bicycle pedal

Abstract

bicycle pedal (10) comprising: a pedal shaft (12); a pedal body (14) which is rotatably supported on the pedal shaft (12) about a pivot axis (A1); a first sub-element (16) which is movably coupled to the pedal body (14), wherein the first sub-element (16) is relative to the pedal body (14) about a first pivot axis (PA1), different from the rotation axis (A1), is movable in a first pivoting direction (D11) and in a second pivoting direction (D12), opposite to the first pivoting direction (11); a first clamping element (18) which is movably coupled to the first sub-element (16), wherein the first clamping element (18) is movable relative to the first sub-element (16) about a second pivot axis (PA2) which is essentially parallel to the first pivot axis (PA1), in a third pivot direction (D13) and a fourth pivot direction (D14), opposite to the third pivot direction (D13); a second clamping element (20) which is coupled to the pedal body (14) to clamp a stud (2) together with the first clamping element (18); and a prestressing structure (44) which is designed to prestress the first clamping member (18) in the fourth pivoting direction (D14) and the first sub-member (16) in the second pivoting direction (D12), wherein the first pivoting axis (PA1) is closer to a point on the pedal shaft (12) than the second pivoting axis (PA2) when viewed from an axial direction (D2) parallel to the first pivoting axis (PA1).

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 505,447, filed October 2, 2014. The entire disclosure of U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 505,447 is hereby incorporated by reference. FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The following invention relates to a bicycle pedal. BACKGROUND DISCUSSION

[0003] Cycling is becoming increasingly popular as a form of recreation and transportation. It has also become a very popular competitive sport for both amateurs and professionals. Whether the bicycle is used for recreation, transportation, or competition, the bicycle industry has constantly improved various bicycle components. One bicycle component that has been extensively redesigned is the bicycle pedal, such as a clipless pedal.

[0004] DE 39 37 208 A1 describes a bicycle pedal with a pedal axle, a pedal body rotatably mounted on the pedal axle about a rotation axis, a first sub-member movably coupled to the pedal body, a first clamping element and a second clamping element coupled to the pedal body to clamp a cleat together with the first clamping element, and a preload structure.

[0005] DE 43 23 575 A1 describes a safety pedal for a bicycle or the like with a quick-coupling device for a coupling part attached to the sole of a shoe.

[0006] DE 103 17 874 A1 describes a bicycle pedal assembly and in particular a bicycle pedal assembly including a cleat adapted to be connected to the rider's shoe.

[0007] DE 20 2007 005 194 U1 describes a pedal with a main body and two clamping units.

[0008] DE 699 31 291 T2 describes a bicycle pedal with a pedal body and a cage rotatably mounted on a pedal axle for supporting the rider's foot. The object of the present invention is to make step-in operation easier for the user of a bicycle pedal. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a bicycle pedal comprises a pedal shaft, a pedal body, a first sub-member, a first clamping member, a second clamping member, and a biasing structure. The pedal body is rotationally supported on the pedal shaft about a rotation axis. The first sub-member is movably coupled to the pedal body. The first sub-member is movable relative to the pedal body about a first pivot axis, different from the rotation axis, in a first pivot direction and in a second pivot direction opposite to the first pivot direction. The first clamping member is movably coupled to the first sub-member. The first clamping member is movable relative to the first sub-member about a second pivot axis substantially parallel to the first pivot axis, in a third pivot direction and a fourth pivot direction opposite to the third pivot direction. The second clamping member is coupled to the pedal body to form a cleat.to clamp a cleat or footplate together with the first clamping member. The biasing structure is configured to bias the first clamping member in the fourth pivot direction and the first sub-member in the second pivot direction. The first pivot axis is closer to a point on the pedal spindle than the second pivot axis when viewed from an axial direction parallel to the pivot axis.

[0010] According to one aspect of the present invention, a bicycle pedal comprises a pedal shaft, a pedal body, a first sub-member, a first clamping member, a second clamping member, and a biasing structure. The pedal body is rotationally supported on the pedal shaft about a rotation axis. The first sub-member is movably coupled to the pedal body. The first sub-member is movable relative to the pedal body about a first pivot axis in a first pivot direction and a second pivot direction opposite to the first pivot direction. The first clamping member is movably coupled to the first sub-member. The first clamping member is movable relative to the first sub-member about a second pivot axis substantially parallel to the first pivot axis in the third pivot direction and the fourth pivot direction. The second clamping member is coupled to the pedal body to clamp a cleat together with the first clamping member.The biasing structure is configured to bias the first clamping member in the fourth pivot direction and the first sub-member in the second pivot direction. The first sub-member, the first pivot axis, the first clamping member, the second pivot axis, and the biasing structure are configured such that the first sub-member is moved relative to the pedal body about the first pivot axis in the first pivot direction in a state in which a first force is applied to the first clamping member to move the first clamping member in the first pivot direction.The first sub-member, the first pivot axis, the first clamping member, the second pivot axis, and the biasing structure are configured such that the first sub-member remains or is moved relative to the pedal body about the first pivot axis in the second pivot direction in a state in which a second force is applied to the first clamping member to move the first clamping member in the third pivot direction, the first force being directed in a direction different from a direction of the second force.

[0011] Preferably, the bicycle pedal is configured such that the first pivot axis is substantially parallel to the rotation axis. The first pivot axis may be closer to the pedal shaft than the second pivot axis when viewed from the axial direction parallel to the first pivot axis.

[0012] Preferably, the bicycle pedal is configured such that the first clamping member includes a first cleat engagement portion configured to engage the cleat in a state where the first clamping member and the second clamping member clamp the cleat. The second pivot axis may be closer to the first cleat engagement portion than the first pivot axis when viewed from the axial direction parallel to the rotation axis.

[0013] Preferably, the bicycle pedal is configured such that the first sub-member is movable relative to the pedal body about the first pivot axis between a first position and a second position. The first clamping member can be movable relative to the first sub-member about a second pivot axis between a third position and a fourth position. The first sub-member, the first pivot axis, the first clamping member, the second pivot axis, and the biasing structure can be configured such that a first torque for pivoting the first sub-member about the first pivot axis in the direction of the second position is less than a second torque for pivoting the first clamping member about the second pivot axis in the direction of the fourth position.

[0014] Preferably, the bicycle pedal is configured such that the first sub-member, the first pivot axis, the first clamping member, the second pivot axis, and the biasing structure are configured such that the first sub-member is moved relative to the pedal body about the first pivot axis in the first pivot direction in a state in which a first force is applied to the first clamping member to move the first clamping member in the first direction.The first sub-member, the first pivot axis, the first clamping member, the second pivot axis, and the biasing structure may be configured such that the first sub-member remains or is moved relative to the pedal body about the first pivot axis in the second pivot direction in a state in which a second force to move the first clamping member in the third direction is applied to the first clamping member, the first force being directed in a direction different from a direction of the second force.

[0015] Preferably, the bicycle pedal is designed such that a first force is applied by the cleat or footplate to the first clamping member during a step-in operation of the bicycle pedal. The second force can be applied by the cleat or footplate to the first clamping member during a step-out operation of the bicycle pedal.

[0016] Preferably, the bicycle pedal is designed such that the first force is directed in a first force direction to provide a first force angle between the first force direction and a cleat attachment plane defined by the first clamping member and the second clamping member. The second force can act directly or in a second force direction to provide a second force angle between the second force direction and the cleat attachment plane. The first force angle can be greater than the second force angle.

[0017] Preferably, the bicycle pedal is configured such that the biasing structure includes a first biasing member and a second biasing member. The first biasing member may be configured to bias the first clamping member relative to the pedal body in the fourth pivoting direction. The second biasing member may be configured to bias the first clamping member relative to the first sub-member in the fourth pivoting direction.

[0018] Preferably, the bicycle pedal is configured such that the first biasing member includes a first end and a second end. The first end may be configured to engage the pedal body. The second end may be configured to engage the first clamping member. The second biasing member may include a third end and a fourth end. The third end may be configured to engage the first sub-member. The fourth end may be configured to engage the first clamping member.

[0019] Preferably, the bicycle pedal is configured such that the second biasing member is configured to apply a biasing force to the first sub-member at a third point defined between the third end and the first sub-member. The second biasing member may be configured to apply a biasing force to the first clamping member at a fourth point defined between the fourth end and the first clamping member. A distance between the first pivot axis and the third point may be shorter than a distance between the first pivot axis and the fourth point.

[0020] Preferably, the bicycle pedal is configured such that the biasing structure includes a biasing support configured to support the second biasing member to be pivotable relative to the first sub-member about a biasing pivot axis.

[0021] Preferably, the bicycle pedal is designed such that the preload pivot axis is substantially coaxial with the first pivot axis.

[0022] Preferably, the bicycle pedal is configured such that the preload support includes a movable part and a pivoting part. The movable part may be spaced from the preload pivot axis. The pivoting part may be configured to pivotally support the movable part relative to the pedal body about a preload pivot axis. The second preload member may be mounted to the movable part.

[0023] Preferably, the bicycle pedal is configured such that the movable part is provided between the pedal shaft and the second pivot axis when viewed from the axial direction parallel to the rotation axis.

[0024] Preferably, the bicycle pedal is configured such that the movable part is closer to the first cleat engagement portion than the first pivot shaft when viewed from the axial direction parallel to the rotation axis.

[0025] Preferably, the bicycle pedal is configured such that the third end of the second biasing member includes a contact part configured to contact the first sub-member. The contact part may be closer to the first cleat engagement portion than the first pivot axis when viewed from the axial direction parallel to the rotation axis.

[0026] Preferably, the bicycle pedal is designed such that the pivoting part is designed to be pivotally connected to the pedal body.

[0027] Preferably, the bicycle pedal is configured such that the bias pivot axis is closer to the first cleat engagement portion than the second pivot axis when viewed from the axial direction parallel to the rotation axis.

[0028] Preferably, the bicycle pedal is configured such that, when viewed from the axial direction parallel to the rotation axis, the second pivot axis is arranged within a contour or outer line of the second biasing member in a state in which the first clamping member is arranged in a rest position in which the first clamping member is free from a force from the cleat.

[0029] Preferably, the bicycle pedal is configured such that the third end of the second biasing member includes a contact part configured to contact the first sub-member. The contact part may be closer to the first cleat engagement portion than the first pivot axis when viewed from the axial direction parallel to the rotation axis.

[0030] Preferably, the bicycle pedal is configured such that the pedal body includes a restriction portion configured to restrict or limit the first sub-member from moving relative to the pedal body in the second pivoting direction. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] A more complete appreciation of the invention and many of the attendant advantages thereof will be better understood by reference to the following description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a bicycle pedal according to a first embodiment, with a cleat or footplate; Fig. 2 a cross-sectional view of the bicycle pedal along the line II-II of Fig. 1 is; Fig. 3 a cross-sectional view of the bicycle pedal along the line III-III of Fig. 1 is; Fig. 4 a cross-sectional view of the bicycle pedal along the line IV-IV of Fig. 1 is; Fig. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the bicycle pedal illustrated in Fig. 1 is; Fig. 6 is a partially exploded perspective view of the bicycle pedal illustrated in Fig. 1 is; Fig. 7 a partially exploded perspective view of the bicycle pedal along the line VII-VII of Fig. 1 is; Fig. 8 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the bicycle pedal taken along the line VIII-VIII of Fig. 1 is; Fig. 9 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the bicycle pedal along the line IX-IX of Fig. 1 is; Fig. 10 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the bicycle pedal taken along the line XX of Fig. 1 is; Fig. 11 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the bicycle pedal along the line XI-XI of Fig. 1 is; Fig. 12 is an exploded perspective view of a bicycle pedal according to a second embodiment; Fig. 13 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the bicycle pedal taken along the line XIII-XIII of Fig. 12 is; Fig. 14 is a partially exploded perspective view of the bicycle pedal illustrated in Fig. 12 is; Fig. 15 is an exploded perspective view of the bicycle pedal according to a third embodiment; Fig. 16 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the bicycle pedal taken along the line XVI-XVI of Fig. 15 is; Fig. 17 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the bicycle pedal taken along the line XVII-XVII of Fig. 15 is; Fig. 18 a partially perspective exploded view of the bicycle pedal illustrated in Fig. 15 is; Fig. 19 is a partial elevational view of a preload structure of the bicycle pedal illustrated in Fig. 15 is; Fig. 20 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the bicycle pedal taken along the line XX-XX of Fig. 15 is; Fig. 21 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the bicycle pedal taken along the line XXI-XXI of Fig. 15 is; Fig. 22 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the bicycle pedal along the line XXII-XXII of Fig. 15 is; Fig. 23 is an exploded perspective view of a bicycle pedal according to a fourth embodiment; Fig. 24 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the bicycle pedal taken along the line XXIV-XXIV of Fig. 23 is; Fig. 25 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the bicycle pedal taken along the line XXV-XXV of Fig. 23 is; Fig. 26 a partially exploded perspective view of the bicycle pedal illustrated in Fig. 23 is; and Fig. 27 is a partial side elevational view of a preload structure of the bicycle pedal illustrated in Fig. 23 is. DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0032] The embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein the same reference numerals designate corresponding or identical elements throughout the different drawings. First embodiment

[0033] Firstly, referring to Fig. 1, a bicycle pedal 10 according to the first embodiment includes a pedal shaft 12, a pedal body 14, a first sub-member 16, a first clamping member 18, and a second clamping member 20. The pedal shaft is configured to be secured to a crank arm (not shown). The pedal body 14 is rotationally supported on the pedal shaft 12 about a rotation axis A1.

[0034] The first sub-member 16 is movably coupled to the pedal body 14. The first clamping member 18 is movably coupled to the first sub-member 16. In the illustrated embodiment, the first sub-member 16 is pivotally coupled to the pedal body 14. The first clamping member 18 is pivotally coupled to the first sub-member 16. The second clamping member 20 is coupled to the pedal body 14 to clamp a cleat or footplate 2 together with the first clamping member 18. The cleat 2 is attached to a sole of a shoe (not shown) using bolts 4. The cleat 2 includes a cleat body 6 and a mounting plate 8.

[0035] In the illustrated embodiment, the first clamping member 18 is a rear clamping member configured to engage a rear end 2a of the cleat 2. The second clamping member 20 is a front clamping member configured to engage a front end 2b of the cleat 2. However, the first clamping member 18 may be a front clamping member and the second clamping member 20 may be a rear clamping member if needed and / or desired.

[0036] Throughout the present application, the following directional terms such as "front," "rear," "forward," "backward," "left," "right," "across," "upward," "downward," and any other similar directional terms refer to directions determined based on a user (e.g., a rider) sitting on a seat (not shown) of a bicycle (not shown) and facing a handlebar (not shown). Accordingly, as used herein to describe the bicycle pedal 10, these terms should be interpreted with respect to the bicycle equipped with the bicycle pedal 10 as used in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface.

[0037] As in Fig. 2, the first sub-member 16 is movable with respect to the pedal body 14 about a first pivot axis PA1 in a first pivot direction D11 and a second pivot direction D12, opposite to the first pivot direction D11. The first sub-member 16 is movable with respect to the pedal body 14 about the first pivot axis PA1 between a first position P1 and a second position P2. In the illustrated embodiment, the first sub-member 16 is pivotable with respect to the pedal body 14 about the first pivot axis PA1 in the first pivot direction D11 and the second pivot direction D12. The first sub-member 16 is pivotable with respect to the pedal body 14 about the first pivot axis PA1 between the first position P1 and the second position P2. The first sub-member 16 is positioned in the first position P1 in a state in which the cleat or footplate 2 ( Fig. 1) is released from the bicycle pedal 10.

[0038] As in Fig. 3, the pedal body 14 includes a restricting portion 21 configured to restrict the first sub-link 16 from moving relative to the pedal body 14 in the second pivoting direction D12. The restricting portion 21 is configured to restrict the first sub-link 16 from pivoting relative to the pedal body 14 about the first pivot axis PA1 in the second pivoting direction D12. The first sub-link 16 is configured to contact the restricting portion 21 to restrict the first sub-link 16 from pivoting relative to the pedal body 16 about the first pivot axis PA1 in the second pivoting direction D12. The first sub-link 16 is positioned in the first position P1 in a state where the restricting portion 21 restricts the first sub-link 16 from moving relative to the pedal body 14 in the second pivoting direction D12.However, the first position P1 may be a location where the first sub-member 16 is spaced from the restriction portion 21.

[0039] As in Fig. 4, the first clamping member 18 is movable relative to the first sub-member 16 about a second pivot axis PA2, which is substantially parallel to the first pivot axis PA1, in a third pivot direction D13 and a fourth pivot direction D14, opposite to the third pivot direction D13. The first clamping member 18 is movable relative to the first sub-member 16 about the second pivot axis PA2 between a third position and a fourth position P4. In the illustrated embodiment, the first clamping member 18 is pivotable relative to the first sub-member 16 about the second pivot axis PA2 in the third pivot direction D13 and the fourth pivot direction D14. The first clamping member 18 is pivotable relative to the first sub-member 16 about the second pivot axis PA2 between the third position P3 and the fourth position P4.

[0040] As in Fig. 4, the first clamping member 18 is positioned in the third position P3, in a state in which the stud or cleat or foot plate 2 ( Fig. 1) is / is released from the bicycle pedal 10. The first sub-link 16 includes a restricting part 16a configured to restrict the first clamping member 18 from moving relative to the first sub-link 16 in the fourth pivoting direction D14. The restricting part 16a is configured to contact the first clamping member 18. The first clamping member 18 is positioned in the third position P3 relative to the first sub-link 16, in a state where the first sub-link 16 restricts the first clamping member 18 from moving relative to the first sub-link 16 in the fourth pivoting direction D14.

[0041] In the illustrated embodiment, as shown in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 4, the third position P3 and the fourth position P4 of the first clamping member 18 are defined by the second pivot axis PA2 and a reference point RP1. The first position P1 and the second position P2 of the first sub-member 16 are defined by the first pivot axis PA1 and the second pivot axis PA2.

[0042] As in Fig. 2, the first clamping member 18, together with the first sub-member 16, is pivotable relative to the pedal body 14 about the first pivot axis PA1. In the illustrated embodiment, the first clamping member 18, together with the first sub-member 16, is pivotable relative to the pedal body 14 about the first pivot axis PA1 between a fifth position P5 and a sixth position P6. The first clamping member 18 pivots relative to the pedal body 14 about the first pivot axis PA1 between the fifth position P5 and the sixth position P6 in a state in which the first clamping member 18 is in the third position P3 relative to the first sub-member 16 ( Fig. 4) is / will be positioned. The fifth position P5 of the first clamping member 18 corresponds to the first position P1 of the first sub-member 16. The sixth position P6 of the first clamping member 18 corresponds to the second position P2 of the first sub-member 16.

[0043] In the illustrated embodiment, as shown in Fig. 2, the fifth position P5 and the sixth position P6 of the first clamping member 18 are defined by the first pivot axis P1 and a reference point RP1.

[0044] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 2, the first pivot axis PA1 is substantially parallel to the rotation axis A1. The second pivot axis PA2 is substantially parallel to the rotation axis A1 and the first pivot axis PA1. More specifically, the first pivot axis PA1 is parallel to the rotation axis A1. The second pivot axis PA2 is parallel to the rotation axis A1 and the first pivot axis PA1.

[0045] The first pivot axis PA1 is closer to a point PT1 on the pedal shaft 12 than the second pivot axis PA2 when viewed from an axial direction D2 (a direction perpendicular to a paper surface of Fig. 4) parallel to a first pivot axis PA1. More specifically, the first pivot axis PA1 is closer to the pedal shaft 12 than the second pivot axis PA2 when viewed from the axial direction D2 (the direction perpendicular to the paper surface of Fig. 4) viewed parallel to the first pivot axis PA1.

[0046] While the first pivot axis PA1 and the second pivot axis PA2 are substantially parallel to the rotation axis A1 in the illustrated embodiment, the first pivot axis PA1 and the second pivot axis PA2 need not be parallel to the rotation axis A1.

[0047] As in Fig. 2, the pedal body 14 includes a tubular part 14a. The pedal shaft 12 includes a shaft rod 12a, an outer tube 12b, and a bearing 12c. The outer tube 12b is provided in the tubular part 14a and is secured to an inner peripheral surface of the tubular part 14a. The shaft rod 12a is configured to be provided on an outer tube 12b and is rotationally supported by the outer tube 12b via the bearing 12c. For example, the point PT1 is defined on an outer peripheral surface of the shaft rod 12a. The first pivot axis PA1 is closer to the rotation axis A1 than the second pivot axis PA2 when viewed from the axial direction D2 (the direction perpendicular to the paper surface of Fig. 4) is considered.

[0048] While the point PT1 is defined on the outer peripheral surface of the shaft rod 12a, the point PT1 may be defined at a position different from the position shown in Fig. 4 may be defined on the outer peripheral surface of the shaft rod 12a. Furthermore, the point PT1 may be defined at a position different from the outer peripheral surface of the shaft rod 12a on the shaft 12. For example, the point PT1 may be defined on an outer peripheral surface of the outer tube 12b.

[0049] As in Fig. 2, the first clamping member 18 includes a first cleat engagement portion 22 which is designed to engage with the cleat or foot plate 2 ( Fig. 1) to be engaged / get into engagement. In a state where the first clamping member 18 and the second clamping member 20 clamp the cleat or foot plate 2. The second pivot axis PA2 is closer to the first cleat engagement portion 22 than the first pivot axis PA1 when viewed from the axial direction D2 parallel to the rotation axis A1. Furthermore, the second pivot axis PA2 is closer to the first cleat engagement portion 22 than the first pivot axis PA1 in a direction perpendicular to a cleat attachment plane PL1 (described later). The first cleat engagement portion 22 is configured to engage with the rear end 2a of the cleat or foot plate 2 ( Fig. 1) to be in contact with / come into contact with.

[0050] The second clamping member 20 includes a second cleat engagement portion 23 which is designed to engage with the cleat or foot plate 2 ( Fig. 1) in a state in which the first clamping member 18 and the second clamping member 20 clamp the cleat or foot plate 2. The second cleat engagement portion 23 is configured to engage the front end 2b of the cleat or foot plate 2 ( Fig. 1) to be in contact. A cleat attachment plane PL1 is defined by the first clamping member 18 and the second clamping member 20. More specifically, the cleat attachment plane PL1 is defined by the first cleat engagement portion 22 and the second cleat engagement portion 23 in a state where the cleat 2 is removed from the bicycle pedal 10.

[0051] As in Fig. 5, the bicycle pedal 10 further comprises a first pivot shaft 24. The first pivot shaft 24 is configured to pivotally support the first sub-member 16 about the first pivot axis PA1. The first pivot shaft 24 is attached to the pedal body 14. The first sub-member 16 is pivotally coupled to the pedal body 14 about the first pivot axis PA1 by the first pivot shaft 24. As shown in Fig. 2, the first pivot axis PA1 is defined as a central axis of the first pivot shaft 24.

[0052] As in Fig. 5, the bicycle pedal 10 further comprises second pivot shafts 25. The second pivot shafts 25 are configured to pivotally support the first clamping member 18 about the second pivot axis PA2. The second pivot shafts 25 are attached to the first sub-member 16. The first clamping member 18 is pivotally coupled to the first sub-member 16 and the second pivot axis PA2 by the second pivot shafts 25. As shown in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 2, the second pivot axis PA2 is defined as the central axis of the second pivot shafts 25.

[0053] In the illustrated embodiment, as shown in Fig. 2, the bicycle pedal 10 is a two-sided pedal (e.g., a mountain bike style). More specifically, the bicycle pedal 10 further comprises a second lower member 26, a third clamping member 28, and a fourth clamping member 30. The third clamping member 28 is a rear clamping member configured to engage the rear end 2a of the cleat or footplate 2 ( Fig. 1) and the first clamping member 18. The fourth clamping member 30 is a front clamping member which is designed to engage with the front end 2b of the cleat or foot plate 2 ( Fig. 1) and the second clamping member 20. However, the third clamping member 28 can be a front clamping member and the fourth clamping member 30 can be a rear clamping member if needed and / or desired.

[0054] In the illustrated embodiment, the second sub-member 26 has the same structure as the structure of the first sub-member 16. The third clamping member 28 has the same structure as the structure of the first clamping member 18. The fourth clamping member 30 has the same structure as the structure of the second clamping member 20. However, the second sub-member 26 may have a different structure than the structure of the first sub-member 16. The third clamping member 28 may have a different structure than the structure of the first clamping member 18. The fourth clamping member 30 may have a different structure than the structure of the second clamping member 20.

[0055] The second sub-member 26, the third clamping member 28, and the fourth clamping member 30 have the same structures as the structures of the first sub-member 16, the first clamping member 18, and the second clamping member 20, respectively. Accordingly, the elements have substantially the same function as those in the first embodiment and are therefore designated by the same reference numerals and, for the sake of brevity, are not described and / or illustrated in further detail below.

[0056] In a case where the bicycle pedal 10 is a single-sided pedal (a road bicycle style), at least one of the second sub-member 26, the third clamping member 28, and the fourth clamping member 30 may be omitted from the bicycle pedal 10.

[0057] As in Fig. 2, the second sub-member 26 is movably coupled to the pedal body 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the third clamping member 28 is pivotally coupled to the second sub-member 26. The third clamping member 28 is provided on an opposite side of the first clamping member 18 relative to the pedal body 14 (the rotation axis A1). The fourth clamping member 30 is coupled to the pedal body 14 to clamp the cleat or footplate 2 ( Fig. 1) together with the third clamping member 28. More specifically, the fourth clamping member 30 is pivotally coupled to the pedal body 14.

[0058] The fourth clamping member 30 is provided on an opposite side of the second clamping member 20 relative to the pedal body 14 (the rotation axis A1).

[0059] As in Fig. 2, the second sub-member 26 is movable relative to the pedal body 14 about a third pivot axis PA3 in a fifth pivot direction D15 and a sixth pivot direction D16, opposite to the fifth pivot direction D15. The second sub-member 26 is movable relative to the pedal body 14 about the third pivot axis PA3 between a seventh position P7 and an eighth position P8. In the illustrated embodiment, the second sub-member 26 is pivotable relative to the pedal body 14 about a third pivot axis PA3 in a fifth pivot direction D15 and a sixth pivot direction D16, opposite to the fifth pivot direction D15. The second sub-member 26 is pivotable relative to the pedal body 14 about the third pivot axis PA3 between a seventh position P7 and an eighth position P8. The second sub-link 26 is positioned at the seventh position P7, in a state where the cleat or foot plate 2 ( Fig. 1) is / will be released from the bicycle pedal 10.

[0060] As in Fig. 3, the pedal body 14 includes an additional restricting portion 31 configured to restrict the second sub-link 26 from moving relative to the pedal body 14 in the sixth pivoting direction D16. The additional restricting portion 31 is configured to restrict the second sub-link 26 from pivoting relative to the pedal body 14 about the third pivot axis PA3 in the sixth pivoting direction D16. The second sub-link 26 is configured to contact / come into contact with the additional restricting portion 31. The second sub-link 26 is positioned at the seventh position P7 in a state where the additional restricting portion 31 restricts the second sub-link 26 from moving relative to the pedal body 14 in the sixth pivoting direction D16.

[0061] As in Fig. 4, the third clamping member 28 is movable relative to the second sub-member 26 about a fourth pivot axis PA4, which is substantially parallel to the third pivot axis PA3, in a seventh pivot direction D17 and an eighth pivot direction D18, opposite to the seventh pivot direction D17. The third clamping member 28 is movable relative to the second sub-member 26 about the fourth pivot axis PA4 between a ninth position P9 and a tenth position P10. In the illustrated embodiment, the third clamping member 28 is pivotable relative to the second sub-member 26 about the fourth pivot axis PA4 in the seventh pivot direction D17 and the eighth pivot direction D18. The third clamping member 28 is pivotable relative to the second sub-member 26 about the fourth pivot axis PA4 between the ninth position P9 and the tenth position P10.

[0062] In the illustrated embodiment, as shown in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 4, the ninth position P9 and the tenth position P10 of the third clamping member 28 are defined by the fourth pivot axis PA4 and a reference point RP2. The seventh position P7 and the eighth position P8 of the second sub-member 26 are defined by the third pivot axis PA3 and the fourth pivot axis PA4.

[0063] The third pivot axis PA3 is substantially parallel to the rotation axis A1, the first pivot axis PA1, and the second pivot axis PA2. The fourth pivot axis PA4 is substantially parallel to the rotation axis A1, the first pivot axis PA1, the second pivot axis PA2, and the third pivot axis PA3. The third pivot axis PA3 is closer to the point PT1 on the pedal shaft 12 than the fourth pivot axis PA4 when viewed from an axial direction D2 parallel to the third pivot axis PA3. More specifically, the third pivot axis PA3 is closer to the pedal shaft 12 than the fourth pivot axis PA4 when viewed from the axial direction D2 parallel to the third pivot axis PA3.

[0064] While the third pivot axis PA3 and the fourth pivot axis PA4 are substantially parallel to the rotation axis A1 in the illustrated embodiment, the third pivot axis PA3 and the fourth pivot axis PA4 need not be parallel to the rotation axis A1.

[0065] As in Fig. 2, the third clamping member 28, together with the second sub-member 26, is pivotable relative to the pedal body 14 about the third pivot axis PA3. In the illustrated embodiment, the third clamping member 28, together with the second sub-member 26, is pivotable relative to the pedal body 14 about the third pivot axis PA3 between an eleventh position P11 and a twelfth position P12. The third clamping member 28 pivots relative to the pedal body 14 about the third pivot axis PA3 between the eleventh position P11 and the twelfth position P12 in a state in which the third clamping member 28 is in the ninth position P9 relative to the second sub-member 26 ( Fig. 4). The eleventh position P11 of the third clamping member 28 corresponds to the seventh position P7 of the second sub-member 26. The twelfth position P12 of the third clamping member 28 corresponds to the eighth position P8 of the second sub-member 26.

[0066] As in Fig. 5, the pedal body 14 includes a first frame 14b and a second frame 14c. The tubular part 14a extends in the axial direction D2. The tubular part 14a is rotationally supported to the pedal shaft 12. The first frame 14b is secured to the tubular part 14a. The second frame 14c is secured to the tubular part 14a and is opposite to the first frame 14b. The tubular part 14a and the first frame 14b define a first space SP1. The first sub-member 16 and the second clamping member 18 are at least partially provided in the first space SP1. The tubular part 14a and the second frame 14c define a second space SP2. The second sub-member 26 and the third clamping member 28 are at least partially provided in the second space SP2.

[0067] In the illustrated embodiment, the first frame 14b and the second frame 14c are provided integrally with the tubular part 14a as a single unitary member. However, at least one of the first frame 14b and the second frame 14c may be provided as a separate member from the tubular part 14a if needed and / or desired.

[0068] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 6, the first sub-link 16 is provided integrally with the fourth clamping member 30. In the illustrated embodiment, the first sub-link 16 is provided integrally with the fourth clamping member 30 as a single unitary member. The fourth clamping member 30 is pivotable relative to the pedal body 14 about the first pivot axis PA1 together with the first sub-link 16. However, the first sub-link 16 may be a separate member from the fourth clamping member 30.

[0069] The first sub-member 16 includes a pair of coupling portions 34 spaced apart from each other in the axial direction D2. The coupling portions 34 are coupled to each other by the fourth clamping member 30. Each of the coupling portions 34 includes a first pivot hole 34a and a second pivot hole 34b. The first pivot shaft 24 ( Fig. 5) extends through the first pivot holes 34a. The second pivot shafts 25 each extend through the second pivot holes 34b.

[0070] As in Fig. 6, the first clamping member 18 includes a first clamping body 36 and a pair of fastening portions 38. The clamping body 36 includes the first cleat engagement portion 22, which is designed to engage with the rear end 2a of the cleat or foot plate 2 ( Fig. 1) to engage / come into engagement. The attachment portions 38 are coupled to each other by the clamp body 36. The attachment portions 38 protrude from the clamp body 36 and are spaced apart from each other in the axial direction D2. Each of the attachment portions 38 includes a pivot hole 38a. The second pivot shaft 25 extends through the pivot hole 38a to pivotally support the first clamp member 18 relative to the first sub-member 16 about the second pivot axis PA2.

[0071] In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment portions 38 are provided integrally with the clamp body 36 as a single unitary member. However, at least one of the attachment portions 38 may be provided as a separate member from the clamp body 36 if needed and / or desired.

[0072] As in Fig. As can be seen in Fig. 7, the first clamping member 18 further includes an adjustment plate 40 and an adjustment bolt 42. The adjustment plate 40 has a threaded hole 40a. The adjustment bolt 42 includes a threaded bolt 42a, a flange portion 42b, and a head portion 42c. The adjustment bolt 42 projects from the flange portion 42b. The head portion 42c projects from the flange portion 42b toward an opposite side of the threaded bolt 42a. The threaded bolt 42a is screwed into the threaded hole 40a. The flange portion 42b is provided between the adjustment plate 40 and the clamp body 36. The flange portion 42b engages the clamp body 36. The clamp body 36 includes a through hole 36a. The head portion 42c is provided in the through hole 36a. The adjusting bolt 42 is rotatable relative to the clamping body 36 and the adjusting plate 40 about a central axis A2 of the adjusting bolt 42.

[0073] The clamping body 36 is configured to guide the adjustment plate 40 in an adjustment direction D3 parallel to the center axis A2 of the adjustment bolt 42. The clamping body 36 is configured to prevent the adjustment plate 40 from rotating relative to the clamping body 36 about the center axis A2. The rotation of the adjustment bolt 42 relative to the clamping body 36 moves the adjustment plate 40 relative to the clamping body 36 in the adjustment direction D3.

[0074] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 8, the bicycle pedal 10 includes a biasing structure 44. The biasing structure 44 is configured to bias the first clamping member 18 in the fourth pivoting direction D14 and the first sub-member 16 in the second pivoting direction D12. The biasing structure 44 is configured to bias the first clamping member 18 toward the third position P3. The biasing structure 44 is configured to bias the first sub-member 16 toward the first position P1, in a state where the restricting part 16a restricts the first clamping member 18 from moving relative to the first sub-member 16 in the second pivoting direction D12. In the illustrated embodiment, the biasing structure 44 is configured to bias the first clamping member 18 (the adjustment plate 40) toward the third position P3 such that the sub-member 16 is biased toward the first position P1.

[0075] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 5, the biasing structure 44 includes a first biasing member 46. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the first biasing member 46 is a torsion spring. However, the first biasing member 46 may be a biasing member other than a torsion spring. Furthermore, the biasing structure 44 may include a plurality of biasing members to bias the first clamping member 18 and the first sub-member 16.

[0076] The first pivot shaft 24 extends through the first biasing member 46. The first biasing member 46 is mounted to the pedal body 14 via the first pivot shaft 24. Thus, the first biasing member 46 is mounted on the first pivot axis PA1. However, the first biasing member 46 may be mounted on the second pivot axis PA2 or at another location on the bicycle pedal body 10.

[0077] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 8, the first biasing member 46 is configured to bias the first clamping member 18 relative to the pedal body 14 toward the third position P3 in the fourth pivot direction D14. The first biasing member 46 includes a first end 46a and a second end 46b. The first end 46a is configured to engage / come into engagement with the pedal body 14. The second end 46b is configured to engage / come into engagement with the first clamping member 18.

[0078] In the illustrated embodiment, the first end 46a is configured to engage with the tubular part 14a of the pedal body 14. The second end 46b is configured to engage with the adjustment plate 40 of the first clamping member 18 at an engagement point PE1. The first biasing member 46 is configured to bias the first sub-member 16 relative to the pedal body 14 in the second pivoting direction D12 in a state where the first clamping member 18 is in contact with the restricting part 16a of the first sub-member 16.

[0079] A first preload force FB1 is applied to the first clamping member 18 (the adjustment plate 40) by the first preload member 46 at the engagement point PE1. The first preload force FB1 can be defined, for example, at the center axis A2 of the adjustment bolt 42.

[0080] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 8, the second pivot axis PA2 is closer to the central axis A2 of the adjusting bolt 42 than the first pivot axis PA1. A first minimum distance L1 is defined between the first pivot axis PA1 and the central axis A2. A second minimum distance L2 is defined between the second pivot axis PA2 and a line intersecting the engagement point PE1 and parallel to the direction of the first preload force FB1. The line is substantially identical to the central axis A2 in the first embodiment. The second minimum distance L2 is shorter than the first minimum distance L1.

[0081] In a step-in operation of the bicycle pedal 10, a first torque T1 is required to pivot the first sub-link 16 about the first pivot axis PA1 in the first pivot direction D11. In a step-out operation of the bicycle pedal 10, a second torque T2 is required to pivot the first clamping member 18 about the second pivot axis PA2 in the third pivot direction D13. The first torque T1 can be less than the second torque T2. In the illustrated embodiment, the first torque T1 can also be defined as a torque to pivot the first clamping member 18 about the first pivot axis PA1 in the direction of the sixth position P6 together with the first sub-link 16. The step-in operation is an operation in which a user (a rider) clips the cleat or footplate 2 of the shoe into the bicycle pedal 10. The step-out operation is an operation in which the user (a rider) pushes the stud orthe cleat or foot plate 2 of the shoe is released from the bicycle pedal 10.

[0082] In the bicycle pedal 10, a pivot axis of the first clamping member 18 is shifted or changed between the first pivot axis PA1 and the second pivot axis PA2 in the step-in operation and the step-out operation. The reasons for shifting or changing the pivot axis of the first clamping member 16 are described below.

[0083] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 9, a first force FC1 is applied from the cleat 2 to the first clamping member 18 in a step-in operation of the bicycle pedal 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the first clamping member 18 includes a contact surface 18a configured to come into contact with the rear end 2a of the cleat 2. The first force FC1 is directed in a direction perpendicular to the contact surface 18a. The first force FC1 is directed in a first force direction D41 to provide a first force angle θ1 between the first force direction D41 and the cleat attachment plane PL1 defined by the first clamping member 18 and the second clamping member 20.

[0084] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 9, a first total force FT1 of the first biasing force FB1 and the first force FC1 is applied to the first clamping member 18 in the step-in operation of the bicycle pedal 10. It is taught that the first total force FT1 is applied to the second pivot axis PA2. Since the first total force FT1 is offset from the first pivot axis PA1 and the first total force FT1 is inclined downward with respect to a line including the first pivot axis PA1 and the second pivot axis PA2, a first torque M1 (a first sub-torque) is applied to the first sub-link 16 about the first pivot axis PA1 in the first pivot direction D11. Consequently, the first sub-link 16 is moved relative to the pedal body 14 about the first pivot axis PA1 in the first pivot direction D11.

[0085] Specifically, the first sub-link 16, the first pivot axis PA1, the first clamping member 18, the second pivot axis PA2, and the biasing structure 44 are configured such that the first sub-link 16 is moved relative to the pedal body 14 about the first pivot axis PA1 in the first pivot direction D11 in a state where the first force FC1 for moving the first clamping member 18 in the first pivot direction D11 is applied to the first clamping member 18. More specifically, the first sub-link 16 and the first clamping member 18 are pivoted relative to the pedal body 14 about the first pivot axis PA1 in the first pivot direction D11 in the step-in operation of the bicycle pedal 10.

[0086] On the other hand, as in Fig. 10, a second force FC2 is applied from the cleat or footplate 2 to the first clamping member 18 in a step-out actuation of the bicycle pedal 10. During the step-out actuation, the user rotates the shoe about a vertical axis to apply the second force FC2 via the cleat or footplate 2 to the first clamping member 18.

[0087] The first force FC1 is directed in a first direction, different from a direction of the second force FC2. The second force FC2 is directed in a second force direction D42 to provide a second force angle θ2 between the second force direction D42 and the cleat attachment plane PL1. Unlike the step-in actuation, the second force FC2 is directed in a second force direction D42 that is substantially parallel to the cleat attachment plane PL1 because the cleat or footplate 2 is twisted about the vertical axis that is substantially perpendicular to the cleat attachment plane PL1.

[0088] As in the Fig. 9 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 10, the first force angle θ1 is greater than the second force angle θ2. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the first force angle θ1 is approximately 45°, while the second force angle θ2 is approximately 0°.

[0089] As in Fig. 10, a second total force FT2 of the first preload force FB1 and the second force FC2 is applied to the first clamping member 18 in the step-out operation of the bicycle pedal 10. The second total force FT2 is taught to be applied to the second pivot axis PA2. Since the second total force FT2 is offset from the first pivot axis PA1 and the second total force FT2 is inclined downward with respect to the line including the first pivot axis PA1 and the second pivot axis PA2, a second torque M2 (a second sub-torque) is applied to the first sub-link 16 about the first pivot axis PA1 in the second pivot direction D12. Consequently, the first sub-link 16 remains in the first position P1 restricted by the restricting portion 21 or is moved relative to the pedal body 14 about the first pivot axis PA1 in the second pivot direction D12 until the first sub-link 16 touches the restricting portion 21.

[0090] Namely, the first sub-link 16, the first pivot axis PA1, the first clamping member 18, the second pivot axis PA2, and the biasing structure 44 are configured such that the first sub-link 16 remains or is moved relative to the pedal body 14 about the first pivot axis PA1 in the second pivot direction D12 in a state in which the second force FC2 for moving the first clamping member 18 in the third pivot direction D13 is applied to the first clamping member 18.

[0091] More specifically, in a state where the restriction section 21 ( Fig. 3) If the first sub-link 16 is restricted from pivoting in the second pivot direction D12 relative to the pedal body 14, the first sub-link remains in the first position P1 relative to the pedal body 14 in the step-out operation. At this time, the first clamping member 18 is pivoted about the second pivot axis PA2 relative to the first sub-link 16 in the third pivot direction D13 due to the second force FC2.

[0092] In a state where the first sub-member 16 is separated from the restriction portion 21 ( Fig. 3), the first sub-link 16 is moved relative to the pedal body 14 about the first pivot axis PA1 in the second pivot direction D12 in the step-out operation. At this time, the first clamp member 18 is pivoted about the second pivot axis PA2 relative to the first sub-link 16 in the third pivot direction D13 due to the second force FC2. After the first sub-link 16 comes into contact with the restricting portion 21, the first sub-link 16 remains at the first position P1 relative to the pedal body 16, and the first clamp member 18 is further pivoted about the second pivot axis PA2 relative to the first sub-link 16 in the third pivot direction D13 due to the second force FC2.

[0093] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 11, the first total force FT1 is defined on a first virtual line LV1 passing through the second pivot axis PA2 when from the axial direction D2 (a direction perpendicular to a paper surface of Fig. 11). The second total force FT2 is defined at a second virtual line LV2 passing through the second pivot axis PA2 when viewed from the axial direction. The second virtual line LV2 intersects the first virtual line LV1 at the second pivot axis PA2 to provide a third angle θ3 between the first virtual line LV1 and the second virtual line LV2. In the illustrated embodiment, the third angle θ3 is an acute angle. The first pivot axis PA1 is attached to an area AR1 defined between the first virtual line LV1 and the second virtual line LV2 with the third angle θ3 when viewed from the axial direction D2.

[0094] For the bicycle pedal 10, as in Fig. 4, the first pivot axis PA1 is closer to the point PT1 on the pedal shaft 14 than the second pivot axis PA2 when viewed from the axial direction D2 parallel to the first pivot axis PA1. This arrangement enables the pivot axis of the first clamping member 18 to be shifted between the first pivot axis PA1 and the second pivot axis PA2 in the step-in operation and in the step-out operation. Consequently, the first torque T1 to pivot the first sub-link 16 about the first pivot axis PA1 in the first pivot direction D11 in the step-in operation can be lower than the second torque T2 to pivot the first clamping member 18 about the second pivot axis PA2 in the third pivot direction D13 in the step-out operation by adjusting the preload force applied to the first clamping member 18 and the first sub-link 16, respectively.Accordingly, it is possible to make the step-in operation easier for the user while the cleat or footplate 2 is firmly held by the bicycle pedal 10, such that the cleat or footplate 2 is prevented from being accidentally detached from the bicycle pedal 10. Second embodiment

[0095] A bicycle pedal 210 according to a second embodiment will be described below with reference to the Fig. 12 to 14. The bicycle pedal 210 has the same configuration as the bicycle pedal 10, except for the biasing structure 44. Accordingly, the elements having substantially the same function as in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals herein and will not be described and / or illustrated again in detail below for the sake of brevity.

[0096] As in Fig. 12, the bicycle pedal 210 includes a biasing structure 244. The biasing structure 244 includes the first biasing member 46 and a second biasing member 248.

[0097] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 13, the biasing structure 244 is configured to bias the first clamping member 18 in the fourth pivot direction D14 and the first sub-member 16 in the second pivot direction D12. The second biasing member 248 is configured to bias the first clamping member 18 relative to the first sub-member 16 in the fourth pivot direction D14.

[0098] The second biasing member 248 includes a third end 248a and a fourth end 248b. The third end 248a is configured to engage the first sub-member 16. The fourth end 248b is configured to engage the clamp body 36. The first pivot axis 24 extends through the second biasing member 248. The second biasing member 248 includes a coiled body 248c configured to generate a biasing force. The third end 248a and the fourth end 248b are connected to both ends of the coiled body 248c, respectively. The first pivot shaft 24 extends through the coiled body 248c.

[0099] As in Fig. 14, the first sub-member 16 includes a pair of engagement portions 235. The engagement portions 235 extend from the coupling portions 34, respectively. As shown in Fig. 13, the third end 248a is configured to engage with one of the engagement portions 235.

[0100] As in Fig. 13, the second biasing member 248 is configured to apply a preload force FB23 to the first sub-member 16 at a third point PT23 defined between the third end 248a and the first sub-member 16. The second biasing member 248 is configured to apply a preload force FB24 to the first clamping member 18 at a fourth point PT24 defined between the fourth end 248b and the first clamping member 18. A distance L21 between the first pivot axis PA1 and the third point PT23 is shorter than a distance L22 defined between the first pivot axis PA1 and the fourth point PT24. The distance L21 is shorter than a distance L23 between the first pivot axis PA1 and the second pivot axis PA2.

[0101] As described in the first embodiment, during the step-in operation of the bicycle pedal 210, the first sub-member 16 and the second clamping member 18 pivot relative to the pedal body 14 about the first pivot axis PA1 in the first pivot direction D11. Consequently, only the first biasing member 46 ( Fig. 12) between the pedal body 14 and the first clamping member 18 in the step-in operation.

[0102] During the step-out operation of the bicycle pedal 210, the first clamping member 18 pivots relative to the first sub-member 16 about the second pivot axis PA2 in the third pivot direction D13. Consequently, the first biasing member 46 ( Fig. 12) and the second biasing member 248 between the first sub-member 16 and the first clamping member 18 are compressed or pressed together.

[0103] Specifically, the first sub-link 16, the first pivot axis PA1, the first clamping member 18, the second pivot axis PA2, and the biasing structure 244 are configured such that a first torque T21 for pivoting the first sub-link 16 about the first pivot axis PA1 toward the second position P2 is less than a second torque T22 for pivoting the first clamping member 28 about the second pivot axis PA2 toward the fourth position P4. Accordingly, it is possible to make the step-in operation easier for the user while firmly holding the cleat 2 to the bicycle pedal 210, thereby preventing the cleat 2 from being accidentally released from the bicycle pedal 210.

[0104] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 13, since the distance L21 is less than the distance L22, a third torque M23 about the first pivot axis PA1, caused by the preload force FB23, is less than the second torque M2. Consequently, the third torque M23 does not prevent the second torque M2 from pivoting the first sub-link 16 about the first pivot axis PA1 in the second pivot direction D12 in the step-out actuation.

[0105] With the bicycle pedal 210, as in Fig. 13, since the first pivot axis PA1 is closer to the point PT1 on the pedal shaft 14 than the second pivot axis PA2 when viewed from the axial direction D2 parallel to the first pivot axis PA1, it is possible to achieve substantially the same advantageous effects as in the bicycle pedal 10 according to the first embodiment. Third embodiment

[0106] A bicycle pedal 310 according to a third embodiment will be described below with reference to the Fig. 15 to 22. The bicycle pedal 310 has the same configuration as the bicycle pedal 10, except for the biasing structure 44. Accordingly, elements having substantially the same function as in the preceding embodiments are given the same reference numerals herein and will not be described and / or illustrated in detail again below for the sake of brevity.

[0107] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 15, the bicycle pedal 310 includes a biasing structure 344. The biasing structure 344 includes a first biasing member 346 and a second biasing member 348.

[0108] As in Fig. 16, the biasing structure 44 is configured to bias the first clamping member 18 in the fourth pivot direction D14 and the first sub-member 16 in the second pivot direction D12. The first biasing member 346 is configured to bias the first clamping member 18 relative to the pedal body 14 in the fourth pivot direction D14, just like the first biasing member 46 according to the first embodiment. The second biasing member 348 is configured to bias the first clamping member 18 relative to the first sub-member 16 in the fourth pivot direction D14, like the second biasing member 248 according to the second embodiment. The first biasing member 346 has substantially the same function as the first biasing member 46 according to the first embodiment. The second biasing member 348 has substantially the same function as the second biasing member 248 according to the second embodiment.However, the first tendon 346 and the second tendon 348 may have different constructions than the constructions of the first tendon 46 and the second tendon 248.

[0109] The first biasing member 346 includes a first end 346a and a second end 346b. The first end 346a is configured to engage the pedal body 14. The second end 346b is configured to engage the first clamping member 18. In the illustrated embodiment, the first end 346 is configured to engage the tubular portion 14a of the pedal body 14. The second end 346b is configured to engage the clamping body 36 and / or one of the mounting portions 38 instead of the adjustment plate 44. In the illustrated embodiment, the adjustment plate 40 and the adjustment bolt 42 are omitted from the first clamping member 18.

[0110] As in the Fig. 16 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 17, the second biasing member 348 includes a third end 348a and a fourth end 348b. The third end 348a is configured to engage the first sub-member 16. The fourth end 348b is configured to engage the first clamping member 18. In the illustrated embodiment, the fourth end 348b is configured to engage the clamping body 36. The second biasing member 348 includes a coiled body 348c configured to generate a biasing force. The third end 348a and the fourth end 348b are connected to the two ends of the coiled body 348c, respectively.

[0111] As in the Fig. 18 and Fig. As can be seen in Fig. 19, each of the coupling portions 34 of the first sub-member 16 includes a through-hole 365. The third end 348a is inserted into one of the through-holes 365. More specifically, the third end 348a of the second biasing member 348 includes a contact part 348d configured to contact the first sub-member 16. The third end 348a includes an arm part 348e. The contact part 348d extends from the arm part 348e in the axial direction D2. The contact part 348d is inserted into one of the through-holes 365 to transmit the biasing force from the second biasing member 348 to the first sub-member 16.

[0112] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 17, the biasing structure 344 includes a biasing support 360 configured to support the second biasing member 348 for pivoting relative to the first sub-member 16 about a biasing pivot axis PB1. The biasing pivot axis PB1 is substantially coaxial with the first pivot axis PA1. More specifically, the biasing pivot axis PB1 is coaxial with the first pivot axis PA1.

[0113] The prestressing support 360 includes a movable part 362 and a pivot part 364. The movable part 362 is spaced from the prestressing pivot axis PB1. The movable part 362 is spaced from the prestressing pivot axis PB1, the first pivot axis PA1, and the second pivot axis PA2. The second prestressing member 348 is mounted to the movable part 362.

[0114] As in the Fig. 18 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 19, the movable part 362 extends in a direction substantially parallel to the biasing pivot axis PB1. In the illustrated embodiment, the movable part 362 extends in the axial direction D2. The movable part 362 extends through the wound body 348c.

[0115] The pivot part 364 is configured to pivotally support the movable part 362 relative to the pedal body 14 about the preload pivot axis PB1. The pivot part 364 includes a first pivot part 366 and a second pivot part 368. The movable part 362 includes a first movable end 362a and a second movable end 362b. The first pivot part 366 is provided at the first movable end 362a. The second pivot part 368 is provided at the second movable end 362b. The first pivot part 366 extends from the first movable end 362a in the radial direction perpendicular to the preload pivot axis PB1. The second pivot part 368 extends from the second movable end 362 in the radial direction perpendicular to the preload pivot axis PB1.

[0116] As in the Fig. 18 and Fig. 19, each of the first pivot part 366 and the second pivot part 368 is pivotally mounted on the first pivot shaft 24. The first pivot part 366 includes a first hole 366a. The second pivot part 368 includes a second hole 368a. The first pivot shaft 24 extends through the first hole 366a and the second hole 368a. The biasing support 360 is pivotable relative to the first sub-member 16 and the first clamping member 18 ( Fig. 18) around the first swivel axis PA1.

[0117] As in Fig. 17, the movable part 362 is provided between the pedal shaft 12 and the second pivot axis PA2 when viewed from the axial direction D2 parallel to the rotation axis A1 (a direction perpendicular to a paper surface of Fig. 17). The movable part 362 is closer to the pedal shaft 12 than the second pivot axis PA2 when viewed from the axial direction D2 parallel to the rotation axis A1. The movable part 362 is closer to the first cleat engagement portion 22 than the first pivot axis PA1 when viewed from the axial direction D2 parallel to the rotation axis A1. The contact part 348d is closer to the first cleat engagement portion 22 than the first pivot axis PA1 when viewed from the axial direction D2 parallel to the rotation axis A1.

[0118] As in Fig. 20, a first preload force FB31 is applied to the first clamping member 18 (the clamp body 36) by the first preload member 46. A first total force FT31 of the first preload force FB31 and the first force FC1 is applied to the first clamping member 18 in the step-in operation of the bicycle pedal 10. It is taught that the first total force FT31 is applied to the second pivot axis PA2. Since the first total force FT31 is offset from the first pivot axis PA1, a first torque M31 (a first sub-torque) is applied to the first sub-link 16 and the first pivot axis PA1 in the first pivot direction D11. Consequently, the first sub-link 16 is moved relative to the pedal body 14 about the pivot axis PA1 in the first pivot direction D11.

[0119] Namely, the first sub-link 16, the first pivot axis PA1, the first clamping member 18, the second pivot axis PA2, and the biasing structure 344 are configured such that the sub-link 16 is moved relative to the pedal body 14 about the first pivot axis PA1 in the first pivot direction D11 in a state where the first force FC1 for moving the first clamping member 18 in the first pivot direction D11 is applied to the first clamping member 18. More specifically, the first sub-link 16 and the first clamping member 18 are pivoted relative to the pedal body 14 about the first pivot axis PA1 in the first pivot direction D11 in the step-in operation of the bicycle pedal 10.

[0120] On the other hand, as in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 21, a second total force FT32 of the first preload force FB1 and the second force FC2 is applied to the first clamping member 18 in the step-out operation of the bicycle pedal 10. The second total force FT32 is taught to be applied to the second pivot axis PA2. Furthermore, a third total force FT33 of the second force FC2 and a preload force FB34, produced by the fourth end 348b, is applied to the first clamping member 18 in the step-out operation of the bicycle pedal 10. Furthermore, a preload force FB33, produced by the third end 348a, is applied to the first sub-link 16. Since the second total force FT32 is offset from the first pivot axis PA1, a second torque M32 (a second sub-torque) is applied to the first sub-link 16 about the first pivot axis PA1 in the second pivot direction D12.Furthermore, a third torque M33, caused by the third total force FT33, is applied to the first sub-link 16 about the first pivot axis PA1 in the first pivot direction D11. Furthermore, a fourth torque M34, caused by the third preload force FB33, is applied to the first sub-link 16 about the first pivot axis PA1 in the second pivot direction D12. The total moment of the first, second, and third torques M32, M33, and M34 is applied to the first sub-link 16 about the first pivot axis PA1 in the second pivot direction D12. Consequently, the first sub-link 16 remains at the first position P1 or is moved relative to the pedal body 14 about the first pivot axis PA1 in the second pivot direction D12.

[0121] Namely, the first sub-link 16, the first pivot axis PA1, the first clamping member 18, the second pivot axis PA2, and the biasing structure 344 are configured such that the first sub-link 16 remains or is moved relative to the pedal body 14 about the first pivot axis PA1 in the second pivot direction D12 in a state in which the second force FC2 to move the first clamping member 18 in the third pivot direction D13 is applied to the first clamping member 18, as in the first embodiment.

[0122] In a state where the restriction section 21 ( Fig. 3) If the first sub-link 16 is restricted from pivoting in the second pivot direction D12 relative to the pedal body 14, the first sub-link 16 remains in the first position P1 relative to the pedal body 14 in the step-out operation. At this time, the first clamping member 18 is pivoted about the second pivot axis PA2 relative to the first sub-link 16 in the third pivot direction D13 due to the second force FC2.

[0123] In a state where the first sub-member 16 is separated from the restriction portion 21 ( Fig. 3), the first sub-link 16 is moved relative to the pedal body 14 about the first pivot axis PA1 in the second pivot direction D12 in the step-out operation. At this time, the first clamp member 18 is pivoted about the second pivot axis PA2 relative to the first sub-link 16 in the third pivot direction D13 due to the second force FC2. After the first sub-link 16 comes into contact with the restricting portion 21, the first sub-link 16 remains at the first position P1 relative to the pedal body 14, and the first clamp member 18 is further pivoted about the second pivot axis PA2 relative to the first sub-link 16 in the third pivot direction D13 due to the second force FC2.

[0124] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 17, the second prestressing member 348 is configured to apply a prestressing force FB33 to the first sub-member 16 at a third point PT33, defined between the third end 348a and the first sub-member 16. The second prestressing member 348 is configured to apply a prestressing force FB34 to the first clamping member 18 at a fourth point PT34, defined between the fourth end 348b and the first clamping member 18. A distance L51 between the first pivot axis PA1 and the third point PT33 is shorter than a distance L52 between the first pivot axis PA1 and the fourth point PT34.

[0125] For example, the third point PT33 is defined at a central axis of the contact part 348d of the third end 348a. The third point PT33 is closer to the first lug engagement portion 22 than the first pivot axis PA1 when viewed from the axial direction D2 parallel to the rotation axis A1. Consequently, the preload force FB33 provides the moment M34 about the first pivot axis PA1 to the first sub-link 16 in the second pivot direction D12 during the step-out actuation.

[0126] In the illustrated embodiment, the preload force FB33 may be defined along a line L33 perpendicular to the third end 348 when viewed from the axial direction D2 parallel to the rotation axis A1. The line L33 is offset from the first pivot axis PA1 and is located between the first cleat engagement portion 22 and the first pivot axis PA1. Consequently, the preload force FB33 causes the first sub-link 16 to pivot relative to the pedal body 14 about the first pivot axis PA1 in the second pivot direction D12.

[0127] During the step-in operation of the bicycle pedal 310, the first sub-link 16 and the first clamping link 18 pivot relative to the pedal body 14 about the first pivot axis PA1 in the first pivot direction D11. Consequently, only the first biasing link 346 ( Fig. 16) between the pedal body 14 and the first clamping member 18 in the step-in operation.

[0128] During the step-out operation of the bicycle pedal 310, the first clamping member 18 pivots relative to the first sub-member 16 about the second pivot axis PA2 in the third pivot direction D13. Consequently, the first biasing member 346 ( Fig. 16) and the second biasing member 348 between the first sub-member 16 and the first clamping member 18 are compressed or pressed together.

[0129] Specifically, the first sub-link 16, the first pivot axis PA1, the first clamping member 18, the second pivot axis PA2, and the biasing structure 44 are configured such that a first torque T31 for pivoting the first sub-link 16 about the first pivot axis PA1 toward the second position P2 is less than a second torque T32 for pivoting the first clamping member 18 about the second pivot axis PA2 toward the fourth position P4. Accordingly, it is possible to make the step-in operation easier for the user while firmly holding the cleat or footplate 2 to the bicycle pedal 310, thereby preventing the cleat or footplate 2 from being inadvertently released from the bicycle pedal 310.

[0130] With the bicycle pedal 310, as in Fig. 16, the first pivot axis PA1 is closer to the point PT1 on the pedal shaft 14 than the second pivot axis PA2 when viewed from the axial direction D2 parallel to the first pivot axis PA1. This arrangement enables the pivot axis of the first clamping member 18 to change between the first pivot axis PA1 and the second pivot axis PA2 during step-in operation and step-out operation. Consequently, the first torque T31 to pivot the first sub-link 16 about the first pivot axis PA1 in the first pivot direction D11 during step-in operation is smaller than the second torque T32 to pivot the first clamping member 18 about the second pivot axis PA2 in the third pivot direction D13 during step-out operation. Accordingly, it is possible to make the step-in operation easier for the user while the cleat or cleat is in the first pivot direction D13.the footplate 2 is held firmly to the bicycle pedal 310 such that the cleat or footplate 2 is prevented from being accidentally detached from the bicycle pedal 310. Fourth embodiment

[0131] A bicycle pedal 410 according to a fourth embodiment will be described below with reference to the Fig. 23 to 27. The bicycle pedal 410 has the same configuration as the bicycle pedal 310, except for the biasing structure 344. Accordingly, elements having substantially the same function as in the previous embodiments are given the same reference numerals herein and will not be described and / or illustrated in detail again for the sake of brevity.

[0132] As in Fig. 23, the bicycle pedal 410 includes a biasing structure 444. The biasing structure 444 includes the first biasing member 346 and the second biasing member 448.

[0133] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 24, the biasing structure 444 is configured to bias the first clamping member 18 in the fourth pivot direction D14 and the first sub-member 16 in the second pivot direction D12. The second biasing member 448 is configured to bias the first clamping member 18 relative to the first sub-member 16 in the fourth pivot direction D14, as well as the second biasing member 348 according to the third embodiment. The second biasing member 448 has substantially the same function as the second biasing member 348 according to the third embodiment. However, the second biasing member 448 has different constructions than the construction of the second biasing member 348.

[0134] As in the Fig. 24 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 25, the second biasing member 448 includes a third end 448a and a fourth end 448b. The third end 448a is configured to engage the first sub-member 16. The fourth end 448b is configured to engage the first clamping member 18. In the illustrated embodiment, the fourth end 448b is configured to engage the clamping body 36. The clamping body 36 of the first clamping member 18 includes a mounting hole 470. The fourth end 448b is inserted into the mounting hole 470. The second biasing member 448 includes a coiled body 448c configured to generate a biasing force. The third end 448a and the fourth end 448b are each connected to both ends of the wound body 448c.

[0135] As in the Fig. 26 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 27, each of the coupling portions 34 of the first sub-link 16 includes a through-hole 465. The third end 448a is inserted into one of the through-holes 465. More specifically, the third end 448a of the second biasing member 448 includes a contact part 448d configured to contact the first sub-link 16. The third end 448a includes an arm part 448e. The contact part 448d extends from the arm part 448e in a direction parallel to the first pivot axis PA1. The contact part 448d is inserted into one of the through-holes 465 to transmit the biasing force from the second biasing member 448 to the first sub-link 16.

[0136] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 25, the prestressing structure 444 includes a prestressing support 460 configured to support the second prestressing member 448 for pivoting relative to the first sub-member 16 about a prestressing pivot axis PB41. Unlike the prestressing support 360 of the third embodiment, the prestressing pivot axis PB41 is not coaxial with the first pivot axis PA1. The prestressing pivot axis PB41 is spaced apart from the first pivot axis PA1 and the second pivot axis PA2 when viewed from the axial direction D2 parallel to the rotational axis A1.

[0137] The prestressing support 460 includes a movable part 462 and a pivot part 464. The movable part 462 is spaced from the prestressing pivot axis PB41. The movable part 462 is spaced from the prestressing pivot axis PB1 and the first pivot axis PA1. The second prestressing member 448 is mounted to the movable part 462.

[0138] As in the Fig. 26 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 27, the movable part 462 extends in a direction substantially parallel to the biasing pivot axis PB41. In the illustrated embodiment, the movable part 462 extends in the axial direction D2. The movable part 462 extends through the wound body 448c.

[0139] The pivot part 464 is configured to pivotally support the movable part 462 relative to the pedal body 14 about the biasing pivot axis PB41. The pivot part 464 is configured to be pivotally connected to the pedal body 14. The pivot part 464 includes a first pivot part 466 and a second pivot part 468. The movable part 462 includes a first movable end 462a and a second movable end 462b. The first pivot part 466 is provided at the first movable end 462a. The second pivot part 468 is provided at the second movable end 462b.

[0140] The first pivot part 466 includes a first connecting part 466a and a first shaft 466b. The first connecting part 466a extends from the first movable end 462a in the radial direction perpendicular to the preload pivot axis PB41. The first shaft 466b extends from one end of the first connecting part 466a along the preload pivot axis PB41.

[0141] The second pivot part 468 includes a second connecting part 468a and a second shaft 468b. The second connecting part 468a extends from the second movable end 462b in the radial direction perpendicular to the preload pivot axis PB41. The second shaft 468b extends from one end of the second connecting part 468a along the preload pivot axis PB41. The second shaft 468b is coaxial with the first shaft 466b.

[0142] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 27, each of the first pivot part 466 and the second pivot part 468 is pivotally mounted to the pedal body 14. The pedal body 14 includes a first support hole 470 and a second support hole 472. The first shaft 466b is inserted into the first support hole 470. The second shaft 468 is inserted into the second support hole 472. The first pivot part 466 and the second pivot part 468 define the preload pivot axis PB41. The preload support 63 is pivotable relative to the first sub-link 16 and the first clamping member 18 about the preload pivot axis PB41.

[0143] As in Fig. 24, the biasing pivot axis PB41 is closer to the first stud engaging portion 22 than the second pivot axis PA2 when viewed from the axial direction D2 parallel to the rotation axis A1 (a direction perpendicular to a paper surface of the Fig. 24). The preload pivot axis PB41 is closer to the first cleat engagement portion 22 than the first pivot axis PA1 when viewed from the axial direction D2 parallel to the rotation axis A1. The preload pivot axis PB41 is closer to the pedal shaft 12 than the second pivot axis PA2 when viewed from the axial direction D2 parallel to the rotation axis A1.

[0144] When viewed from the axial direction D2 parallel to the rotation axis A1, the second pivot axis PA2 is disposed within an outline OL1 of the second tendon 448 in a state where the first clamping member 18 is disposed at a rest position where the first clamping member 18 is free from a force from the cleat 2. When viewed from the axial direction D2 parallel to the rotation axis A1, the second pivot axis PA2 is disposed within the outline OL2 of the wound body 448c of the second tendon 448 in a state where the first clamping member 18 is disposed at the rest position where the first clamping member 18 is free from a force from the cleat 2. In the illustrated embodiment, the rest position of the first clamping member 18 is the third position P3 and the fifth position P5.The contact part 448d is closer to the first lug engagement portion 22 than the first pivot axis PA1 when viewed from the axial direction D2 parallel to the rotation axis A1.

[0145] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 25, the second tendon 448 is configured to apply a preload force FB43 to the first sub-member 16 at a third point PT43 defined between the third end 448a and the first sub-member 16. The second tendon 448 is configured to apply a preload force FB44 to the first clamping member 18 at a fourth point PT44 defined between the fourth end 448b and the first clamping member 18. A distance L41 between the first pivot axis PA1 and the third point PT43 is shorter than a distance L42 between the first pivot axis PA1 and the fourth point PT44.

[0146] During the step-in operation of the bicycle pedal 410, the first sub-link 16 and the first clamping link 18 pivot relative to the pedal body 14 about the first pivot axis PA1 in the first pivot direction D11. Consequently, only the first biasing link 346 ( Fig. 16) between the pedal body 14 and the first clamping member 18 is compressed or pressed together during step-in operation.

[0147] During the step-out operation of the bicycle pedal 410, the first clamping member 18 pivots relative to the first sub-member 16 about the second pivot axis PA2 in the third pivot direction D13. Consequently, the first biasing member 346 ( Fig. 24) and the second biasing member 348 between the first sub-member 16 and the first clamping member 18 are compressed or pressed together.

[0148] Specifically, the first sub-link 16, the first pivot axis PA1, the first clamping member 18, the second pivot axis PA2, and the biasing structure 444 are configured such that a first torque T41 for pivoting the first sub-link 16 about the first pivot axis PA1 toward the second position P2 is less than a second torque T42 for pivoting the first clamping member 18 about the second pivot axis PA2 toward the fourth position P4. Accordingly, it is possible to facilitate the step-in operation for a user while firmly holding the cleat 2 to the bicycle pedal 410, thereby preventing the cleat 2 from being accidentally detached from the bicycle pedal 410.

[0149] With the bicycle pedal 410, as in Fig.24, since the first pivot axis PA1 is closer to the point PT1 on the pedal shaft 14 than the second pivot axis PA2 when viewed from the axial direction D2 parallel to the first pivot axis PA1, it is possible to achieve substantially the same advantageous effects as for the bicycle pedal 310 according to the third embodiment.

[0150] It will be apparent to one skilled in the bicycle art from the present disclosure that features of the first to fourth embodiments may be combined with each other if needed and / or desired.

[0151] The term "comprising" and its derivatives, as used herein, are to be understood as open-ended terms that specify the presence of the stated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unstated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps. The above also applies to words of similar meaning, such as the terms "comprise," "include," and their derivatives.

[0152] Furthermore, the terms “member,” “section,” “portion,” “part,” or “element,” when used in the singular, may have the plural meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts.

[0153] The atomic numbers, such as "first" and "second," as cited in the present application, are merely identifiers and have no other meaning, such as a particular order or the like. Furthermore, the term "first element," for example, does not imply the existence of a second element, nor does the term "second element" itself imply the existence of a first element.

[0154] Furthermore, the term “a pair of” as used herein includes the configuration in which a pair of elements may have different shapes or structures from each other, as well as additional configurations in which the pair of elements may have the same shapes or structures from each other.

[0155] Finally, as used herein, the terms “substantially,” “by,” and “approximately” mean a reasonable amount of variation from the modified term so that the end result is not significantly changed.

[0156] Of course, numerous modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that, within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein.

Claims

[1] Bicycle pedal (10) comprising: a pedal shaft (12); a pedal body (14) which is rotationally supported on the pedal shaft (12) about a rotation axis (A1); a first sub-member (16) which is movably coupled to the pedal body (14), wherein the first sub-member (16) is pivotable relative to the pedal body (14) about a first pivot axis (PA1), different from the rotation axis (A1), is movable in a first pivoting direction (D11) and in a second pivoting direction (D12), opposite to the first pivoting direction (D11); a first clamping member (18) which is movably coupled to the first sub-member (16), wherein the first clamping member (18) is movable relative to the first sub-member (16) about a second pivot axis (PA2) which is substantially parallel to the first pivot axis (PA1), in a third pivot direction (D13) and a fourth pivot direction (D14) opposite to the third pivot direction (D13); a second clamping member (20) coupled to the pedal body (14) for clamping a cleat (2) together with the first clamping member (18); and a biasing structure (44) configured to bias the first clamping member (18) in the fourth pivot direction (D14) and the first sub-member (16) in the second pivot direction (D12), wherein the first pivot axis (PA1) is closer to a point on the pedal shaft (12) than the second pivot axis (PA2) when viewed from an axial direction (D2) parallel to the first pivot axis (PA1). [2] Bicycle pedal according to claim 1, wherein the first sub-member (16), the first pivot axis (PA1), the first clamping member (18), the second pivot axis (PA2) and the preload structure (44) are configured such that the first sub-member (16) is moved relative to the pedal body (14) about the first pivot axis (PA1) in the first pivot direction (D11) in a state in which a first force (FC1) to move the first clamping member (18) in the first direction is applied to the first clamping member (18), and the first sub-member (16), the first pivot axis (PA1), the first clamping member (18), the second pivot axis (PA2) and the preload structure (44) are configured such that the first sub-member (16) remains or is moved relative to the pedal body (14) about the first pivot axis (PA1) in the second pivot direction (D12) in a state in which a second Force (FC2) to move the first clamping member (18) in the third direction,is applied to the first clamping member (18), wherein the first force (FC1) is directed in a direction different from a direction of the second force (FC2). [3] Bicycle pedal comprising: a pedal shaft (12); a pedal body (14) which is rotationally supported on the pedal shaft (12) about a rotation axis (A1); a first sub-member (16) which is movably coupled to the pedal body (14), wherein the first sub-member (16) is pivotable relative to the pedal body (14) about a first pivot axis (PA1) in a first pivot direction (D11) and a second pivoting direction (D12) is movable opposite to the first pivoting direction (D11); a first clamping member (18) which is movably coupled to the first sub-member (16), wherein the first clamping member (18) is movable relative to the first sub-member (16) about a second pivot axis (PA2) which is substantially parallel to the first pivot axis, in the third pivot direction (D13) and the fourth pivot direction (D14); a second clamping member (20) coupled to the pedal body (14) for clamping a cleat (2) together with the first clamping member (18); and a biasing structure (44) configured to bias the first clamping member in the fourth pivoting direction (D14) and the first sub-member (16) in the second pivoting direction (D12), wherein the first sub-member (16), the first pivot axis (PA1), the first clamping member (18), the second pivot axis (PA2) and the preload structure (44) are configured such that the first sub-member (16) is moved relative to the pedal body (14) about the first pivot axis (PA1) in the first pivot direction (D11) in a state in which a first force (FC1) to move the first clamping member (18) in the first pivot direction (D11) is applied to the first clamping member (18), and wherein the first sub-member (16), the first pivot axis (PA1), the first clamping member (18), the second pivot axis (PA2), and the biasing structure (44) are configured such that the first sub-member (16) remains or is moved relative to the pedal body (14) about the pivot axis in the second pivot direction (D12) in a state in which a second force (FC2) for moving the clamping member in the third pivot direction (D13) is applied to the first clamping member (18), the first force (FC1) being directed in a direction different from the direction of the second force (FC2). [4] Bicycle pedal according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the first force (FC1) is applied from the cleat (2) to the first clamping member (18) in a step-in operation of the bicycle pedal, and the second force (FC2) is applied from the cleat (2) to the first clamping member (18) in a step-out operation of the bicycle pedal. [5] Bicycle pedal according to claim 4, wherein the first force (FC1) is directed in a first force direction (D41) to form a first force angle between the first force direction (D41) and a cleat attachment plane (PL1), which is defined by the first clamping member and the second clamping member, the second force (FC2) is directed in a second force direction to provide a second force angle between the second force direction and the stud attachment plane (PL1), and wherein the first force angle is greater than the second force angle. [6] A bicycle pedal according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first pivot axis (PA1) is substantially parallel to the rotation axis (A1) and the first pivot axis (PA1) is closer to the pedal shaft (12) than the second pivot axis (PA2) when viewed from the axial direction parallel to the first pivot axis. [7] A bicycle pedal according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first clamping member includes a first cleat engagement portion (22) configured to engage with the cleat (2) in a state where the first clamping member (18) and the second clamping member (20) clamp the cleat (2) and the second pivot axis (PA2) is closer to the first cleat engagement portion (22) than the first pivot axis (PA1) when viewed from the axial direction parallel to the rotation axis (A1). [8] Bicycle pedal according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first sub-member (16) is movable relative to the pedal body (14) about the first pivot axis (PA1) between a first position and a second position, the first clamping member is movable relative to the first sub-member (16) about a second pivot axis (PA2) between a third position and a fourth position, and the first sub-member (16), the first pivot axis (PA1), the first clamping member (18), the second pivot axis (PA2) and the biasing structure (44) are configured such that a first torque to pivot the first sub-member (16) about the first pivot axis (PA1) in the direction of the second position is less than a second torque to pivot the first clamping member about the second pivot axis (PA2) in the direction of the fourth position. [9] Bicycle pedal according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the biasing structure (44) includes a first biasing member (46) configured to bias the first clamping member (18) relative to the pedal body (14) in the fourth pivoting direction (D14) and a second biasing member (248, 348) configured to bias the first clamping member (18) relative to the first sub-member (16) in the fourth pivoting direction (D14). [10] A bicycle pedal according to claim 9, wherein the first biasing member (46) includes a first end (46a) configured to engage the pedal body (14) and a second end (46b) configured to engage the first clamping member (18) and wherein the second biasing member includes a third end (248a, 348a) configured to engage the first sub-member (16) and a fourth end (248b, 348b) configured to engage the first clamping member (18). [11] The bicycle pedal according to claim 10, wherein the third end (348a) of the second biasing member (348) includes a contact part (348d) configured to contact the first sub-member (16), and the contact part (348d) is closer to the first cleat engagement portion (22) than the first pivot axis (PA1) when viewed from the axial direction parallel to the rotation axis (A1). [12] Bicycle pedal according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the second biasing member (248, 348) is configured to apply a biasing force to the first sub-member (16) at a third point (PT23) defined between the third end (248a, 348a) and the first sub-member (16), the second biasing member (248, 348) is configured to apply a biasing force to the first clamping member (18) at a fourth point (PT24) defined between the fourth end (248b, 348b) and the first clamping member (18), and a distance (L51) between the first pivot axis (PA1) and the third point (PT33) is less than a distance (L52) between the first pivot axis (PA1) and the fourth point (PT34). [13] Bicycle pedal according to one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the biasing structure (44) includes a biasing support (360) configured to support the second biasing member (248, 348) to be pivotable relative to the first sub-member (16) about a biasing pivot axis (PB1), in particular the biasing pivot axis (PB1) is substantially coaxial with the first pivot axis (PA1). [14] Bicycle pedal according to claim 13, wherein the preload support includes a movable part (362) which is spaced from the preload pivot axis (PB1), which is provided in particular between the pedal shaft (12) and the second pivot axis (PA2), when viewed from the axial direction parallel to the rotation axis (A1), and a pivot part (364) which is designed to pivotally support the movable part (362) relative to the pedal body (14) about the preload pivot axis (PB1) and the second tendon (248, 348) is mounted on the movable part (362). [15] Bicycle pedal according to claim 14, wherein the movable part (362) is closer to the first cleat engagement portion (22) than the first pivot axis (PA1) and / or the bias pivot axis (PB1) is closer to the first cleat engagement portion (22) than the second pivot axis (PA2) when viewed from the axial direction parallel to the rotation axis (A1). [16] Bicycle pedal according to one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the pivot part (364) is designed to be pivotally connected to the pedal body (14). [17] A bicycle pedal according to any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein, when viewed from the axial direction parallel to the rotation axis (A1), the second pivot axis (PA2) is disposed within a contour of the second biasing member (248, 348) in a state in which the first clamping member is disposed in a rest position in which the first clamping member (18) is free from a force from the cleat (2). [18] A bicycle pedal according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the pedal body (14) includes a restricting portion (21) configured to restrict the first sub-member (16) from moving relative to the pedal body (14) in the second pivoting direction (D12).

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