REAR BICYCLE CRANKSET AND REAR BICYCLE CRANKSET

Abstract

Rear bicycle chainring (14) having a bicycle-inward directed surface (16) and a bicycle-outward directed surface (18), opposite the bicycle-inward directed surface (16) in an axial direction (Da) parallel to a rotational center axis (Ax) of the rear bicycle chainring (14), including the rear bicycle chainring (14). a sprocket body (14b); a plurality of sprocket teeth (14t) which extend radially outwards from a radial outer periphery (14op) of the sprocket body (14b) with respect to the axis of rotation (Ax); a bearing unit assembly section (24) which is / will be provided at least partially on a radial inner periphery (14ip) of the sprocket body (14b); and a torque transmission structure (20) which is designed to transmit a pedaling torque to an adjacent rear sprocket (26) which is arranged separately adjacent to the rear bicycle sprocket (14), without any further sprocket between the rear bicycle sprocket (14) and the adjacent rear sprocket (26), wherein the torque transmission structure (20) is provided on the bicycle-inward facing surface (16) and is a separate link from the adjacent rear sprocket (26), wherein the torque transmission structure (20) includes a first spline section (20s).

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority over U.S. patent application no. 15 / 204,957, filed on July 7, 2016. The entire disclosure of U.S. patent application no. 15 / 204,957 is hereby fully incorporated by reference herein. AREA OF INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to a rear bicycle chainring assembly and a rear bicycle chainring. BACKGROUND DISCUSSION

[0003] Cycling is becoming an increasingly popular form of recreation as well as a means of transportation. Furthermore, cycling has 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 the various components of the bicycle. One bicycle component that has been extensively redesigned is the rear chainring assembly and the rear chainring itself.

[0004] US 2003 / 0171180A1 describes a hub assembly comprising a sprocket section having a plurality of radially extending teeth, a first coupling section extending from a first side of the sprocket section and having a first coupling structure located on an inner circumferential surface of the same, and a second coupling section extending from an opposite second side of the sprocket section and having a second coupling structure located on an outer circumferential surface of the same.

[0005] US 2012 / 0 322 598 A1 describes a structure consisting of a freewheel and hub, comprising a hub with a first pawl having a pair of first teeth, a central shaft, a screw section, and a freewheel assembly.

[0006] US 2012 / 0225745A1 describes a bicycle chainring assembly comprising at least a first chainring, a second chainring and a first axial spacer.

[0007] DE 600 22 250 T2 describes a freewheel with an outer tubular body and an inner tubular body.

[0008] US 2016 / 0 083 045 A1 describes a sprocket assembly and a sprocket device that uses it.

[0009] DE 10 2011 103 489 A1 describes a multiple sprocket arrangement with a plurality of sprockets with different numbers of teeth for mounting on a rear axle of a bicycle. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a rear bicycle sprocket has a bicycle-inward facing surface and a bicycle-outward facing surface, opposite and opposite the bicycle-inward facing surface, respectively, in an axial direction parallel to a rotational center axis of the rear bicycle sprocket. The rear bicycle sprocket comprises a sprocket body, a plurality of sprocket teeth, a bearing unit mounting section, and a torque transmission structure. The plurality of sprocket teeth extends radially outward from a radial outer periphery of the sprocket body with respect to the rotational center axis. The bearing unit mounting section is provided at least partially on a radial inner periphery of the sprocket body.The torque transmission structure is designed to transfer pedaling torque to an adjacent rear sprocket, which is positioned separately from the rear sprocket without any other sprocket between the rear sprocket and the adjacent rear sprocket. The torque transmission structure is located on the inward-facing surface of the bicycle and is a separate link from the adjacent rear sprocket. The torque transmission structure includes a first spline segment.

[0011] With regard to the rear bicycle chainring according to the above aspect, it is possible to provide a rear bicycle chainring which is a radially small chainring, having less than or equal to ten teeth, and which can be mounted on a rear bicycle hub assembly.

[0012] According to a further aspect of the present invention, a rear bicycle chainring assembly comprises a first chainring. The first chainring has a first bicycle-inward facing surface and a first bicycle-outward facing surface, opposite and opposite, respectively, to the first bicycle-inward facing surface in an axial direction parallel to a rotational center axis of the rear bicycle chainring assembly. The first chainring comprises a first chainring body, a plurality of first chainring teeth, a bearing unit mounting section, and a first torque transmission structure. The plurality of first chainring teeth extends radially outward from a first radial outer periphery of the first chainring body with respect to the rotational center axis. The bearing unit mounting section is provided at least partially on a radial inner periphery of the chainring body.The first torque transmission structure is designed to transmit pedaling torque to a second chainring, which is positioned separately adjacent to the first chainring without any further chainring between the first and second chainrings. The first torque transmission structure is located on the first inward-facing surface of the bicycle and is a separate link from the second chainring. The torque transmission structure includes a first spline segment. The second torque transmission structure includes a second spline segment, which is designed to engage with the first spline segment when the rear chainring assembly is mounted to the rear hub assembly.

[0013] With the rear sprocket arrangement described above, it is possible to mount the first sprocket, which is a radially small sprocket with fewer than or equal to ten teeth, to the rear hub assembly. Accordingly, a bicycle fitted with this rear sprocket arrangement can have a wide range of gear ratios.

[0014] Preferably, the rear bicycle chainring assembly includes a bearing unit which is / will be arranged in the bearing unit assembly section.

[0015] Consequently, it is still possible to mount the first sprocket, which has a radially small number of teeth (less than or equal to ten), on the rear bicycle hub assembly. Accordingly, a bicycle fitted with this rear sprocket assembly offers an even wider range of gear ratios.

[0016] Preferably, the (first) torque transmission structure extends in the axial direction from the (first) sprocket body of the (first) sprocket.

[0017] Consequently, it remains possible to mount the first chainring, which is a radially small chainring with fewer than or equal to ten teeth, on the rear bicycle hub assembly. Accordingly, a bicycle fitted with this rear chainring assembly can have an even wider range of gear ratios.

[0018] Preferably, the (first) torque transmission structure is designed to transmit the pedaling torque to a second torque transmission structure of the second chainring, in a state in which the rear bicycle chainring assembly is / is mounted to a rear bicycle hub assembly.

[0019] Consequently, it is possible to reliably transfer the torque from the first sprocket to the second sprocket.

[0020] Preferably, the (first) torque transmission structure includes a (first) spline segment. The second torque transmission structure includes a second spline segment, which is configured to engage with the (first) spline segment when the rear bicycle chainring assembly is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly.

[0021] Consequently, it remains possible to reliably transfer the torque from the first sprocket to the second sprocket.

[0022] Preferably, the (first) torque transmission structure is integrally formed with the (first) sprocket body as a single, one-piece unit element.

[0023] Consequently, it is possible to improve the stiffness of the first torque transmission structure.

[0024] Preferably, the (first) torque transmission structure includes a spacer section designed to define an axial gap between the (first) sprocket and the second adjacent rear sprocket in the axial direction, in the state in which the rear bicycle sprocket assembly is / is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly.

[0025] Consequently, it is possible to precisely adjust the axial gap between the (first) sprocket and the second adjacent rear sprocket to a predetermined gap length.

[0026] Preferably, the (first) torque transmission structure includes a first spline segment. The second adjacent rear sprocket includes a second torque transmission structure, which includes a second spline segment configured to engage with the first spline segment when the rear bicycle sprocket assembly is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly.

[0027] Consequently, it is possible to reliably transfer the pedaling torque from the first chainring to the second chainring.

[0028] Preferably, the spacer section is arranged in the axial direction between the first spline section and the (first) sprocket body.

[0029] Consequently, it is possible to precisely adjust the axial gap between the first sprocket and the second sprocket to a predetermined gap length.

[0030] Preferably, the rear bicycle chainring assembly further comprises a bearing unit which is / is arranged in the bearing unit assembly section, preferably radially inwards from the first chainring body and the spacer section.

[0031] Consequently, it is possible to secure a bearing unit whose axial length is longer than the axial length of the first sprocket teeth. Therefore, the bearing unit can stably support the rear bicycle sprocket assembly.

[0032] Preferably, the (first) sprocket has a first total number of teeth that is equal to or less than ten.

[0033] Consequently, it is possible to mount the (first) sprocket, which has a radially small number of teeth (less than or equal to ten), on the rear bicycle hub assembly. Accordingly, a bicycle fitted with this rear sprocket assembly can offer an even wider range of gear ratios.

[0034] Preferably, the rear bicycle sprocket assembly further comprises the second adjacent rear sprocket. The second adjacent rear sprocket can have a second inward-facing surface and a second outward-facing surface, opposite and abutting, respectively, the second inward-facing surface in the axial direction. The second adjacent rear sprocket can include a second sprocket body, a plurality of second sprocket teeth, and a second torque transmission structure. The plurality of second sprocket teeth can extend radially outward from a second radial outer periphery of the second sprocket body with respect to the axis of rotation. The second torque transmission structure can be provided on the second outward-facing surface.The (first) torque transmission structure can be designed to transfer the pedaling torque to the second torque transmission structure in the state in which the rear bicycle chainring assembly is / is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly.

[0035] Consequently, it is possible to mount the first and second sprockets, which are radially small sprockets, to the rear bicycle hub assembly. Accordingly, a bicycle to which this rear bicycle chainring assembly is mounted can have an even wider range of gear ratios.

[0036] Preferably, the second adjacent rear sprocket includes an additional torque transmission structure, which is provided on the second bicycle-inward facing surface. The additional torque transmission structure can be configured to transmit the pedaling torque to the sprocket support section of the rear bicycle hub assembly when the rear bicycle sprocket assembly is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly.

[0037] Consequently, it is possible to reliably transfer the pedaling torque from the second chainring to the rear bicycle hub assembly.

[0038] Preferably, the rear bicycle chainring assembly further comprises a third chainring. The third chainring can have a third inward-facing surface and a third outward-facing surface, opposite or abutting the third inward-facing surface in the axial direction. The third chainring can include a third chainring body, a plurality of chainring teeth, and a third torque transmission structure. The plurality of third chainring teeth can extend radially outward from a third radial outer periphery of the third chainring body with respect to the axis of rotation. The third torque transmission structure can be configured to transmit the pedaling torque to the chainring support section of the rear bicycle hub assembly when the rear bicycle chainring assembly is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly.The third sprocket can be arranged separately adjacent to the second sprocket without any further sprocket between the second sprocket and the third sprocket, such that the third bicycle-outward facing surface of the third sprocket is directed towards the second bicycle-inward facing surface of the second sprocket in the axial direction, in the state in which the rear bicycle sprocket assembly is not the rear bicycle hub assembly.

[0039] Consequently, it is possible to mount the first to third sprockets, which are radially small sprockets, to the rear bicycle hub assembly. Accordingly, a bicycle fitted with this rear sprocket assembly can have an even wider range of gear ratios.

[0040] Preferably, the rear bicycle chainring assembly comprises a fourth chainring. The fourth chainring can have a fourth inward-facing surface and a fourth outward-facing surface, opposite or abutting the fourth inward-facing surface in the axial direction. The fourth chainring can include a fourth chainring body, a plurality of fourth chainring teeth, and a fourth torque transmission structure. The plurality of fourth chainring teeth can extend radially outward from a fourth radial outer periphery of the fourth chainring body with respect to the axis of rotation. The fourth torque transmission structure can be configured to transmit the pedaling torque to the chainring support section of the rear bicycle hub assembly when the rear bicycle chainring assembly is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly.The fourth sprocket can be arranged separately adjacent to the third sprocket without another sprocket between the third sprocket and the fourth sprocket, such that the fourth bicycle-outward facing surface of the fourth sprocket is directed axially to the third bicycle-inward facing surface of the third sprocket, in the state in which the rear bicycle sprocket assembly is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly.

[0041] Consequently, it is possible to mount the first four sprockets, which are radially small sprockets, to the rear bicycle hub assembly. Accordingly, a bicycle fitted with this rear sprocket assembly can have an even wider range of gear ratios.

[0042] Preferably, the rear bicycle chainring assembly further comprises a chainring carrier and at least one additional chainring. The chainring carrier can include at least one chainring mounting section and a fifth torque transmission structure, configured to transmit the pedaling torque to the chainring support section of the rear bicycle hub assembly, in the state in which the rear bicycle chainring assembly is / is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly. The at least one additional chainring can be / is mounted to the at least one chainring mounting section.

[0043] Consequently, the use of the chainring assembly allows for a wide variety of chainrings to be mounted on the rear hub assembly without significantly increasing its weight. Therefore, a bicycle equipped with this rear chainring assembly can offer an even wider range of gear ratios.

[0044] Preferably, the at least one sprocket mounting section includes a plurality of sprocket mounting sections. The at least one additional sprocket can include a plurality of additional sprockets, each of which is / will be mounted to the plurality of sprocket mounting sections.

[0045] Consequently, the use of the sprocket carrier allows for a variety of sprockets to be mounted on the rear hub assembly without significantly increasing the weight of the rear hub assembly. Accordingly, a bicycle equipped with this rear sprocket carrier can offer an even wider range of gear ratios.

[0046] Preferably, the third torque transmission structure includes a third spline section.

[0047] Consequently, it is possible to reliably transfer the pedaling torque from the third chainring to the rear bicycle hub assembly.

[0048] Preferably, the fourth torque transmission structure includes a fourth spline segment.

[0049] Consequently, it is possible to reliably transfer the pedaling torque from the fourth chainring to the rear bicycle hub assembly.

[0050] Preferably, the fifth torque transmission structure includes a fifth spline segment.

[0051] Consequently, it is possible to reliably transfer the pedaling torque from the chainring carrier to the rear bicycle hub assembly. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0052] A full appreciation of the invention and many of its associated advantages will become immediately apparent once it is better understood by reference to the following detailed description, when viewed in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Fig. Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a rear bicycle chainring assembly attached to a rear bicycle hub assembly, according to a first embodiment. Fig. Figure 2 is a partial cross-sectional view of the rear bicycle chainring assembly illustrated in Fig. 1. Fig. Figure 3 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of part P of the rear bicycle chainring assembly, illustrated in Fig. 2. Fig. Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of a part of the rear bicycle chainring assembly illustrated in Fig. 1. Fig. Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of a part of the rear bicycle chainring assembly illustrated in Fig. 1. Fig. Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of a part of the rear bicycle chainring assembly illustrated in Fig. 1. Fig. Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view of a part of the rear bicycle chainring assembly illustrated in Fig. 1. Fig. Figure 8 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of Part P of the rear bicycle chainring assembly according to a second embodiment. DESCRIPTION OF THE EXECUTION FORMS

[0053] The embodiments are now described with reference to the attached drawings, wherein the same reference numerals denote corresponding or identical elements across the different drawings. First embodiment

[0054] Fig. Figure 1 illustrates a rear bicycle chainring assembly 10, which is attached to a rear bicycle hub assembly 1 according to a first embodiment. In the present application, the following directional terms "front", "rear", "forward", "backward", "left", "right", "transverse", "upward" and "downward", as well as any similar directional terms, refer to directions determined by a user (e.g., a rider) sitting on a saddle (not shown) of a bicycle (not shown) facing a handlebar.Accordingly, these terms, as used herein to describe the rear bicycle hub assembly 1 and the rear bicycle chainring assembly 10, should be interpreted relative to the bicycle equipped with the rear bicycle chainring assembly 1 and the rear bicycle chainring assembly 10, as used in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface.

[0055] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the rear bicycle hub assembly 1 comprises a hub shaft 2, a hub shell 3, and a sprocket support section 4. The hub shaft 2 defines a pivot axis Ax. The pivot axis Ax can be considered the pivot axis of the rear bicycle sprocket assembly 10, since the rear bicycle sprocket assembly 10 is mounted coaxially with the rear bicycle hub assembly 1. The hub shaft 2 has a tubular shape and extends along the pivot axis Ax. The hub shaft 2 is secured to the bicycle frames FR1 and FR2 via a wheel locking arrangement (not shown). The bicycle frames FR1 feature a left seat stay and a left chainstay. The bicycle frames FR2 feature a right seat stay and a right chainstay. The hub shell 3 is rotatably mounted on the hub shaft 2 to rotate with respect to the pivot axis Ax.The sprocket support section 4 is rotatably mounted on the hub shaft 2 to rotate with respect to the axis of rotation Ax. The bicycle frames FR1, FR2 define an axial centerline CL of the rear bicycle hub assembly 1, which extends to the center of the bicycle frames FR1, FR2 when viewed from a radial direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation Ax.

[0056] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 2, the sprocket support section 4 is designed to support the rear bicycle sprocket assembly 10. That is, the rear bicycle sprocket assembly 10 is designed to be mounted to the sprocket support section 4 of the rear bicycle hub assembly 1. The sprocket support section 4 includes a torque transmission structure 4s on a radial outer peripheral surface of the sprocket support section 4. The torque transmission structure 4s can have a variety of splines ( Fig. 4 to 7). The chainring support section 4 is designed to absorb a rotational force from the rear bicycle chainring assembly 10 during cycling or indie pedaling. The rear bicycle hub assembly 1 comprises a first bearing unit 5 and a second bearing unit 6. The first bearing unit 5 and the second bearing unit 6 are positioned between the hub shaft 2 and the hub shell 3 to rotatably support the hub shell 3 relative to the hub shaft 2 with respect to the axis of rotation Ax.

[0057] The rear bicycle hub assembly 1 includes a third bearing unit 7. The third bearing unit 7 is positioned between the hub shaft 2 and the sprocket support section 4 to rotatably support the sprocket support section 4 relative to the hub shaft 2 with respect to the axis of rotation Ax. The third bearing unit 7 has an annular shape. An outer ring of the third bearing unit 7 is secured to the sprocket support section 4, and an inner ring of the bearing unit 7 is secured to the hub shaft 2. The third bearing unit 7 can be of the same structure as the first bearing unit 5 and the second bearing unit 6, if required and / or desired. At least one of the first to third bearing units 5 to 7 can be a plain bearing, whereas each of the first to third bearing units 5 to 7 is a roller bearing in the illustrated embodiment.

[0058] The rear bicycle sprocket assembly 10 comprises a sprocket assembly bearing unit 12. In this description, the sprocket assembly bearing unit 12 can be referred to simply as a bearing unit 12. The bearing unit 12 is positioned between the hub shaft 2 and the rear bicycle sprocket assembly 10 to rotatably support the rear bicycle sprocket assembly 10 relative to the hub shaft 2 with respect to the axis of rotation Ax. The bearing unit 12 has an annular shape. An outer ring 12or of the bearing unit 12 is secured to the rear bicycle sprocket assembly 10, and an inner ring 12ir of the bearing unit 12 is secured to the hub shaft 2. The bearing unit 12 can be of the same structure as the first bearing unit 5 and the second bearing unit 6, if required and / or desired. Alternatively, the bearing unit 12 can be of the same structure as the third bearing unit 7, if required and / or desired.The bearing unit 12 can be a plain bearing, whereas the bearing unit 12 in the illustrated embodiment is a roller bearing.

[0059] The rear bicycle hub assembly 1 includes an end cap 9. The end cap 9 is mounted to the hub axle 2 to abut against the inner race 12 of the bearing unit 12. The end cap 9 is mounted to the hub axle 2 in a simple fit. Alternatively, the end cap 9 can be press-fitted to the hub axle 2 or screwed to the hub axle 2.

[0060] The rear bicycle sprocket assembly 10 comprises sprockets SP1 to SP11. The total number of sprockets SP1 to SP11 is not limited to the illustrated embodiment. Sprockets SP1 to SP7 are conventional bicycle sprockets. In the illustrated embodiment, sprockets SP1 and SP2 are mounted on a first sprocket carrier SC1, and sprockets SP3 to SP5 are mounted on a second sprocket carrier SC2. The other sprockets, SP6 and SP7, may have splines and engage directly with the torque transmission structure 4s of the sprocket support section 4. The total number of sprockets SP1 to SP7 is not limited to this illustrated embodiment.In this embodiment, the sprocket SP11, the sprocket SP10, the sprocket SP9, the sprocket SP8, and the sprockets SP1 to SP7 can each be designated as a first sprocket, a second sprocket, a third sprocket, a fourth sprocket, and a plurality of additional sprockets, respectively. Furthermore, the sprocket SP11 can be figuratively referred to as the rear bicycle sprocket SP11.

[0061] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the rear bicycle chainring assembly 10 comprises a first chainring 14 (SP11). The first chainring 14 has a first bicycle-inward facing surface 16. The first bicycle-inward facing surface 16 is directed toward the axial centerline CL of the rear bicycle hub assembly 1. The first chainring 14 has a first bicycle-outward facing surface 18, opposite the first bicycle-inward facing surface 16 in an axial direction Da, parallel to the rotational centerline Ax of the rear bicycle chainring assembly 10. In other words, the first bicycle-outward facing surface 18 is directed in the opposite direction with respect to the axial direction Da compared to the first bicycle-inward facing surface 16. The first chainring 14 comprises a first chainring body 14b and a plurality of first chainring teeth 14t.The first bicycle-inward facing surface 16 and the first bicycle-outward facing surface 18 are provided on the first chainring body 14b and the plurality of first chainring teeth 14t. As in the . Fig. 4 and Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the first sprocket body 14b has a first radial outer periphery 14op and a first radial inner periphery 14ip. The first radial inner periphery 14ip is centered around the axis of rotation Ax. The first radial outer periphery 14op is opposite the first radial inner periphery 14ip in a radial direction Dr, perpendicular to the axis of rotation Ax. The plurality of first sprocket teeth 14t extend radially outward from the first radial outer periphery 14op of the first sprocket body 14b with respect to the axis of rotation Ax. In the following description, the number of first sprocket teeth 14t is referred to as the first total number of teeth. The first sprocket 14 has the first total number of teeth. Preferably, the first total number of teeth is equal to or less than ten.

[0062] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the first chainring 14 includes a first torque transmission structure 20. The first torque transmission structure 20 is designed to transmit a pedaling torque to a second chainring SP10 (26), which is arranged separately adjacent to the first chainring 14 without any further chainring between the first chainring 14 and the second chainring 26. The first torque transmission structure 20 is provided on the first bicycle-inward facing surface 16. The first torque transmission structure 20 extends in the axial direction Da from the first chainring body 14b of the first chainring 14. More specifically, the first torque transmission structure 20 includes a spacer section 22. The spacer section 22 is preferably connected to the first chainring body 14b. The first torque transmission structure 20 includes a first spline section 20s.The first spline segment 20s is preferably connected to the spacer segment 22. This means that the spacer segment 22 is arranged between the first spline segment 20s and the first chainring body 14b in the axial direction Da. The spacer segment 22 is configured to define an axial gap P1 between the first chainring SP11 (14) and the second chainring SP10 (26) in the axial direction Da, in a state where the rear bicycle chainring assembly 10 is / is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly 1. The first spline segment 20s is configured to engage with a second spline segment 32s of the second chainring 26, which is described in detail below. The first spline section 20s and the spacer section 22 are integrally formed with the first sprocket body 14b as a single unit element.This means that the first torque transmission structure 20 is integrally formed with the first sprocket body 14b as a single, one-piece unit. However, the first torque transmission structure 20 is a separate link from the second sprocket 26.

[0063] As in the Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the first sprocket 14 includes a bearing unit mounting section 24, which is provided at least partially on the first radial inner periphery 14ip of the first sprocket body 14b. More specifically, the bearing unit mounting section 24 is provided radially inward from the first sprocket body 14b and the spacer section 22 with respect to the axis of rotation Ax. The bearing unit mounting section 24 can be provided on at least one of the first radial inner periphery 14ip and a radial spacer inner periphery 22ip. In the illustrated embodiment, the bearing unit mounting section 24 is provided on the first radial inner periphery 14ip and a radial spacer inner periphery 22ip. The bearing unit 12 is arranged in the bearing unit mounting section 24.More specifically, the bearing unit 12 is arranged in the bearing unit mounting section 24, which is provided radially inward from the first sprocket body 14b and the spacer section 22. Furthermore, the first sprocket 14 includes a first radially inwardly projecting section 25, which is connected to the bearing unit mounting section 24. The first radially inwardly projecting section 25 extends from the bearing unit mounting section 24 toward the axis of rotation Ax to abut against the outer ring 12or of the bearing unit 12.

[0064] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the rear bicycle chainring assembly 10 further comprises the second chainring 26 (SP10). The second chainring 26 is arranged separately adjacent to the first chainring 14, without any other chainring between the first chainring 14 and the second chainring 26. The second chainring 26 has a second bicycle-inward facing surface 28. The second bicycle-inward facing surface 28 is directed towards the axial centerline CL of the rear bicycle hub assembly 1. The second chainring 26 has a second bicycle-outward facing surface 30, opposite the second bicycle-inward facing surface 28 in the axial direction Da. In other words, the second bicycle-outward facing surface 30 is directed in the opposite direction with respect to the axial direction Da compared to the second bicycle-inward facing surface 28.

[0065] The second sprocket 26 comprises a second sprocket body 26b and a plurality of second sprocket teeth 26t. The second inward-facing surface 28 and the second outward-facing surface 30 are provided on the second sprocket body 26b and the plurality of first sprocket teeth 26t. As shown in the Fig. 4 and Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the second sprocket body 26b has a second radial outer periphery 26op and a second radial inner periphery 26ip. The second radial inner periphery 26ip is centered around the axis of rotation Ax. The second radial outer periphery 26op is opposite to and centered around the second radial inner periphery 26ip in a radial direction Dr, perpendicular to the axis of rotation Ax. The plurality of second sprocket teeth 26t extend radially outward from the second outer periphery 26op of the second sprocket body 26b with respect to the axis of rotation Ax. In the following description, the number of second sprocket teeth 26t is referred to as the second total number of teeth. The second sprocket 26 has the second total number of teeth and is larger than the first total number of teeth. In the illustrated embodiment, the second total number of teeth is eleven.

[0066] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 3, the second chainring 26 incorporates a second torque transmission structure 32. The second torque transmission structure 32 is provided on the second bicycle-outward facing surface 30. The second torque transmission structure 20 extends in the axial direction Da from the second bicycle-outward facing surface 30. The second torque transmission structure 32 is configured to receive a pedaling torque from the first torque transmission structure in a state in which the rear bicycle chainring assembly 10 is / is mounted to the bicycle hub assembly 1. That is, the first torque transmission structure 20 is configured to transmit the pedaling torque to the second torque transmission structure 32 of the second chainring 26 in the state in which the rear bicycle chainring assembly 10 is / is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly 1.In other words, the first torque transmission structure 20 is configured to transmit the pedaling torque to the second chainring 26, which is arranged separately adjacent to the first chainring 14, without any further chainring between the first chainring 14 and the second chainring 26. The first torque transmission structure 20 is configured to transmit the pedaling torque to the second torque transmission structure 32 of the second chainring 26 in the state in which the rear bicycle chainring assembly 10 is / is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly 1. As shown in the... Fig. 3 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 4, the second torque transmission structure 32 includes a second spline section 32s which is designed to engage with the first spline section 20s in the state in which the rear bicycle chainring assembly 10 is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly 1.

[0067] The second sprocket 26 incorporates an additional torque transmission structure 34, which is provided on the second inward-facing surface 28. The additional torque transmission structure 34 has an axial length Da in the axial direction, which is longer than one sprocket pitch P2 between the second sprocket 26 (SP10) and the third sprocket 36 (SP9). More specifically, as in the Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the additional torque transmission structure 34 includes a second radially inwardly projecting section 33, which is connected to the second sprocket body 26b. The additional torque transmission structure 34 includes an additional spline section 34s, which is connected to the second radially inwardly projecting section 33. The second radially inwardly projecting section 33 extends from the second torque transmission structure 32 toward the axis of rotation Ax to abut against the first torque transmission structure 20 of the first sprocket 14. That is, the second radially inwardly projecting section 33 is located between the additional spline section 34s and the second sprocket body 26b in the axial direction Da. The additional spline section 34s is designed to engage with the torque transmission structure 4s of the sprocket support section 4.Accordingly, the additional torque transmission structure 34 is designed to transmit the pedaling torque to the chainring support section 4 of the rear bicycle hub assembly 1 when the rear bicycle chainring assembly 10 is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly 1. The additional spline section 34s and the second radially inwardly projecting section 33 are integrally formed with the second chainring body 26b as a single, integral link. That is, the additional torque transmission structure 34 is integrally formed with the second chainring body 26b as a single, integral link. However, the additional torque transmission structure 34 can be a separate link from the third chainring SP9 (36).

[0068] The additional torque transmission structure 34 further includes an outwardly projecting section 35, opposite or oriented to the additional spline section 34s in a radial direction Dr, perpendicular to the axial direction Da. The outwardly projecting section 35 projects radially outward from the additional spline section 34s with respect to the axis of rotation Ax. The outwardly projecting section 35 is received in a stepped recess 37 of the third sprocket 36.

[0069] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the rear bicycle chainring assembly 10 further comprises the third chainring 36 (SP9). The third chainring 36 has a third bicycle-inward facing surface 38. The third bicycle-inward facing surface 38 is directed towards the axial centerline CL of the rear bicycle hub assembly 1. The third chainring 36 has a third bicycle-outward facing surface 40, opposite the third bicycle-inward facing surface 38 in the axial direction Da. In other words, the third bicycle-outward facing surface 40 is directed in the opposite direction with respect to the axial direction Da, compared to the third bicycle-inward facing surface 38.The third sprocket 36 is arranged separately adjacent to the second sprocket 26, without any further sprocket between the second sprocket 26 and the third sprocket 36, such that the third bicycle-outward directed surface 40 of the third sprocket 36 is directed towards the second bicycle-inward directed surface 28 of the second sprocket 26 in the axial direction Da, in the state in which the rear bicycle sprocket assembly 10 is / is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly 1.

[0070] The third sprocket 36 comprises a third sprocket body 36b and a plurality of third sprocket teeth 36t. The third inward-facing surface 38 and the third outward-facing surface 40 are provided on the third sprocket body 36b and the plurality of first sprocket teeth 36t. As shown in the Fig. 4 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 5, the third sprocket body 36b has a third radial outer periphery 36op and a third radial inner periphery 36ip. The third radial inner periphery 36ip is centered around the axis of rotation Ax. The third radial outer periphery 36op is opposite to and centered around the third radial inner periphery 36ip in the radial direction Dr, perpendicular to the axis of rotation Ax. The plurality of third sprocket teeth 36t extend radially outward from the third radial outer periphery 36op of the third sprocket body 36b with respect to the axis of rotation Ax. In the following description, the number of third sprocket teeth 36t is referred to as a third total number of teeth. The third sprocket 36 has a third total number of teeth that is greater than the second total number of teeth. Preferably, the third total number of teeth is thirteen.

[0071] As in the Fig. 3 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 4, the third sprocket 36 includes the stepped recess 37. The stepped recess 37 is provided on the third bicycle-outward facing surface 40. The stepped recess 37 extends in the axial direction Da toward the axial centerline CL of the rear bicycle hub assembly 1 in the state in which the rear bicycle sprocket assembly 10 is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly 1. The stepped recess 37 is stepped in the axial direction Da to accommodate the outwardly projecting section 35 of the second sprocket 26.

[0072] The third sprocket 36 incorporates a third torque transmission structure 42, which is provided on the third bicycle-inward facing surface 38. More specifically, as in the Fig. 3 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 5, the third torque transmission structure 32 is connected to the third sprocket body 36b. The third torque transmission structure 32 extends from the stepped recess 37 to the fourth sprocket SP8 in the axial direction Da. The third torque transmission structure 42 has an axial length in the axial direction Da that is longer than one sprocket pitch P3 between the third sprocket 36b and the fourth sprocket SP8 (44). As shown in Figure 5, the third torque transmission structure 32 is connected to the third sprocket body 36b. The third torque transmission structure 32 extends from the stepped recess 37 to the fourth sprocket SP8 in the axial direction Da. The third torque transmission structure 42 has an axial length in the axial direction Da that is longer than one sprocket pitch P3 between the third sprocket 36b and the fourth sprocket SP8 (44). Fig. As can be seen in Figure 5, the third torque transmission structure 32 includes a third spline segment 42s. The third spline segment 42s can engage with the torque transmission structure 4s of the chainring support section 4. This means that the third torque transmission structure 42 is designed to transmit the pedaling torque to the chainring support section 4 of the rear bicycle hub assembly 1 when the rear bicycle chainring assembly 10 is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly 1.

[0073] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the rear bicycle chainring assembly 10 further comprises the fourth chainring 44 (SP8). The fourth chainring 44 has a fourth bicycle-inward facing surface 46. The fourth bicycle-inward facing surface 46 is directed towards the axial centerline CL of the rear bicycle hub assembly 1. The fourth chainring 44 has a fourth bicycle-outward facing surface 48, opposite the fourth bicycle-inward facing surface 46 in the axial direction Da. In other words, the fourth bicycle-outward facing surface 48 is directed in the opposite direction with respect to the axial direction Da, compared to the fourth bicycle-inward facing surface 46.The fourth sprocket 44 is arranged separately adjacent to the third sprocket 36, without any further sprocket between the third sprocket 36 and the fourth sprocket 44, such that the fourth bicycle-outward directed surface 48 of the fourth sprocket 44 is directed towards the third bicycle-inward directed surface 38 of the third sprocket 36 in the axial direction Da, in the state in which the rear bicycle sprocket assembly 10 is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly 1.

[0074] The fourth sprocket 44 comprises a fourth sprocket body 44b and a plurality of fourth sprocket teeth 44t. The fourth inward-facing surface 46 and the fourth outward-facing surface 48 are provided on the fourth sprocket body 44b and the plurality of fourth sprocket teeth 44t. As shown in the Fig. 4 and Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the fourth sprocket body 44b has a fourth radial outer periphery 44op and a fourth torque transmission structure 50. The fourth torque transmission structure 50 is centered around the axis of rotation Ax. The fourth radial outer periphery 44op is opposite to and centered around the fourth torque transmission structure 50 in the radial direction Dr, perpendicular to the axis of rotation Ax. The plurality of fourth sprocket teeth 44t extend radially outward from the fourth radial outer periphery 44op of the fourth sprocket body 44b with respect to the axis of rotation Ax. In the following description, the number of fourth sprocket teeth 44t is referred to as the fourth total number of teeth. The fourth sprocket 44 has a fourth total number of teeth that is greater than the third total number of teeth. Preferably, the fourth total number of teeth is fifteen.

[0075] The fourth sprocket 44 incorporates the fourth torque transmission structure 50. The fourth torque transmission structure 50 provides a radial inner periphery of the fourth sprocket body 44b around the rotational center axis Ax. As shown in the Fig. 4 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 5, the fourth torque transmission structure 50 includes a fourth spline segment 50s. The fourth spline segment 50s can engage with the torque transmission structure 4s of the chainring support section 4. This means that the fourth torque transmission structure 50 is designed to transmit the pedaling torque to the chainring support section 4 of the rear bicycle hub assembly 1 when the rear bicycle chainring assembly 10 is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly 1.

[0076] As in the Fig. 2, Fig. 6 and Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the bicycle sprocket assembly 10 further comprises a sprocket carrier SC1 or SC2. In the illustrated embodiment, the rear bicycle sprocket assembly 10 further comprises the first sprocket carrier SC1 and the second sprocket carrier SC2, but at least one of the first sprocket carrier SC1 and the second sprocket carrier SC2 can be omitted in this embodiment. In the following description, the first sprocket carrier SC1 can be referred to as a first sprocket carrier 52 and the second sprocket carrier SC2 as a second sprocket carrier 60.

[0077] As in Fig. 6 and Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the first sprocket carrier 52 includes at least one sprocket mounting section 54, 56 and a fifth torque transmission structure 58. In the illustrated embodiment, the first sprocket carrier 52 includes a first sprocket mounting section 54 and a second sprocket mounting section 56. That is, the at least one sprocket mounting section 54, 56 includes a plurality of sprocket mounting sections 54 and 56. The rear bicycle sprocket assembly 10 further includes at least one additional sprocket SP1, SP2, each mounted on the at least one sprocket mounting section 54, 56. That is, the at least one additional sprocket SP1, SP2 includes a plurality of additional sprockets SP1 and SP2, each mounted on the plurality of sprocket mounting sections 54 and 56. The fifth torque transmission structure 58 includes a fifth spline section 58s.The fifth spline section 58s can engage with the torque transmission structure 4s of the chainring support section 4. This means that the fifth torque transmission structure 58 is designed to transmit the pedaling torque to the chainring support section 4 of the rear bicycle hub assembly 1 when the rear bicycle chainring assembly 10 is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly 1.

[0078] As in the Fig. 6 and Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the second sprocket carrier 60 includes at least one sprocket mounting section 62, 64, 66 and a fifth torque transmission structure 68. In the illustrated embodiment, the second sprocket carrier 60 includes a third sprocket mounting section 62, a fourth sprocket mounting section 64, and a fifth sprocket mounting section 66. That is, the at least one sprocket mounting section 62, 64, 66 includes a plurality of sprocket mounting sections 62, 64, and 66. The rear bicycle sprocket assembly 10 further includes at least one additional sprocket SP3, SP4, SP5, which is mounted on each of the at least one sprocket mounting sections 62, 64, 66. That is, the at least one additional sprocket SP3, SP4, SP5 includes a plurality of additional sprockets SP3, SP4, and SP5, each of which is mounted on the plurality of sprocket mounting sections 62, 64, and 66.The fifth torque transmission structure 68 includes a fifth spline segment 68s. The fifth spline segment 68s can engage with the torque transmission structure 4s of the chainring support section 4. This means that the fifth torque transmission structure 68 is designed to transmit the pedaling torque to the chainring support section 4 of the rear bicycle hub assembly 1 when the rear bicycle chainring assembly 10 is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly 1.

[0079] The rear bicycle chainring assembly 10 includes the following features. (1) The rear bicycle sprocket assembly 10 comprises the first sprocket 14. The first sprocket 14 has the first bicycle-inward facing surface 16 and the first bicycle-outward facing surface 18, opposite the first bicycle-inward facing surface 16 in the axial direction Da. The first sprocket 14 includes the first sprocket body 14b, the plurality of first sprocket teeth 14t, the bearing unit mounting section 24, and the first torque transmission structure 20. The plurality of first sprocket teeth 14t extend radially outward from the first radial outer periphery 14op of the first sprocket body 14b with respect to the axis of rotation Ax. The bearing unit mounting section 24 is provided at least partially at the first radial inner periphery 14ip of the first sprocket body 14b.The first torque transmission structure 20 is designed to transmit the pedaling torque to the second chainring 26, which is located separately adjacent to the first chainring 14, without any further chainring being arranged between the first chainring 14 and the second chainring 26. The first torque transmission structure 20 is provided on the first inward-facing surface 16 of the bicycle and is a separate link from the second chainring 26. Accordingly, it is possible to mount the first chainring 14, which has a radially small number of teeth (less than or equal to ten), to the rear bicycle hub assembly 1. Therefore, a bicycle to which the rear bicycle chainring assembly 10 is mounted can have a wide range of gear ratios. (2) The rear bicycle chainring assembly 10 further comprises the bearing unit 12, which is arranged in the bearing unit mounting section 24. The bearing unit mounting section 24 is provided radially inward from the first chainring body 14b and the spacer section 22. (3) The first torque transmission structure 20 extends in the axial direction Da from the first sprocket body 14b of the first sprocket 14. (4) The first torque transmission structure 20 is designed to transmit the pedaling torque to the second torque transmission structure 32 of the second chainring 26 in the state in which the rear bicycle chainring assembly 10 is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly 1. (5) The first torque transmission structure 20 includes the first spline segment 20s. The second torque transmission structure 32 includes the second spline segment 32s, which is configured to engage with the first spline segment 20s when the rear bicycle chainring assembly 10 is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly 1. (6) The first torque transmission structure 20 is integrally formed with the first sprocket body 14b as a single unit element. (7) The first torque transmission structure 20 includes the spacer section 22, which is designed to define the axial gap P1 between the first sprocket 14 and the second sprocket 26 in the axial direction Da, in the state in which the rear bicycle sprocket assembly 10 is / is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly 1. (8) The spacer section 22 is arranged between the first spline section 20s and the first sprocket body 14b in the axial direction Da. (9) The first sprocket 14 has the first total number of teeth that is equal to or less than ten. (10) The rear bicycle sprocket assembly 10 further comprises the second sprocket 26. The second sprocket 26 has the second bicycle-inward facing surface 28 and the second bicycle-outward facing surface 30, opposite the second bicycle-inward facing surface 28 in the axial direction Da. The second sprocket 26 includes the second sprocket body 26b, the plurality of first sprocket teeth 26t, and the second torque transmission structure 32. The plurality of second sprocket teeth 26t extend radially outward from the second radial outer periphery 26op of the second sprocket body 26b with respect to the axis of rotation Ax. The second torque transmission structure 32 is provided on the second bicycle-outward facing surface 30.The first torque transmission structure 20 is designed to transmit the pedaling torque to the second torque transmission structure 32 in the state in which the rear bicycle chainring assembly 10 is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly 1. (11) The second sprocket 26 incorporates the additional torque transmission structure 34, which is provided on the second bicycle-inward facing surface 28. The additional torque transmission structure 34 is designed to transmit the pedaling torque to the sprocket support section 4 of the rear bicycle hub assembly 1 when the rear bicycle sprocket assembly 10 is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly 1. (12) The rear bicycle chainring assembly 10 further comprises the third chainring 36. The third chainring 36 has the third bicycle-inward facing surface 38 and the third bicycle-outward facing surface 40, opposite the third bicycle-inward facing surface 38 in the axial direction Da. The third chainring 36 includes the third chainring body 36b, the plurality of third chainring teeth 36t, and the third torque transmission structure 42. The plurality of third chainring teeth 36t extend radially outward from the third radial outer periphery 36op of the third chainring body 36b with respect to the axis of rotation Ax. The third torque transmission structure 42 is configured to transmit the pedaling torque to the chainring support section 4 of the rear bicycle hub assembly 1 when the rear bicycle chainring assembly 10 is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly 1.The third sprocket 36 is arranged separately adjacent to the second sprocket 26, without any further sprocket between the second sprocket 26 and the third sprocket 36, such that the third bicycle-outward directed surface 40 of the third sprocket 36 is directed towards the second bicycle-inward directed surface 28 of the second sprocket 26 in the axial direction Da, in the state in which the rear bicycle sprocket assembly 10 is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly 1. (13) The rear bicycle chainring assembly 10 further comprises the fourth chainring 44. The fourth chainring 44 has the fourth bicycle-inward facing surface 46 and the fourth bicycle-outward facing surface 48, opposite the fourth bicycle-inward facing surface 46 in the axial direction Da. The fourth chainring 44 includes the fourth chainring body 44b, the plurality of fourth chainring teeth 44t, and the fourth torque transmission structure 50. The plurality of fourth chainring teeth 44t extend radially outward from the fourth radial outer periphery 44op of the fourth chainring body 44b with respect to the axis of rotation Ax. The fourth torque transmission structure 50 is configured to transmit the pedaling torque to the chainring support section 4 of the rear bicycle hub assembly 1 when the rear bicycle chainring assembly 10 is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly 1.The fourth sprocket 44 is arranged separately adjacent to the third sprocket 36, without any further sprocket between the third sprocket 36 and the fourth sprocket 44, such that the fourth bicycle-outward directed surface 48 of the fourth sprocket 44 is directed towards the third bicycle-inward directed surface 38 of the third sprocket 36 in the axial direction Da, in the state in which the rear bicycle sprocket assembly 10 is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly 1. (14) The rear bicycle sprocket assembly 10 further comprises the sprocket carrier 52, 60 and the at least one additional sprocket SP1 to SP5. The sprocket carrier 52, 60 includes the at least one sprocket mounting section 54, 56, 62, 64 and 66, and the fifth torque transmission structure 58, 68, which is configured to transmit the pedaling torque to the sprocket support section 4 of the rear bicycle hub assembly 1 when the rear bicycle sprocket assembly 10 is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly 1. The at least one additional sprocket SP1 to SP5 is mounted to the at least one sprocket mounting section 54, 56, 62, 64 and 66. (15) The at least one sprocket mounting section 54, 56, 62, 64 and 66 includes the plurality of sprocket mounting sections 54, 56, 62, 64 and 66. The at least one additional sprocket SP1 to SP5 includes the plurality of additional sprockets SP1 to SP5, each of which is mounted to the plurality of sprocket mounting sections 54, 56, 62, 64 and 66. (16) The third torque transmission structure 42 includes the third spline section 42s. (17) The fourth torque transmission structure 50 includes the fourth spline segment 50s. (18) The fifth torque transmission structure 58, 68 includes the fifth spline section 58s, 68s. Second embodiment

[0080] A rear bicycle hub assembly 201 and a rear bicycle chainring assembly 210 according to a second embodiment are described below with reference to the Fig. 8 described. The rear bicycle hub assembly 201 has essentially the same structures as the rear bicycle hub assembly 1, except for the sprocket support section 4. The rear bicycle sprocket assembly 210 has essentially the same structures as the rear bicycle sprocket assembly 10, except for the second sprocket 26. Consequently, the elements that have essentially the same function as in the first embodiment are designated with the same reference numerals and, for the sake of brevity, are not described and / or illustrated again in detail herein.

[0081] As in Fig.As shown in Figure 8, the rear bicycle hub assembly 201 comprises a sprocket support section 204 instead of the sprocket support section 4 of the first embodiment. The rear bicycle sprocket assembly 210 comprises a second sprocket 226 instead of the second sprocket 26 of the first embodiment. In addition to the torque transmission structure 4s of the first embodiment, the sprocket support section 204 further comprises an internal torque transmission structure 205s on a radial inner peripheral surface of the sprocket support section 204. The internal torque transmission structure 205s is opposite the torque transmission structure 4s in the radial direction Dr. The internal torque transmission structure 205s includes a spline segment that engages with the first spline segment 20s of the first sprocket 14.The second chainring 226 does not include the second torque transmission structure 32 or the second radially inwardly projecting section 33. The second chainring 226 includes an additional torque transmission structure 234, comprising the outwardly projecting section 35 described in the first embodiment, and an additional spline section 234s. The additional spline section 234s is longer than the additional spline section 34s in the first embodiment. The additional spline section 234s reaches the second bicycle-outwardly facing surface 30. In this embodiment, the first torque transmission structure 20 of the first chainring 14 is configured to indirectly transmit the pedaling torque to the second chainring 226.More specifically, the first torque transmission structure 20 of the first chainring 14 is designed to transmit the pedaling torque to the second chainring 226 via the chainring support section 204.

[0082] With the rear bicycle chainring assembly 210, it is possible to achieve essentially the same effects as with the rear bicycle chainring assembly 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0083] It will be apparent to a person skilled in the art of bicycles from this present disclosure that the structures and / or configurations of the foregoing embodiments can be combined at least partially.

[0084] In the foregoing embodiment, the chainring SP11 or 14 is referred to as the first chainring, but it can also simply be referred to as a rear bicycle chainring SP11 or 14. Similarly, the first bicycle-inward facing surface 16, the first bicycle-outward facing surface 18, the first sprocket body 14b, the plurality of first sprocket teeth 14t, the first radial outer periphery 14op, the first radial inner periphery 14ip, the first torque transmission structure 20, the first spline segment 20s, the first radially inward projecting segment 25 can also be referred to simply as a bicycle-inward facing surface 16, a bicycle-outward facing surface 18, a sprocket body 14b, a plurality of sprocket teeth 14t, a radial outer periphery 14op, a radial inner periphery 14ip, a torque transmission structure 20, a spline segment 20s, a radially inward projecting segment 25 respectively.In this case, the second sprocket SP10 or 26 can be referred to as an adjacent rear sprocket SP10 or 26.

[0085] Accordingly, the rear bicycle sprocket 14 has the bicycle-inward facing surface 16 and the bicycle-outward facing surface 18, opposite the bicycle-inward facing surface 16 in the axial direction Da, parallel to the rotational axis Ax of the rear bicycle sprocket 14. The rear bicycle sprocket 14 includes the sprocket body 14b, the plurality of sprocket teeth 14t, the bearing unit mounting section 24, and the torque transmission structure 20. The plurality of sprocket teeth 14t extend radially outward from the radial outer periphery 14op of the sprocket body 14b with respect to the rotational axis Ax. The bearing unit mounting section 24 is provided at least on the radial inner periphery 14ip of the sprocket body 14b.The torque transmission structure 20 is designed to transmit the pedaling torque to the adjacent rear sprocket 26, which is arranged separately adjacent to the rear bicycle sprocket 14, without any further sprocket between the rear bicycle sprocket 14 and the adjacent rear sprocket 26. The torque transmission structure 20 is provided on the bicycle-inward facing surface 16 and is a separate link from the adjacent rear sprocket 26.

[0086] The term "comprehensive" and its derivatives as used herein are intended to be open terms that specify the presence of the mentioned features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unmentioned features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps. This also applies to words with similar meanings, such as "exhibit," "include," and their derivatives.

[0087] The terms “link”, “section”, “part”, “element”, “body” and “structure”, when used in the singular, can have the dual meaning of a single part or a multitude of parts.

[0088] The integers, such as "first" and "second," as used in the present application, are merely distinguishing marks and have no other meaning, such as indicating a specific order or the like. Furthermore, the term "first element," for example, does not in itself imply the existence of a "second element," and the term "second element" does not in itself imply the existence of the "first element."

[0089] The term “a pair of”, as used herein, includes the configurations in which the pair of elements have different shapes or structures relative to each other, and additionally the configuration in which the pair of elements have the same shape or structure relative to each other.

[0090] Finally, the magnitude terms, such as "essentially", "by" and "approximately", as used herein, signify a reasonable amount of deviation of the modified term so that the final result is not significantly altered.

[0091] Naturally, numerous modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the foregoing teachings. It should therefore be understood that, within the scope of the appended claims, the invention can be implemented in ways other than those specifically described herein.

Claims

[1] Rear bicycle chainring (14) having a bicycle-inward directed surface (16) and a bicycle-outward directed surface (18), opposite the bicycle-inward directed surface (16) in an axial direction (Da) parallel to a rotation center axis (Ax) of the rear bicycle chainring (14), including the rear bicycle chainring (14) a sprocket body (14b); a plurality of sprocket teeth (14t) which extend radially outwards from a radial outer periphery (14op) of the sprocket body (14b) with respect to the axis of rotation (Ax); a bearing unit assembly section (24) which is / will be provided at least partially on a radial inner periphery (14ip) of the sprocket body (14b); and a torque transmission structure (20) which is designed to transmit a pedaling torque to an adjacent rear sprocket (26) which is arranged separately adjacent to the rear bicycle sprocket (14), without any further sprocket between the rear bicycle sprocket (14) and the adjacent rear sprocket (26), wherein the torque transmission structure (20) is provided on the bicycle-inward facing surface (16) and is a separate link from the adjacent rear sprocket (26), wherein the torque transmission structure (20) includes a first spline section (20s). [2] Rear bicycle chainring assembly (10), comprising: comprising a (first) sprocket (14) comprising a first bicycle-inward directed surface (16) and a first bicycle-outward directed surface (18), opposite the first bicycle-inward directed surface (16) in an axial direction (Da) parallel to a rotational center axis (Ax) of the rear bicycle sprocket assembly (10), comprising the first sprocket (14) a (first) sprocket body (14b); a plurality of first sprocket teeth (14t) extending radially outwards from a first radial outer periphery (14op) of the first sprocket body (14b) with respect to the axis of rotation (Ax); a bearing unit assembly section (24) which is / will be provided at least partially on a radial inner periphery (14ip) of the first sprocket body (14b); and a first torque transmission structure (20) configured to transmit a pedaling torque to a second chainring (26) which is arranged separately adjacent to the first chainring (14) without any further chainring between the first chainring (14) and the second chainring (26), wherein the first torque transmission structure (20) is provided on the first bicycle-inward facing surface (16) and is a separate link from the second chainring (26), wherein the (first) torque transmission structure (20) includes a first spline segment (20s); and the second / adjacent rear sprocket (26) includes a second torque transmission structure (32) which includes a second spline section (32s) designed to engage with the first spline section (20s) in the state in which the rear bicycle sprocket assembly (10) is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly (1). [3] Rear bicycle chainring assembly (10) according to claim 2, wherein one or more of the following are fulfilled: a) the (first) torque transmission structure (20) is integrally formed with the (first) sprocket body (14b) as a single unit element; b) the (first) sprocket (14) has a (first) total number of teeth equal to or less than ten; and c) the (first) torque transmission structure (20) extends in the axial direction (Da) from the (first) sprocket body (14b) of the (first) sprocket (14). [4] Rear bicycle chainring assembly (10) according to one of claims 2 to 3, wherein the (first) torque transmission structure (20) is configured to transmit the pedaling torque to a second torque transmission structure (32) of the second / adjacent rear chainring (26), in a state in which the rear bicycle chainring assembly (10) is / is mounted to a rear bicycle hub assembly (1). [5] Rear bicycle chainring assembly (10) according to claim 4, wherein the (first) torque transmission structure (20) includes a first spline section (20s) and the second torque transmission structure (32) includes a second spline section (32s) which is configured to engage with the first spline section (20s) in the state in which the rear bicycle chainring assembly (10) is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly (1). [6] Rear bicycle chainring assembly (10) according to one of claims 2 to 3, further comprising: the second / adjacent rear sprocket (26) with a second bicycle-inward directed surface (28) and a second bicycle-outward directed surface (30), opposite the second bicycle-inward directed surface (28) in the axial direction (Da), wherein the second / adjacent rear sprocket (26) includes: a second sprocket body (26b); a plurality of second sprocket teeth (26t) extending radially outwards from a second radial outer periphery (26op) of the second sprocket body (26b) with respect to the axis of rotation (Ax); and a second torque transmission structure (32) which is provided on the second bicycle-outward directed surface (30), wherein the first torque transmission structure (20) is configured to transmit the pedaling torque to the second torque transmission structure (32) in a state in which the rear bicycle chainring assembly (10) is / is mounted to a rear bicycle hub assembly (1). [7] Rear bicycle chainring assembly (10) according to claim 6, wherein the second / adjacent rear sprocket (26) includes an additional torque transmission structure (34) which is provided on the second bicycle-inward facing surface (28); and the additional torque transmission structure (34) is designed to transmit the pedaling torque to a chain wheel support section (4) of the rear bicycle hub assembly (1) in the state in which the rear bicycle chain wheel assembly (10) is / is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly (1). [8] Rear bicycle chainring assembly (10) according to claim 7, further comprising: comprising a third sprocket (36) comprising a third bicycle-inward directed surface (38) and a third bicycle-outward directed surface (40), opposite the third bicycle-inward directed surface (38) in the axial direction (Da), wherein the third sprocket (36) includes: a third sprocket body (36b); a plurality of third sprocket teeth (36t) extending radially outwards from a third radial outer periphery (36op) of the third sprocket body (36b) with respect to the axis of rotation (Ax); and a third torque transmission structure (42) configured to transmit the pedaling torque to the chainring support section (4) of the rear bicycle hub assembly (1) in the state in which the rear bicycle chainring assembly (10) is / is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly (1), preferably the third torque transmission structure (42) includes a third spline section (42s); wherein the third sprocket (36) is arranged separately adjacent to the second sprocket / adjacent rear sprocket (26), without any further sprocket between the second sprocket / adjacent rear sprocket (26) and the third sprocket (36), such that the third bicycle-outward facing surface (40) of the third sprocket (36) is directed towards the second bicycle-inward facing surface (28) of the second sprocket / adjacent rear sprocket (26) in the axial direction (Da), in the state in which the rear bicycle sprocket assembly (10) is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly (1). [9] Rear bicycle chainring assembly (10) according to claim 8, further comprising: a fourth sprocket (44) comprising a fourth bicycle-inward directed surface (46) and a fourth bicycle-outward directed surface (48) opposite the fourth bicycle-inward directed surface (46) in the axial direction (Da), wherein the fourth sprocket (44) includes: a fourth sprocket body (44b); a plurality of fourth sprocket teeth (44t) extending radially outwards from a fourth radial outer periphery (44op) of the fourth sprocket body (44b) with respect to the axis of rotation (Ax); and a fourth torque transmission structure (50) configured to transmit the pedaling torque to the chainring support section (4) of the rear bicycle hub assembly (1) in the state in which the rear bicycle chainring assembly (10) is / is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly (1), preferably the fourth torque transmission structure (50) includes a fourth spline section (50s); wherein the fourth sprocket (44) is / will be arranged separately adjacent to the third sprocket (36), without any further sprocket between the third sprocket (36) and the fourth sprocket (44), such that the fourth bicycle-outward directed surface (48) of the fourth sprocket (44) is directed towards the third bicycle-inward directed surface (38) of the third sprocket (36) in the axial direction (Da), in the state in which the rear bicycle sprocket assembly (10) is / will be mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly (1). [10] Rear bicycle chainring assembly (10) according to claim 9, further comprising: a chain wheel carrier (SC1, SC2) comprising at least one chain wheel mounting section (54, 56) and a fifth torque transmission structure (58) configured to transmit the pedaling torque to the chain wheel support section (4) of the rear bicycle hub assembly (1) in the state in which the rear bicycle chain wheel assembly (10) is / is mounted to the rear bicycle hub assembly (1), preferably the fifth torque transmission structure (58) comprises a fifth spline section (58s) and at least one additional chain wheel (SP1, SP2) which is / is mounted on at least one chain wheel mounting section (54, 56). [11] Rear bicycle chainring assembly (10) according to claim 10, wherein: which includes at least one sprocket assembly section (54, 56) or a plurality of sprocket assembly sections (54, 56); and which includes at least one additional sprocket (SP1, SP2) and a plurality of additional sprockets (SP1, SP2), each mounted to the plurality of sprocket mounting sections (54, 56). [12] Rear bicycle chainring assembly (10) according to any one of claims 2 to 11, wherein: the (first) torque transmission structure (20) includes a spacer section (22) which is designed to define an axial gap (P1) between the (first) sprocket (14) and the second / adjacent rear sprocket (26) in the axial direction (Da) in the state in which the rear bicycle sprocket assembly (10) is / is mounted to a rear bicycle hub assembly (1). [13] Rear bicycle chainring assembly (10) according to claim 12, wherein: the spacer section (22) between the first spline section (20s) and the first sprocket body (14b) is / will be arranged in the axial direction (Da). [14] Rear bicycle chainring assembly (10) according to any one of claims 2 to 13, further comprising: a bearing unit (5, 6, 7) which is / will be arranged in the bearing unit assembly section (24), preferably radially inwards from the (first) sprocket body (14b) and the spacer section (22).

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