsewhere in this specification.

[0308] Will refer to Fig.48 and Fig.49 Another embodiment of a spacer 100 is described. The spacer 100 again comprises a carrier-side fastening unit 110 and a load-side attachment unit 150. The fastening unit 110 comprises a clamping arrangement 300 having a first clamping member 301 and a second clamping member 302. The second clamping member 302 is pivotally movable relative to the first clamping member 301. The carrier-side fastening unit 110 and the load-side attachment unit 150 are coupled to each other via a connecting structure, which is exemplarily embodied as a hollow profile 104. The load-side attachment unit 150 comprises a housing 151. An actuator 460 for opening the clamping arrangement 300 is supported on the housing 151. In this embodiment, the actuator 460 is a translationally movable member having an operating section protruding from the housing 151. The actuator 460 is operatively coupled to the second clamping member 302. In this embodiment, the actuator 460 is exemplarily coupled to the clamping member 302 via a force transmission member 106. The actuator 460 may be coupled to the second clamping member 302 via a rod 107 or a cable. The actuator 460 is movable between an open position, in which the fastening unit 110 is in an open configuration, and a closed position, in which the fastening unit 110 is in a closed configuration.

[0309] A fastening mechanism 153 including a strap 154 ​​and a strap receiver 157 is provided on the load-side attachment unit 150. The strap receiver 157 may include a pump buckle mechanism 400. In this embodiment, the contact portion 152 for contacting the bicycle frame 3 forms a part of a safety device 470 configured to prevent the strap from being inserted into the strap receiver or to lock the strap in the strap receiver. More specifically, the safety device 470 includes a force applying portion 471. The force applying portion 471 includes the contact portion 152. The force applying portion 471 is movably arranged relative to the housing 151. The safety device 470 also includes a blocking portion 474. The blocking portion 474 may include an abutment portion 478, which is configured to block the movement of the ratchet 406 of the pump buckle mechanism 400 and / or to apply a urging force on the ratchet 406 for moving the ratchet toward a blocking position and / or to keep the ratchet in the blocking position. The ratchet 406 is biased toward a locked position in which the ratchet 406 protrudes into the strap channel 401. When the ratchet 406 is blocked by the abutment portion 478, the strap 154 ​​cannot pass through the strap channel 401. In addition, the ratchet 406 can contact the tensioning lever 404 of the pump buckle mechanism 400 and move it to a position in which the teeth of the tensioning lever 404 block the strap channel 401. The blocking portion 474 is operatively coupled to the force applying portion 471, for example, via a force transmitting portion 472. The blocking portion, the force applying portion, and the force transmitting portion can form an integral unit. The blocking portion 474 may include a strap channel 476 that is aligned with the strap channel 401 when the blocking portion is in the non-blocking position. When the blocking portion 474 is in the blocking position, the strap channel 476 is offset to the strap channel 401 so that the blocking portion 474 blocks the strap channel 401.

[0310] Will refer to Figure 50 to Figure 55 Another embodiment of a spacer 100 is described. The spacer 100 again comprises a first attachment portion 101 which is configured as a carrier-side fastening unit 110. The spacer 100 also comprises a second attachment portion 102 which is configured as a load-side attachment unit 150. The functional principle of the carrier-side fastening unit 110 is similar to that of the spacer 101 in conjunction with the carrier-side fastening unit 150. Fig.42 and Fig.43 The support frame side fastening unit 110. Fig.54 and Fig.55 Details of the carrier-side fastening unit 110 according to this embodiment are shown in FIG. Fig.54 and Fig.55 The carrier-side fastening unit 110 comprises a receiving section 113 for receiving the support part 31 of the bicycle carrier. The receiving section 130 is formed as a U-shaped recess in the housing 127 of the carrier-side fastening unit 110. Fig.42 and Fig.43In contrast to the embodiment shown, the U-shaped recess is open in the longitudinal direction of the fastening unit 110. In other words, in some embodiments, the U-shaped recess may face away from the hollow profile 104 to which the carrier-side fastening unit 110 is coupled. The U-shaped recess may extend in the main extension direction of the spacer 100 and / or in the direction of the extension direction of the hollow profile 104. Fig.42 and Fig.43 In the embodiment shown, the U-shaped recess extends transversely to the main extension direction of the spacer 100 and / or transversely to the extension direction of the hollow profile 104. For example, the U-shaped recess may extend perpendicularly to the main extension direction of the space 100 and / or perpendicularly to the main extension direction of the hollow profile 104. Fig.54 and Fig.55 In the embodiment shown, the fastening unit 110 comprises a first locking portion 111. The first locking portion 111 is embodied as a movable locking member. The first locking portion 111 comprises a blocking section 111.1 and an abutting portion 111.2. The locking portion 111 may be as described with reference to Fig.42 and Fig.43 The embodiment described herein moves between a locked position and an unlocked position.

[0311] The locking portion 111 is biased by a push arrangement. The push arrangement comprises a spring 111.5 supported on a pivotable holder 111.6. The pivotable holder 111.6 can pivot about a pivot pin 111.7, which extends parallel to a pivot pin 111.4 about which the locking portion 111 can pivot. The locking portion 111 comprises an attachment portion 111.3. A first end portion 120 of a cable 124 is coupled to the attachment portion 111.3. More precisely, the first end portion 120 of the cable 124 is coupled to the attachment portion 111.3 such that movement of the locking portion 111 towards the locked position exerts a pulling force on the first end portion 120 of the cable 124. One end portion of the spring 111.5 can be supported on the pivotable retainer 111.6, and the other end portion of the spring 111.5 can be supported on the locking part 111, so that when the locking part 111 is converted from the unlocked position to the locked position, it is necessary to pass through the dead center. Therefore, the push arrangement can be configured to apply force toward the locked position and apply force toward the unlocked position. Through this configuration, a quick buckle function can be achieved. For example, the arrangement can be configured so that the adjacent portion 111.2 can act as a trigger, which causes the locking part 111 to rotate beyond the dead center position when receiving the force of the support part 31. Then, the force applied to the locking part 111 by the push arrangement acts on the locking part 111 in the opposite rotation direction and pushes the locking part 111 toward the locked position. In this way, the support part 31 is locked.

[0312] The load-side attachment unit 150 comprises a housing 151. The housing may comprise a pistol-like shape. The housing comprises a contact portion 152 configured to contact a bicycle frame portion. The attachment unit 150 further comprises a fastening mechanism 153. The fastening mechanism again comprises a strap 154 ​​and a strap receiver 157. The housing 151 may be configured to be rotatable relative to the connection structure 103, for example relative to the hollow profile 104. The strap receiver may comprise a pump buckle mechanism 400. In the housing 151, a strap channel 401 is formed.

[0313] The attachment unit 150 also includes an actuator 460. The actuator 460 is connected to the locking portion 111 via the cable 124. The end portion of the cable 124 is connected to the actuator at the fixed section 466. The actuator 460 is configured to be translationally movable between an unlocked position corresponding to the unlocked position of the locking portion 111 and a locked position corresponding to the locked position of the locking portion 111. The actuator 460 is designed so that when it is positioned in the unlocked position, it blocks the strip channel 401. In addition, the actuator 460 is designed so that when it is positioned in the unlocked position, it moves into the strip channel 401. Therefore, when the strip is present in the strip channel 401, the actuator 460 cannot move to the unlocked position. In addition, when the actuator 460 is in the unlocked position, the strip channel 401 is blocked and the strip 154 ​​cannot pass through the strip channel.

[0314] The actuator 460 is biased toward the unlocked position by a push member 461 (eg, by a spring). Fig.51 A state is shown in which the actuator 460 is in the unlocked position. Fig.52 4 shows a state in which the actuator is in an unlocked position. In some embodiments, the actuator 460 may include a first actuator member 462 and a second actuator member 464. The first actuator member 462 may include a grip portion 468 extending outside the housing 151. The second actuator member 464 may include a fixed section 466 and may be provided to be movable relative to the first actuator member 462. One or more push members 463 may be provided between the first actuator member 462 and the second actuator member 464. The push member 463 pushes the actuator members away from each other and into an expanded state. The push members 460 jointly provide a push force that is lower than the push force applied to the actuator by the push member 461. Therefore, even if the user moves the first actuator member 462 forcefully toward the locked position to want to unblock the strip channel 401, the first actuator member 462 will only move relative to the second actuator member 464 against the push force of the push member 463. However, the second actuator member 464 will remain in position, more precisely in the unlocked position, thereby continuing to block the strap channel 401 . Fig.50A state is shown in which the first actuator member 462 moves toward the locking position. However, since the mechanism is not intended to achieve locking in the carrier-side fastening unit 110, the second actuator member 464 does not move together with the first actuator member 462, so that the rear end portion 465 of the second actuator member 464 still blocks the belt channel 401.

[0315] Will refer to Figure 56 to Figure 62 Another embodiment of the spacer 100 is described. The spacer 100 includes a carrier-side fastening unit 110, which is configured to be placed on and locked with the support portion 31 of the load carrier 1. The fastening unit 110 is configured to accommodate the support portion 31 and is configured to be convertible between a locked configuration, in which the fastening unit 110 is non-detachably fixed to the support portion 31, and an unlocked configuration, in which the fastening unit 110 can be mounted to and removed from the support portion 31.

[0316] The fastening unit 110 is configured to be convertible into a locked configuration by pushing the fastening unit 110 onto the support portion 31 .

[0317] The fastening unit 110 comprises an arrangement for actively locking the support portion 31 between at least two locking members 111, 112. In this embodiment, the two locking members 111, 112 form part of a gripping arrangement 300. The first locking member 111 forms a first gripping member 301 and the second locking member 112 forms a second gripping member 302. The gripping arrangement 300 may be configured as a clamping arrangement, wherein each of the first gripping member 301 and the second gripping member 302 forms a clamping member. The first gripping member 301 and the second gripping member 302 are pivotably coupled to each other. The first gripping member 301 and the second gripping member 302 may be pivotably coupled to each other via a pivot portion 311. The pivot portion 311 may be attached to the force transmitting member 106 or operatively coupled thereto, for example to the rod 107. The pivot portion 311 may be integrally formed on the force transmitting member 106.

[0318] The pushing member 312 is constructed and arranged to push the first gripping member 301 and the second gripping member 302 away from each other. Therefore, the gripping members are biased toward the open position, in which the support portion 31 can be received between the gripping members. The gripping members 301, 302 include a force receiving section, which is configured to receive a thrust from the support portion 31 when the fastening unit 110 is pushed on the support portion 31. The force receiving section is provided by the gripping members 301, 302 at the longitudinal inner portion of the gripping members 301, 302 (e.g., the portion adjacent to the pushing member). The force receiving section can be configured to receive only a force acting in the longitudinal direction of the spacer 100 and / or in the longitudinal direction of the force transmitting member 106. Therefore, when the gripping arrangement is pushed against the support portion 31, the force receiving surface contacts the periphery of the support portion 31, so that no force is transmitted on the gripping members 301, 302 to push them to the open position. The first gripping member 301 and the second gripping member 302 may be coupled to each other like gripping jaws in a head section of pliers (eg, by a pivot 311 ).

[0319] The fastening unit 110 includes a housing 127. The first gripping member 301 and the second gripping member 302 are movably accommodated in the housing 127. The housing 127 includes internal dimensions that correspond to external dimensions of the gripping members when the gripping members are in a closed position. Therefore, the gripping members can be accommodated in the housing 127 only when they are in a closed position. The housing 127 and the gripping members 301, 302 are configured so that when the gripping members are moved into the housing 127 or the housing is moved over the gripping members, the gripping members 301, 302 automatically move from the open position to the closed position. Each gripping member 301, 302 includes an outer inclined sliding surface 314 configured to contact the front end portion 128 of the housing 127 (see Fig.58 ).

[0320] When the opened fastening unit 110 is inserted onto the support portion 31, the spacer 100 moves so that the support portion 31 is positioned between the gripping members 301, 302 and in contact with the force receiving section (see Fig.60 ). In this state, further movement of the gripping members 301, 302 toward the support portion 31 is blocked by the support portion 31. When the spacer 100 is further pushed against the support portion 31, the housing 127 moves toward the support portion 31 relative to the gripping members 301, 302 (see Fig.59). As the housing 127 moves relative to the gripping members, the front end portion 128 of the housing 127 slides on the inclined sliding surface 314 and applies a clamping force that moves the gripping members toward each other until they firmly grip the support portion 31. In other words, fastening the spacer 100 to the support portion 31 includes two steps. In the first step, the spacer is moved relative to the support portion 31 for receiving the support portion 31 between the gripping members 301, 302. In the second step, the spacer is pushed on the support portion 31, resulting in a relative movement of the housing 127 on the gripping members. In the second step, the gripping members only perform a pivoting movement toward each other. Since the rod 107 is connected to the gripping member resting on the support portion 31, the rod 107 remains fixed when the housing 127 moves along the gripping member.

[0321] The housing 127 is coupled to a connection structure 103 comprising a hollow profile 104. A load-side attachment unit 150 is provided on an opposite side of the connection structure 103. The rod 104 may extend completely through the hollow profile and into the load-side attachment unit 150.

[0322] A fixing mechanism for locking the rod 107 and the holding members 301, 302 to prevent movement toward the open position is provided in the load-side attachment unit 150. The fixing mechanism is configured to frictionally lock the rod. The fixing mechanism may include one or more tiltable locking members 502, 504 having an opening or cutout for receiving a portion of the rod 107. The locking members 502, 504 may be plate-shaped members and / or may be annular or rectangular. The locking members 502, 504 may be tiltably retained in the housing 151, for example at the support portions 510, 512. One side of the locking member may be supported on the housing 151. The rod 107 may pass through the opening in the locking member. Each locking member is associated with a pushing member 506, 508 (such as a spring arranged on the rod 107). The locking member is tilted toward the tilted configuration (such as Fig.58 The locking member is biased toward the outer surface of the rod 107 (as shown), in which inclined configuration the locking member extends transversely to the main extension direction of the rod 107 so that the opposite inner side defining the opening contacts the outer surface of the rod 107. This creates friction between the locking member and the rod 107, thereby locking the rod in one direction (specifically in the direction of pulling the rod out of the housing 151) and allowing movement of the rod in a second direction (specifically in the direction of moving the rod further into the housing 151).

[0323] The spacer 100 further includes an operating portion that is movable relative to the housing 151. The operating portion includes a finger support portion 151.1 for gripping the operating portion and pulling the operating portion in the longitudinal direction of the spacer 100 and in a direction away from the carrier-side fastening unit 110. The operating portion may be provided on an end portion of the housing 151 and an end cap may be formed on the housing 151. A strap receiver 157 may be provided on the operating portion.

[0324] The operating portion includes or is coupled to a release portion 516, 518 having an abutment portion and being displaceably received in the housing 151 via a force transfer portion 514. The operating portion includes a strip channel into which a strip can be inserted via the access opening 151.3. The operating portion is configured to be movable only when no strip is present in the strip channel. The strip 154 ​​inserted in the strip channel prevents movement of the operating portion relative to the housing 151 (see Fig.61 Only when the operating portion is pulled in a direction away from the carrier-side fastening unit 110 while the strap is removed from the strap receiver 157 and removed from the strap channel, can the lever 107 be unlocked and pulled out of the housing 151 (see Fig.60 When the housing 151 is pulled in a direction away from the carrier-side fastening unit 110, it is not possible to unlock the lever 107 and pull the lever 107 out of the housing 151 even if the strap is removed (see Fig.62 ). Pulling the operating member moves the one or more release portions 516, 518 so that the release portions contact the locking members 502, 504 and exert a force on them, thereby moving them toward a position in which the friction clamp is released, such as toward a position in which the locking members 502, 504 are positioned so that the middle axis of the opening is substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the rod (see Fig.60 ). In this way, the rod is released and the housing 151 can move relative to the rod 107 and allow the housing 127 to be pulled from the gripping members 301, 302, which can then move in an opening direction.

[0325] Will refer to Figure 63 to Figure 67 Another embodiment of the spacer 100 is described. The spacer 100 includes a carrier-side fastening unit 110, which is configured to be placed on and locked with the support portion 31 of the load carrier 1. The fastening unit 110 is configured to accommodate the support portion 31 and is configured to be convertible between a locked configuration, in which the fastening unit 110 is non-detachably fixed to the support portion 31, and an unlocked configuration, in which the fastening unit 110 can be mounted to and removed from the support portion 31.

[0326] The fastening unit 110 is configured to be convertible into a locked configuration by stopping the support portion 31 on the fastening unit.

[0327] The fastening unit 110 includes a receiving section for accommodating a support portion 31 and a locking member. The receiving section may be arranged in a second locking member 112. The receiving section includes a recess for at least partially accommodating the support portion 31. The receiving section may be hook-shaped. The locking member 111 may move between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the locking member 111 is positioned so that the support portion 31 received in the receiving section is stopped therein. In other words, the locking member 111 is configured to actively lock the support portion 31 in the receiving section. In this embodiment, the locking member 111 may be translated and moved. The locking member may be guided (e.g., slidably guided) in the carrier side fastening unit 110 and / or in the connecting structure 103, e.g., in the hollow profile 104 and / or outside the hollow profile 104.

[0328] The locking member 111 may be operatively coupled to an operating member 520 provided on the load-side attachment unit 150 .

[0329] The load-side attachment unit 150 may include a blocking portion 524. The blocking portion 524 is configured to move between a blocking position, in which the blocking portion protrudes into a strap channel 401 formed in the load-side attachment unit 150, and a non-blocking position, in which the blocking portion 524 moves out of the strap channel 401 to allow the strap 154 ​​to pass through the strap channel.

[0330] The operating member 520 is operatively coupled to the blocking portion 524. The operating member 524 may form an integral unit with the blocking portion 520. The blocking portion 524 may be an integrally formed portion of the operating member 520.

[0331] The operating member 520 is operatively connected to the locking member 111 via the force transfer member 106. The force transfer member 106 may be a rod 107. The locking member 111 may be biased toward the unlocked position. Therefore, overcoming the biasing force moves the locking member 111 from the unlocked position toward the locked position. The biasing force may be provided by a pushing member 108 acting on the locking member, the force transfer member, or the operating member 520. In this embodiment, the pushing member 108 is disposed on the rod 107 and exerts a force on the operating member 520 in the unlocking direction.

[0332] The operating member 520 may be pivotably coupled to an end portion of the rod 107. The load-side attachment unit 150 may include a housing 151. The housing 151 may include a receiving portion for the operating member 520. The receiving portion may be configured to at least partially receive a portion of the operating member 520.

[0333] The operating member 520 includes an engaging portion 522 configured to engage with a receiving portion of the housing 151 by pivoting into the receiving portion when the operating member 520 is pushed into the housing to move the locking member 111 to the locked position. The engaging portion 522 and the blocking portion 524 are provided on opposite sides of the operating member 520. Therefore, when the engaging portion 522 is disengaged from the housing 151, the blocking portion 524 is arranged in the strap channel 602. In addition, if a strap is present in the strap channel 602, disengagement of the engaging portion 522 from the housing 151 is impossible because movement of the blocking portion 524 into the strap channel and thus movement of the operating member toward the unlocked position is blocked by the inserted strap.

[0334] Reference Figures 68 to 72 Another embodiment of the spacer 100 is described. The spacer 100 includes a carrier-side fastening unit 110, which is configured to be placed on and locked with the support portion 31 of the load carrier 1. The fastening unit 110 is configured to accommodate the support portion 31 and is configured to be convertible between a locked configuration, in which the fastening unit 110 is non-detachably fixed to the support portion 31, and an unlocked configuration, in which the fastening unit 110 can be mounted to and removed from the support portion 31.

[0335] The carrier-side fastening unit 110 comprises a clamping arrangement 300 .

[0336] The spacer 100 further comprises a load-side attachment unit 150. The load-side attachment unit 150 comprises a two-part construction having a first attachment unit part 150.1 and a second attachment unit part 150.2. The first attachment unit part 150.1 is coupled to the housing 127 of the carrier-side fastening unit 110. The second attachment unit part 150.2 is supported on the first attachment unit part 150.1 and coupled to a force transfer member 106, which in turn is coupled to a clamping arrangement 300. The clamping arrangement 300 is configured to be operated by movement of the second attachment unit part 150.2 relative to the first attachment unit part 150.1. The attachment unit parts 150.1, 150.2 may be configured such that a user may perform a squeezing action on them for operating the clamping arrangement 300. A strap receiver 157 is provided on the second attachment unit part 150.2. The second attachment unit part 150.2 can be rotated about 180 degrees around the longitudinal axis of the spacer between an active position and an inactive position, in which the second attachment unit part 150.2 is allowed to move relative to the first attachment unit part 150.1 along the longitudinal direction of the force transfer member 106, and in the inactive position, the second attachment unit part 150.2 is prevented from moving relative to the first attachment unit part 150.1. The second attachment part 150.2 includes an adjacent part 150.5 and the first attachment part 150.1 includes an opening 150.6. The adjacent part 150.5 is configured so that it is only possible to pass the adjacent part through the opening 150.6 when the second attachment part 150.2 is rotated to the active position. Therefore, the second attachment unit 150.2 can form an actuator for opening the carrier side attachment part 110 (clamping arrangement 300). The first attachment unit 150.1 may include a strap receiving portion 150.3 that provides lateral support for a strap inserted into the strap receiver 157. The second attachment unit portion 150.2 may include a strap insertion portion 150.4 that permits access to the strap receiver 157. In the active position of the second attachment unit portion 150.2, the strap insertion portion 150.4 is positioned such that strap insertion is not possible. In the inactive position, in which the opening of the clamping arrangement 300 is blocked, the strap insertion portion 150.4 is positioned such that strap insertion is possible.

[0337] exist Figure 73 to Figure 75 Another embodiment of a spacer 100 is shown in FIG. Fig.73 A perspective view of a spacer according to one embodiment is shown. Fig.74 The cross-sectional view along the longitudinal mid-plane of the spacer is shown. Fig.73 A perspective view of a spacer. Fig.75 Shows Fig.73 and Fig.74 Side view of the spacer.

[0338] The spacer 100 comprises a first attachment portion 101 and a second attachment portion 102. The first attachment portion 101 is configured as a carrier side fastening unit 110. The second attachment portion 102 is configured as a load side attachment unit 150. The carrier side fastening unit 110 is coupled to the load side attachment unit 150 via a connection structure 103. The connection structure 103 may include a hollow profile 104. The carrier side fastening unit 110 comprises a locking mechanism configured to actively accommodate a support portion 31 of the load carrier 1. The locking mechanism comprises a first locking portion 111 configured to at least partially receive the support portion 31. The locking mechanism comprises a second locking portion 112. The first locking portion 111 is movable relative to the second locking portion 112. Specifically, the first locking portion 111 can be moved between a locked position in which the support portion 31 received in the locking portion 111 is blocked by the second locking portion 112 so that the support portion cannot come out of the first locking portion 111, and an unlocked position in which the support portion 31 can be received in or removed from the locking portion 111. The locking portion 111 can be formed like a hook defining a receiving section 113 (e.g., a receiving recess) for receiving the support portion 31. Fig.73 and Fig.74 shows a configuration in which the locking portion 111 is moved to the locking position, and Fig.75 A configuration is shown in which the locking portion 111 is moved to the unlocking position.

[0339] The first locking portion 111 is coupled to the force transmission portion. As shown in the embodiment, the force transmission portion may be a rod-shaped portion 107. The force transmission portion may be formed as a separate component or may be formed integrally with the first locking portion 111. The force transmission portion is arranged so that it extends from the first locking portion 111 through the connecting structure 103 into the housing 151 of the load-side attachment unit 150. The load-side attachment unit 150 includes a strap 154 ​​and a strap receiver 157. In addition, the load-side attachment unit 152 includes a contact portion 152, which is configured to contact a portion of the bicycle to be transported, such as a portion of the bicycle frame. The strap 154 ​​is coupled to the housing 151 at the fixed end portion 156 and on one side of the contact portion 152. The free end portion 155 of the strap 154 ​​can be inserted and locked in the strap receiver 157. The strap receiver 157 can be arranged on the opposite side of the contact portion 152. Thus, a securing loop may be formed by the strap 154 ​​for securing a portion of the bicycle to the contact portion 152. The strap receiver 157 may include a pump buckle mechanism. The strap receiver 157 may include a strap channel 401 for receiving the strap 154, and may include a tightening lever 404 for tightening the strap 154 ​​inserted into the strap channel 401. Fig.74As shown, in this embodiment, the strap receiver 157 is arranged on the movable support 430. The movable support 430 is received in the housing 151 in a translationally movable manner and is connected to the end portion of the force transmission portion 107. Therefore, the movable support 430 can move integrally with the force transmission portion 107. The movable support 430 is movable between a retracted position and an extended position, in which the movable support and the strap receiver 157 are retracted into the housing 151, and in which the extended position, the movable support and the strap receiver 157 are positioned on the housing 151 so that the strap receiver 157 can be used for the insertion of the strap 154. Fig.73 and Fig.74 The extended position is shown in FIG. The retracted position is shown in FIG. Fig.75 Therefore, when the carrier side fastening unit 110 is in the Fig.75 In the open configuration shown, the strap receiver 157 is moved to a position in which it is inactive and cannot be used to insert a strap. In addition, the strap receiver 157 is moved to a position in which it is active and can be used to insert a strap. The spacer 100 can be configured so that when the carrier side fastening unit 110 is in a closed configuration or when the first locking part 111 reaches the locked position, the carrier side fastening unit is automatically locked. To this end, a biased locking member 431 can be provided on the movable support 430. The opening 151.2 can be provided on the housing 151, in a position where the biased locking member 431 is positioned when the first locking part 111 reaches the locked position. Once the first locking part 111 is positioned in the locked position, the biased locking member 431 automatically engages with the opening 151.2. The arrangement can be configured so that a user can push the locking member 431 inwardly from the outside of the housing 151 for unlocking the movable support 430 from the housing 151. The user may then pull the load-side attachment unit 150 away from the support portion 31 to pull the first locking portion 111 out of the carrier-side attachment unit 110 into the open position.

[0340] Will refer to Figure 76 to Figure 79 Another embodiment of the spacer 100 is described. The spacer 100 includes a carrier-side fastening unit 110, which is configured to be placed on and locked with the support portion 31 of the load carrier 1. The fastening unit 110 is configured to accommodate the support portion 31 and is configured to be convertible between a locked configuration, in which the fastening unit 110 is non-detachably fixed to the support portion 31, and an unlocked configuration, in which the fastening unit 110 can be mounted to and removed from the support portion 31.

[0341] The fastening unit 110 is configured to be convertible into a locked configuration by pushing the fastening unit 110 onto the support portion 31. The fastening unit 110 may include an arrangement for actively locking the support portion 31 between at least two locking members 111, 112. The configuration of this arrangement may be similar to that of the reference Figures 56 to 60 The configuration of the fastening unit 110 described is the same. Again, the two locking members 111, 112 form part of the gripping arrangement 300. Again, the housing 127 is coupled to the connecting structure 103 comprising the hollow profile 104. On the opposite side of the connecting structure 103 a load-side attachment unit 150 is provided. The rod 107 can extend through the hollow profile and into the load-side attachment unit 150.

[0342] Figure 76 to Figure 79 The configuration and Figures 56 to 60 The configuration of the spacer of is different in the load-side attachment unit 150 and the way in which the force transferring member 106 (eg rod 107 ) is locked in the load-side attachment unit 150 .

[0343] exist Figure 76 to Figure 79 In the configuration of the load-side attachment unit 150, the load-side attachment unit 150 comprises a locking mechanism or locking unit 160 for preventing the movement of the force transmission member 106 and thus preventing the movement of the locking members or locking parts 111, 112 relative to the housing 127. The locking mechanism or locking unit 160 is configured as a snap-on locking mechanism, which is automatically engaged when the load-side attachment unit 110 is in the locked configuration, in other words, when the locking members are in a clamped position or a closed position, for example when they are accommodated in the housing 127 or the housing is displaced over them. However, it should be noted that such a locking mechanism can be used in combination with other configurations of the carrier-side fastening unit 110 as described herein, in which a locking part moves relative to another locking part for actively locking the support part 31 in the carrier-side fastening unit 110, and in which the force transmission member 106 moves integrally with the locking part 111, such as with Figure 73 to Figure 75 , Figure 80 to Figure 83 , Figure 92 to Figure 95 or Fig.117 The configurations of the carrier-side fastening units 110 shown are used in combination.

[0344] The locking unit 160 includes a blocking portion or locking member 161. The force transfer member 106 may be operatively coupled to or may include an engagement section 117. The engagement section 117 may be movable between a first position corresponding to an open configuration of the carrier-side fastening unit 110 and a second position corresponding to a closed configuration of the carrier-side fastening unit 110. The locking unit 160 is configured to lock the movement of the force transfer member 106 relative to the housing 151 of the load-side attachment unit 150 when the force transfer member 106 is in the second position corresponding to a position in which the carrier-side fastening unit 110 is closed. The blocking portion 161 may be configured to engage with the engagement section 117. To this end, the blocking portion 161 may be movable between a locked position, in which the blocking portion engages with the engagement section or blocks movement of the engagement section, and an unlocked position, in which the blocking portion disengages from the engagement section and / or does not block movement of the engagement section. The engagement section 117 may be a recess, an opening, or a protrusion on the force transfer member 106. The blocking portion 161 may be configured to engage behind the engagement section 117 once the engagement section 117 moves to the second position.

[0345] like Figures 76 to 81 As shown, the blocking portion 161 can be configured as a rotatable movable member. In this configuration, the blocking portion 161 is configured as a rotatable member that can be pivoted toward and away from the force transfer member 106 (e.g., rod 107) so as to be able to engage behind the engagement section 117. Two blocking portions can be arranged on laterally opposite sides of the force transfer member 106. Fig.77 A state is shown in which the blocking portion 161 (more precisely the two blocking portions 161) are moved to a locking position in which a portion of the blocking portion is positioned in the movement path of the engagement section 117. In this state, each blocking portion 161 forms an abutment against the engagement section 117 on the load carrier fastening unit side of the engagement section 117, thereby blocking the movement of the engagement section 117 in the opening direction of the engagement section.

[0346] The locking unit 160 may further include a release mechanism for releasing the engagement section 117. The release mechanism is configured to move the blocking portion 161 to an unlocked position. The release mechanism may include an actuation portion 630, for example, coupled to an actuator 631 or operating portion 170 operable by a user, such as Fig.80 As shown. The operating portion 170 may be a portion accessible to a user from outside the housing 151 of the load-side attachment unit 150. The operating portion 170 may be or may include a pulling member 172. Pulling the pulling member releases the lock in the locking unit 160. The release mechanism also includes a release portion 620 that is operatively coupled to the actuating portion 630, such as being integrally formed with the actuating portion 630. The release portion 620 may be in a non-releasing position (such as Fig.76 and Fig.77 to the release position (as shown) Fig.78 and Fig.79 161 to the non-blocking position. The release portion can be biased toward the non-release position by pushing member 632 (e.g., by a spring).

[0347] As shown in the embodiment, the actuation portion 630 can be operatively coupled to the strip channel blocking portion 610. The strip channel blocking portion 610 can be in a blocking position (see Fig.76 ) and wherein the strip can be inserted into a non-blocking position of the strip channel (cf. Fig.77 ) between the strip channel blocking member 610. The strip channel blocking member 610 is movable in translation. The strip channel blocking member 610 includes an opening or channel 612 for allowing the strip to pass therethrough. In the non-blocking position, the channel 612 is aligned with the strip channel 602, and in the blocking position, the channel 612 is offset to the strip channel 602. The actuating portion 630 includes an adjacent section, which is configured to be contacted by the longitudinal end or the force transfer member 106 and receive the thrust applied thereto by the force transfer member. The force transfer member 106 is configured so that when the force transfer member 106 is in a position in which the carrier side fastening unit 110 is in a closed configuration and the force transfer member is automatically locked, the actuating portion 630 moves to an intermediate position. In this intermediate position, the blocking member 610 is in a position in which the channel 612 is aligned with the strip channel 602. For unlocking, the actuation portion 630 needs to be moved so that the abutment section is moved away from the end of the force transfer member 106, which in turn moves the release portion 620 to the release position. It goes without saying that the movement of the actuation portion 630 is only possible if the strip is removed from the channel 612. Once the force transfer member 106 is unblocked, the carrier-side fastening unit 110 can be converted into the open configuration by pulling the load-side attachment unit in a direction away from the carrier-side fastening unit when mounted on the support part or by pulling the clamping arrangement 300 out of the housing 127.

[0348] exist Figure 80 to Figure 83 In the Figure 76 to Figure 79 A modified example of the spacer 100. The spacer 100 and the modified example of the spacer 100 according to Figure 76 to Figure 79 The configuration of the spacer 100 differs in that the carrier-side fastening unit 110 has a different configuration. The load-side attachment unit 150 can be configured identically or functionally similarly, in particular with regard to the locking unit. Instead of a clamping mechanism 300 in which two clamping members 301, 302 are arranged to be pivotally movable toward and away from each other, the spacer 100 comprises a carrier-side fastening unit 110 similar to that of the load-side attachment unit 150. Figure 73 to Figure 75The carrier side fastening unit 110 shown may or may be identical to the carrier side fastening unit. The first locking member 111 comprises a hook-shaped configuration having a hook-shaped free end portion defining a first receiving section. The locking member 111 is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position relative to the second locking portion. In the locked position, the locking member 111 is positioned so that the support portion 31 received in the receiving section is actively locked therein. In this embodiment, the locking member 111 is translationally movable and operatively connected to the force transfer member 106 comprising the engagement section.

[0349] Figure 84 to Figure 87 A possible configuration of a load-side attachment unit 150 according to one embodiment is shown. The load-side attachment unit 150 has a strap receiver 157 for receiving and securing an end portion of a strap 154. The strap receiver may be a pump buckle mechanism 400, such as the pump buckle mechanisms described in other parts of the specification. The strap receiver 157 is accessible by a strap through an insertion portion 600, which leads to a strap channel, which in turn extends to the strap receiver 157.

[0350] The load-side attachment unit 150 according to this embodiment further comprises a locking unit 160. The locking unit 160 is again configured to engage behind the engagement section 117 of the force transfer member (e.g., a rod) to prevent the movement of the force transfer member. The function of locking and unlocking the movement of the force transfer member is similar to that of the reference Figure 76 to Figure 79 The function of the locking unit 160 of the embodiment described above. Figure 84 to Figure 87 In the configuration of , the locking unit 160 includes a blocking portion 161 that is constructed as a translationally movable portion or member that is movable between a locking position and an unlocking position.

[0351] The blocking portion 161 may be movable in a direction perpendicular to the moving direction of the engaging section 117. The blocking portion 161 may include a plate-shaped portion. The blocking portion 161 may include an opening 165 for allowing the engaging section 117 to pass therethrough. The blocking portion 161 may be as shown in FIG. Fig.85 166 and the like. For example, the blocking portion 161 may include an opening 165 having a narrow section 166 and a wide section 167. The wide section 167 is large enough to allow the engagement section 117 to pass therethrough. The narrow section 166 includes a smaller dimension than the outer dimension of the engagement section 117. Therefore, when the engagement section 117 passes through the wide section 167, the blocking portion 161 may be displaced so that the narrow section 166 is arranged behind the engagement section 117 and prevents the engagement section 117 from moving in the opposite direction. The blocking portion 161 may be biased toward a blocking position, for example, by a biasing member or a pushing member 613 (e.g., a spring), in which the engagement section 117 is prevented from passing through the blocking portion 161.

[0352] The locking unit 160 may further include a release mechanism for releasing the engagement section 117. The release mechanism is configured to move the blocking portion 161 to the unlocked position. The release mechanism may include an operating portion 170 operable by a user. The operating portion 170 may be a portion accessible to a user from outside the housing 151 of the load-side attachment unit 150. The operating portion 170 may be or may include a pushing member 171. In this embodiment, the operating portion 170 and the blocking portion 161 are integrally formed.

[0353] Instead of including a single blocking portion 161 having an opening through which the engagement section passes, a configuration having multiple blocking portions 161, such as two blocking portions, may be provided, each of which is configured to engage with or behind the engagement section 117 (see Figures 88 to 91 ). The above-mentioned opening 165 can therefore be replaced by providing two blocking portions, each of which partially and from different sides (e.g. from opposite sides) encloses the force transfer member, so that a receiving space of variable size for the force transfer member 106 is created between the two blocking portions. Each of the two blocking portions may include an operating portion 170, such as a push member 171. The push members may be arranged on opposite sides of the housing. Fig.89 and Fig.91 As shown, the blocking parts can be operatively coupled by a gear mechanism 173 coupling the blocking parts to each other, so that movement of one locking part in the locking direction also causes the other locking part to move in the locking direction, and vice versa. Thus, the locking unit 160 can then be operated by pushing only one pushing member 171 and / or the movement of the locking parts is synchronized. When the operating part 170 is as shown in FIG. Fig.88 and Fig.89 When pushed as shown, the variable receiving space is expanded to a size that allows the force transmission member 106 and the engagement section 117 to pass therethrough. When the operating portion 170 is released, the blocking portion moves to the blocking position. To this end, the operating portion 170 and / or the blocking portion are biased by the pushing member 174.

[0354] In all embodiments in which the engagement section passes through an opening or receiving space in or between the locking parts, the force transfer member 106 may include a tapered end portion 119 that tapers toward the end of the force transfer member, the tapered end portion being configured so that when the locking part is in the locked position, it can enter the opening or receiving space and exert a force on the inner portion of the locking part so that one or more blocking portions are moved to the open or unlocked position by contact with the tapered end portion. This allows automatic insertion and locking of the engagement section 117 without having to push the operating part.

[0355] Embodiments may include a snap mechanism configured to lock the blocking portion 161 in an unlocked position and / or to lock the operating portion 170 in a depressed state. Thus, the configuration may be such that the blocking portion is maintained in an unlocked configuration once it has been operated. The end portion of the force transfer member may then pass through the opening or receiving space to a position where it strikes the snap and releases the blocking portion and the operating portion, which are then moved to the locked position by the urging force.

[0356] In this embodiment, the load-side attachment unit 150 may additionally or alternatively include a strap insertion blocking mechanism having a blocking portion 610 that can be moved into and out of the strap channel. The blocking portion 610 may be rotatably movable and may be arranged on a locking lever, in particular may form an end portion of one arm of the locking lever. The locking lever is operatively coupled to the operating member 170 and / or the blocking portion 161, so that when the blocking portion is in the locking position and engaged behind the engagement section, the locking lever is in a non-blocking position in which the blocking portion is removed from the strap channel.

[0357] Fig.92 An embodiment of a spacer 100 is shown. The spacer 100 is configured as a bicycle to frame arm. The spacer 100 includes a carrier side fastening unit 110 and a load side attachment unit 150. The carrier side fastening unit 110 and the load side attachment unit 150 are coupled to each other by a connection structure 103. The connection structure 103 includes a hollow profile 104. The carrier side fastening unit 110 and the load side attachment unit 150 can be coupled to each other so that a force acting in a longitudinal direction of the spacer 100 can be transferred from the carrier side fastening unit to the load side attachment unit without changing the distance between the carrier side fastening unit 110 and the load side attachment unit 150. Therefore, the connection structure 103 can be configured to maintain the carrier side fastening unit 110 and the load side attachment unit 150 at a predefined distance.

[0358] The carrier frame side fastening unit 110 comprises a first locking part 111 and a second locking part 112. The first locking part 111 is movable relative to the second locking part 112. In this embodiment, the first locking part 111 is translationally movable relative to the second locking part 112. More precisely, the first locking part 111 is translationally movable along the main extension direction or longitudinal direction of the spacer 100. The first locking part 111 is movable between a first position and a second position. When the first locking part 111 is positioned in the first position, the carrier frame side fastening unit 110 is in an open configuration, in which the carrier frame side fastening unit 110 can be placed on or removed from the support part 31 of the load carrier frame 1. When the first locking part 111 is in the open configuration, the carrier frame side fastening unit 110 can be placed on or removed from the support part 31 of the load carrier frame 1. Fig.92In the second position shown, the carrier side fastening unit 110 is in a closed configuration in which the carrier side fastening unit 110 is actively interlocked with the support portion 31. The carrier side fastening unit 110 can be configured to be connected to the reference Figure 93 to Figure 95 The embodiments described are the same.

[0359] The spacer includes a load-side attachment unit 150. The load-side attachment unit 150 includes a locking unit, which may be similar in function to Figure 84 to Figure 87 The locking unit 160 may include a blocking portion 161. The blocking portion 161 may be movable in a direction perpendicular to the moving direction of the engaging section 117. The blocking portion 161 may include a plate-shaped portion. The blocking portion 161 may include an opening 165 for allowing the engaging section 117 to pass therethrough. The blocking portion 161 may be Fig.85 166 and the like. For example, the blocking portion 161 may include an opening 165 having a narrow section 166 and a wide section 167. The wide section 167 is large enough to allow the engagement section 117 to pass therethrough. The narrow section 166 includes a smaller dimension than the outer dimension of the engagement section 117. Therefore, when the engagement section 117 passes through the wide section 167, the blocking portion 161 may be displaced so that the narrow section 166 is arranged behind the engagement section 117 and prevents the engagement section 117 from moving in the opposite direction. The blocking portion 161 may be biased toward a blocking position, for example, by a biasing member or a pushing member 613 (e.g., a spring), in which the engagement section 117 is prevented from passing through the blocking portion 161.

[0360] In this embodiment, the load-side attachment unit 150 may additionally or alternatively include a strap insertion blocking mechanism having a blocking portion that can be moved into and out of the strap channel. The blocking portion may be a free end portion of a metal strap or plate that is operatively coupled to the blocking portion 161 and / or the operating member 170.

[0361] The load-side attachment unit also includes a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism includes an operating portion, such as a lock cylinder 180 operable by a key 182. The locking portion is rotatable about a rotation axis. The locking portion is operatively coupled to a blocking portion (e.g., a tab) and operatively coupled to a strap locking mechanism. The locking portion is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The blocking portion and the strap locking mechanism correspondingly move to a blocking or locked position and a non-blocking or unlocked position.

[0362] The strap locking mechanism includes a rotating locking member having a strap channel or a strap opening. The rotating locking member is movable between a locking position and an unlocking position. When the locking portion of the locking mechanism is in the locking position, the locking member rotates into the locking position in which the locking member engages with the inserted strap. When the locking portion of the locking mechanism is in the unlocking position, the locking member rotates into the unlocking position in which the locking member disengages from the inserted strap. The rotatable locking member and the locking portion are coupled to each other by a force transmission mechanism configured to convert the rotation of the locking portion into the rotation of the rotatable locking member. The force transmission mechanism includes a force transmission member coupled to the locking portion at a first portion and coupled to the rotatable locking member at a second portion. The first portion includes a circular opening. The locking portion includes an eccentric cam surface received in the circular opening. The rotation of the locking portion is converted into a translational movement of the force transmission member via a combination of the eccentric cam and the opening in the first portion. The second portion is coupled to the rotatable locking member by a pivot so that the translational movement of the force transmission member is converted into a rotational movement of the rotatable locking member.

[0363] The blocking portion (e.g., tab) can be moved between blocking positions in which it blocks movement of the operating member 170 toward the unlocked or released position. Thus, the configuration can be such that rotation of the operating member from the closed position to the open position does not block movement of the operating member 170 and unlocks the inserted strap.

[0364] Fig.93 A side view of a spacer 100 according to one embodiment is shown. The spacer 100 is configured as a bicycle to frame arm. In other words, the spacer 100 is configured to couple a portion of a bicycle to a support portion of a load carrier. The spacer 100 includes a first attachment portion 101 and a second attachment portion 102. The first attachment portion 101 includes a carrier side fastening unit 110. The second attachment portion 102 includes a load side attachment unit 150. The carrier side fastening unit 110 and the load side attachment unit 150 are coupled to each other by a connecting structure 103. The connecting structure 103 includes a hollow profile 104. The carrier side fastening unit 110 and the load side attachment unit 150 can be coupled to each other so that a force acting in the longitudinal direction of the spacer 100 can be transferred from the carrier side fastening unit to the load side attachment unit without changing the distance between the carrier side fastening unit 110 and the load side attachment unit 150. Thus, the connection structure 103 may be configured to maintain the carrier-side fastening unit 110 and the load-side attachment unit 150 at a predefined distance.

[0365] The carrier-side fastening unit 110 comprises a first locking portion 111 and a second locking portion 112. The first locking portion 111 is movable relative to the second locking portion 112. In this embodiment, the first locking portion 111 is translationally movable relative to the second locking portion 112. More precisely, the first locking portion 111 is translationally movable along the main extension direction or longitudinal direction of the spacer 100. The first locking portion 111 is movable between a first position and a second position. When the first locking portion 111 is positioned in the first position, the carrier-side fastening unit 110 is in an open configuration, in which the carrier-side fastening unit 110 can be placed on or removed from the support portion 31 of the load carrier 1. When the first locking portion 111 is in the second position, the carrier-side fastening unit 110 is in a closed configuration, in which the carrier-side fastening unit 110 is actively interlocked with the support portion 31. The first position may be a position in which the first locking portion 111 is arranged at a greater distance from the load-side attachment unit 150 and the connection structure 103 than in the second position. In other words, when the first locking portion 111 moves toward the first position, the first locking portion 111 moves away from the load-side attachment unit 150 and the connection structure 103. On the other hand, when the first locking portion 111 moves toward the second position, the first locking portion 111 moves toward the load-side attachment unit 150 and the connection structure 103.

[0366] The first locking portion 111 includes or defines a receiving section 113 for receiving the support portion 31. The receiving section 113 can be configured to partially receive the support portion 31 or to fully receive the support portion 31. Fig.93 In the illustrated embodiment, the receiving section 113 is configured to completely receive the support portion 31 therein. The first locking portion 111 may include a recess for receiving the support portion 31. The first locking portion 111 may be configured as a hook defining a recess.

[0367] The second locking portion 112 is fixedly arranged on the spacer 100. The second locking portion 112 includes a receiving section 112.2, which is used to receive the first locking portion 111 and block access to the receiving section 113 of the first locking portion 111. For example, the second locking portion 112 may be configured to close an access opening of a recessed portion entering the first locking portion 111 when the first locking portion 111 moves to the second position. The first locking portion 111 may be configured so that the opening of the recessed portion faces a direction transverse to the moving direction of the first locking portion 111. For example, the recessed portion may extend in a direction perpendicular to the moving direction of the first locking portion 111. Fig.93In the embodiment of , the access opening of the receiving section 113 is arranged on the underside of the first locking part 111. With this configuration, the first locking part 111 can be placed on the support part 31 from above.

[0368] The second locking portion 112 may be defined in a housing 112.1 of the carrier side fastening unit 110. The carrier side fastening unit 110 may also be configured to guide the first locking portion 111. Specifically, the carrier side fastening unit 110 may guide the first locking portion 111 to allow translational movement and prevent rotational movement. The carrier side fastening unit 110 may include a guide recess formed in the housing 112.1. For example, the carrier side fastening unit 110 may include a lower guide recess 112.5 and an upper guide recess 112.6. The lower guide recess 112.5 may be configured to support a lower portion of the first locking portion 111, and the upper guide recess 112.6 may be configured to support an upper portion of the first locking portion 111, wherein the upper portion of the first locking portion 111 may be a portion of a bottom portion defining the recess. Fig.94 and Fig.95 An exemplary configuration is shown in which the carrier-side fastening unit 110 comprises a lower guide recess 112 . 5 and an upper guide recess 112 . 6 . It should be noted that both guide recesses may be provided in an integral housing of the carrier-side fastening unit 110 .

[0369] The first locking portion 111 can be coupled to a force transfer member 106, such as rods 107, 116. Rods 107, 116 can be integrally formed with the first locking portion 111. The force transfer member 106 can be operatively coupled to or can include an engagement section 117, as described elsewhere in this specification. The engagement section 117 can be configured to be received in a locking unit or engagement unit provided in the spacer 100 for locking the first locking portion 111 in a locked position and in some configurations additionally locking the second locking portion 112 in a locked position.

[0370] like Fig.93 As further shown in FIG. 1 , the first receiving section 113 and the second receiving section 112.2 may each be U-shaped. The first receiving section 113 may be rotated 90 degrees relative to the second receiving section 112.2. The first receiving section 130 may be configured to be retractable into the second receiving section 112.2. The second receiving section 112.2 may include deformable receiving structures 112.3, 112.4 for contacting the support portion 31.

[0371] Figures 96 to 100Possible configurations of the load-side attachment unit 150 are shown. All of the configurations shown are designed to stop the engagement section 117 or to prevent the movement of the engagement section 117. The engagement section 117 is movable between a first position corresponding to the open configuration of the carrier-side fastening unit 110 and a second position corresponding to the closed configuration of the carrier-side fastening unit 110. The configuration shown is configured to stop the engagement section 117 in the second position. Furthermore, the configuration shown is configured to release the engagement section 117 from the second position by a release mechanism. The general principle of how the engagement section 117 is locked in the load-side attachment unit 150 follows as follows Fig.92 and Fig.86 The same principle as shown in the embodiment of FIG.

[0372] The locking unit 160 is configured to lock movement of the force transferring member 106 relative to the housing 151 of the load-side attachment unit 150 when the force transferring member 106 is in the second position corresponding to the position in which the carrier-side fastening unit 110 is closed.

[0373] The locking unit 160 includes a blocking portion or locking member 161, 431. The blocking portion 161 may be defined as a lock catch or a locking pin.

[0374] The blocking portion or locking member 161, 431 can be configured to be movable integrally with the force transfer member 106 (e.g., on the force transfer member 106) and can be configured to engage with a fixed portion of the spacer 100 (e.g., with the housing 151). Figure 73 to Figure 75 1 , wherein a locking member 431 is movable integrally with the force transfer member 107 and is configured to engage with an engagement portion in the housing 151, in the example shown from the inside and into an opening 151.2 in the housing 151. The locking member 431 may be provided on a movable support 430 coupled to an end portion of the force transfer member 106, such as the rod 107.

[0375] The blocking portion 161 may be supported on the housing 151. The blocking portion 161 may be configured to engage with the engagement section 117. To this end, the blocking portion 161 may be movable between a locked position, in which the blocking portion engages with the engagement section or blocks movement of the engagement section, and an unlocked position, in which the blocking portion is disengaged from the engagement section and / or does not block movement of the engagement section. The engagement section 117 may be a recess, an opening, or a protrusion on the force transfer member 106. The blocking portion 161 may be configured to engage behind the engagement section 117 once the engagement section 117 moves to the second position.

[0376] The blocking portion 161 may be configured as a translationally movable member. The blocking portion 161 may be movable in a direction perpendicular to the moving direction of the engaging section 117. The blocking portion 161 may include a plate-like portion. The blocking portion 161 may include an opening 165 for allowing the engaging section 117 to pass therethrough. The blocking portion 161 may be configured as Fig.85 161 is constructed as shown. For example, the blocking portion 161 may include an opening 165 having a narrow section 166 and a wide section 167. The wide section 167 is large enough to allow the engagement section 117 to pass therethrough. The narrow section 166 includes a smaller size than the outer dimension of the engagement section 117. Therefore, when the engagement section 117 passes through the wide section 167, the blocking portion 161 can be displaced so that the narrow section 166 is arranged behind the engagement section 117 and prevents the movement of the engagement section 117 in the opposite direction. The blocking portion 161 can be biased toward a blocking position, for example, by a biasing member or a pushing member 162, 613 (e.g., a spring), in which the engagement section 117 is prevented from passing through the blocking portion 161.

[0377] The locking unit 160 may further include a release mechanism for releasing the engagement section 117. The release mechanism is configured to move the blocking portion 161 to the unlocked position. The release mechanism may include an operating portion 170 operable by a user. The operating portion 170 may be a portion accessible to a user from the outside of the housing 151 of the load-side attachment unit 150. The operating portion 170 may be or may include a pushing member 171, or may be or may include a pulling member 172.

[0378] For example, in Fig.80 In the configuration of the spacer 100 shown, the operating portion 170 is configured as a pulling member 172 movable along the housing 151 of the load-side attachment unit 150. In the configuration shown, pulling the pulling member 172 in a direction away from the carrier-side fastening unit 110 moves the blocking portion 161 to the unlocked position.

[0379] An example of the operating portion 170 configured as the pushing member 171 can be Fig.73 , Figures 82 to 92 , Figures 96 to 108 is found in the configuration shown in . Fig.117 2 shows a spacer 200, which also includes an operating portion 170 configured as a pushing member 171. It should be noted that Figures 96 to 100 In the exemplary configuration, two possible configurations of the operating part 170 are shown, but in some configurations, only one of the two operating parts 170 is provided, such as the translationally movable operating part 170 shown in the upper part of the figure or the rotatably movable operating part 170 shown on the lower left side of the figure.

[0380] The operating portion 170 and / or the blocking portion 161 may be biased toward the locked position. The configuration may include a buckle or a lock that temporarily holds the operating portion 170 and / or the blocking portion 161 in the unlocked position. If the operating portion 170 is configured as a push member or a button, the unlocked position may correspond to the depressed position of the push member. The buckle or the lock may be configured to be operated and released by the force transfer member 106, for example, by the end portion of the force transfer member 106 and / or by the engagement section 117. With this configuration, the operating portion 170 and / or the blocking portion 161 remain in the unlocked position until the force transfer member is properly locked by the blocking portion 161. The buckle or the lock may therefore be configured to be triggered by the force transfer member to initiate the locking process or movement of the blocking portion 161. Therefore, in some embodiments, if the engagement section 117 is locked by the blocking portion 161, the operating portion 170 may only be able to move to the locked position.

[0381] The operating portion may be provided on a rotatable strip passage blocking member that is operatively coupled to the blocking portion 161. Thus, the blocking portion 161 may be operated by the operation of the strip passage blocking member. In this configuration, the operating portion may also be integrally formed with the strip passage blocking member.

[0382] Figure 101 to Figure 103 A modification is shown in which the rotatable operating portion is designed and configured to be operated by an operating lever 404 of a strip receiver 157. The operating lever 404 is in contact with the rotatable operating portion 170 so that pushing the operating lever 404 inwardly into the housing 151 causes the strip channel blocking member to rotate in the strip blocking direction and / or the strip engaging portion 642 that can be formed on the strip channel blocking member to rotate in the unlocking direction. Therefore, when the operating lever 404 is pushed slightly inwardly, the engagement between the engaging portion 642 and the inserted strip is released, thereby allowing the inserted strip to be removed from the strip channel. After the strip is removed, the operating lever can be further pushed inwardly, which causes the blocking portion 161 to move to the unblocking position and release the engaging section 117, and this rotates the strip channel blocking member 640 to a blocking position, i.e., a position in which the channel formed in the strip channel blocking portion is misaligned or offset relative to the strip channel in the housing 151. It should be noted that in this embodiment, the strip channel blocking member 640 includes an engaging portion 642 configured to engage with the inserted strip. The strip channel blocking member 640 can therefore have the dual function of blocking the insertion of the strip and locking the strip. It is also possible to separate these two functions, such as in Figures 104 to 108 This is done in the illustrated configuration, where the locking function is provided by a separate locking sleeve or strap locking member 648 coaxially arranged on the periphery of the strap passage blocking member 640. The locking sleeve 648 is operable by a locking mechanism and the strap passage blocking member may be operatively coupled to the operating portion 170.

[0383] Will refer to Figures 104 to 108 An embodiment of a load-side attachment unit 150 is described. The load-side attachment unit 150 includes a fastening mechanism having a strap 154 ​​and a strap receiver 157. The load-side attachment unit 150 also includes a strap channel 602 accessible via an insertion portion 600 on the load-side attachment unit 150. The insertion portion 600 includes an opening. The strap receiver 157 is arranged on the load-side attachment unit 150 so that the strap 154 ​​can be passed into the strap receiver 157 via the strap channel 602. The load-side attachment unit 150 also includes a strap locking member 648 that is configured to move between an unlocked position and a locked position, in which the strap locking member does not lock an inserted strap in the strap channel and in which the strap locking member locks the strap 154 ​​in the strap channel. The strap locking member 648 is rotatable between the unlocked position and the locked position. The strap locking member 648 may be rotatable about an axis of rotation perpendicular to the strap channel extension path and / or parallel to the strap channel extension surface. The strap locking member 648 may be arranged so that the axis of rotation is located in the strap channel.

[0384] The strap locking member 648 may define a passage for receiving the strap 154 ​​and may be configured to engage with the inserted strap. The strap locking member 648 may engage with the inserted strap 154. The strap locking member 648 includes an engagement portion 652 that is engageable with the strap. In this embodiment, the strap locking member 648 includes a sleeve or is configured as a sleeve.

[0385] The load-side attachment unit 150 also includes a strap locking mechanism. The strap locking mechanism includes an operating member, such as a lock cylinder 180 that can be operated by a key 182. The operating member is operatively coupled to the strap locking member 648 via a force transmitting portion 184, such that movement of the operating member to the locked position moves the strap locking member 648 to the locked position, and movement of the operating member to the unlocked position moves the strap locking member 648 to the unlocked position. The force transmitting portion 184 can be pivotally coupled to the strap locking member 648 and can engage with the lock cylinder 180 via a gear mechanism.

[0386] The attachment unit 150 may be part of the spacer 100. The spacer may further include a carrier-side fastening unit 110 for attaching to a support portion 31 of a load carrier. The carrier-side fastening unit 110 is configured to be convertible between a locked configuration, in which the fastening unit 110 is non-detachably fixed to the support portion 31, and an unlocked configuration, in which the fastening unit 110 is mountable to and detachable from the support portion 31. The spacer may further include an attachment portion locking mechanism 160, which is configured to lock the additional carrier-side fastening unit 110 in the locked configuration. The spacer may further include a release mechanism for unlocking the carrier-side fastening unit 110. The strap locking mechanism is operatively coupled to the release mechanism, such that when the operating portion is in the locked position, the release mechanism is blocked, for example, by preventing movement of an operating portion 170 (e.g., a pushing member or a pulling member) of the release mechanism. The operating member 180 of the strap locking mechanism can be operatively coupled to the blocking section 186, such as a tab or protrusion of the operating member 180, for preventing the movement of the operating portion 170 toward the unlocked position or maintaining the operating portion 170 in the locked position. Thus, operating the operating member 180 can simultaneously unblock the operating portion 170 by moving the blocking section 186 to the unlocked position and unlock the inserted strap by moving the locking sleeve 648.

[0387] The spacer may also include a strip channel blocking portion 640 disposed in the strip channel 602 and configured to move between a non-blocking position in which it does not block the strip channel and a blocking position in which it blocks the strip channel. The strip channel blocking portion 640 may rotate between the above positions.

[0388] The strip channel blocking portion 640 is rotatable about an axis perpendicular to the strip channel extension path and parallel to the strip channel extension surface. The strip channel blocking portion 640 includes a through hole for receiving the strip, wherein the through hole is aligned with the strip channel when the strip channel blocking portion 640 is in the non-blocking position, and the through hole is not aligned with the strip channel when the strip channel blocking portion 640 is in the blocking position. The strip channel blocking portion 640 is operatively coupled to the operating member 170 via a force transfer portion 650. The force transfer portion 650 may be translationally movable.

[0389] The strip passage blocking member 640 and the locking sleeve 648 may be arranged to be rotatable about a common rotation axis. The locking sleeve 648 may be slidably mounted on the strip passage blocking member 640 so as to be rotatable independently of the strip passage blocking member 640.

[0390] According to another aspect, a spacer 100 having a carrier-side fastening unit 110 and a load-side attachment unit 150 is provided. The carrier-side fastening unit 110 is configured to be convertible between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the open configuration, the carrier-side fastening unit 110 can be placed on or removed from the support portion 31 of the load carrier 1. In the closed configuration, the carrier-side fastening unit 110 is actively locked with the inserted support portion 31. The carrier-side fastening unit 110 includes a first locking portion 111, which moves from an unlocked position to a locked position relative to a second locking portion 112 when the carrier-side fastening unit 110 is converted from the open configuration to the closed configuration. The first locking portion 111 is operatively coupled to a coupling section 117. The coupling section 117 can move between an unlocked position and a locked position corresponding to the movement of the first locking portion 111. In the locked position, the coupling section 117 can be positioned in the load-side attachment unit 150. The load-side attachment unit 150 may include a locking unit 160 configured to automatically prevent the movement of the engagement section 117 from the locked position to the unlocked position when the engagement section 117 is positioned in the locked position. Thus, the locking unit 160 is configured to lock the carrier-side fastening unit 110 in the closed configuration once the first locking portion 111 is positioned in the locked position. The locking unit 160 may be configured as described in other aspects, embodiments, and configurations of the present specification. The spacer 100 includes an adjustment mechanism 670.

[0391] Fig.109 A perspective view of an adjustment mechanism for adjusting a locking unit for locking a carrier-side fastening unit in a closed configuration is shown. Fig.110 Another perspective view of the adjustment mechanism is shown. Fig.111 A side view of a spacer including an adjustment mechanism is shown. Fig.112 Shown from below Fig.111 spacer. Fig.137 A cross-section through the adjustment mechanism is shown.

[0392] The adjustment mechanism is configured to allow a change in the position of the locking unit 160 relative to the connection structure 103 and the carrier-side fastening unit 110. In other words, the adjustment mechanism is configured to change the position of the blocking portion or catch 161 relative to the engagement section 117. In this way, manufacturing tolerances can be removed.

[0393] The adjustment mechanism 670 may include an inner sleeve portion 672 fixedly coupled to an end portion of the connection structure 103 (e.g., coupled to an end portion of the hollow profile 104). The adjustment mechanism 670 may also include an outer sleeve portion 674. The outer sleeve portion 674 is coaxially positioned around the inner sleeve portion 672. In addition, the outer sleeve portion 674 is threadedly engaged with the inner sleeve portion 672. Therefore, the rotation of the inner sleeve portion 672 relative to the outer sleeve portion 674 causes the inner sleeve portion 672 to be offset in the axial direction relative to the outer sleeve portion 674. In other words, when the sleeve portions rotate relative to each other, the outer sleeve portion 674 moves in the axial direction relative to the inner sleeve portion 672. The outer sleeve portion 674 can be slidably received in the housing 151 of the load-side attachment unit 150 so that the housing 151 can rotate relative to the outer sleeve portion 674 around the extension axis of the sleeve portion 674. The outer sleeve portion 674 and the inner sleeve portion 672 are coupled to each other so that a predetermined rotational force can be transmitted between the sleeve portions. The predetermined rotational force is higher than the force applied to the outer sleeve portion 674 when the housing 151 rotates on the outer sleeve portion 674. The inner sleeve portion 672 may include an engagement portion 676, such as an annular portion having radially outwardly protruding teeth, at which the inner sleeve portion 672 engages with the outer sleeve portion 672. The engagement may be configured so that the engagement is released when a predetermined force is exceeded. For example, the engagement portion 676 may include teeth or other engagement members.

[0394] The outer sleeve portion 674 includes an engagement section 677 (e.g., a protrusion) that is configured to engage with an engagement portion 676 on the inner sleeve portion to prevent the inner sleeve portion from rotating relative to the outer sleeve portion, in other words, to couple the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve together so that they rotate as a whole. The engagement section 677 may be configured to release engagement with the engagement portion 676 when a predetermined force acting thereon is exceeded. For example, the engagement section 677 may be deformable.

[0395] The outer sleeve portion 674 may include a tool engagement portion 678 that is configured to temporarily prevent the rotation of the outer sleeve portion 674 and is configured to engage with a tool. The engagement portion 678 may be a recess or opening formed in the outer circumference of the outer sleeve portion 674. Fig.111 and Fig.112As shown, the access opening 151.3 can be provided in the housing 151 at a position that allows a tool to pass through the access opening 151.3 and engage the tool with the engagement portion 678. Thus, a user can lock the rotation of the outer sleeve portion 674 (e.g., relative to the housing 151) and rotate the inner sleeve portion 672 relative to the outer sleeve portion 674 by rotating the force transmission structure (e.g., the hollow profile 104) relative to the housing or rotating the housing 151 relative to the force transmission structure so as to adjust the position of the inner sleeve portion 672 relative to the outer sleeve portion 674. In this way, the position of the housing 151 relative to the hollow profile 104 is changed. Thus, the position of the locking unit 160 relative to the engagement section 117 is also changed, thereby allowing the position of the locking unit 160 to be adjusted so that a proper engagement with the engagement section 117 can be achieved.

[0396] exist Figures 113 to 116 , an attachment portion of a spacer according to one embodiment is shown. The spacer can be used as a first attachment portion 101 or a second attachment portion 102 of the spacer. In the configuration shown, the attachment portion is shown as the second attachment portion 102, more precisely as a load-side attachment unit 150. The attachment portion can be used on a bicycle-to-bicycle arm 200 or can be used on a bicycle-to-frame arm 100.

[0397] Fig.113 The internal configuration of the attachment portion according to one embodiment is shown. Fig.114 Shown according to Fig.113 A cross-sectional view of the attachment portion. Fig.115 Shown according to Fig.113 The attachment portion is in an unlocked configuration. Fig.116 Shown according to Fig.113 A perspective view of an attachment portion of wherein the attachment portion is in a locked configuration.

[0398] In this embodiment, the attachment portion is configured as a load-side attachment unit 150. The attachment unit 150 comprises a housing 151. A tensioning strap 154 ​​is coupled to the housing 151 at a fixed end portion 156. The housing comprises a contact portion 152 for contacting a bicycle or a support portion 31 of the bicycle carrier 1. The attachment unit 150 further comprises a strap receiver 157. The strap receiver 157 may comprise a ratchet 406, such as a biased pivot lever. As described in other parts of this specification, the ratchet 406 may be part of a pump buckle mechanism 400. The strap receiver 157 is configured to receive the strap 154, more precisely such that a free end portion 155 of the strap 154 ​​may pass therethrough, and to lock the strap 154.

[0399] The attachment unit 150 includes a locking mechanism having a movable locking member 190. The movable locking member 190 is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the movable locking member 190 blocks the movement of the strap 154. In the unlocked position, the locking member 190 is disengaged from the strap 154 ​​and the strap 154 ​​is free to move relative to the locking member 190. The locking member 190 may be arranged to be movable translationally or rotationally. The locking member 190 may include an opening or channel for receiving the strap 154. Therefore, when the strap 154 ​​is correctly positioned in the strap receiver 157, the strap 154 ​​extends through the locking member 190. In this embodiment, the locking member 190 is configured to engage with the strap on the side where the ratchet 406 of the strap engages with the strap 154. In other words, the locking member 190 may include a locking portion 192 for engaging with the strap 154, wherein the locking portion 192 and the ratchet 406 are positioned on the same side of the strap 154.

[0400] The locking portion 192 may be configured to contact the ratchet 406. Specifically, the arrangement may be such that the ratchet 406 may exert a force on the locking member 190 for moving the locking member toward the unlocked position. Therefore, when the ratchet 406 is disengaged from the strap 154, the locking member 190 is also disengaged from the strap 154. On the other hand, the locking member 190 is configured to contact the ratchet 406 and hold the ratchet 406 in the locked position when the locking member 190 is in the locked position and locked by a locking mechanism to be described later. Therefore, once the locking member 190 is stopped, the ratchet 406 cannot be disengaged from the strap 154. Fig.114 A condition is shown in which the ratchet 406 and the locking member 190 are in the locked position. The strap 154 ​​is securely fixed to the strap receiver 157 .

[0401] The locking member 190 also includes a blocking portion. The blocking portion is configured as a receiving portion for receiving the engagement section 188 of the locking mechanism. The locking mechanism may include an operating portion, such as a lock cylinder 180. The locking mechanism and the locking portion 192 of the locking member 190 may be arranged so that they are located on opposite sides of the inserted strap or on opposite sides of the strap channel. The locking mechanism 180 may be arranged below the strap receiver or pump buckle arrangement. Specifically, the locking mechanism 180 may include a rotatable locking member, such as a lock cylinder that can be operated by a key. The rotating locking member may be arranged so that its rotation axis extends perpendicular to the moving direction of the locking member 190, which is configured as a translationally movable locking member. If the locking member 180 is configured as a rotatable locking member, the rotating locking member 190 may be arranged so that its rotation axis extends parallel to the rotation axis of the locking member 190. This makes the configuration very compact. Thus, engagement between the locking portion 192 can occur on one side of the strip, and blocking the locking member 190 (specifically, engagement with the locking member 190 to prevent movement) is achieved on the other side of the strip. The operating portion is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. In this embodiment, the lock cylinder 180 is rotatable between a locked position and an unlocked position. Fig.113 and Fig.114 A configuration is shown in which the lock cylinder 180 is in an unlocked position. The operating portion is operatively coupled to a blocking portion for blocking movement of the locking member 190. In this embodiment, the blocking portion includes an engagement section 188. The engagement section 188 may also be formed as a protrusion that can rotate integrally with the operating portion. Therefore, the protrusion can move between the unlocked position and the locked position. The locking member 190 may include a receiving portion 194. The receiving portion is configured to receive the blocking portion of the locking mechanism. The receiving portion 194 may be a recessed portion. The recessed portion may be provided by a protruding portion formed in the locking member 190. In this embodiment, the locking member 190 can be translated and moved in a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the operating portion. The operating portion (e.g., the lock cylinder 180) is positioned beside the locking member 190. The locking member 190 extends laterally beyond the operating portion. The engagement section 188 is configured to engage laterally with the locking member 190. Therefore, a compact strip locking mechanism can be achieved.

[0402] The locking member 190 may be biased toward the locked position. Thus, the locking member 190 may be used as an additional ratchet in addition to the ratchet 406 or may form a ratchet of the strap receiver 157. Specifically, the locking member 190 may be configured to allow passage of the strap 154 ​​in a tightening direction and automatically prevent passage of the strap 154 ​​in the opposite direction. The locking portion 192 may be operatively coupled to the tightening lever 404 of the strap receiver 157 such that pushing of the tightening lever 404 causes the locking portion 192 to move to the unlocked position.

[0403] exist Fig.117 An embodiment of a spacer 200 is shown in FIG. The spacer 200 is configured as a bicycle-to-bicycle arm. Fig.117 A cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of a spacer is shown.

[0404] The spacer 200 includes a first attachment portion 210 and a second attachment portion 220 connected to each other by a connecting structure (e.g., a hollow profile 104). The two attachment portions are configured to contact corresponding parts of a bicycle. The first attachment portion 210 includes a contact portion 210.1 for contacting a portion of the bicycle and a first fastening mechanism 211. The contact portion 210.1 may face the main extension direction of the spacer 200. In some embodiments, the contact portions on the two attachment portions may be oriented in the same direction or face the same direction. The second attachment portion 220 includes a second fastening mechanism 221. Each fastening mechanism is configured to fasten a portion of the bicycle to the spacer 200. The second attachment portion 220 may be configured to contact a portion of the bicycle. Fig.92 The load-side attachment unit 150 of the illustrated embodiment is similar or identical. In other embodiments, the second attachment portion 220 may be configured in accordance with Figure 76 to Figure 112 In particular, the second attachment portion 220 can be configured to have a snap-fit ​​configuration that is configured to automatically lock the force transfer member 106 when the first attachment portion 210 is in the closed configuration. Fig.117 In the embodiment shown, the spacer 200 is Fig.92 The spacer 100 of FIG. 1 is different in the configuration of the first attachment portion. Fig.117 In the embodiment of the present invention, the first attachment portion 210 includes a fastening mechanism 211 having a strap 212 and a strap receiver 213, which is configured to receive a free end portion 214 of the strap 212. The first attachment portion 210 includes a strap channel 602, through which the free end portion 214 of the strap 212 passes for converting the first attachment portion 210 into a closed configuration. The second attachment portion 220 also includes a fastening mechanism having a strap 222 and a strap receiver 157, which is used to receive the free end portion 224 of the strap 222. The second attachment portion 220 includes a strap channel accessible via an insertion opening 600.

[0405] The locking portion 215 may be disposed in the strap channel 602. The locking portion 215 may be configured as an engagement member that is rotatably movable between a locked position, in which the inserted strap cannot move in the removal direction, and an unlocked position, in which the inserted strap can move in the removal direction. In addition, the locking portion 215 may be configured such that insertion of the strap into the locking portion causes the locking portion 215 to move from the unlocked position to the locked position. The locking portion 215 may be coupled to the force transfer member 106 at the coupling section 215.4. Thus, when the strap is inserted and passed through the locking portion 215, the locking portion 215 causes the force transfer member 106 to move to a second position, in which the force transfer member is locked by the locking unit 160 disposed in the second attachment portion 220 and cannot move toward the first position. The configuration may be such that the locking portion 215 allows further tightening of the strap even if it is positioned in the locked position.

[0406] Reference Fig.118 and Fig.119 An embodiment of a spacer 200 for coupling two bicycles to one another is described. Fig.118 A side view of a spacer according to one embodiment is shown. Fig.119 Shows Fig.118 A cross-sectional view of a spacer.

[0407] The spacer 200 includes a first attachment portion 210 and a second attachment portion 220. The first attachment portion 210 and the second attachment portion may include the same configuration. The first attachment portion 210 and the second attachment portion 220 may be coupled to each other by a connecting structure. Each of the first attachment portion and the second attachment portion may be rotatably coupled to each other by a connecting structure. Each attachment portion is configured to be laterally supported against a portion of a bicycle to be coupled. Each attachment portion includes a contact portion 152 that faces radially away from a direction of a middle main extension axis of the spacer. The contact portion 152 is disposed within a portion of the attachment portion.

[0408] Each attachment portion includes a fastening mechanism including a strap and a strap receiver. The fixed strap 154 ​​is fixedly connected to the housing of the attachment portion at one end. The strap receiver is disposed on the housing. The strap receiver is configured to receive and lock and / or tighten the free end portion of the strap 154. When the strap 154 ​​is received in the strap receiver and / or tightened in the strap receiver, the fastening mechanism is in a closed configuration. A strap channel 602 is defined in each attachment portion accessible by an opening 600. The strap 154 ​​can be inserted into the strap channel 602 through the opening 600 and can be moved along the strap channel 602 into the strap receiver 157. In this configuration, the strap receiver 157 includes a pump buckle mechanism 400. The pump buckle mechanism 400 can be constructed in the same manner as described with respect to other embodiments, aspects, and configurations using the pump buckle mechanism 400.

[0409] The spacer 200 includes a locking mechanism that is configured to lock the fastening mechanism in a closed configuration. Each attachment portion 210, 220 includes an engagement portion 215.2, 225.2 that is movable between a blocking position and a non-blocking position. In the blocking position, the engagement portion 215.2, 225.2 protrudes into the strip channel 602 in such a way that the engagement portion engages with the inserted strip. In the unlocked position, the engagement portion 215.2, 225.2 moves out of the strip channel 602 for releasing engagement with the inserted strip. The engagement portion may be provided on a translatably movable member (e.g., see Fig.119 The configuration shown) or may be provided on a rotatably movable member such as a pivot lever (see, for example, Fig.125 configuration shown).

[0410] The spacer 200 also includes an operating unit having one or more movable operating members. Some of the movable operating members are operatively connected to the engaging portion so that movement of the operating member is converted into movement of the engaging portion. The movable operating member can move between an unlocked position and a locked position, which respectively correspond to a non-blocking position and a blocking position of the engaging portion. The operating unit may include two movable operating members. For example, in accordance with Fig.118 and Fig.119 In the configuration of , the first translationally movable portion 232.2 and the second translationally movable portion 232.3 are arranged on the outer peripheral portion of the spacer 200 and can be translated along the main extension direction M of the spacer 200. Fig.126In the alternative configuration shown, the movable part can be rotatably moved around the main extension direction M or the main extension axis of the spacer 200. The movable operating member can be locked in the locked position by a lock 232.1, which for example includes a lock cylinder that can be operated by a key. The lock can be configured to lock the movable operating members to each other. The movable operating members can be formed so that they form an outer sleeve part together. Each movable operating member can form a half of the outer sleeve part. The two halves can be moved relative to each other. Each half can form an operating member. By pressing the halves together or moving them toward each other, the two fastening mechanisms can be locked simultaneously by locking two inserted strips at the same time.

[0411] exist Fig.120 An embodiment of a spacer 200 is shown in FIG. Fig.120 A cross-sectional side view of a spacer according to one embodiment is shown.

[0412] The spacer includes a first attachment portion 210 and a second attachment portion 220. The first attachment portion 210 and the second attachment portion 220 are coupled to each other so as to be rotatable relative to each other around a common rotation axis, for example, 360 degrees. Each of the first attachment portion 210 and the second attachment portion 220 is configured to be coupled to a coupling portion of a corresponding bicycle. Each of the first attachment portion 210 and the second attachment portion includes a support portion 152 for contacting the bicycle. The first attachment portion 210 includes a first fastening mechanism, which includes a first strap 154 ​​and a first strap receiver 242. The fixed end portion 156 of the first strap 154 ​​is coupled to the movable support 240. The movable support 240 is arranged behind the support portion 152 of the first attachment portion 210. In this embodiment, the movable support 240 is arranged between the support portion 152 of the first attachment portion 210 and the support portion 152 of the second attachment portion 220. The movable support 240 is movable toward and away from the support portion 152 of the first attachment portion. The movable support 240 may be arranged in a housing 246. The movable support 240 includes a first strap receiving portion 242, which may be configured as a hook. The movable support 248 is movable between a first position, in which the movable support 240 is positioned relative to the housing 246 to allow the free end portion 155 of the strap 154 ​​to be hooked onto the strap receiving portion 242, and a second position, in which the movable support 248 is retracted into the housing 246 so that the free end portion 155 of the strap 154 ​​is prevented from being removed from the strap receiving portion 242. The housing 246 may include an opening for accessing the strap receiving portion 242 when the movable support 240 is in the first position.

[0413] The second attachment portion 220 includes a second strap 154 ​​and a second strap receiver 157. The strap includes a fixed end portion that is operatively coupled to a coupling portion 244 of the movable support 240 in this configuration. Thus, tightening the second strap 154 ​​of the second attachment portion 220 results in movement of the movable support 240 from the first position to the second position. Thus, tightening the second strap 154 ​​of the second attachment portion 220 results in movement of the strap loop formed in the first attachment portion relative to the support portion 152 of the first attachment portion 210, and a tensioning force may be applied to the portion of the bicycle in contact with the support portion 152. The coupling portion 244 may be rotatable on the movable support so that rotation of the movable support is not transmitted to the fixed end portion of the second strap. In this way, the first attachment portion 210 and the second attachment portion 220 may be configured to be rotatable relative to each other without twisting the second strap on the second attachment portion.

[0414] Reference Figures 121 to 124 Additional embodiments of the spacer 200 are described.

[0415] The spacer includes a first attachment portion 210 and a second attachment portion 220. The two attachment portions 210, 220 are coupled to each other via an intermediate portion disposed therebetween. Each of the attachment portions 210, 220 may be rotatably coupled to the intermediate portion. The two attachment portions 210, 220 may be rotatable around a common axis of rotation.

[0416] Each attachment portion 210, 220 may include a contact portion 152 for contacting a bicycle portion (eg, a frame portion). The contact portion 152 may be disposed on an outer periphery of the attachment portion 210, 220. Thus, each attachment portion 210, 220 may be configured for lateral support.

[0417] Each attachment portion 210, 220 may include a fastening mechanism that can be switched between a closed configuration in which the fastening mechanism can be securely attached to a bicycle and an open configuration in which the fastening mechanism can be placed on and removed from the corresponding bicycle. Each fastening mechanism may include a strap 212, 222 fixedly mounted on the attachment portion at a portion adjacent to the contact portion 152. Each strap includes a free end 214, 224. Each fastening mechanism also includes a strap receiver 213, 223. The free end 214, 224 of each strap can be inserted and locked in the corresponding strap receiver 213, 223 to form a fixed loop. The strap receiver can be configured as a strap receiver as described in other parts of this specification. The strap receiver 213, 223 is arranged on the attachment portion on the side opposite to the side where the contact portion 152 is provided. The strap channel for passing the free end portion through the attachment portion can extend substantially parallel to the extension direction of the contact portion 152.

[0418] The spacer 200 may also include a locking mechanism configured to lock the fastening mechanism in a closed configuration. The locking mechanism 180, 230 may include an operating unit 231. The operating unit may include a movable operating member 232, such as a lock cylinder of a key-operable lock. The operating unit may be operated by a user and may be configured so that the user can lock the fastening mechanism in a closed configuration by performing a single operating step, specifically by moving the lock cylinder from an open position to a closed position. The locking mechanism may be configured to simultaneously lock the fastening mechanism in a closed configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the locking mechanism 230 is configured to prevent the free end portions 214, 224 from being removed from the strip receivers 213, 223 after the free end portions 214, 224 have been received in the strip receivers 213, 223.

[0419] The locking mechanism includes a first locking portion 215 associated with the first attachment portion 210 and a second locking portion 225 associated with the second attachment portion 220. A movable operating member 232 is operatively coupled to the first locking portion 215 and the second locking portion 225 to convert each of the first locking portion 215 and the second locking portion 225 between an unlocked configuration and a locked configuration. The operating member 232 can be operatively coupled to the first locking portion 215 via a first force transmission portion 217. The operating member 232 can be operatively coupled to the second locking portion 225 via a second force transmission portion 227. The force transmission portions 217, 227 can be disposed on separate force transmission members, such as rods or other elongated members, or can be disposed on a single force transmission member having a center passing through an intermediate member or portion. According to the illustrated embodiment, the force transmission portions 217, 227 are configured to move translationally and along their respective longitudinal axes. The movable operating member 232 can rotate around an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the force transmission member. Each locking portion can rotate about a rotation axis, wherein each rotation axis extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the force transfer member. The attachment portion is configured to rotate about the force transfer member so that in some embodiments, the longitudinal axis of the force transfer member coincides with the rotation axis of the attachment portion. The end portion of the force transfer member can contact the corresponding locking portion. The locking portion can be biased so that a urging force is applied to the force transfer member.

[0420] like Fig.122 As shown, the first locking portion 215 includes a first engagement member 215.1 configured to engage with the first strip 212. The second locking portion 225 includes a second engagement member 225.1 configured to engage with the second strip 222. The first engagement member 215.1 and the second engagement member 225.1 can each rotate around a respective rotation axis R1, R2. The rotation axis can extend perpendicularly to the main extension direction M of the spacer 200.

[0421] like Fig.124 As shown, the first engagement member 215.1 and the second engagement member 225.1 include a through hole 226 for receiving a corresponding strip therein. The first engagement member and the second engagement member are configured to engage with an inserted strip extending through the through hole 226. Each engagement member may include an engagement portion for engaging with a tooth on the strip. Each engagement portion may be biased toward the disengaged position. An operating member 232 may be operably coupled to each engagement member so that each engagement member may move toward and away from the disengaged position when the operating member is operated.

[0422] The engagement member may be disposed in the strip channel between the strip receiver and the outlet of the strip channel. The outlet may be disposed between the contact portions 152. Fig.122As further shown in FIG. 1 , the strip path in the attachment portion is configured such that insertion openings into the strip path are provided in opposite longitudinal end faces of the spacer.

[0423] exist Fig.125 and Fig.126 In the Fig.119 A modification of the spacer 200. Instead of a translatably movable engagement member, the attachment portion includes a rotatable movable engagement member that can rotate between a locked position and an unlocked position, in which a portion of the attachment portion protrudes into the strip channel to engage with the inserted strip, and in the unlocked position, the portion is retracted from the strip channel. The spacer 200 according to this embodiment also includes a rotatable movable portion for operating the engagement member. The rotatable movable portion can rotate around a rotation axis that is perpendicular to the pivot axis of the rotatable movable engagement member 215.3, 225.3. In addition, the attachment portion is configured to rotate around a common rotation axis. The common rotation axis can be coaxial with the rotation axis of the rotatable movable portion. The rotatable movable portion can be a sleeve portion arranged on the periphery of the central portion of the spacer 200. The sleeve portions 254, 256 can be twisted relative to each other by rotating them in opposite directions between the locked position and the unlocked position. In the locked position, the locking section in one of the sleeve parts is aligned with the lock 252 in the other sleeve part, thereby allowing the sleeve parts to be locked in the locked position. Each sleeve part is locked, for example, by Fig.126 The guide rails indicated are operatively coupled to the rotationally movable locking members 215.3, 225.3. The guide rails are configured to cooperate with the guide members, which are operatively coupled to the locking members. Thus, a rotation of the sleeve portion is converted into a rotation of the locking member. When the sleeve portion is in the locked position, the locking member is in the locked position. When the sleeve portions are twisted relative to each other, the locking member is in the unlocked position and allows removal of the inserted strap.

[0424] Will refer to Figures 127 to 131Another embodiment of a spacer 100 is described. The spacer comprises a load-side attachment unit 150, which comprises a contact portion 152 for contacting a portion of a load, such as a frame portion of a bicycle. The spacer further comprises a carrier-side fastening unit 110, which comprises a clamping arrangement 300 with movable clamping members 301, 302. The carrier-side fastening unit 110 and the load-side attachment unit 150 are coupled to each other by a support structure 103. The support structure 103 comprises a hollow profile 104. The load-side attachment unit 150 comprises a strap 154. A strap receiver 157 is arranged on the spacer to be movable toward and away from the load-side attachment unit 150. For example, the strap receiver 157 may be provided on the hollow profile 104 so as to be movable in the longitudinal direction of the hollow profile 104. The strap receiver 157 comprises a pump buckle mechanism 400. The pump buckle mechanism 400 is constructed as described in other parts of this specification. The pump buckle mechanism 400 may include a support portion 402 , a tightening lever 404 , and a ratchet 406 .

[0425] The clamping arrangement 300 is configured to receive a sphere, also referred to as a ball 686. The ball 686 may be part of a fixing arrangement 680 configured to be arranged on a support portion 31 of a load carrier 1. The fixing arrangement 680 may include a receiving portion 684 for receiving the support portion 31. On one side of the receiving portion 684, a clamping lever 682 is provided. The clamping lever 682 is movable between an open position, in which the clamping lever does not exert a clamping force on the inserted support portion 31, and a closed position, in which the clamping lever exerts a clamping force on the inserted support portion 31 for fixing the fixing arrangement 680 at a predetermined longitudinal position on the support portion 31. The fixing arrangement 680 and the clamping arrangement 300 may jointly form a carrier-side fastening unit 110 or may both be part of the carrier-side fastening unit. In other embodiments, the clamping arrangement 300 may be considered as the carrier-side fastening unit 110.

[0426] The clamping arrangement 300 may be configured to be retractable into the hollow profile 104. Retracting the clamping arrangement 300 into the hollow profile 104 results in movement of the clamping members 301, 302 towards a locked position in which the clamping members may fixedly clamp the ball so that the ball remains fixed and immovable in the clamping arrangement 300. When the clamping arrangement 300 is moved towards an unlocked position, the clamping force acting on the ball is released and relative movement of the hollow profile 104 around the ball is allowed, including rotational movement and swivel movement of 360 degrees around the longitudinal axis of the hollow profile 104. The clamping arrangement 300 may be configured such that it is movable to an open position allowing the ball to be removed from the clamping arrangement 300. Thus, the fixing arrangement 680 may be detached from the clamping arrangement 300.

[0427] The support portion 402 of the strap receiver may be operatively coupled to the clamping arrangement 300, for example to a pivot pin 690 of the clamping members 301, 302. The pivot pin 690 may be guided in a guide slot 694 formed in the hollow profile 104. The support portion 402 may also be guided in a guide slot, for example in the guide slot 688 when the hollow profile 104 has a long configuration, or in the guide slot 694 when the configuration of the hollow profile 104 is short. A pushing member 692 is arranged in the hollow profile 104 and biases the clamping arrangement 300 towards a retracted position corresponding to the clamping position. Thus, it is possible to open the clamping arrangement 300 by moving the strap receiver towards the side of the hollow profile 104 where the clamping arrangement 300 is provided. Once the ball is received in the clamping arrangement 300, the user can release the strap receiver 157 so that it moves away from the side where the clamping arrangement 300 is provided due to the pushing force exerted on the clamping arrangement by the pushing member 692. In this way, the clamping arrangement 300 can reach a configuration in which the ball is retained in the clamping arrangement, but is still movable (particularly rotatable and swivelable) relative to the clamping member. When the strap 154 ​​is inserted into the pump buckle mechanism and tightened, a force is exerted on the strap receiver that pushes the strap receiver further towards the load-side attachment unit side, which further retracts the clamping arrangement 300 into the hollow profile 104, thereby increasing the clamping force acting on the ball 686. Therefore, tightening the strap leads to an increase in the clamping force generated in the clamping arrangement 300. In addition, tightening the strap locks the clamping arrangement 300 in the clamped configuration.

[0428] Will refer to Figures 132 to 135 Another embodiment of a spacer with a load-side attachment unit 150 is described. The load-side attachment unit 150 comprises a housing comprising a contact portion 152 for contacting a bicycle part. The contact portion 152 is arranged on an end face of the spacer. The contact portion 152 faces away from the connection structure with the hollow profile 104. The contact portion 152 is arranged on the housing 151 on a side opposite to the side on which the housing is coupled to the hollow profile.

[0429] The strap 154 ​​is coupled to the housing 151 at the fixed end portion 156. The free end portion of the strap 154 ​​can be inserted into a strap channel 602 provided in the housing on the opposite side to the side where the fixed end portion 156 is fixed to the housing 151. The strap channel is accessible via an insertion portion 600 including an opening. By inserting the free end portion into the strap channel, a fixed loop extending across the contact portion 152 can be formed.

[0430] The load-side attachment unit 150 also includes a strap receiver 700 configured to lock the strap in the strap channel. The locking mechanism 700 is configured to be convertible between an open configuration and a closed configuration, in which the locking mechanism allows manual insertion of the strap and in which the locking mechanism is configured to apply a final tensioning force on the strap when the locking mechanism is converted from the open configuration to the closed configuration. The locking mechanism includes a locking member 708 having a strap receiving portion and a supporting portion, the strap receiving portion having a guided portion 706 guided in a track in the housing 151, the supporting portion supporting the receiving portion so that it performs a slight rotation when it moves in the track. The strap receiving portion includes a channel for passing the strap therethrough. The engaging portion 642 is formed in the channel. The strap receiver 700 also includes an operating member 702 (e.g., a lever) that is pivotally arranged on the housing 151 and can be in an open position (see Fig.132 and Fig.133 ) and closed position (see Fig.134 and Fig.135 ) between the operating member 702 and the strap 154. The operating member 702 includes a guide track 704 in which the guided portion 706 is received. Moving the operating member 702 toward the closed position causes the locking member 708 to move along the strap channel in the tightening direction and rotate the engagement portion 642 to engage with the inserted strap 154. In this way, the inserted strap is engaged by the engagement portion, and the engagement portion causes the strap to move further along the strap channel in the tightening direction until the operating member 702 reaches the closed position. Moving the operating member 702 in the opposite direction releases the engagement with the strap and allows the strap to be pulled out of the strap channel 602.

[0431] Reference Fig.136 Another embodiment of a spacer with a load-side attachment unit 150 is described. The load-side attachment unit 150 comprises a housing including a contact portion 152 for contacting a bicycle part. The contact portion 152 may be arranged on an end face of the spacer and may thus be configured as an end support. The contact portion 152 may face away from the connection structure with the hollow profile 104. The contact portion 152 may be arranged on the housing 151 on a side opposite to the side on which the housing is coupled to the hollow profile.

[0432] The strap 154 ​​is coupled to the housing 151 at the fixed end portion 156. The free end portion 155 of the strap 154 ​​can be inserted into a strap channel 602 provided in the housing on the opposite side to the side where the fixed end portion 156 is fixed to the housing 151. The strap channel 602 is accessible via an insertion portion 600 including an opening. By inserting the free end portion into the strap channel, a fixed loop extending across the contact portion 152 can be formed.

[0433] For example, an engagement portion 642 including teeth is disposed on one side of the strip channel 602. The attachment unit may include a strip channel narrowing portion, which is used to reduce the size of the strip channel when the strip is inserted into the strip channel so that the inserted strip channel engages with the engagement portion. On the opposite side of the strip channel 602 at the position where the engagement portion 642 is disposed, a wedge-shaped portion serving as the strip channel narrowing portion may be arranged to face the engagement portion 642. The wedge-shaped portion may be movable along the strip channel between a non-blocking position and a blocking position. In the blocking position (e.g. Fig.136 642). In the unblocking position, the wedge-shaped portion is moved away from the position of the engagement portion 642 to expand the inner dimension. When the strap is inserted into the strap channel at the position of the engagement portion and the wedge-shaped portion is moved to the blocking position, the strap engages with the engagement portion 642 and is locked in place. When the wedge-shaped portion is moved to the unblocking position, the inner dimension of the strap channel at the position of the engagement portion is large enough so that the strap can pass through the engagement portion 642. This arrangement allows the strap to be remotely unlocked from the engagement portion by moving the narrowing portion of the strap channel.

[0434] Fig.138 A possible configuration of a support frame 27 of a load carrier 1 is shown. The support frame 27 may be constructed as described in connection with other configurations as disclosed in this specification. The support frame 27 may include a base portion 31 extending in the transverse direction of the load carrier 1. The base portion 31 may be straight. In the example Fig.138 In the configuration shown, the support frame 27 includes two legs 32, 33. The base portion 31 and the legs 32, 33 form a U-shape. The base portion 31 forms a support portion for supporting the spacer 100. The spacer 100 may be as shown. Figure 73 to Figure 75 and Figures 80 to 112The spacer described in . The movement preventing portion 31.1 for preventing the lateral movement of the attachment portion 101 is mounted on the support portion 31. The movement preventing portion 31.1 is configured to geometrically prevent the movement of the attachment portion 101 relative to the base portion 31. The movement preventing portion 31.1 includes a plurality of stop portions 31.3. Each stop portion 31.3 includes a protrusion 31.4. Two adjacent stop portions 31.3 define a support section 31.2 on which the attachment portion 101 can be supported. A plurality of support sections 31.2 are provided on the movement preventing portion 31.1. The support section 31.2 and the protrusion 31.4 are configured so that the clamping portion or the locking member 111 of the attachment portion 101 can be supported only on the support section 31.2. In some configurations, the stop portion 31.3 can be configured to guide the attachment portion 101 into the support section 31.2. In some configurations, the stop portion 31.3 may be configured to guide the clamping portion or locking member 111 into the support section 31.2. The stop portion may be configured so that the distance between them expands toward the free edge portion of the stop portion 31.3. The stop portion 31.3 may be formed to taper toward the free end portion in a radial direction away from the support portion 31. In some embodiments, the stop portion 31.3 may be at least partially formed to taper in a circumferential direction around the support portion 31. In this way, it is simplified for the user to find the correct position on the support portion 31 for installing the attachment portion 101. Therefore, the free end portion of the clamping portion of the locking member 111 can be more easily received between two adjacent stop portions 31.3. In the configuration shown, the stop portions 31.3 are only arranged on the support portion 31, so that they protrude away from the support frame 27 in the rearward direction of the load carrier, and so that they protrude away from the loading area for the two-wheeled vehicle. In this embodiment, the stop portion 31.3 and the support section 31.2 are provided on a mobile blocking member 31.5 mounted on the support portion 31 by fastening members. Thus, an existing support frame 27 can be retrofitted by fixing such a blocking member 31.5 on its support portion 31.

[0435] Fig.138 The state in which the spacer 100 is fixedly mounted on the movement preventing portion 31.1 is shown. The free end portion of the locking member 111 is received between the two stop portions 31.3 or the protrusions 31.4. The base portion 31 and one support section 31.2 are received in the receiving section 113 of the attachment portion 101. The receiving section 113 can be constructed as described in conjunction with other configurations in this specification and can be as described in detail in the following embodiments. Fig.93The receiving section 113 is constructed as shown. The width of the receiving section 113 substantially corresponds to the width of the support portion 31 at the support section 31.2. Since the overall outer dimension of the support portion 31 at the position where the stop portion 31.3 is provided is greater than the inner diameter of the receiving section 113, the attachment portion 101 is prevented from moving sideways or transversely along the support frame 27. Further configurations are disclosed in the aspects mentioned below.

[0436] Fig.139 and Fig.140 A specific configuration of a fixing strap 154 ​​is shown, which can be used as a strap in the attachment portion of a spacer (e.g., in a spacer of the type described above) and can form part of a fastening mechanism. For example, the strap 154 ​​can be fixedly coupled to the housing 151 of the spacer at its fixed end portion 156 and can include a free end portion 155 that is configured to be received in a strap receiver 157. The fixing strap 154 ​​includes an engagement portion 154.7, such as a toothed portion, that can engage with the strap receiver 157. For example, in Fig.93 An example of a configuration in which the fixed end portion 156 is coupled to the housing 151 of the spacer 100 is shown in FIG. The fixed end portion 156 may include a coupling portion 154.1 for fixedly attaching the fixed strip 154 ​​to the attachment portion 102 of the spacer 100, as shown in FIG. Fig.139 and Fig.140 The fixing member 175 such as a screw (see, for example, Figures 105 to 107 ) may be used to attach the coupling portion 154.1 to the housing 151. The securing member 175 is received in the receiving section 154.5 of the coupling portion 154.1.

[0437] The coupling portion 154.1 includes an energy absorbing configuration that is configured to partially absorb the forces transmitted from the fixing strap 154 ​​on the inserted fixing member 175 when a predetermined tensile force acting on the fixing strap 154 ​​is exceeded. This may be the case during a crash, where the bicycle to which the spacer 100 is coupled exerts a large force on the strap that is transmitted to the fixing member 175.

[0438] In this configuration, the strip 154 ​​includes a multi-layer construction having a base portion 154.1 and a cover portion 154.2 that at least partially covers the base portion 154.1. The cover portion 154.2 may be molded onto the base portion 154.1. The base portion 154.1 may be made of metal and the coupling portion 154.2 may be made of a plastic material. Typically, the base portion 154.1 may include a higher rigidity than the cover portion 154.2. The base portion includes a first opening 154.3 for receiving the fixing member 175. The inner dimensions of the first opening 154.3 are larger than the outer dimensions of the fixing member 175. In the example Fig.139and Fig.140 In the configuration shown, the first opening 154.3 is a slotted opening extending in the longitudinal direction of the fixing strip 154. The covering portion 154.2 includes a second opening 154.4. The front end portion of the first opening 154.3 and the first opening 154.3 overlap each other and together define an insertion opening for the fixing member 175. A portion of the covering portion 154.2 extends into the first opening 154.3 so that the material of the covering portion 154.2 is disposed in the first opening 154.3 between the inserted fixing member 175 and the longitudinal rear end wall of the slotted first opening 154.3. This material may form a resistance portion 154.8 for providing resistance against movement of the inserted fixing member 175 relative to the first opening, or in other words resistance against movement of the strip relative to the fixing member. The fixing member 175 may be supported on the housing 151 so that no clamping force or substantially no clamping force is applied to the coupling portion 154.1. This ensures that the tension acting on the strip 154 ​​is completely transmitted to the housing through the inserted fixing member 175 and not via friction between the strip and the housing. For example, the housing 151 may include a support section for the head of the fixing member 175 so that when the fixing member is tightened, the head rests on the housing 151 and not on the strip 154. In general, the cover portion of the configuration as shown may be configured so that the inserted fixing member 175 tears the second opening 154.4 in the cover portion 154.2 and moves along the slotted first opening while plastically deforming the material of the cover portion 154.2. Additional configurations of the fixing strip are disclosed in the aspects mentioned below.

[0439] In summary, it is noted that terms such as "comprising" and the like are not intended to exclude the provision of additional elements or steps. It should also be noted that "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. In addition, the features described in conjunction with different embodiments may be combined with each other as desired. It should also be noted that the reference numerals in the claims should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the claims. In addition, although at least one exemplary embodiment has been presented in the foregoing overview and detailed description, it should be understood that there are a large number of variations.

[0440] It should also be understood that one or more exemplary embodiments are only examples and are not intended to limit the scope, applicability or configuration in any way. On the contrary, the foregoing overview and detailed description will provide those skilled in the art with a convenient road map for implementing the exemplary embodiments, and it should be understood that various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of the elements described in the exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope set forth in the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

[0441] aspect

[0442] In the following, in addition to the subject matter of the claims and the dependent claims, and in addition to the explanations and configurations given in the introduction to this specification, different configurations and / or different aspects are also represented in a sub-item structure. It should be noted that the following specific feature combinations are not intended to limit the present disclosure to such specific feature combinations. In contrast, the following feature combinations only provide different examples with improved capabilities. Features and embodiments as defined in the sub-item configuration can be combined with other features and embodiments of other sub-item configurations, as well as with one or more feature combinations of the configurations described in the overview and detailed description sections.

[0443] Aspect 1: A load carrier (1) mountable on a trailer coupling (5) of a vehicle, for example configured to support a two-wheeled vehicle, the load carrier (1) comprising:

[0444] Load carrier coupling (14),

[0445] a load-bearing frame (20) extending in a first direction and configured to support a load to be transported, such as a bicycle, and

[0446] an asymmetric support frame (27) extending from the load-bearing frame (20) in a second direction transverse to the first direction (e.g. perpendicular to the first direction) and configured to provide lateral support for the load to be transported,

[0447] The support frame (27) is configured to provide an enlarged load space for the load to be transported on the load side of the support frame (27) and to provide sufficient space for a user to access the load carrier coupling (14) on the opposite side of the support frame (27), for example on the load carrier coupling side.

[0448] Aspect 2: A load carrier (1) according to Aspect 1, wherein the support frame (27) includes a protruding portion (42) protruding in the first direction, wherein the protruding portion (42) provides a receiving space (43), which is configured to receive a part of the load to be transported, such as a part of the crank arrangement of a bicycle.

[0449] Aspect 3: A load carrier (1) according to Aspect 2, wherein the protruding portion (42) is arranged in the lower end portion of the support frame (27), for example, so that a portion of the support frame (27) is offset in the first direction relative to an adjacent portion, for example, offset toward the load carrier coupling side end of the load carrier (1).

[0450] Aspect 4: The load carrier (1) according to item 1, wherein the support frame (27) is constructed as an upright frame extending from the load-bearing frame (20) in an upward direction (eg, perpendicular to the load-bearing frame (20)).

[0451] Aspect 5: A load carrier (1) according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the support frame (27) comprises a base portion (31) and two legs (32, 33), the base portion being, for example, configured to support a spacer or a bicycle arm, the two legs extending from the base portion (31), for example from opposite ends of the base portion (31), wherein the legs (32, 33) are connected to the base portion (31) at their first end portions or are formed integrally with the base portion and are connected to the load carrier frame (20) at their second end portions, for example via connecting portions (28, 29), wherein the base portion (31) and the legs (32, 33) are capable of forming a U-shape, wherein the base portion (31) is capable of comprising, for example, a straight section extending in a transverse direction of the load carrier (1). ...

Claims

1. A load carrier (1) mountable on a trailer coupling (5) of a vehicle, for example configured to support a two-wheeled vehicle, the load carrier (1) comprising: Load carrier coupling (14), a load-bearing frame (20) extending in a first direction and configured to support a load to be transported, such as a bicycle, and an asymmetric support frame (27) extending from the load-bearing frame (20) in a second direction transverse to the first direction, for example perpendicular to the first direction, and configured to provide lateral support for the load to be transported, It is characterized in that the support frame (27) is constructed to provide an enlarged load space for the load to be transported on the load side of the support frame (27) and to provide sufficient space for a user to access the load carrier coupling (14) on the opposite side of the support frame (27), for example on the load carrier coupling side.

2. A load carrier (1) according to claim 1, wherein the supporting frame (27) comprises a protruding portion (42) protruding in the first direction, wherein the protruding portion (42) provides a receiving space (43) configured to receive a part of the load to be transported, such as a part of the crank arrangement of a bicycle.

3. A load carrier (1) according to claim 2, wherein the protrusion (42) is arranged in a lower end portion of the support frame (27), for example so that a part of the support frame (27) is offset in the first direction relative to an adjacent part, for example towards a load carrier coupling-side end of the load carrier (1).

4. The load carrier (1) according to claim 1, wherein the supporting frame (27) is configured as an upright frame extending from the load bearing frame (20) in an upward direction, for example perpendicular to the load bearing frame (20).

5. A load carrier (1) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 4, wherein the supporting frame (27) comprises a base portion (31) and two legs (32, 33), the base portion being, for example, configured to support a spacer or a bicycle arm, the two legs extending from the base portion (31), for example from opposite ends of the base portion (31), wherein the legs (32, 33) are connected to the base portion (31) at a first end portion thereof or are formed integrally with the base portion and are connected to the load carrier frame (20) at a second end portion, for example via connecting portions (28, 29), wherein the base portion (31) and the legs (32, 33) can form a U-shape, wherein the base portion (31) can include, for example, a straight section extending in a transverse direction of the load carrier (1).

6. The load carrier (1) according to claim 5, wherein each leg (32, 33) comprises a first leg portion (34, 35) and a second leg portion (36, 37), wherein each first leg portion (34, 35) can be a lower portion of the leg (32, 33) and each second leg portion (36, 37) can be an upper portion of the leg (32, 33), and / or wherein the first leg portion can comprise a free end portion of the leg (32, 33) and / or can be coupled to the supporting frame (20), wherein the first leg portion of a first leg (32) of the legs (32, 33) is at least partially deflectable to the legs (32, 33) in a direction transverse to a main extension direction of the support frame (27) and / or in a longitudinal direction of the load carrier (1) The first leg portion of the second leg (33) is formed in the first leg portion.

7. A load carrier (1) according to claim 6, wherein one of the first leg portions, the second leg portion (36, 37) and / or the base portion (31) extends in a first plane (P1), and one of the first leg portions is capable of extending at least partially outside the first plane (P1), for example at least partially in a second plane (P2) extending parallel to the first plane (P1).

8. Load carrier (1) according to claim 6 or claim 7, wherein the first leg portion (34, 35) and / or the second leg portion (36, 37) can comprise straight sections (38, 39, 40, 41), wherein the straight sections can extend parallel to each other.

9. The load carrier (1) according to claim 1, wherein the supporting frame (27) is connected to the load carrier (20) by means of connecting portions (28, 29), which are connected to the load carrier (20), for example to the rear end of the load carrier (20), wherein the connecting portions (28, 29) are configured to support the supporting frame (27) at different longitudinal positions of the load carrier (1) and / or are arranged offset to each other in the longitudinal direction of the load carrier (1), and / or wherein the load-bearing frame (20) comprises different attachment portions offset from one another in the longitudinal direction of the load carrier (1), wherein the load-bearing frame (20) can comprise two longitudinally extending support members having different lengths, wherein the first end portions of the support members are arranged at the same longitudinal position and the opposite ends are arranged at different longitudinal positions such that they terminate offset from each other in the longitudinal direction, Alternatively, the load-bearing frame (20) may comprise a single support member, such as a single beam, on which the attachment portions are formed in a longitudinally offset manner, wherein one attachment portion may be arranged on an end of the single support member and the other attachment portion may be arranged in a cutout formed in the single support member.

10. A load carrier (1) according to claim 5, wherein one leg (32) is connected to the load frame (20) at a first longitudinal position, which is located between the load frame (20) and the load carrier coupling (14) or the operating area of ​​the load carrier coupling (14), in particular the movement area of ​​the operating member, and the other leg (33) is connected to the load carrier frame at a second longitudinal position, which is located in the transverse direction except for the load carrier coupling (14) or the operating area of ​​the load carrier coupling (14).

11. An additional wheel bracket (50) for a rear mounted carrier, the additional wheel bracket being configured to be mounted on the carrier at a single designated location on the carrier and configured to increase a predefined maximum number of two-wheeled vehicles that can be supported on the carrier, the additional wheel bracket comprising a support structure (60) configured to support a wheel of a two-wheeled vehicle, such as a bicycle, a connecting structure (80) configured to firmly connect the supporting structure (60) to the carrier, It is characterized in that The support structure (60) is convertible between a use configuration in which the support structure (60) has an enlarged size and a storage configuration in which the support structure (60) has a reduced size.

12. The wheel bracket (50) according to claim 11, The support structure (60) comprises a first support portion (61) and a second support portion (62), each configured to support a wheel of a bicycle, wherein in the use configuration, the distance between the first support portion (61) and the second support portion (62) is greater than the distance in the storage configuration.

13. The wheel bracket (50) according to claim 12, The support structure (60) is foldable, for example, foldable into two or three parts. and / or The first supporting portion (61) and the second supporting portion (62) are hingedly connected to each other, for example, directly or indirectly via an intermediate portion (63). and / or The first supporting portion (61) and the second supporting portion (62) are configured to be foldable into a V shape, and / or wherein the first support portion (61) and the second support portion (62) are arranged to be pivotable about a pivot axis, wherein the pivot axis is capable of being offset from the first support portion (61) and the second support portion (62), for example in an upward direction when the first support portion (61) and the second support portion (62) are in the deployed configuration, and / or wherein the support structure (60) comprises two or more folded sections, and / or wherein the support structure (60) comprises a stop formation which defines the respective positions of the first support portion (61) and the second support portion (62) in the use configuration, wherein the stop configuration is capable of limiting the movement of the first support portion (61) and the second support portion (62) in the direction of application of a force exerted on the first support portion (61) or the second support portion (62) by the wheel of the supported bicycle, and / or wherein the support structure (60) comprises a fixing portion for holding the first support portion (61) and the second support portion (62) together in the storage configuration, and / or The support structure (60) is configured to be foldable together with the foldable wheel bracket of the bicycle carrier when the additional wheel bracket (50) is coupled to the bicycle carrier.

14. The wheel bracket (50) according to claim 12 or claim 13, wherein the support structure (60) is retractable, and / or wherein at least one of the first support portion (61) and the second support portion (62) is translationally movable relative to the other, and / or At least one of the first support portion (61) and the second support portion (62) is movably supported on an elongated guide member (64).

15. The wheel bracket (50) according to claim 12 or 13, The coupling structure (80) comprises at least one fixing arm (81, 82), for example two fixing arms, wherein at least one or each fixing arm (81, 82) can comprise a tubular profile, and / or At least one or each fixed arm (81, 82) can include a coupling section (83, 84) and a supporting section (85, 86), wherein the support segments (85, 86) are connectable to the support structure (60), and / or wherein the coupling section (83, 84) can be configured to be detachably mounted to the bicycle carrier when the bicycle carrier is mounted on a vehicle, and / or wherein the coupling section (83, 84) can be configured to engage with the bicycle carrier, and / or wherein the coupling sections (83, 84) can be configured for a snap-fit ​​engagement, and / or wherein the coupling section (83, 84) can be configured to interlock with an attachment portion (25, 26) of the bicycle carrier, for example directly interlocking with the attachment portion (25, 26) by direct engagement or indirectly interlocking via an adapter (30) mounted on the attachment portion (25, 26), and / or wherein the coupling section (83, 84) can be formed as a first coupling partner of a plug and socket type coupling arrangement, and / or wherein the coupling section (83, 84) can be configured to automatically engage with the attachment portion (25, 26) on the bicycle carrier when the coupling section (83, 84) is inserted into the attachment portion (25, 26), and / or wherein the coupling sections (83, 84) can include an engagement portion (88), such as an offset engagement portion, and / or wherein the coupling section (83, 84) can be configured as a male portion configured to be received in a female portion, such as the adapter (30), or the coupling section (83, 84) can be configured as a female portion for sliding on the adapter (30) or receiving a portion of the adapter (30) therein, and / or wherein the engagement portion (88) can be arranged in the coupling section (83, 84) so ​​that it can be moved between a protruding position, in which it protrudes from an opening (89) in the coupling section (83, 84) and can engage with a recess (44) formed in the adapter (30), and a retracted position, in which it does not protrude from the opening (89), and / or At least one of the first supporting portion (61) and the second supporting portion (62) comprises a supporting member (61.1, 62.1), wherein the supporting member is configured to support the supporting portion on an outermost wheel bracket (19) of the bicycle carrier.

16. The wheel bracket (50) according to claim 15, wherein: The coupling sections (83, 84) can be configured to be detachably mounted to the bicycle carrier from vertically above when the bicycle carrier is mounted on a vehicle.

17. The wheel bracket (50) according to claim 16, wherein: The wheel bracket (50) further comprises a release mechanism (90) for releasing the engagement of the coupling section (83, 84) with the attachment portion (25, 26) and / or the adapter (30), wherein the release mechanism (90) comprises an operating member (91) operatively coupled to the coupling sections (83, 84), for example operatively coupled to the engagement portion (88), wherein the operating member (91) is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, The operating member (91) can be arranged on the fixed arm (81, 82), and / or The operating member (91) can be a lever, and / or The operating member (91) is disposed on the fixed arm (81, 82) and is configured to allow operation of the operating member (91) and holding of the fixed arm (81, 82) with one hand, wherein the operating member (91) can be configured and arranged on the fixed arm (81, 82) so that it can be operated by the index finger of a user's hand, for example like a pistol-type trigger.

18. The wheel bracket (50) according to claim 15, wherein at least one of the fixing arms (81, 82) is convertible between an expanded configuration in which the fixing arm (81, 82) is positioned for coupling with the bicycle carrier and a retracted configuration in which the fixing arm (81, 82) is folded toward the support structure (60), wherein the at least one fixed arm (81, 82) is pivotable about a pivot axis, wherein the pivot axis can extend parallel to the pivot axis of the support structure (60), or can extend at an angle relative to the pivot axis of the support structure (60), or can extend perpendicularly to a main extension direction (M) of the support structure (60) or at an angle relative to the main extension direction of the support structure, The fixing arms (81, 82) can comprise a tubular profile.

19. The wheel bracket (50) according to claim 15, wherein the support sections (85, 86) are connectable to a pivot of the support structure (60) or are capable of forming part of a pivot of the support structure, wherein at least a portion of the support structure (60), for example a first support portion (61) and a second support portion (62) each configured to support a wheel of a bicycle, are rotatable about the support section (85, 86), wherein the support sections (85, 86) are capable of forming hinge pins for the support part, Two of the fixed arms (81, 82) can be provided, wherein the free end portions of the support sections (85, 86) of the fixed arms (81, 82) can be connected to each other via a fixed arm connecting portion (87), for example, so that the fixed arms (81, 82) form part of an integral support unit, wherein the integral support unit can be constructed such that the fixed arm connecting portion (87) forms a base and the fixed arms (81, 82) form legs protruding from the base, for example, from opposite end portions or opposite ends of the base, wherein the support sections (85, 86) can extend in a first direction, wherein the support sections (85, 86) can extend parallel to each other, wherein the connecting sections (83, 84) can extend in a second direction, and / or wherein the fixed arm connecting portion (87) can extend in a third direction and / or can be constructed to be straight, wherein the first direction and the second direction can extend perpendicularly relative to each other, and / or wherein the first direction and the third direction can extend perpendicularly to each other, and / or wherein the second direction and the third direction extend obliquely to each other.

20. A wheel bracket kit, characterized in that: The wheel bracket kit includes: The wheel carrier (50) according to one of claims 11 to 19, and An adapter (30) is configured to be fixedly attached to an attachment portion (25, 26) on the bicycle carrier and is configured to removably receive the coupling structure (80).

21. A bicycle carrier, comprising A base frame (12) coupled to a load carrier coupling (14), at least one wheel bracket supported on the base frame (12) on, and an attachment portion (25, 26) for receiving an additional wheel carrier, such as an additional wheel carrier (50) according to one of claims 11 to 19, It is characterized in that The attachment portion is configured to directly receive and engage with a fixation arm (81, 82), or wherein the attachment portion (25, 26) is configured to receive an adapter (30) that acts as an interface between the attachment portion (25, 26) and the fixation arm (81, 82), and / or The attachment portion (25, 26) is disposed on the base frame (12) between the base frame (12) and a license plate holder (16).

22. A spacer (100) for a load carrier mountable on a vehicle, comprising a carrier-side fastening unit (110) configured to be placed on the supporting portion of the load carrier (1) and locked with the supporting portion of the load carrier, It is characterized in that The fastening unit (110) is configured to receive the support portion and is configured to be switchable between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration, in which the locked configuration The fastening unit (110) is held, for example, non-detachably fixed to the support portion, In the unlocked configuration, the fastening unit (110) is mountable to and detachable from the support portion, The fastening unit (110) is configured to be convertible into the locking configuration by pushing the fastening unit (110) onto the supporting portion.

23. A spacer (100) for a load carrier (1) mountable on a vehicle, comprising a carrier-side fastening unit (110) configured to be placed on the supporting portion of the load carrier (1) and locked with the supporting portion of the load carrier, A load-side attachment unit (150) configured to be fixed to a load portion, such as a frame portion of a bicycle, a connecting structure (103) configured to couple the carrier-side fastening unit (110) and the load-side attachment unit (150) to each other, It is characterized in that The fastening unit (110) is configured to receive the support portion and is configured to be convertible between a locked configuration, in which the fastening unit (110) is held, e.g., non-detachably fixed to the support portion, and an unlocked configuration, in which the fastening unit (110) is attachable to and detachable from the support portion, The carrier side fastening unit (110) is configured to be converted into the locked configuration by manually applying a force on the load side attachment unit (150) toward the carrier side fastening unit (110) and / or to be converted into the unlocked configuration by applying a force on the load side attachment unit (150) in a direction away from the carrier side fastening unit (110).

24. A spacer (100) for a load carrier (1) mountable on a vehicle, comprising a carrier-side fastening unit (110) configured to be placed on the supporting portion of the load carrier (1) and locked with the supporting portion of the load carrier, A load-side attachment unit (150) configured to be fixed to a load portion, such as a frame portion of a bicycle, a connecting structure (103) configured to couple the carrier-side fastening unit (110) and the load-side attachment unit (150) to each other, It is characterized in that The fastening unit (110) is configured to receive the support portion and is configured to be convertible between a locked configuration, in which the fastening unit (110) is held, e.g., non-detachably fixed to the support portion, and an unlocked configuration, in which the fastening unit (110) is attachable to and detachable from the support portion, The carrier side fastening unit (110) is configured to be converted into the locked configuration by manually moving the load side attachment unit (150) relative to and toward the support portion received in the carrier side fastening unit (110), and / or to be converted into the unlocked configuration by manually moving the load side attachment unit (150) in a direction away from and relative to the support portion in the carrier side fastening unit (110).

25. A spacer (100) for a load carrier (1) mountable on a vehicle, comprising a carrier-side fastening unit (110) configured to be placed on the supporting portion of the load carrier (1) and locked with the supporting portion of the load carrier, It is characterized in that The fastening unit (110) comprises an arrangement for actively locking the support portion between at least two locking members, wherein the first locking member (111) comprises a first receiving section (113) for at least partially accommodating the support portion and wherein the second locking member (112) comprises a second receiving section (112.2) for at least partially accommodating the support portion, The first receiving section (113) is configured to be at least partially retractable into the second receiving section (112.2) so that the support portion can be accommodated between the first receiving section and the second receiving section, so that a circumferential portion of the support portion is circumferentially enclosed by both the first receiving section and the second receiving section.

26. The spacer (100) according to claim 25, wherein the first receiving section (113) is U-shaped and / or wherein the second receiving section is U-shaped.

27. The spacer (100) according to claim 26, wherein the first receiving section (113) and the second receiving section (112.2) are oriented in different directions, for example in directions extending at an angle of 90 degrees relative to each other.

28. A spacer (100) for a load carrier (1) mountable on a vehicle, comprising a carrier-side fastening unit (110) configured to be placed on the supporting portion of the load carrier (1) and locked with the supporting portion of the load carrier, It is characterized in that The fastening unit (110) is configured to receive the support portion and is configured to be switchable between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration, in which the locked configuration The fastening unit (110) is non-detachably fixed to the support portion, and in the unlocked configuration, the fastening unit (110) can be mounted on and removed from the support portion, A locking mechanism (160), which is, for example, a snap-on locking mechanism, is configured to lock the fastening unit (110) in the locked configuration, for example, automatically, when the carrier-side fastening unit (110) is converted from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration.

29. A spacer (100) according to claim 28, wherein the locking mechanism (160) includes a blocking portion (161) movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein in the locked position, the blocking portion directly or indirectly prevents any movement for converting the fastening unit (110) into the unlocked configuration, and wherein in the unlocked position, the blocking portion allows movement for converting the fastening unit (110) into the unlocked configuration.

30. A spacer (100) according to claim 29, wherein the carrier side fastening unit (110) includes a locking member (111), which can be moved between a locking position and an unlocking position, in which the locking member actively locks the supporting part, wherein when the locking member (111) is in the locking position, the fastening unit (110) is in the locking configuration.

31. A spacer (100) according to claim 30, wherein the spacer further comprises a load-side attachment unit (150), which is configured to be attached to a part of a load, such as to a part of a bicycle, wherein the load-side attachment unit (150) is connected to the carrier-side fastening unit (110) via a connecting structure (103), such as via a hollow profile (104), wherein the snap-on locking mechanism (160) is arranged on the load-side attachment unit (150).

32. The spacer (100) according to claim 31, wherein The spacer (100) also includes a force transfer member (106), such as a rod, extending between the load-side attachment unit (150) and the carrier-side fastening unit (110), wherein the force transfer member (106) is connected to the carrier-side fastening unit (110) so as to be movable between a first position corresponding to a locking configuration of the carrier-side fastening unit (110) and a second position corresponding to an unlocking configuration of the carrier-side fastening unit (110), wherein the snap-on locking mechanism (160) is configured to block and release the movement of the force transfer member (106).

33. The spacer (100) according to claim 32, wherein: The spacer (100) also includes an adjustment mechanism (670), which is used to adjust the longitudinal position of the snap-on locking mechanism (160) relative to the force transfer member (106) and / or relative to the connecting structure (103) and / or relative to the carrier side fastening unit (110) and / or relative to the load side attachment unit (150).

34. A spacer (100) for a load carrier (1) mountable on a vehicle, characterized in that The spacer includes a carrier-side fastening unit (110) configured to be placed on and locked with a supporting portion of the load carrier (1), the carrier-side fastening unit (110) comprising a locking member (111) movable between a locked position in which it actively locks the supporting portion and an unlocked position, A load-side attachment unit (150) configured to be fixed to a load portion, such as a frame portion of a bicycle, a connecting structure (103) configured to couple the carrier-side fastening unit (110) and the load-side attachment unit (150) to each other, A locking mechanism (160) for preventing the locking member (111) from Movement away from the locked position, wherein the position of the locking mechanism relative to the locking member (111) is adjustable by an adjustment mechanism (670).

35. A spacer (100) according to claim 34, wherein the load-side attachment unit (150) is connected to the connecting structure (103) via an adjustment mechanism (670), and the adjustment mechanism is used to longitudinally adjust the position of the load-side attachment unit (150) relative to the connecting structure (103) and / or relative to the carrier-side fastening unit (110).

36. A spacer (100) for a load carrier (1) mountable on a vehicle, comprising a carrier-side fastening unit (110) configured to be placed on the supporting portion of the load carrier (1) and locked with the supporting portion of the load carrier, A load-side attachment unit (150) configured to be fixed to a load portion, such as a frame portion of a bicycle, a connecting structure (103) configured to couple the carrier-side fastening unit (110) and the load-side attachment unit (150) to each other, It is characterized in that The load-side attachment unit (150) is adjusted by an adjustment mechanism (670) Coupled to the connection structure (103), the adjustment mechanism is used to longitudinally adjust the position of the load-side attachment unit (150) relative to the connection structure (103) and / or relative to the carrier-side fastening unit (110).

37. A spacer (100) according to claim 35 or claim 36, wherein the load-side attachment unit (150) comprises a locking mechanism (160) for preventing movement of a locking member (111) arranged on the carrier-side fastening unit (110).

38. The spacer (100) according to one of claims 22 to 36, wherein the fastening unit (110) comprises an arrangement for actively locking the support portion between at least two locking members, A first locking member (111) among the locking members is arranged to be movable in a first direction (D1) relative to a second locking member (112) among the at least two locking members, for example along a portion of the second locking member (112), so as to actively lock the supporting portion in the fastening unit (110) when the fastening unit (110) is in the locking configuration.

39. The spacer (100) according to claim 38, wherein the first locking member (111) comprises a first receiving section (113), such as a U-shaped receiving section, for at least partially receiving the support portion, and / or wherein at least one of the locking members forms a clamping portion configured to exert a clamping force on the support portion when the fastening unit (110) is in the locked configuration, and / or wherein the receiving section (113) can be configured such that it can be placed on the support portion by moving the fastening unit (110) in a second direction (D2), wherein the second direction extends transversely to the first direction in which the first locking member (111) is movable, and / or wherein the second locking member (112) comprises a second receiving section (112.2), wherein the second receiving section (112.2) can be U-shaped, wherein the first receiving section (113) and the second receiving section (112.2) can each be U-shaped, and wherein the first receiving section (113) can be rotated 90 degrees relative to the second receiving section (112.2), wherein the first receiving section (113) is configured to be retractable into the second receiving section (112.2), and / or wherein the first locking member (111) is guided in the second locking member (112) so that it can be moved translationally in the first direction (D1) but cannot be rotated about an axis extending parallel to the first direction (D1), wherein the second locking member can be configured to be coupled to a connection structure (103), such as a hollow profile (104), which connects the fastening unit (110) with a load-side attachment unit (150), the load-side attachment unit being configured to be fixed to a load part, such as a frame part of a bicycle, wherein the second locking member (112) can be configured to guide the first locking member (111) outside the connection structure (103), wherein at least the guided portion of the first locking member (111) can include a non-circular outer periphery guided in the guiding portion of the second locking member (112) defining a non-circular receiving section, and / or Wherein the first locking member (111) comprises a hook-shaped configuration, in particular a hook-shaped free end portion.

40. The spacer (100) according to one of claims 22 to 36, wherein the fastening unit (110) is configured to be at least partially automatically converted into the locking configuration when the support portion is received in the fastening unit (110).

41. The spacer (100) according to claim 38, wherein the spacer (100) further comprises a locking unit for preventing the first locking member (111) from moving in at least a third direction (D3) opposite to the first direction (D1).

42. The spacer (100) according to claim 41, The locking unit comprises a blocking portion (161) which is movable between a locking position and an unlocking position, wherein in the locking position, the blocking portion directly or indirectly blocks the movement of the first locking member (111) in the third direction (D3), and in the unlocking position, the blocking portion (161) allows the movement of the first locking member (111) in the third direction (D3), wherein the barrier portion can be part of an inserted strip, And / or wherein the fixed end portion (156) of the strap is operably coupled to the first locking member (111) such that when the strap is tightened, the first locking member (111) is pulled to remain in the locked position.

43. The spacer (100) according to claim 42, The blocking portion (161) is biased toward the locking position by a biasing member (162), such as a spring, so that when the first locking member (111) has moved a predetermined distance toward the active locking position, the blocking portion (161) can automatically engage the first locking member (111) and prevent the movement of the first locking member.

44. The spacer (100) according to one of claims 42 and 43, wherein the spacer (100) further comprises an operating portion (170) for returning at least the blocking portion (161) to the unlocked position, The operating portion (170) may include a pushing member (171) or a pulling member (172) or a rotating member operatively coupled to the blocking portion (161), so that when the operating portion (170) is operated, the blocking portion (161) moves toward the unlocking position.

45. The spacer (100) according to one of claims 42 to 43, wherein the spacer (100) can include a force transfer member (106, 115) coupled to or integrally formed with the movable locking member, and the blocking portion (161) can be configured to engage with the force transfer member (106, 115), wherein the force transfer member (106, 115) can include a rod (116), and / or wherein the force transfer member (106, 115) can include an engagement section (117) providing a contact surface (118) contactable by the blocking portion (161), and / or Wherein the force transferring member (106, 115) can include a tapered end portion (119) that tapers toward the end of the force transferring member.

46. ​​The spacer (100) according to claim 45, wherein the blocking portion (161) is arranged in the locking unit so as to be translatably movable, and / or wherein the blocking portion (161) is radially movable toward and away from the force transfer member (106, 115), and / or wherein the blocking portion (161) is configured to engage behind a protrusion or widened section provided on the force transmitting member, and / or wherein the blocking portion (161) is configured to engage into a recess formed in the force transfer member, and / or wherein the blocking portion (161) comprises an opening for receiving the engagement section (117) of the force transfer member (106, 115), wherein the opening comprises a narrow section (166) and a wide section (167), wherein the wide section (167) comprises a portion allowing the engagement section (117) to The dimension through the opening and the narrow section (166) comprises a dimension that is smaller than the outer dimension of the engagement section (117).

47. The spacer (100) according to claim 46, The blocking portion (161) is displaceably arranged in the locking unit.

48. The spacer (100) according to claim 45, wherein the blocking portion (161) is arranged in the locking unit so as to be pivotally movable, and / or The blocking portion (161) includes a pivot arm (163) which is pivotably supported about a pivot axis at a first end portion thereof and includes a contact portion (164) at a second end portion thereof.

49. The spacer (100) according to claim 37, wherein the spacer (100) further comprises a load-side attachment unit (150), the load-side attachment unit being configured to be fixed to a load part, such as a frame part of a bicycle.

50. A spacer (100) according to claim 38, wherein the first locking member (111) is arranged to be pivotally movable relative to the second locking member (112), wherein the first locking member (111) is capable of being biased in a direction away from the second locking member (112), and wherein a pushing member is capable of being arranged between the first locking member (111) and the second locking member (112).

51. A spacer for coupling two bicycles to each other while keeping them at a predetermined distance from each other, the spacer comprising Two attachment parts, each of which includes a fastening mechanism (211, 221) that can be converted between a closed configuration, in which the fastening mechanism (211, 221) can be securely attached to a bicycle, and an open configuration, in which the fastening mechanism (211, 221) can be placed on and removed from the corresponding bicycle, characterized in that The attachment parts can be configured to be independently rotatable relative to each other, for example about a common axis of rotation, and / or wherein at least one of the attachment portions may be configured to contact the bicycle at a contact portion provided on an outer periphery of the attachment portion, And / or further comprising a locking mechanism configured to lock the fastening mechanism (211, 221) in the closed configuration.

52. A spacer according to claim 51, wherein the locking mechanism includes an operating unit (231), for example a lock cylinder including a key-operable lock, which can be operated by a user and is configured to enable the user to lock the fastening mechanism (211, 221) in the closed configuration by performing a single operating step.

53. The spacer according to one of claims 51 and 52, wherein the locking mechanism is configured to simultaneously lock the fastening mechanism (211, 221) in the closed configuration.

54. Spacer according to one of claims 51 to 52, wherein at least one fastening means (211, 221), for example each fastening means, comprises a strap and a strap receiver, wherein each strap comprises a free end portion (214, 224) which can be inserted into the strap receiver for forming a fixing loop, and A locking mechanism is configured to prevent removal of the free end portion (214, 224) from the strap receptacle after the free end portion (214, 224) has been received in the strap receptacle.

55. A spacer according to claim 54, wherein the locking mechanism comprises an operating unit (231) which can be operated by a user and is configured to enable the user to prevent the disassembly of the free end portion (214, 224) by performing a single operating step.

56. The spacer according to claim 55, wherein the operating unit (231) includes a movable operating member configured to be moved by the user, wherein the movable operating member is capable of being translationally movable and / or rotationally movable, and / or The movable operating member may include a lock cylinder (232.1), and / or wherein the movable operating member can comprise a translationally movable portion (232.2, 232.3), such as a sleeve portion movable along the main extension direction (M) of the spacer, and / or The movable operating member can include a rotatable movable part (232.4, 232.5).

57. The spacer of claim 54, wherein the locking mechanism is configured to simultaneously lock each of the free end portions (214, 224).

58. A spacer according to claim 56, wherein the locking mechanism includes a first locking portion (215) associated with a first attachment portion of the two attachment portions and a second locking portion (225) associated with a second attachment portion of the two attachment portions, wherein the movable operating member is operably connected to the first locking portion (215) and the second locking portion (225) so as to convert each of the first locking portion (215) and the second locking portion (225) between an unlocked configuration and a locked configuration, wherein the operating member can be operably connected to the first locking portion (215) via a first force transmission portion and operably connected to the second locking portion (225) via a second force transmission portion, wherein the force transmission portion can be arranged on a separate force transmission member such as a rod or other slender member, or can be arranged on a single force transmission member, wherein the force transmission portion can be configured to move translationally and / or along its respective longitudinal axis.

59. A spacer according to claim 58, wherein the first locking portion (215) includes a first engagement member (215.1, 215.3) configured to engage with a first strip (212) of the strips, and wherein the second locking portion (225) includes a second engagement member (225.1, 225.3) configured to engage with a second strip (222) of the strips, The first engagement element and / or the second engagement element is rotatable about an axis of rotation (R1, R2), wherein the axis of rotation can extend perpendicularly to the main extension direction (M) of the spacer.

60. A spacer according to claim 58 or claim 59, wherein the first locking portion (215) includes a first engagement member configured to engage with a first one of the strips (212), and wherein the second locking portion (225) includes a second engagement member configured to engage with a second one of the strips (222), The first engaging member and / or the second engaging member are / is / are translationally movable.

61. A spacer according to claim 59, wherein the first engaging member and / or the second engaging member include a through hole (226) for receiving the corresponding strip therein and is configured to engage with an inserted strip extending through the through hole (226), and / or wherein each engaging member may include an engaging portion, such as one or more teeth, for engaging with teeth on the strip, and / or wherein each engaging portion may be biased toward a disengaged position, and / or wherein the operating member may be operably connected to each engaging member so that each engaging member moves toward and / or away from the disengaged position when the operating member is operated.

62. A spacer according to claim 61, wherein the two attachment portions are configured such that insertion of the free end portion of the first strip (212) into the first attachment portion allows access to the free end portion of the second strip (222) into the second attachment portion.

63. A spacer according to one of claims 51 to 52, wherein at least one fastening mechanism (211, 221) comprises a gripping unit for gripping a part of a bicycle, for example comprising a claw, wherein one fastening mechanism (211, 221) comprises a gripping unit having a claw having one or two jaws and the other fastening mechanism comprises a strap and a strap receiver, or wherein both fastening mechanisms (211, 221) comprise the gripping unit.

64. A spacer according to claim 54, wherein each strap includes a fixed end portion fixed to the attachment portion, wherein the fixed end portion can be arranged between the bicycle contact portion of the attachment portion and the strap receiver and / or between the bicycle contact portion and the center of the spacer, and / or wherein the strap path in each of the attachment portions can be configured so that when the free end portions (214, 224) have passed through the strap receiver, the free end portions (214, 224) of the straps are closer to each other than the fixed end portions, and / or wherein the strap path in the attachment portion is configured such that insertion openings into the strap path are provided in opposite longitudinal end faces of the spacer and an exit opening of the strap path is provided closer to the center of the spacer, for example on a side where a bicycle contact portion is provided, and / or wherein the spacer is configured to provide side support for a bicycle portion, wherein The side supports can be provided by support portions extending in a longitudinal direction of the spacer and facing in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction, or wherein the spacer is configured to provide end supports for a bicycle portion, wherein the end supports can be arranged on longitudinal ends of the spacer and can face in the longitudinal direction of the spacer.

65. A spacer (100) for a load carrier mountable on a vehicle, comprising a carrier-side fastening unit (110) which is convertible between a closed configuration in which the fastening unit (110) is gripped around a support portion of the load carrier (1) and an open configuration which allows the fastening unit (110) to be coupled to and detached from the support portion, A load-side attachment unit (150) configured to be fixed to a load part (3), such as a frame of a bicycle, the load-side attachment unit (150) comprising a tensioning device (157, 400) for tensioning a clamping member (154) of the load-side attachment unit (150), It is characterized in that The load-side attachment unit (150) is convertible between an active configuration in which fixation of the load-side attachment unit (150) on the load part (3) is possible and an inactive configuration in which fixation of the load-side attachment unit (150) on the load part (3) is not possible, In the inactive configuration, at least an engaging portion of the tensioning device (157, 400) which interacts with the clamping member (154) for applying and / or maintaining a tensioning force when the tensioning device (400) is operated is moved to a position in which such interaction with the clamping member (154) is not possible, for example by moving the engaging portion alone or by moving the entire tensioning device, or wherein in the inactive configuration at least a portion of the strap channel in the load-side attachment unit (150) is moved to a position in which the strap cannot be inserted into or passed through it.

66. A spacer (100) according to claim 65, wherein the tensioning device (157, 400) is movable between a blocking position and a receiving position, wherein in the blocking position, the clamping member (154) is prevented from being inserted into the tensioning device (157, 400), and in the receiving position, the clamping member (154) can be inserted into the tensioning device (157, 400), wherein when the tensioning device (157, 400) is in the blocking position, the load-side attachment unit (150) is in the inactive configuration.

67. A spacer (100) according to claim 65 or claim 66, wherein the tensioning device (157, 400) is movable translationally or rotationally, and / or wherein the tensioning device (157, 400) is movable between a retracted position and an extended position, wherein the load-side attachment unit (150) may include a housing (151), wherein when in the retracted position, the tensioning device (157, 400) is capable of at least partially retracting into the housing (151), and / or wherein the tensioning device (157, 400) is capable of being slidably received in the housing (151), or wherein the tensioning device (157, 400) is capable of being held on the housing and pivotable about a predefined pivot axis.

68. A spacer (100) according to one of claims 65 to 66, wherein the engaging portion of the tensioning device is movable between a blocking position and a release position, wherein in the blocking position the engaging portion prevents the clamping member from being inserted into the tensioning device, and in the release position the engaging portion cannot engage with the inserted clamping member, wherein when the attachment unit is in the inactive configuration, the engaging portion remains in the blocking position or the release position.

69. A spacer (100) according to one of claims 65 to 66, wherein the engaging portion is rotatably movable and / or is capable of comprising an opening for receiving the clamping member, wherein when the attachment unit is in the inactive configuration, the opening extends in a direction that is not suitable for receiving the clamping member.

70. A spacer (100) according to one of claims 65 to 66, wherein the load-side attachment unit (150) is operably connected to the fastening unit (110) so that when the fastening unit (110) is converted from the closed configuration to the open configuration, the load-side attachment unit (150) is converted to the inactive configuration.

71. A spacer (100) according to one of claims 65 to 66, wherein the clamping member (154) comprises a strip, such as a toothed strip, and wherein the tensioning device (157, 400) comprises a strip receiver, such as a pump buckle mechanism, wherein the pump buckle mechanism can include a tensioning lever (404) and an engagement portion rotatably supported on a base defining a support surface, such as a pawl (406).

72. A spacer for a load carrier, in particular for coupling two bicycles to each other while keeping them at a predetermined distance from each other, the spacer comprising at least one first attachment portion, the first attachment portion comprising a first support portion for contacting a first coupling portion of a first bicycle to be secured to the first attachment portion, such as a first frame portion of the first bicycle, and a first fastening mechanism, the first fastening mechanism being used to clamp the first coupling portion onto the first supporting portion, wherein the first fastening mechanism comprises a first strap and a first strap receiver (242), It is characterized in that The first strap includes a fixed end portion (156) and a free end portion, wherein the free end portion is configured to be removably coupled to the first strap receiver (242) for forming a fixed loop extending over the first support portion and the coupling portion, The fastening mechanism is configured to move the first strap receiver (242) and / or the fixed end portion (156) of the first strap relative to the first support portion for applying a clamping force on the first coupling portion via the strap.

73. A spacer according to claim 72, wherein the first fastening mechanism includes a movable support member (240), wherein the movable support member (240) can be arranged on the rear side of the support portion, wherein the fixed end portion (156) and / or the first strap receiver (242) can be fixed to the movable support member or movably connected to the movable support member, wherein the first strap receiver (242) can be configured to detachably receive the free end portion, wherein the first strap receiver (242) can include a hook portion, and the free end portion can be hooked on the hook portion, wherein the movable support member (240) can be moved toward and away from the support portion.

74. The spacer of claim 73, wherein the spacer further comprises a second attachment portion, the second attachment portion comprising, a second supporting portion for contacting a second coupling portion of a second bicycle to be fixed to the second attachment portion, such as a second frame portion of the second bicycle, and a second fastening mechanism, the second fastening mechanism being used to clamp the second coupling portion onto the second supporting portion, wherein the second fastening mechanism comprises a second strap and a second strap receiver, wherein the second strap comprises a fixed end portion (156) and a free end portion, wherein the free end portion is configured to be removably coupled to the second strap receiver for forming a fixed loop extending over the second support portion and the second coupling portion, wherein the second strap is operatively coupled to the movable support (240), for example, operatively coupled to a coupling portion on the movable support (240), Wherein the second strap receiver can be a pump buckle mechanism.

75. A spacer (100) for a load carrier (1) mountable on a vehicle, comprising an attachment portion, such as a load-side attachment unit (150), the load-side attachment unit being configured to be fixed to a load portion, such as a frame portion of a two-wheeled vehicle; a fastening mechanism having a strap and a strap receiver; a strap channel (602) disposed in the attachment portion and accessible via an insertion portion (600), such as an opening, on the attachment portion, wherein the strap receiver is arranged on the attachment portion such that the strap can be passed into the strap receiver via the strap channel (602); a strip channel blocking portion (640) configured to move between a non-blocking position in which it does not block the strip channel and a blocking position in which it blocks the strip channel, Characterized in that the strip channel blocking portion (640) is rotatable between the non-blocking position and the blocking position.

76. A spacer (100) according to claim 75, wherein the strip channel blocking portion (640) can be rotated around an axis perpendicular to the strip channel extension path and / or parallel to the strip channel extension surface, wherein the strip channel blocking portion (640) can be arranged so that the axis is located in the strip channel.

77. A spacer (100) according to claim 76, wherein the strip channel blocking portion (640) includes a through hole for receiving the strip, wherein when the strip channel blocking portion (640) is in the non-blocking position, the through hole is aligned with the strip channel, and when the strip channel blocking portion (640) is in the blocking position, the through hole is not aligned with the strip channel.

78. A spacer (100) for a load carrier (1) mountable on a vehicle, comprising an attachment portion, such as a load-side attachment unit (150), the load-side attachment unit being configured to be fixed to a load portion, such as a frame portion of a two-wheeled vehicle; a fastening mechanism having a strap and a strap receiver; a strap channel (602) disposed in the attachment portion and accessible via an insertion portion (600), such as an opening, on the attachment portion, wherein the strap receiver is arranged on the attachment portion such that the strap can be passed into the strap receiver via the strap channel (602); a strap locking member (648) configured to move between an unlocked position in which the strap locking member does not lock an inserted strap in the strap channel and a locked position in which the strap locking member locks the strap in the strap channel, Characterized in that the strap locking member (648) is rotatable between the unlocked position and the locked position.

79. A spacer (100) according to claim 78, wherein the strip locking member (648) can rotate around a rotation axis perpendicular to the strip channel extension path and / or parallel to the strip channel extension surface, wherein the strip locking member (648) can be arranged so that the rotation axis is located in the strip channel.

80. A spacer (100) according to claim 79, wherein the strip locking member (648) defines a passage for receiving the strip and is configured to engage with an inserted strip, wherein the strip locking member (648) is engageable with an inserted strip, wherein the strip locking member (648) includes an engagement portion engageable with the strip, and / or wherein the strip locking member (648) can include a sleeve, such as a cylindrical sleeve.

81. A spacer (100) according to claim 80, wherein the spacer (100) further comprises a strip locking mechanism, the strip locking mechanism comprising an operating member, such as a lock core operable by a key (182), wherein the operating member is operatively connected to the strip locking member (648) such that movement of the operating member to the locking position moves the strip locking member (648) to the locking position.

82. A spacer (100) according to claim 81, wherein the spacer (100) comprises a further attachment part, such as a carrier-side fastening unit (110) for attaching to a support part of a load carrier, wherein the further attachment part is configured to be convertible between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration, in which the fastening unit (110) is non-detachably fixed to the support part and in which the fastening unit (110) is mountable to and detachable from the support part, and an attachment portion locking mechanism (160) configured to lock the further attachment portion in the locked configuration, a release mechanism for unlocking the further attachment portion, Wherein the strap locking mechanism is operatively coupled to the release mechanism such that the release mechanism is blocked when the operating portion is in the locked position, for example by preventing movement of an operating portion of the release mechanism, such as a push member or a pull member.

83. A spacer (100) for a load carrier (1) mountable on a vehicle, comprising an attachment portion, such as a load-side attachment unit (150), which is configured to be fixed to a load portion, such as a frame portion of a two-wheeled vehicle, and includes a housing (151); a fastening mechanism having a strap and a strap receiver, the strap receiver comprising or forming part of a strap insertion channel; a locking mechanism for locking the strap when the strap is inserted into the strap insertion channel, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a translationally movable locking member for engaging with the strap and a rotatable operating part, such as a rotatable lock cylinder, characterised in that the strap receiver and the locking member are configured to engage an inserted strap on the same side of the strap, and wherein the rotatable operating portion is arranged on a side of the strap channel opposite to a side on which the strap receiver and the locking member engage with an inserted strap, Wherein the rotatable operating portion is arranged such that its rotation axis extends through the housing in a direction transverse to a main extension direction of the strap channel and perpendicular to a movement direction of the translationally movable locking member.

84. The spacer (100) according to claim 83, wherein the rotatable operating portion is arranged on the housing (151) so that it extends between the locking member and the strap receiver.

85. A spacer (100) for a load carrier (1) mountable on a vehicle, comprising a carrier-side attachment unit for attaching the spacer (100) to a supporting portion of a load carrier (1), A load-side attachment unit (150), Strips, and Strip receiver, It is characterized in that The spacer (100) is configured such that when the spacer (100) is mounted on the load carrier (1), the load-side attachment unit (150) can be adjusted along an imaginary spherical surface relative to the support portion and / or the carrier-side attachment unit.

86. A spacer (100), comprising a carrier-side attachment unit for attaching the spacer (100) to a supporting portion of a load carrier (1), A load-side attachment unit (150), Strips, and Strip receiver, It is characterized in that The carrier-side attachment unit comprises a clamping arrangement (300) configured to be coupled to a ball, wherein the ball can be part of a fixing arrangement (680) that can be coupled to a support portion of a load carrier (1).

87. A spacer (100) according to claim 85 or claim 86, wherein the spacer (100) further comprises a spherical bearing, such as a spherical joint, wherein the spherical joint can be configured to be detachable, wherein one connection partner of the spherical joint can be a clamping arrangement (300), the clamping arrangement comprising a first clamping member (301) and a second clamping member (302) which can be pivotally moved towards and away from each other, and the other connection partner forms a ball (686), wherein the ball can be connected to a fixed bracket which can be mounted on the support part of the bicycle carrier, wherein the clamping arrangement (3 00) can be constructed to be movable between a clamping configuration and a release configuration and can be operably connected to the strap receiver, wherein the strap receiver can be arranged to be movable relative to the load-side attachment unit (150), for example, along the main extension direction of the spacer (100), so that when the inserted strap is tightened by the strap receiver, the strap receiver moves away from the carrier-side fastening unit (110), thereby causing the clamping member to move toward the clamping position, so that tightening the strap by the strap receiver causes the ball (686) to be fixed in the clamping arrangement (300).

88. A spacer (100), comprising a carrier side attachment unit for attaching the spacer (100) to the load carrier (1), the carrier side attachment unit being convertible between an open configuration and a closed configuration, a load-side attachment unit (150) having a strap and a strap receiver, It is characterized in that The strap receiver is movably held relative to a housing (151) of the load-side attachment unit (150) and operatively coupled to the carrier-side attachment unit, The carrier-side attachment unit is enabled to be converted between the open configuration and the closed configuration by moving the strap receiver relative to the housing (151).

89. A vehicle-mountable load carrier (1), for example configured to support a two-wheeled vehicle, the load carrier (1) comprising: a load-bearing frame (20) extending in a first direction and configured to support a load to be transported, such as a bicycle, and a support frame (27) extending from the load-bearing frame (20) in a second direction transverse to the first direction, for example perpendicular to the first direction, and configured to provide lateral support for the load to be transported, Characterized in that the support frame (27) comprises a support portion for supporting an attachment portion of the spacer (100), The support portion comprises a movement preventing portion (31.1) for preventing lateral movement of the attachment portion and / or along a main extension direction of the support portion when the attachment portion is mounted on the support portion.

90. Load carrier (1) according to claim 89, wherein the movement preventing portion (31.1) is configured to prevent the movement geometrically and / or frictionally.

91. A load carrier (1) according to claim 89 or claim 90, wherein the movement prevention portion (31.1) includes at least one stop portion (31.3), which is used to prevent lateral movement of the attachment portion and along the main extension direction of the support portion when the attachment portion is mounted on the support portion.

92. Load carrier (1) according to claim 91, wherein the stop portion (31.3) comprises a protrusion (31.4) protruding from the support portion in a radial direction, for example perpendicularly to the main extension direction.

93. A load-bearing frame (1) according to claim 91, wherein the supporting part comprises two or more separate supporting sections for supporting the attachment part, wherein the supporting sections are separated by one of the at least one stop part (31.3), and wherein the supporting part can be configured so that the clamping part or locking member (111) of the attachment part can be supported only on the supporting section.

94. A load-bearing frame (1) according to claim 93, wherein at least one supporting section is limited by two stop portions (31.3), wherein the stop portions (31.3) can be configured to guide the attachment portion, such as the clamping portion or the locking member (111), into the supporting section, wherein the stop portions (31.3) can be configured so that the distance between them expands toward the free edge portion of the stop portions (31.3).

95. A load carrier (1) according to claim 94, wherein the stop portion (31.3) can be formed to taper in a radial direction away from the support portion towards the free end portion and / or can be at least partially formed to taper in a circumferential direction around the support portion.

96. A load carrier (1) according to claim 91, wherein the stop portions (31.3) can be at least or only arranged on the supporting portions so that when the load carrier is mounted on a vehicle, they protrude away from the supporting frame (27) in the rearward direction of the load carrier (1), for example towards the vehicle, or wherein the stop portions (31.3) can be at least or only arranged on the supporting portions so that they protrude away from the loaded two-wheeled vehicle, such as a bicycle.

97. Load carrier (1) according to claim 91, wherein said at least one stop portion (31.3) is integrally formed in said supporting frame (27).

98. A load-bearing frame (1) according to claim 93, wherein the at least one stop portion (31.3) is mounted on the outer periphery of the supporting portion, wherein the stop portion (31.3) and the supporting section can be arranged on a movable blocking member (31.5), and the movable blocking member can be mounted on the supporting portion, for example, by means of fastening members such as screws or rivets.

99. A load carrier (1) according to claim 90, wherein the movement preventing portion (31.1) comprises or is made of a material providing a higher friction than the surface of the support frame (27), wherein the movement preventing portion (31.1) may be made of rubber or comprise a rubber coating, or wherein the movement preventing portion (31.1) may comprise a surface portion having an increased surface deviation compared to other portions on the support frame (27), for example a surface portion comprising an increased waviness or periodic deviation or a surface portion having an increased roughness, wherein the surface portion may comprise corrugations and / or grooves and / or notches and / or scratches.

100. A load carrier (1) according to claim 91, wherein the load carrier (1) further comprises at least one spacer (100), wherein the total outer dimensions of the supporting portion including the stop portion (31.3) are greater than the inner diameter of the receiving section (113) of the attachment portion of the spacer (100), wherein the width of the receiving section (113) may correspond to the width of the supporting section.

101. A load carrier (1) according to one of claims 89 to 90, wherein the load carrier (1) further comprises at least one spacer (100), for example a spacer according to one of claims 23 to 36, the spacer having an attachment portion configured to be supported on the movement preventing portion (31.1), wherein the attachment portion and the movement preventing portion (31.1) are configured such that movement prevention is effective only when the spacer (100) is positioned on the movement preventing portion (31.1) within a first angular orientation range, and is ineffective when the spacer (100) is positioned within a second angular orientation range, wherein the attachment portion and the movement preventing portion (31.1) are mechanically coded, wherein the attachment portion can be permanently attached to the support frame (27) and can include a groove or channel having a size allowing the attachment portion to pass over a protrusion (31.4) in the movement preventing portion, so that the attachment portion can be moved from one support section to another without having to remove the attachment portion from the movement preventing portion (31.1).

102. The load carrier (1) according to one of claims 89 to 90, wherein the supporting portion can be a straight portion on the supporting frame (27), for example a straight portion extending in a transverse direction of the load carrier (1).

103. A spacer (100), characterized in that: The spacer comprises a locking member (111) for clamping or fixing to a support part or a base part of a support frame (27) of a load carrier (1), for example a spacer according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one locking member (111) comprises a narrow width, for example a width of 2 cm or less, for example a width of 1 cm or less, or a width less than half the inner dimension of the receiving section (113) formed in the locking member (111), or a width smaller than the width of a strip provided in another attachment part, for example in a load-side attachment unit (150) and capable of being half the width of the strip or less than half its width or capable of being one third the width of the strip or less.

104. A fixing strip for a load-bearing frame (1), comprising an engagement portion engageable with the strap receiver, wherein the engagement portion can be a toothed portion, and a coupling portion for fixedly attaching the fixing strip to the attachment portion of the spacer (100), the coupling portion comprising a receiving section, such as an insertion opening, for receiving a fixing member (175), such as a screw, It is characterized in that The coupling portion includes an energy absorbing configuration configured to partially absorb forces transmitted from the securing strap on an inserted securing member (175) when a predetermined tensile force acting on the securing strap is exceeded.

105. A fixing strip according to claim 104, wherein the coupling portion is configured to perform a relative movement relative to the inserted fixing member (175) against a predetermined resistance force when the predetermined tensile force on the fixing strip is exceeded.

106. A fixing strip according to claim 105, wherein the fixing strip further comprises a base portion having a first opening (154.3) for receiving the fixing member (175), wherein the inner dimensions of the first opening (154.3) are larger than the outer dimensions of the fixing member (175), and further comprises a resistance portion (154.8) for providing the resistance against the movement of the inserted fixing member in the first opening (154.3), wherein the resistance portion (154.8) can be a deformable portion, such as a plastic or elastic deformable portion, which is deformed, such as compressed, when the connecting portion moves relative to the inserted fixing member (175), and / or wherein the first opening (154.3) can be a strip slot opening, which can extend in the longitudinal direction of the fixing strip, and / or wherein the base portion can be a reinforcing member and / or can be made of metal and / or can include a sheet-like structure.

107. A fixing strip according to claim 106, wherein the fixing strip further comprises a covering portion (154.2) fixedly and immovably arranged on the base portion, the covering portion (154.2) forming the resistance portion (154.8), wherein a portion of the covering portion (154.2) may extend into the first opening (154.3), wherein the covering portion (154.2) may be made of a material having a lower rigidity than the material of the base portion.

108. A fixing strip according to claim 107, wherein the cover portion (154.2) is moulded onto the base portion, for example such that the first opening (154.3) is partially filled with material of the cover portion (154.2).

109. A fixing strip according to claim 107 or claim 108, wherein the covering portion (154.2) includes a second opening (154.4), wherein a front end portion of the first opening (154.3) and at least a rear end portion of the second opening (154.4) overlap with each other to jointly define an insertion opening for the fixing member (175), the front end portion being closer to the joining portion than the rear end portion of the first opening (154.3).

110. A fixing strip according to claim 109, wherein the covering portion (154.2) is configured to deform, for example, plastically deform and / or elastically deform, when the predetermined tensile force on the fixing strip is exceeded and the covering portion (154.2) is pushed against an inserted fixing member (175), wherein the covering portion (154.2) can be configured so that the inserted fixing member (175) can tear open the covering portion (154.2), for example, tear open the second opening (154.4) in the covering portion (154.2), and the fixing member (175) can be received in the second opening.

111. A spacer (100) for a load carrier (1) mountable on a vehicle, such as a spacer (100) according to one of claims 22 to 36 or 103, characterized in that The spacer (100) comprises a first attachment portion and a second attachment portion coupled to each other by a connecting structure (103), wherein the first attachment portion and / or the second attachment portion comprises a fixing strip according to one of claims 107 to 110.

112. A spacer (100) according to claim 111, wherein the fixing strip is fixed to the attachment part by the fixing member (175), wherein the strip is fixed to the attachment part by the fixing member (175) so that the fixing member (175) does not exert a clamping force on the connecting part (154.1) and / or the fixing member (175) only attaches the fixing strip in a shape-locking manner and there is no friction locking on the outer shell (151) of the spacer (100).

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