bicycle chain

Abstract

Bicycle chain (20), comprising: a first inner link plate (22) comprising: a first end portion (38) comprising a first opening (39) having a first central axis (A1); a second end portion (40) comprising a second opening (41) with a second central axis (A2); and a first intermediate portion (42) connecting the first end portion (38) and the second end portion (40); and a second inner link plate (24) which, in an assembled state in which the bicycle chain (20) is assembled, is spaced from the first inner link plate in an axial direction (Da) parallel to one of the first central axis (A1) and the second central axis (A2), the second inner link plate (24) comprising: a third end portion (46) having a third opening (47) with a third central axis (A3); a fourth end portion (48) comprising a fourth opening (49) with a fourth central axis (A4); and a second intermediate section (50) connecting the third end section (46) and the fourth end section (48), wherein the first inner link plate (22) comprises a first outer surface (22So) and a first inner surface (22Si) opposite the first outer surface (22So) in the axial direction (Da), wherein the second inner link plate (24) comprises a second outer surface (24So) and a second inner surface (24Si) opposite the second outer surface (24So) in the axial direction (Da), wherein the first inner surface (22Si) and the second inner surface (24Si) are arranged to face each other in the assembled state, wherein the first intermediate portion (42) of the first inner link plate has an axial recess (44) formed on / on the first inner surface (22Si) in the axial direction (Da), wherein the second intermediate portion (50) of the second inner link plate is free of an axial recess (44) formed on / on the second inner surface (24Si) of the second intermediate portion (50) in the axial direction (Da), wherein the axial recess (44) is offset from the first inner surface (22Si) in a bicycle outward direction (D2).

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION REFERENCE TO OTHER APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. patent application US 15 / 447,015, filed March 1, 2017. The entire disclosure of U.S. patent application US 15 / 447,015 is hereby incorporated by reference. FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to a bicycle chain. DISCUSSION OF THE BACKGROUND

[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 is constantly improving the various components of the bicycle. One component that has recently been redesigned is the bicycle chain.

[0004] US 4 596 539 A discloses a bicycle drive chain comprising a series of inner and outer link pairs alternately connected to one another in the longitudinal direction, in which each of a first portion of the outer link pairs includes a first left side and a first right side of the outer link plates, only the first right side of the outer link plate having a cutout or depression in its inwardly facing peripheral edge, and each of a second portion comprising some of the outer link pairs includes a second left side and a second right side of the outer link plates, only the second left side of the outer link plate having a cutout or depression in its inwardly facing peripheral edge;and / or each of a first, some of the inner link pairs comprising a first left side and a first right side inner link panels, wherein only the first inner link panel on the right side has a cutout or recess in its inwardly facing peripheral edge, and each of a second part of the inner link pairs comprising a second inner link panel on the left side and a second inner link panel on the right side, wherein only the second inner link panel on the left side has a cutout or recess in its inwardly facing peripheral edge; SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a bicycle chain comprises a first inner link plate and a second inner link plate. The first inner link plate includes a first end portion, a second end portion, and a first intermediate portion. The first end portion includes a first opening having a first central axis. The second end portion includes a second opening having a second central axis. The first intermediate portion connects the first end portion to the second end portion. The second inner link plate is spaced from the first inner link plate in an axial direction parallel to one of the first central axis and the second central axis in an assembled state in which the bicycle chain is assembled.The second inner link plate includes a third end portion, a fourth end portion, and a second intermediate portion. The third end portion includes a third opening having a third central axis. The fourth end portion includes a fourth opening having a fourth central axis. The second intermediate portion connects the third end portion and the fourth end portion. The first inner link plate includes a first outer surface and a first inner surface opposite the first outer surface in the axial direction. The second inner link plate includes a second outer surface and a second inner surface opposite the second outer surface in the axial direction. The first inner surface and the second inner surface are configured to oppose each other in the assembled state.The first intermediate portion of the first inner link plate has an axial recess formed on the first inner surface in the axial direction. The second intermediate portion of the second inner link plate is free of an axial recess formed or formed on the second inner surface of the second intermediate portion in the axial direction. The axial recess is offset from the first inner surface in a bicycle-outward direction.

[0006] With the bicycle chain according to the first aspect, it is possible for the bicycle chain to hold bicycle sprocket teeth more tightly than a conventional bicycle chain.

[0007] According to a second aspect of the present invention, the bicycle chain comprises a first inner link plate, a second inner link plate, a first outer link plate, and a second outer link plate. The first inner link plate includes a first end portion, a second end portion, and a first intermediate portion. The first intermediate portion has an axial recess in a bicycle-outward direction. The first end portion includes a first opening having a first central axis. The second end portion includes a second opening having a second central axis. The first intermediate portion connects the first end portion to the second end portion.The second inner link plate is spaced from the first inner link plate in an axial direction parallel to one of the first central axis and the second central axis to provide an inner connecting distance between the first inner link plate and the second inner link plate in an assembled state in which the bicycle chain is assembled. The inner link space is configured to receive a sprocket tooth of a bicycle sprocket and has a longitudinal centerline of the inner connecting space. The second inner link plate includes a third end portion, a fourth end portion, and a second intermediate portion. The third end portion includes a third opening having a third central axis. The fourth end portion includes a fourth opening having a fourth central axis.The second intermediate portion connects the third end portion and the fourth end portion. The first outer link plate includes a fifth end portion, a sixth end portion, and a third intermediate portion. The fifth end portion includes a fifth opening having a fifth central axis. The sixth end portion includes a sixth opening having a sixth central axis. The third intermediate portion connects the fifth end portion and the sixth end portion. The second outer link plate is axially spaced from the first outer link plate to form an outer link space between the first outer link plate and the second outer link plate when assembled.The outer link space is configured to receive a sprocket tooth of the bicycle sprocket and has a longitudinal centerline of the outer link space offset from the longitudinal centerline of the inner link space in the axial direction due to the axial recess.

[0008] With the bicycle chain according to the second aspect, it is possible for the bicycle chain to hold bicycle sprocket teeth more firmly than a conventional bicycle chain.

[0009] According to a third aspect of the present invention, the bicycle chain according to any one of the first and second aspects is configured such that the second intermediate portion has an edge and has a chamfer formed on the edge.

[0010] With the bicycle chain according to the third aspect, it is possible to easily engage sprocket teeth with the bicycle chain.

[0011] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle chain according to the third aspect is configured such that the chamfer is configured to facilitate a shifting operation.

[0012] With the bicycle chain according to the fourth aspect, it is possible for the bicycle chain to change the engagement with the bicycle sprockets without any problems.

[0013] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle chain according to any one of the first to fourth aspects is configured such that the first inner link plate has a longitudinal center axis as viewed from the axial direction. The axial recess at least partially overlaps the longitudinal center axis as viewed from the axial direction.

[0014] With the bicycle chain according to the fifth aspect, it is possible for the bicycle chain to hold the bicycle sprocket teeth even more tightly than a conventional bicycle chain.

[0015] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle chain according to the fifth aspect is configured such that the first intermediate portion has a first edge and a second edge opposite the first edge in a transverse direction perpendicular to the longitudinal center axis. The axial recess extends from the first edge to the second edge.

[0016] With the bicycle chain according to the sixth aspect, it is possible for the bicycle chain to hold the bicycle sprocket teeth even more tightly than a conventional bicycle chain.

[0017] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the bicycle chain according to any one of the first to sixth aspects is configured such that the axial recess is formed by bending the first inner link plate at the first intermediate portion.

[0018] With the bicycle chain according to the seventh aspect, it is possible to easily manufacture the bicycle chain.

[0019] According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle chain according to any one of the first to seventh aspects is configured such that the first inner link plate is disposed farther from a bicycle center plane of a bicycle than the second inner link plate in a state where the bicycle chain is attached to the bicycle.

[0020] With the bicycle chain according to the eighth aspect, it is possible to facilitate a shifting operation of the rear bicycle sprockets, just as it is possible for the bicycle chain to hold the bicycle sprocket teeth firmly.

[0021] According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle chain according to any one of the first to eighth aspects is configured such that the first inner link plate is disposed closer to a bicycle center plane of a bicycle than the second inner link plate in a state where the bicycle chain is attached to the bicycle.

[0022] With the bicycle chain according to the ninth aspect, it is possible to facilitate a shifting operation of the front bicycle sprockets, just as it is possible for the bicycle chain to hold the bicycle sprocket teeth firmly.

[0023] According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle chain according to any one of the first to nine aspects is configured such that the first inner link plate and the second inner link plate form an inner link space therebetween. The inner link space is configured to receive a sprocket tooth of a bicycle sprocket and has a first maximum transverse width in the range of 2.1 mm to 3.6 mm.

[0024] With the bicycle chain according to the tenth aspect, it is possible for the bicycle chain to hold the bicycle sprocket teeth even more tightly than a conventional bicycle chain.

[0025] According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the bicycle chain according to any one of the first to tenth aspects further comprises a first outer link plate and a second outer link plate opposite to the first outer link plate in the axial direction. The first outer link plate and the second outer link plate form an outer link space therebetween. The outer link space is configured to receive a sprocket tooth of a bicycle sprocket and has a second maximum transverse width of equal to or less than 4.1 mm.

[0026] With the bicycle chain according to the eleventh aspect, it is possible for the bicycle chain to hold the bicycle sprocket teeth even more tightly than a conventional bicycle chain.

[0027] According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle chain according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects is configured such that the first inner link plate and the second inner link plate form an inner link space therebetween. The inner link space has a first maximum transverse width and is configured to receive a sprocket tooth of a bicycle sprocket. The bicycle chain further comprises a first outer link plate and a second outer link plate opposite to the first outer link plate in the axial direction. The first outer link plate and the second outer link plate form an outer link space therebetween. The outer link space has a second maximum transverse width and is configured to receive a sprocket tooth of the bicycle sprocket.The first maximum transverse width divided by the second maximum transverse width is equal to or greater than 0.6.

[0028] With the bicycle chain according to the twelfth aspect, it is possible for the bicycle chain to hold the bicycle sprocket teeth even more tightly than a conventional bicycle chain.

[0029] According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, a drivetrain comprises the bicycle chain according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects and at least one rear bicycle sprocket. The at least one rear bicycle sprocket includes a first sprocket tooth to be received in an inner link space formed between the first inner link plate and the second inner link plate.

[0030] With the bicycle chain according to the thirteenth aspect, it is possible to provide a drive train having a rear bicycle sprocket and a bicycle chain to hold sprocket teeth of the rear bicycle sprocket more tightly than a conventional bicycle chain.

[0031] According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the drive train according to the thirteenth aspect is configured such that the bicycle chain further comprises a first outer link plate and a second outer link plate opposite to the first outer link plate in the axial direction. The at least one rear bicycle sprocket further comprises a second sprocket tooth to be received in an outer link space formed between the first outer link plate and the second outer link plate. The first sprocket tooth has a first chain engagement width. The second sprocket tooth has a second chain engagement width that is larger than the first chain engagement width in the axial direction.

[0032] In the bicycle chain according to the fourteenth aspect, the bicycle chain is arranged to hold the sprocket teeth of the bicycle sprocket even more tightly because both the first sprocket teeth and the second sprocket teeth mesh with the bicycle chain.

[0033] According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, a drivetrain comprises the bicycle chain according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects and a bicycle front sprocket. The bicycle front sprocket has a third sprocket tooth received in an inner link space formed between the first inner link plate and the second inner link plate.

[0034] With the bicycle chain according to the fifteenth aspect, it is possible to provide a drive train having a front bicycle sprocket and a bicycle chain for holding sprocket teeth of the front bicycle sprocket more tightly than a conventional bicycle chain.

[0035] According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the drive train according to the fifteenth aspect is configured such that the bicycle chain comprises a first outer link plate and a second outer link plate axially opposed to the first outer link plate. The front bicycle sprocket further comprises a fourth sprocket tooth to be received in an outer link space formed between the first outer link plate and the second outer link plate. The third sprocket tooth has a third chain engagement width. The fourth sprocket tooth has a fourth chain engagement width that is larger in the axial direction than the third chain engagement width.

[0036] In the bicycle chain according to the sixteenth aspect, the bicycle chain is configured to hold the sprocket teeth of the bicycle sprocket even more tightly because both the first sprocket teeth and the second sprocket teeth mesh with the bicycle chain.

[0037] According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, the drive train according to any one of the fifteenth and sixteenth aspects is arranged such that the front bicycle sprocket is a single front sprocket.

[0038] With the bicycle chain according to the seventeenth aspect, it is possible to provide a drive train having a front bicycle sprocket and a bicycle chain for holding sprocket teeth of the front bicycle sprocket more tightly than a conventional bicycle chain. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] A more complete understanding of the invention and many of the attendant advantages will be readily obtained as the same become better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Fig. 1 is a side elevational view of a bicycle having a drivetrain utilizing a bicycle chain according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2 is a side elevational view of a rear bicycle sprocket assembly in the Fig. 1 shown drive train. Fig. 3 is a partial plan view of the bicycle chain, each of which is engaged with a front bicycle sprocket and a rear bicycle sprocket shown in Fig. 1 are shown. Fig. 4 is an internal perspective view of a first inner link plate shown in Fig. 3 is shown. Fig. 5 is a perspective exterior view of the Fig. 3 shown first inner connecting link plate. Fig. 6 is an inside elevation view of the first inner link plate shown in Fig. 3 is shown. Fig. 7 is an inside perspective view of a second inner link plate shown in Fig. 3 is shown. Fig. 8 is a perspective exterior view of the Fig. 3 shown second inner link plate. Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a first outer link plate shown in Fig. 3 is shown. Fig. 10 is a perspective view of a second outer link plate shown in Fig. 3 is shown. Fig. 11 is a partial plan view of the Fig. 1 shown bicycle chain. Fig. 12 is a partial elevational view of both the front bicycle sprocket and the rear bicycle sprocket shown in Fig. 1 are shown. Fig. 13 is another partial elevational view of both the front bicycle sprocket and the rear bicycle sprocket shown in Fig. 1 are shown. Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view of each of the first sprocket tooth and the third sprocket tooth taken along line XIV-XIV of Fig. 12 and Fig. 13. Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view of each of the second sprocket tooth and the fourth sprocket tooth taken along line XV-XV of Fig. 12 and Fig. 13. Fig. 16 is a side elevational view of a bicycle having a drivetrain employing a bicycle chain according to a modification of an embodiment of the present invention. DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0040] The embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals designate corresponding or identical elements in the various drawings.

[0041] With initial reference to Fig. 1 shows a bicycle 1 equipped with a bicycle chain 20 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The bicycle 1 includes, among other things, a handlebar 3, a bicycle frame 5, a saddle 7, and a drivetrain 10. The drivetrain 10 is configured to convert the rider's pedaling power into a driving force. The drivetrain 10 includes the bicycle chain 20. The drivetrain 10 also includes a front crankset 12, a rear bicycle sprocket assembly 14, and a rear bicycle derailleur 18. The front crankset 12 is rotatably mounted to a bottom bracket of the bicycle frame 5. The front crankset 12 includes a front bicycle sprocket 13 for engaging the bicycle chain 20. Accordingly, the drivetrain 10 includes the bicycle chain 20 and the front bicycle sprocket 13. Preferably, the front bicycle sprocket is a single front sprocket.The rear bicycle sprocket assembly 14 is attached to a rear axle of a rear wheel 9. The rear bicycle sprocket assembly 14 includes at least one rear bicycle sprocket 15 for engaging the bicycle chain 20. Accordingly, the drivetrain 10 includes the bicycle chain 20 and at least one rear bicycle sprocket 15. The bicycle chain 20 is arranged on the front crankset 12 and the rear bicycle sprocket assembly 14 to extend therebetween. The bicycle derailleur 18 is configured and arranged to change gears by sliding the bicycle chain 20 in a transverse direction of the bicycle 1.

[0042] In this embodiment, the following directional terms "front," "rear," "forward," "backward," "left," "right," "across," "upward," and "downward," as well as any other similar directional terms, refer to those directions determined based on the rider sitting, for example, on the saddle 7 of the bicycle 1 and facing the handlebars 3. Accordingly, these terms, as used to describe the bicycle 1 including the bicycle chain 20, should be interpreted relative to the bicycle 1 as used in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface, as in Fig. 1. These terms used to describe the bicycle chain 20 should be interpreted with respect to the bicycle chain 20 as attached to the bicycle 1 used in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface, as shown in Fig. 1 is shown.

[0043] Referring to Fig. 2, the rear bicycle sprocket assembly 14 includes rear bicycle sprockets RS1 to RS12 having different numbers of teeth from each other. In the illustrated embodiment, a total number of the rear bicycle sprockets RS1 to RS12 is twelve. However, the total number of sprockets is not limited to twelve, but preferably, the total number of rear bicycle sprockets is equal to or greater than nine. Preferably, all of the rear bicycle sprockets RS1 to RS12 are the rear bicycle sprockets 15. However, some of the rear bicycle sprockets RS1 to RS12 may be bicycle sprockets different from the rear bicycle sprocket 15. Namely, at least one of the rear bicycle sprockets RS1 to RS12 may be the rear bicycle sprocket 15. The rear bicycle sprockets RS1 to RS12 are rotatable relative to the bicycle frame 5 about a rotational center axis AR.The rear bicycle sprockets RS1 to RS12 are arranged in an axial direction parallel to the rotational center axis AR. In the illustrated embodiment, the smallest sprocket RS12 of the rear bicycle sprockets RS1 to RS12 has ten teeth. The largest sprocket RS1 of the rear bicycle sprockets RS1 to RS12 has forty-eight teeth. Therefore, a tooth number difference between the smallest sprocket RS12 and the largest sprocket RS1 of the rear bicycle sprockets RS1 to RS12 is thirty-eight. In this embodiment, preferably, a tooth number difference between a smallest sprocket and a largest sprocket of the rear bicycle sprockets is equal to or greater than twenty-five. More preferably, a tooth number difference between a smallest sprocket and a largest sprocket of the rear bicycle sprockets is equal to or greater than thirty-five.The total number of teeth of a largest rear sprocket is equal to or greater than 44. The total number of teeth of a smallest rear sprocket is equal to or less than 10.

[0044] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the bicycle derailleur 18 is mounted on the bicycle frame 5 and is configured to guide the bicycle chain 20 from one rear sprocket to another adjacent rear sprocket between the rear bicycle sprockets RS1 to RS12. Since the rear bicycle derailleur 18 has well-known structures, they will not be described in detail herein.

[0045] Fig. 3 illustrates the bicycle chain 20 engaged with each of the front bicycle sprocket 13 and the at least one rear bicycle sprocket 15. The bicycle chain 20 includes a first inner link plate 22 and a second inner link plate 24. The bicycle chain 20 further includes a first outer link plate 26 and a second outer link plate 28. The second inner link plate 24 is disposed opposite the first inner link plate 22 in the axial direction Da. More specifically, in an assembled state in which the bicycle chain 20 is assembled, the second inner link plate 24 is spaced apart from the first inner link plate 22 in the axial direction Da. The first inner link plate 22 and the second inner link plate 24 form an inner link space 23 therebetween.In other words, the second inner link plate 24 is spaced to provide the inner link space 23 between the first inner link plate 22 and the second inner link plate 24 in the assembled state. The second outer link plate 28 is arranged opposite the first outer link plate 26 in the axial direction Da. More specifically, the second outer link plate 28 is spaced from the first outer link plate 26 in the axial direction Da. The first outer link plate 26 and the second outer link plate 28 form an outer link space therebetween. More specifically, the second outer link plate 28 is spaced to form an outer link space 27 between the first outer link plate 26 and the second outer link plate 28 in the assembled state.

[0046] Fig. 3 illustrates a bicycle center plane BCP to show a relative position of each component of the bicycle chain 20. As shown in Fig. 3, in a state where the bicycle chain 20 is attached to the bicycle 1, the first inner link plate 22 is farther from the bicycle center plane BCP of the bicycle 1 than the second inner link plate 24. In this specification, a direction toward a bicycle center plane BCP along the axial direction Da is referred to as a bicycle inward direction D1, and a direction opposite to the bicycle inward direction D1 along the axial direction Da is referred to as a bicycle outward direction D2.

[0047] The at least one rear bicycle sprocket 15 includes a first sprocket tooth 30 to be received in the inner link space 23 formed between the first inner link plate 22 and the second inner link plate 24. The at least one rear bicycle sprocket 15 further includes a second sprocket tooth 32 to be received in the outer link space 27 formed between the first outer link plate 26 and the second outer link plate 28. Furthermore, the front sprocket 13 includes a third sprocket tooth 34 to be received in the inner link space 23 formed between the first inner link plate 22 and the second inner link plate 24.The front bicycle sprocket 13 further includes a fourth sprocket tooth 36 to be received in the outer link space 27 formed between the first outer link plate 26 and the second outer link plate 28. In other words, the inner link space 23 is configured to receive the sprocket tooth 30, 34 of the bicycle sprocket 15, 13. The outer link space 27 is configured to receive the sprocket tooth 32, 36 of the bicycle sprocket 15, 13.

[0048] As in Fig. 3 to 5, the first inner link plate 22 includes a first end portion 38, a second end portion 40, and a first intermediate portion 42. The first end portion 38, the second end portion 40, and the first intermediate portion 42 are provided integrally with each other as a one-piece unitary member. The first inner link plate 22 is made of a hard and / or rigid material, such as a metallic material. The first end portion 38 is positioned downstream of the second end portion 40 with respect to the chain drive direction DR in a state in which the bicycle chain 20 is engaged with each of the front bicycle sprocket 13 and the rear bicycle sprocket 15. As shown in Fig. 4 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 5, the first end portion 38 includes a first opening 39 having a first central axis A1. The second end portion 40 includes a second opening 41 having a second central axis A2. The axial direction Da is parallel to one of the first central axis A1 and the second central axis A2. While the first opening 39 and the second opening 41 are illustrated as two circular openings, it will be apparent to those skilled in the bicycle art that an elongated opening may be added for inserting the connecting pins 68 and 70 into these openings. In this case, central axes of circular parts of the first opening 39 and the second opening 41, in which the connecting pins 68 and 70 are locked in the assembled state, may be the first central axis A1 and the second central axis A2, respectively.

[0049] The first intermediate portion 42 connects the first end portion 38 and the second end portion 40. In particular, the first intermediate portion 42 includes a first connecting portion connecting part 43, an axial recess 44, and a second connecting portion connecting part 45. The first inner link plate 22 includes a first outer surface 22So and a first inner surface 22Si opposite the first outer surface 22So in the axial direction Da. In particular, in the assembled state, the first inner surface 22Si faces the second inner link plate 24. The first outer surface 22So is a back surface of the first inner surface 22Si in the axial direction Da. The first inner surface 22Si includes a first end portion inner surface 38Si, a second end portion inner surface 40Si, a first connecting portion inner surface 43Si, and a second connecting portion inner surface 45Si.

[0050] The first intermediate portion 42 of the first inner link plate 22 has the axial recess 44 formed on the first inner surface 22Si in the axial direction Da. The axial recess 44 is formed by bending the first inner link plate 22 at the first intermediate portion 42. In particular, the axial recess 44 is offset from the inner surface 43Si of the first connecting portion and the inner surface 45Si of the second connecting portion in the bicycle outward direction D2. In other words, the axial recess 44 is offset from the inner surface 38Si of the first end portion and an inner surface 40Si of the second end portion in the bicycle outward direction D2. As shown in Fig. 6, the first inner link plate 22 has a longitudinal central axis CA as viewed from the axial direction Da. The axial recess 44 at least partially intersects the longitudinal central axis CA as viewed from the axial direction Da. The first intermediate portion 42 has a first edge 42Ei and a second edge 42Eo opposite the first edge 42Ei in a transverse direction Dt perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis CA. The first edge 42Ei is closer to the rotational central axis AR of the rear bicycle sprocket assembly 14 than the second edge 42Eo in the state in which the bicycle chain 20 is attached to the bicycle 1. The axial recess 44 extends from the first edge 42Ei to the second edge 42Eo.

[0051] As in Fig. 3, Fig. 7 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 8, the second inner link plate 24 is spaced apart from the first inner link plate 22 in the axial direction Da, parallel to one of the first central axis A1 and the second central axis A2, in the assembled state in which the bicycle chain 20 is attached. The second inner link plate 24 includes a third end portion 46, a fourth end portion 48, and a second intermediate portion 50. The third end portion 46, the fourth end portion 48, and the second intermediate portion 50 are integrally provided with each other as a one-piece unitary member. The second inner link plate 24 is made of a hard and / or rigid material, such as a metallic material.The third end portion 46 is positioned downstream of the fourth end portion 48 with respect to the chain drive direction DR in the state in which the bicycle chain 20 is engaged with the front bicycle sprocket 13 and the rear bicycle sprocket 15. The third end portion 46 includes a third opening 47 having a third central axis A3. The fourth end portion 48 includes a fourth opening 49 having a fourth central axis A4. While the third opening 47 and the fourth opening 49 are illustrated as two circular openings, it will be apparent to those skilled in the bicycle art that an elongated opening may be added for inserting the connecting pins 68 and 70 into these openings. In this case, the central axes of the circular parts of the third opening 47 and the fourth opening 49, in which the connecting pins 68 and 70 are locked in the assembled state, may be the third central axes A3 and A4, respectively.the fourth central axis A4.

[0052] The second intermediate section 50 connects the third end section 46 and the fourth end section 48. The third central axis A3 substantially coincides with the first central axis A1 in the assembled state. The fourth central axis A4 substantially coincides with the second central axis A2 in the assembled state. Accordingly, the third end section 46 faces the first end section 38 in the axial direction Da. The fourth end section 48 faces the second end section 40 in the axial direction Da. The second intermediate section 50 faces the first intermediate section 42 in the axial direction Da.

[0053] The second inner link plate 24 includes a second outer surface 24So and a second inner surface 24Si opposite the second outer surface 24So in the axial direction Da. The first inner surface 22Si and the second inner surface 24Si are configured to oppose each other in the assembled state. The second intermediate portion 50 of the second inner link plate 24 is free of an axial recess formed or configured on / on the second inner surface 24Si of the second intermediate portion 50 in the axial direction Da. In particular, the second inner surface 24Si includes a third end portion inner surface 46Si, a fourth end portion inner surface 48Si, and a second intermediate portion inner surface 50Si. The inner surface 46Si of the third end portion is the second inner surface 24Si of the third end portion 46. The inner surface 48Si of the fourth end portion is the second inner surface 24Si of the fourth end portion 48.The inner surface 50Si of the second intermediate section is the second inner surface 24Si of the second intermediate section 50. The inner surface 46Si of the third end section, the inner surface 48Si of the fourth end section, and the inner surface 50Si of the second intermediate section form a single flat surface. The second outer surface 24So includes a third end section outer surface 46So, a fourth end section outer surface 48So, and a second intermediate section outer surface 50So. The third end section outer surface 46So is the second outer surface 24So of the third end section 46. The fourth end section outer surface 48So is the second outer surface 24So of the fourth end section 48. The second intermediate section outer surface 50So is the second outer surface 24So of the second intermediate section 50.The outer surface 46So of the third end section, the outer surface 48So of the fourth end section and the outer surface 50So of the second intermediate section form a single flat surface.

[0054] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 8, the second intermediate portion 50 has a third edge 50Ei and a fourth edge 50Eo. The third edge 50Ei is closer to the rotational center axis AR of the rear bicycle sprocket assembly 14 than the fourth edge 50Eo in the state in which the bicycle chain 20 is attached to the bicycle 1. In the following description, the third edge 50Ei may be simply referred to as the edge 50Ei, and the second intermediate portion 50 may also be described as having the edge 50Ei. The second intermediate portion 50 includes a chamfer 52 formed on the edge 50Ei. In the following description, the chamfer 52 may be referred to as the first chamfer 52. The first chamfer 52 is formed on the outer surface 50So of the second intermediate portion, which is the second outer surface 24So of the second intermediate portion 50. As shown in Fig. 3, the outer surface 50So of the second intermediate portion faces the bicycle center plane BCP of the bicycle 1. Accordingly, the chamfer 52 is configured to facilitate a shifting operation, and the axial recess 44 is less likely to interfere with the shifting operation of the bicycle sprockets RS1 to RS12.

[0055] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 7, the second intermediate portion 50 further includes a second chamfer 54 formed on the edge 50Ei. The second chamfer 54 is formed on the inner surface 50Si of the second intermediate portion, which is the second inner surface 24Si of the second intermediate portion 50. The inner surface 50Si of the second intermediate portion is opposite the outer surface 50So of the second intermediate portion in the axial direction, whereby the second chamfer 54 is configured to facilitate engagement between the bicycle chain 20 and each of the first sprocket tooth 30 of the rear bicycle sprocket 15 and the third sprocket tooth 34 of the front bicycle sprocket 13.

[0056] As in Fig. 3 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 9, the first outer link plate 26 includes a fifth end portion 56, a sixth end portion 58, and a third intermediate portion 60. The fifth end portion 56, the sixth end portion 58, and the third intermediate portion 60 are integrally provided with each other as a one-piece unitary member. The first outer link plate 26 is made of a hard and / or rigid material, such as a metallic material. The fifth end portion 56 is positioned downstream of the sixth end portion 58 with respect to the chain drive direction DR in the state where the bicycle chain 20 is engaged with each of the front bicycle sprocket 13 and the rear bicycle sprocket 15. The fifth end portion 56 includes a fifth opening 57 having a fifth central axis A5. The sixth end portion 58 includes a sixth opening 59 having a sixth central axis A6.While the fifth opening 57 and the sixth opening 59 are illustrated as two circular openings, it will be apparent to those skilled in the bicycle art that an elongated opening may be added for inserting the connecting pins 68 and 70 into these openings. In this case, the center axes of the circular portions of the fifth opening 57 and the sixth opening 59, in which the connecting pins 68 and 70 are locked in the assembled state, may be the fifth center axis A5 and the sixth center axis A6, respectively.

[0057] The third intermediate section 60 connects the fifth end section 56 and the sixth end section 58. The fifth central axis A5 substantially coincides with the first central axis A1 in the assembled state. The sixth central axis A6 substantially coincides with the second central axis A2 of another first inner link plate 22 in the assembled state. As shown in Fig. 3, the fifth end portion 56 accordingly contacts the first end portion 38 of the first inner link plate 22. The sixth end portion 58 contacts the second end portion 40 of another first inner link plate 22. Further, an inner surface 56Si of the fifth end portion 56, an inner surface 58Si of the sixth end portion 58, and an inner surface 60Si of the third intermediate portion 60 form a single flat surface. An outer surface 56So of the fifth end portion 56, an outer surface 58So of the sixth end portion 58, and an outer surface 60So of the third intermediate portion 60 form a single flat surface. Accordingly, the third intermediate portion 60 of the first outer link plate 26 is free of an axial recess formed or formed on / on the inner surface 60Si of the third intermediate portion 60 in the axial direction Da.

[0058] As in Fig. 3 and Fig. As can be seen from Fig. 10, the second outer link plate 28 has a substantially similar structure to the first outer link plate 26. The second outer link plate 28 includes a seventh end portion 62, an eighth end portion 64, and a fourth intermediate portion 66. The seventh end portion 62, the eighth end portion 64, and the fourth intermediate portion 66 are integrally provided with each other as a one-piece unitary member. The second outer link plate 28 is made of a hard and / or rigid material, such as a metallic material. The seventh end portion 62 is positioned downstream of the eighth end portion 64 with respect to the chain drive direction DR in the state where the bicycle chain 20 is engaged with the front bicycle sprocket 13 and the rear bicycle sprocket 15. The seventh end portion 62 includes a seventh opening 63 having a seventh central axis A7.The eighth end portion 64 includes an eighth opening 65 with an eighth central axis A8. While the seventh opening 63 and the eighth opening 65 are illustrated as two circular openings, it will be apparent to those skilled in the bicycle art that an elongated opening may be added for inserting the connecting pins 68 and 70 into these openings. In this case, the central axes of the circular portions of the seventh opening 63 and the eighth opening 65, in which the connecting pins 68 and 70 are locked in the assembled state, may be the seventh central axis A7 and the eighth central axis A8, respectively.

[0059] The fourth intermediate section 66 connects the seventh end section 62 to the eighth end section 64. The seventh central axis A7, in the assembled state, substantially coincides with the third central axis A3. The eighth central axis A8, in the assembled state, substantially coincides with the fourth central axis A4 of another second inner link plate 24. As shown in Fig. 3, the seventh end portion 62 accordingly contacts the third end portion 46 of the second inner link plate 24. The eighth end portion 64 contacts the fourth end portion 48 of another second inner link plate 24. Further, an inner surface 62Si of the seventh end portion 62, an inner surface 64Si of the eighth end portion 64, and an inner surface 66Si of the fourth intermediate portion 66 form a single flat surface. An outer surface 62So of the seventh end portion 62, an outer surface 64So of the eighth end portion 64, and an outer surface 66So of the fourth intermediate portion 66 form a single flat surface. Accordingly, the fourth intermediate portion 66 of the second outer link plate 28 is free of an axial recess formed on / at the inner surface 66Si of the fourth intermediate portion 66 in the axial direction Da.

[0060] As in the Fig. 3 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 11, the bicycle chain 20 includes the first connecting pins 68 and the second connecting pins 70, which are arranged alternatively in the chain drive direction DR. Each of the first connecting pins 68 has a cylindrical shape and a first pin center axis AR1. Each of the second connecting pins 70 has a cylindrical shape and a second pin center axis AR2. Each of the first connecting pins 68 extends through the first opening 39, the third opening 47, the fifth opening 57, and the seventh opening 63 in the assembled state. Accordingly, the first pin center axis AR1 substantially coincides with the first center axis A1, the third center axis A3, the fifth center axis A5, and the seventh center axis A7. Each of the second connecting pins 70 extends through the second opening 41, the fourth opening 49, the sixth opening 59, and the eighth opening 65 in the assembled state.Accordingly, the second pin central axis AR2 substantially coincides with the second central axis A2, the fourth central axis A4, the sixth central axis A6 and the eighth central axis A8.

[0061] Each of the first connecting pins 68 is configured to rotatably connect the first end portion 38 of the first inner link plate 22 and the fifth end portion 56 of the first outer link plate 26 about the first pin center axis AR1. Each of the first connecting pins 68 is configured to rotatably connect the third end portion 46 of the second inner link plate 24 and the seventh end portion 62 of the second outer link plate 28 about the first pin center axis AR1.

[0062] Each of the second connecting pins 70 is configured to rotatably connect the second end portion 40 of the first inner link plate 22 and the sixth end portion 58 of the first outer link plate 26 about the second pin center axis AR2. Each of the second connecting pins 70 is configured to rotatably connect the fourth end portion 48 of the second inner link plate 24 and the eighth end portion 64 of the second outer link plate 28 about the second pin center axis AR2.

[0063] Further, the bicycle chain 20 includes the first rollers 72 and the second rollers 74 provided between the first inner links 22 and the second inner links 24. The first rollers 72 and the second rollers 74 are arranged alternately in the chain drive direction DR. Specifically, each of the first rollers 72 is provided between the first end portion 38 of the first inner link plate 22 and the third end portion 46 of the second inner link plate 24. Each of the second rollers 74 is provided between the second end portion 40 of the first inner link plate 22 and the fourth end portion 48 of the second inner link plate 24. Each of the first rollers 72 is rotatable relative to the opposing pair of the first inner link plate 22 and the second inner link plate 24 about the first pin center axis AR1.Each of the first rollers 72 has an annular shape and is configured to engage the teeth of each of the front bicycle sprocket 13 and the rear bicycle sprocket 15. Each of the second rollers 74 is rotatable relative to the opposing pair of the first inner link plate 22 and the second inner link plate 24 about the second pin center axis AR2. Each of the second rollers 74 has an annular shape and is configured to engage the teeth of each of the front bicycle sprocket 13 and the rear bicycle sprocket 15. While the first rollers 72 have substantially the same shape as one of the second rollers, it will be apparent to those skilled in the bicycle art that the first rollers 72 may have a different shape than the second rollers 74.Since the first rollers 72 and the second rollers 74 have well-known structures, they will not be described in detail herein.

[0064] As in Fig. 11, the inner link space 23 is formed by the first inner link plate 22, the second inner link plate 24, the first roller 72, and the second roller 74. The inner link space 23 has a longitudinal centerline of the inner link space 23CL. The outer link space 27 is formed by the first outer link plate 26, the second outer link plate 28, the first roller 72, and the second roller 74. The outer link space 27 has a longitudinal centerline of the outer link space 27CL that is offset from the longitudinal centerline of the inner link space 23CL in the axial direction Da. The inner link space 23 has a first maximum transverse width WS1. The first maximum transverse width WS1 ranges from 2.1 mm to 3.6 mm. Preferably, the first maximum transverse width WS1 is in the range of 2.7 mm to 3.6 mm.The outer link space 27 has a second maximum transverse width WS2. The second maximum transverse width WS2 is equal to or less than 4.1 mm. Preferably, the second maximum transverse width WS2 is in the range of 3.6 mm to 4.1 mm. The first maximum transverse width WS1 divided by the second maximum transverse width WS2 is equal to or greater than 0.6. Preferably, the first maximum transverse width WS1 divided by the second maximum transverse width WS2 is equal to or greater than 0.7 and equal to or less than 0.75.

[0065] As in Fig. 3, the first sprocket tooth 30 has a first chain engagement width WT1. The second sprocket tooth 32 has a second chain engagement width WT2 which is greater than the first chain engagement width WT1 in the axial direction Da. The first chain engagement width WT1 is shorter than the first maximum transverse width WS1 of the inner link space 23. The second chain engagement width WT2 is greater than the first maximum transverse width WS1 of the inner link space 23 and shorter than the second maximum transverse width WS2 of the outer link region 27. The third sprocket tooth 34 has a third chain engagement width WT3. The fourth sprocket tooth 36 has a fourth chain engagement width WT4 which is greater than the third chain engagement width WT3 in the axial direction Da. The third chain engagement width WT3 is shorter than the first maximum transverse width WS1 of the inner link space 23.The fourth chain engagement width WT4 is greater than the first maximum transverse width WS1 of the inner link space 23 and shorter than the second maximum transverse width WS2 of the outer link space 27.

[0066] As in Fig. 12 and Fig. 13, the first sprocket teeth 30 and the second sprocket teeth 32 are arranged alternately in the first circumferential direction D3 with respect to the rotational center axis AR of the rear bicycle sprocket 15 such that the first sprocket teeth 30 and the second sprocket teeth 32 are arranged to be received in the inner link spaces 23 and the outer link spaces 27, respectively. The third sprocket teeth 34 and the fourth sprocket teeth 36 are arranged alternately in the second circumferential direction D4 with respect to a rotational center axis FAR (see Fig. 1) of the front bicycle sprocket 13 is arranged such that the third sprocket teeth 34 and the fourth sprocket teeth 36 are adapted to be received in the inner link spaces 23 and the outer link spaces 27, respectively.

[0067] As in Fig. As can be seen in Fig. 14, each of the first sprocket teeth 30 has a first inner tooth surface 30Si and a first outer tooth surface 30So. The first inner tooth surface 30Si faces the bicycle center plane BCP of the bicycle 1 in the axial direction Da. The first outer tooth surface 30So is opposite to the first inner tooth surface 30Si in the axial direction Da. Each of the first sprocket teeth 30 has a first axial recess 30r recessed from the first inner tooth surface 30Si in the bicycle outward direction D2, such that the first sprocket tooth 30 is received between the first intermediate portion 42 and the second intermediate portion 50 in the axial direction Da. Accordingly, the first sprocket tooth 30 has an asymmetric shape with respect to an axial tooth center plane TCL1 of the first sprocket tooth 30.The first axial recess 30r is configured to oppose the second intermediate portion 50 in the axial direction Da in a state where the bicycle chain 20 is engaged with the first sprocket tooth 30. The first outer tooth surface 30So is configured to oppose the first intermediate portion 42 in the axial direction Da in the state where the bicycle chain 20 is engaged with the first sprocket tooth 30. The sprocket tooth 30 has a first tooth tip 30t on the axial tooth center plane TCL1. The first tooth tip 30t is sharp, so that the first intermediate portion 42 and the second intermediate portion 50 slide on the first outer tooth surface 30So and the first inner tooth surface 30Si, respectively, to reach appropriate positions when the bicycle chain 20 engages the first sprocket tooth 30.

[0068] Similarly, each of the third sprocket teeth 34 has a third inner tooth surface 34Si and a third outer tooth surface 34So. The third inner tooth surface 34Si faces the bicycle center plane BCP of the bicycle 1 in the axial direction Da. The third outer tooth surface 34So is opposite the third inner tooth surface 34Si in the axial direction Da. Each of the third sprocket teeth 34 has a third axial recess 34r recessed from the third inner tooth surface 34Si in the bicycle outward direction D2, such that the third sprocket tooth 34 is received between the first intermediate portion 42 and the second intermediate portion 50 in the axial direction Da. Accordingly, the third sprocket tooth 34 has an asymmetric shape with respect to an axial tooth center plane TCL3 of the third sprocket tooth 34.The third axial recess 34r is configured to oppose the second intermediate portion 50 in the axial direction Da in a state where the bicycle chain 20 is engaged with the third sprocket tooth 34. The third outer tooth surface 34So is configured to oppose the first intermediate portion 42 in the axial direction Da in the state where the bicycle chain 20 is engaged with the third sprocket tooth 34. The sprocket tooth 34 has a third tooth tip 34t on the axial tooth center plane TCL3. The third tooth tip 34t is sharp, so that the first intermediate portion 42 and the second intermediate portion 50 slide on the third outer tooth surface 34So and the third inner tooth surface 34Si, respectively, to reach appropriate positions when the bicycle chain 20 engages the third sprocket tooth 34.

[0069] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 15, each of the second sprocket teeth 32 has a second inner tooth surface 32Si and a second outer tooth surface 32So. The second inner tooth surface 32Si faces the bicycle center plane BCP of the bicycle 1 in the axial direction Da. The second outer tooth surface 32So opposes the second inner tooth surface 32Si in the axial direction Da. The second sprocket tooth 32 has a symmetrical shape with respect to an axial tooth center plane TCL2 of the second sprocket tooth 32. The second inner tooth surface 32Si is configured to face the fourth intermediate portion 66 in the axial direction Da in a state where the bicycle chain 20 is engaged with the second sprocket tooth 32. The second outer tooth surface 32So is configured to oppose the third intermediate portion 60 in the axial direction Da in the state where the bicycle chain 20 is engaged with the second sprocket tooth 32.The second sprocket tooth 32 has a second tooth tip 32t that intersects the axial tooth center plane TCL2. In the illustrated embodiment, the second tooth tip 32t is flat, but the second tooth tip 32t may be sharp.

[0070] Similarly, each of the fourth sprocket teeth 36 has a fourth inner tooth surface 36Si and a fourth outer tooth surface 36So. The fourth inner tooth surface 36Si faces the bicycle center plane BCP of the bicycle 1 in the axial direction Da. The fourth outer tooth surface 36So is opposite to the fourth inner tooth surface 36Si in the axial direction Da. The fourth sprocket tooth 36 has a symmetrical shape with respect to an axial tooth center plane TCL4 of the fourth sprocket tooth 36. The fourth inner tooth surface 36Si is configured to face the fourth intermediate portion 66 in the axial direction Da in a state where the bicycle chain 20 is engaged with the fourth sprocket tooth 36.The fourth outer tooth surface 36So is configured to face the third intermediate portion 60 in the axial direction Da in the state where the bicycle chain 20 is engaged with the fourth sprocket tooth 36. The fourth sprocket tooth 36 has a fourth tooth tip 36t that crosses the axial tooth center plane TCL4. In the illustrated embodiment, the fourth tooth tip 36t is flat, but the fourth tooth tip 36t may be sharp.

[0071] With the bicycle chain 20, the bicycle chain 20 is able to hold the bicycle sprocket teeth 30, 32, 34, and 36 more tightly than a conventional bicycle chain for the following reason. The first intermediate portion 42 of the first inner link plate 22 has the axial recess 44 formed or formed on the first inner surface 22Si in the axial direction Da, whereas the second intermediate portion 50 of the second inner link plate 24 is free of an axial recess formed on / at the second inner surface 24Si. In other words, the longitudinal centerline of the outer link space 27CL is offset from the longitudinal centerline of the inner link space 23CL in the axial direction Da. Modification of the embodiment

[0072] In the above embodiment, the first connecting pins 68 and the second connecting pins 70 are separate elements from the first outer link plates 26 and the second outer link plates 28. However, at least one of the first connecting pins 68 and the second connecting pins 70 may be integrated with one of the first outer link plate 26 and the second outer link plate 28. Such integrated elements are one-piece unitary elements. Such integrated elements may be manufactured by die casting or metal cutting.

[0073] In the embodiment shown above, the bicycle 1 has the single front sprocket 13. However, the bicycle 1 may have multiple front sprockets in the front crankset 12. In the following description, such a bicycle is referred to as a bicycle 101. As shown in Fig. 16, the bicycle 101 includes a drivetrain 110. The drivetrain 110 further includes a front derailleur 116 in addition to components of the drivetrain 110 in the previous embodiment, and includes a front crankset 112 instead of the front crankset 12 in the previous embodiment. The front crankset 112 includes a front bicycle sprocket assembly 113 for engaging the bicycle chain 20. The front bicycle sprocket assembly 113 includes at least two front sprockets. The front derailleur 116 is configured and arranged to change the front bicycle sprockets of the front bicycle sprocket assembly 113 by sliding the bicycle chain 20 in a transverse direction of the bicycle 101. In the bicycle 101, the at least one rear bicycle sprocket 15 may be a single rear sprocket, and the rear bicycle derailleur 18 may be omitted.

[0074] In this modification, the bicycle chain 20 of the bicycle 101 may be arranged in a different orientation than that of the bicycle chain 20 of the bicycle 1 to facilitate a shifting operation of the front bicycle sprockets of the front bicycle sprocket. More specifically, as shown in Fig.3, in a state where the bicycle chain 20 is mounted on the bicycle 101, the first inner link plate 22 is positioned closer to a bicycle center plane BCP2 of the bicycle 101 than the second inner link plate 24. In contrast to the position of the rear bicycle sprockets, when the front bicycle sprockets of the front sprocket assembly 113 are larger, they are positioned farther from the bicycle center plane BCP2 of the bicycle 101. Accordingly, the axial recess 44 is less likely to interfere with the shifting operation of the front bicycle sprockets of the front bicycle sprocket assembly 113, and the first chamfer 52 is configured to facilitate the shifting operation of the front bicycle sprockets of the front bicycle sprocket assembly 113.

[0075] As used herein, the term "comprising" and its derivatives are intended to be open-ended terms that indicate the presence of the specified features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps, but do not preclude the presence of other unlisted features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps. This concept also applies to words of similar meaning, such as the terms "comprising," "including," and their derivatives.

[0076] The terms “member”, “section”, “portion”, “part” or “element”, when used in the singular, can have the dual meaning of a single part or of a plurality of parts.

[0077] The atomic numbers, such as "first" and "second," indicated in the present application are merely identifiers and do not have any other meanings, such as a specific order, etc. Furthermore, for example, the term "first element" itself does not imply the existence of a "second element," and the expression "second element" itself does not imply the existence of a "first element."

[0078] The term “pair of” as used herein may include the configuration in which the pair of elements have different shapes or structures from each other in addition to the configuration in which the pair of elements have the same shape or structure.

[0079] Finally, terms of degree such as "substantially," "about," and "approximately," as used herein, mean a reasonable deviation of the modified expression so that the final result is not significantly changed.

[0080] Obviously, 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 chain (20), comprising: a first inner link plate (22) comprising: a first end portion (38) comprising a first opening (39) having a first central axis (A1); a second end portion (40) comprising a second opening (41) with a second central axis (A2); and a first intermediate portion (42) connecting the first end portion (38) and the second end portion (40); and a second inner link plate (24) which, in an assembled state in which the bicycle chain (20) is assembled, is spaced from the first inner link plate in an axial direction (Da) parallel to one of the first central axis (A1) and the second central axis (A2), the second inner link plate (24) comprising: a third end portion (46) having a third opening (47) with a third central axis (A3); a fourth end portion (48) comprising a fourth opening (49) with a fourth central axis (A4); and a second intermediate section (50) connecting the third end section (46) and the fourth end section (48), wherein the first inner link plate (22) comprises a first outer surface (22So) and a first inner surface (22Si) opposite the first outer surface (22So) in the axial direction (Da), wherein the second inner link plate (24) comprises a second outer surface (24So) and a second inner surface (24Si) opposite the second outer surface (24So) in the axial direction (Da), wherein the first inner surface (22Si) and the second inner surface (24Si) are arranged to face each other in the assembled state, wherein the first intermediate portion (42) of the first inner link plate has an axial recess (44) formed on / on the first inner surface (22Si) in the axial direction (Da), wherein the second intermediate portion (50) of the second inner link plate is free of an axial recess (44) formed on / on the second inner surface (24Si) of the second intermediate portion (50) in the axial direction (Da), wherein the axial recess (44) is offset from the first inner surface (22Si) in a bicycle outward direction (D2). [2] Bicycle chain (20), comprising: a first inner link plate (22) comprising: a first end portion (38) comprising a first opening (39) having a first central axis (A1); a second end portion (40) comprising a second opening (41) with a second central axis (A2); and a first intermediate portion (42) connecting the first end portion (38) and the second end portion (40), the first intermediate portion (42) having an axial recess (44) in a bicycle outward direction (D2); a second inner link plate (24) spaced from the first inner link plate in an axial direction (Da) parallel to one of the first central axis (A1) and the second central axis (A2) to create an inner link space (23) between the first inner link plate and the second inner link plate in an assembled state in which the bicycle chain (20) is assembled, wherein the inner link space (23) is adapted to receive a sprocket tooth (30; 32; 34; 36) of a bicycle sprocket (13; 15) and has a longitudinal center line of the inner link space (23CL), the second inner link plate (24) comprising: a third end portion (46) comprising a third opening (47) having a third central axis (A3); a fourth end portion (48) comprising a fourth opening (49) with a fourth central axis (A4); and a second intermediate portion (50) connecting the third end portion (46) and the fourth end portion (48); a first outer link plate (26) comprising: a fifth end portion (56) comprising a fifth opening (57) having a fifth central axis (A5); a sixth end portion (58) comprising a sixth opening (59) with a sixth central axis (A6); and a third intermediate section (60) connecting the fifth end section (56) and the sixth end section (58); and a second outer link plate (28) spaced from the first outer link plate (26) in the axial direction (Da) to form, in the assembled state, an outer link space (27) between the first outer link plate (23CL) and the second outer link plate (28), wherein the outer link space (27) is configured to receive a sprocket tooth (30; 32; 34; 36) of the bicycle sprocket (13; 15) and has a longitudinal centerline of the outer link space (27CL) offset from the longitudinal centerline of the inner link space (23CL) in the axial direction (Da) due to the axial recess (44). [3] Bicycle chain (20) according to one of claims 1 and 2, wherein the second intermediate portion (50) has an edge (50Ei, 50Eo) and comprises a chamfer (52) formed on the edge (50Ei, 50Eo). [4] Bicycle chain (20) according to claim 3, wherein the chamfer (52) is arranged to enable a shifting operation. [5] Bicycle chain (20) according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first inner link plate (22) has a longitudinal central axis (CA) as seen from the axial direction (Da) and the axial recess (44), viewed from the axial direction (Da), at least partially overlaps the longitudinal center axis (CA). [6] Bicycle chain (20) according to claim 5, wherein the first intermediate section (42) has a first edge (42Ei) and a second edge (42Eo) opposite the first edge (42Ei) in a transverse direction perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis (CA), and the axial recess (44) extends from the first edge (42Ei) to the second edge (42Eo). [7] Bicycle chain (20) according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the axial recess (44) is formed by bending the first inner link plate (22) at the first intermediate portion (42). [8] A bicycle chain (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first inner link plate (22) is arranged farther from a bicycle center plane (BCP) of a bicycle than the second inner link plate (24) in a state in which the bicycle chain (20) is attached to the bicycle. [9] The bicycle chain (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the first inner link plate (22) is arranged closer to a bicycle center plane (BCP) of a bicycle than the second inner link plate (24) in a state in which the bicycle chain (20) is attached to the bicycle. [10] Bicycle chain (20) according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the first inner link plate (22) and the second inner link plate (24) form an inner link space (23) therebetween and the inner link space (23) is adapted to receive a sprocket tooth (30; 32; 34; 36) of a bicycle sprocket (13; 15) and has a first maximum transverse width (WS1) in the range of 2.1 mm to 3.6 mm. [11] Bicycle chain (20) according to one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising: a first outer link plate (26) and a second outer link plate (28) opposite the first outer link plate (28) in the axial direction (Da), wherein the first outer link plate (26) and the second outer link plate (28) form an outer link space (27) defined therebetween, wherein the outer link space (27) is adapted to receive a sprocket tooth (30; 32; 34; 36) of a bicycle sprocket (13; 15) and has a second maximum transverse width (WS2) equal to or less than 4.1 mm. [12] Bicycle chain (20) according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the first inner link plate (22) and the second inner link plate (24) form an inner link space (23) therebetween, the inner link space (23) having a first maximum transverse width and being adapted to receive a sprocket tooth (30; 32; 34; 36) of a bicycle sprocket (13; 15), wherein the bicycle chain (20) further comprises a first outer link plate (26) and a second outer link plate (28) opposite the first outer link plate (26) in the axial direction (Da), wherein the first outer link plate (26) and the second outer link plate (28) form an outer link space (27) therebetween, wherein the outer link space (27) has a second maximum transverse width (WS2) and is adapted to receive a sprocket tooth (30; 32; 34; 36) of the bicycle sprocket (13; 15), and where the first maximum transverse width (WS1) divided by the second maximum transverse width (WS2) is equal to or greater than 0.

6. [13] Powertrain comprising: the bicycle chain (20) according to one of claims 1 to 12; and at least one rear bicycle sprocket (15) comprising a first sprocket tooth (30) to be received in an inner link space (23) defined between the first inner link plate (22) and the second inner link plate (24). [14] Drive train according to claim 13, wherein the bicycle chain (20) further comprises a first outer link plate (26) and a second outer link plate (28) opposite the first outer link plate (26) in the axial direction (Da), the at least one rear bicycle sprocket (15) further comprises a second sprocket tooth (32) to be received in an outer link space (27) defined between the first outer link plate (26) and the second outer link plate (28); the first sprocket tooth (30) has a first chain engagement width (WT1) and the second sprocket tooth (32) has a second chain engagement width (WT2) which is greater than the first chain engagement width (WT1) in the axial direction (Da). [15] Powertrain comprising: the bicycle chain (20) according to one of claims 1 to 12; and a front bicycle sprocket (13) including a third sprocket tooth (34) to be received in an inner link space (23) defined between the first inner link plate (22) and the second inner link plate (24). [16] Drive train according to claim 15, wherein the bicycle chain (20) comprises a first outer link plate (26) and a second outer link plate (28) opposite the first outer link plate (26) in the axial direction (Da), the front bicycle sprocket (13) further comprises a fourth sprocket tooth (36) to be received in an outer link space (27) defined between the first outer link plate (26) and the second outer link plate (28), the third sprocket tooth (34) has a third chain engagement width (WT3) and the fourth sprocket tooth (36) has a fourth chain engagement width (WT4) which is greater in the axial direction (Da) than the third chain engagement width (WT3). [17] A bicycle drivetrain according to any one of claims 15 and 16, wherein the front bicycle sprocket (13) is a single front sprocket.

Images