BICYCLE CARRIER SYSTEM

Abstract

The present invention relates to a bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400) for rear mounting on a motor vehicle (12), in particular on a tow ball, a fixed point, a trailer hitch and / or a tailgate (14). The bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400) is designed, when mounted on the vehicle (12), to be adjustable between a transport configuration for transporting at least one bicycle (20) attached to the bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400) and a work stand configuration for performing maintenance on at least one bicycle (20) attached to the bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400). The invention also relates to a bicycle holding device (24; 104; 202; 402) for a bicycle carrier (16) which can be mounted at the rear of a motor vehicle (12).Furthermore, the invention relates to a bicycle stand retrofit kit, a bicycle carrier (16) and the use of a bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200) and / or a bicycle holding device (24; 104; 202; 402).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a bicycle carrier system for rear mounting on a motor vehicle. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a bicycle holding device for a bicycle carrier that can be mounted on the rear of a motor vehicle, and to the use of a bicycle carrier system for rear mounting on a motor vehicle and / or a bicycle holding device for a bicycle carrier that can be mounted on the rear of a motor vehicle. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a bicycle stand retrofit kit for a bicycle carrier and to a bicycle carrier. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Many recreational cyclists not only use their bicycles at home, but also take them to distant locations, for example on vacation. Therefore, there is a need to be able to conveniently transport a bicycle by car. For this purpose, a variety of bicycle carrier systems are available that can be mounted on the rear of a motor vehicle. For example, such bicycle carrier systems can be designed for mounting on a tow ball, a fixed point, a trailer hitch and / or a tailgate of a motor vehicle. Such a bicycle carrier system makes it possible to safely transport one or more bicycles on the rear of the motor vehicle. This means that no interior space is required when transporting the bicycle, and it can prevent the vehicle interior from becoming soiled with a dirty bicycle.Furthermore, the position of the bike rack can allow for easy attachment and detachment of bicycles to and from the rack, i.e., loading and unloading of bicycles to the bike rack. Likewise, the position of the bike rack allows for easy attachment and detachment to and from the vehicle.

[0003] Ambitious recreational bicycle use may require maintenance of the bicycle immediately before or after use. For example, a mountain biker may want to adjust the suspension depending on the obstacles on a trail and / or the ambient temperature. As another example, a user may want to adjust a road bike's gear shifter before competing in a race. Many simple bicycle maintenance tasks can be performed by placing a bicycle in an upside-down position, i.e., placing it on its seat and handlebars. However, such placement can contaminate the seat and potentially misalign or even damage delicate parts of the handlebars. Furthermore, the bicycle is unstable in this position, so the assistance of a passerby may be required.Many maintenance tasks may also require the user to kneel when working on the upside-down bike, which can be uncomfortable. Difficult maintenance and precise gear shift adjustment may even be impossible in the upside-down position. Therefore, many recreational bicycle users prefer to use a work stand to perform maintenance on their bike. For example, a work stand may be designed to hold a bicycle firmly in one position with the bike's wheels spaced off the ground in one or more positions. This makes servicing the bike easier. However, the work stand takes up valuable interior or cargo space in the vehicle when traveling with a bike. Furthermore, dirt on the work stand, such as oil or mud, can potentially contaminate the vehicle's interior.

[0004] An example of a bicycle carrier for a vehicle is shown in US 10,668,866 B2. PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION

[0005] A first aspect relates to a bicycle carrier system for rear mounting on a motor vehicle, in particular on a tow ball, a fixed point, a trailer coupling and / or a tailgate. The tailgate can be pivoted upwards to provide access to an interior of the vehicle from the rear. The tailgate can also be designed as a door type, for example pivotable to the left or to the right, to provide access to an interior of the vehicle from the rear. The bicycle carrier system can be configured, when mounted on the vehicle, to be adjusted between a transport configuration for transporting at least one bicycle attached to the bicycle carrier system and a work stand configuration for performing maintenance on at least one bicycle attached to the bicycle carrier system.The bike rack system therefore allows the transport of one or more bicycles on the outside of a motor vehicle, while also providing workstand functionality. Such a bike rack system eliminates the need for bicycle users to carry an additional workstand. Once they arrive at a destination, maintenance can be performed on the bicycle using the bike rack system in the workstand configuration. Maintenance is thus possible even if a user forgets to bring a separate workstand or does not have enough cargo space to carry one. Due to the rear mounting of the bike rack system, loading and unloading bicycles to and from the bike rack system is easy. Furthermore, this position is convenient for a workstand.In particular, the bike rack system in the repair stand configuration can be configured to hold the bike in a working position that allows a user to perform most or even all maintenance work while standing upright. For example, the bike can be held in such a position that the top of its frame is at a user's chest height.

[0006] The bicycle carrier system may be configured to allow adjustment between its configurations without requiring the detachment of attached bicycles. For example, one or more bicycles may remain attached to the bicycle carrier system when the system is adjusted from the transport configuration to the work stand configuration. The bicycle carrier system may be configured such that a bicycle previously transported with the bicycle carrier system in a transport position is held by the bicycle carrier system in a working position allowing maintenance upon adjustment of the bicycle carrier system from the transport to the work stand configuration. However, the bicycle carrier system may also be configured such that detachment of one or more bicycles is required when its configuration is adjusted.Alternatively or additionally, the bicycle carrier system may be configured such that transported bicycles can remain attached to the bicycle carrier system during adjustment of its configuration, but in the repair stand configuration, an additional bicycle can be held in a working position. A working position of a bicycle attached to the bicycle carrier system can facilitate maintenance, for example by allowing one or all of the wheels of the bicycle intended for maintenance to rotate freely. In comparison, in the transport configuration, wheels of a bicycle attached to the bicycle carrier system in a respective transport position can be held substantially immobile.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the bicycle carrier system is configured in the transport configuration to hold the at least one bicycle substantially immobile. This facilitates the safe transport of bicycles. For example, the wheels of a transported bicycle can rest on a platform, further secured with straps. The frame can be held upright in position, with an arm of the bicycle carrier system clamping a portion of the frame.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the bicycle carrier system, in the repair stand configuration, is configured to hold the at least one bicycle in position against forces acting on the bicycle during maintenance. Maximum forces during maintenance can be caused by tightening or loosening bolts, for example, when mounting or dismounting pedals from a bicycle frame or a bottom bracket mount. For example, an arm of the bicycle carrier system can clamp a portion of the bicycle frame, a wheel, or a seat post to hold the bicycle in a position spaced from the ground and the rest of the bicycle carrier system.A rear-mounted bike rack system is particularly well-suited to also function as a repair stand, as its attachment to the vehicle must withstand transport forces, especially if it is designed to carry multiple bikes, such as three or even four. Unlike conventional repair stands, the bike rack system in the repair stand configuration has little to no risk of tipping during bike servicing. No heavy and / or large base is required to securely hold the bike during servicing, as the bike rack system is attached to the vehicle rather than resting on the ground.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the bicycle carrier system, in the workstand configuration, is designed to hold the at least one bicycle such that at least one of the wheels of the at least one bicycle can rotate substantially freely about its axis, in particular both wheels of the at least one bicycle. Such a working position of the bicycle facilitates some maintenance work that would otherwise be very difficult to perform, in particular without assistance from a second person, such as adjusting a gear shift of the bicycle. Alternatively or additionally, the bicycle carrier system, in the workstand configuration, is designed to hold the at least one bicycle such that a front wheel of the at least one bicycle can rotate substantially freely about a steering axis of the at least one bicycle.Such a working position of the bike facilitates certain maintenance tasks that would otherwise be very difficult to perform, especially without the assistance of a second person, such as adjusting the position of the handlebars or a bicycle headset. In the transport configuration, the bike rack system can prevent the front wheel from rotating around the bicycle's steering axis.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the bicycle carrier system comprises a bicycle support platform configured to support the at least one bicycle attached to the system in the transport configuration, in particular wherein the bicycle rests with its wheels on the platform. For example, the bicycle support platform may provide a shelf for resting one or more bicycles thereon. Wheels of the transported bicycles may be inserted into corresponding grooves of the bicycle support platform. The bicycle support platform securely supports each transported bicycle, bearing the majority of the weight of each bicycle. For example, the transported bicycles may rest substantially upright on the bicycle support platform in the transport configuration.The bicycle carrier system may be configured such that the bicycle support platform is positioned substantially at the height of a tow ball, trailer hitch, or fixed point when attached to the vehicle. The bicycle support platform may include a frame to which one or more storage elements are attached, such as plastic or aluminum shelves configured to support the wheels of bicycles attached to the bicycle carrier system from below in a transport configuration.

[0011] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the bicycle support platform is designed for adjustment, in particular for pivotable adjustment, between at least a first position and a second position. A substantially horizontal position and / or bicycle transport position may correspond to a first position. An inclined position and / or a vehicle tailgate access position may correspond to the second position. The bicycle support platform may also be designed for adjustment to a third position. The third position may correspond to a bicycle loading position. In the bicycle loading position, the loading of bicycles onto the shelf may be facilitated, for example, by lowering the bicycle support platform. Alternatively, the loading of bicycles may be facilitated in the first or second position or by other means, such as by an unfolding ramp.The bicycle support platform may also be configured for slidable adjustment between at least two of its positions instead of pivotal adjustment. For example, when the bicycle carrier system is mounted on the motor vehicle, the bicycle support platform may be substantially horizontally displaceable in a forward-backward and / or left-right direction of the motor vehicle.

[0012] In the horizontal position, the bicycle support platform can support bicycles from below, for example in an upright position. The inclined position can facilitate the unloading of bicycles from the carrier. For example, an arm of the bicycle carrier system that clamps the frame of a bicycle can also be easier to reach in the inclined position. The bicycle carrier system can be configured such that the inclined position of the bicycle support platform, when the bicycle carrier system is mounted to the motor vehicle, enables the opening of a tailgate of the vehicle even when the at least one bicycle is attached to the bicycle carrier system. Any attached bicycle can be moved out of the path of an opening path of the tailgate due to the tilting of the bicycle support platform.When the bicycle support platform mounted on the motor vehicle is adjusted from the substantially horizontal position and / or the bicycle transport position to the tilted position and / or the vehicle tailgate access position, a side of the bicycle support platform facing the vehicle is tilted upwardly and / or a side of the bicycle support platform opposite the vehicle-facing side is tilted downwardly. Such tilting allows a rod member holding the bicycle in the transport configuration and attached to the bicycle support platform at an end adjacent the vehicle-facing side to be moved upwardly to increase the ground clearance for the bicycle. The workstand function is thus available even for very large bicycles.Alternatively or additionally, when the bicycle carrier system is mounted on the motor vehicle, the bicycle support platform is tilted away from the tailgate of the vehicle when the bicycle support platform is adjusted from the substantially horizontal position to the tilted position. A user thus has rear access to the vehicle even when the bicycle carrier system is used as a repair stand, for example, to retrieve bicycle maintenance tools from a trunk.

[0013] In an alternative embodiment, the bicycle support platform is not adjustable. For example, the bicycle support platform may be immobile relative to the vehicle when the bicycle carrier system is mounted thereon. For example, the bicycle support platform always has a substantially horizontal position when mounted to the vehicle. Such a bicycle support platform may be very stable and have a simple construction. For example, such a configuration may include a rigid connection between a device configured to mount the bicycle carrier to the vehicle and the bicycle support platform.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, in the work stand configuration of the bicycle carrier system, the bicycle support platform is in the second position, in particular the inclined position, and in the transport configuration of the bicycle carrier system, the bicycle support platform is in the first position, in particular the substantially horizontal position. Adjusting the bicycle carrier system between the transport configuration and the work stand configuration may comprise adjusting the bicycle support platform between the first position and the second position. In particular, adjusting the bicycle carrier system from the transport configuration to the work stand configuration may comprise adjusting the bicycle support platform from the first position to the second position. For example, adjusting the bicycle support platform position may cause the bicycle carrier system configuration to be adjusted.Adjusting the configuration of the bike rack system can therefore be quick and intuitive.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the bicycle support platform is tiltable, in particular pivotable, to such an extent that a bicycle remaining in its transport position no longer touches the bicycle support platform, in particular while the bicycle already attached to the bicycle carrier system remains in position. The platform can thus be tilted to such an extent that the bicycle is completely disengaged. Thus, the bicycle carrier system can be adjusted from the transport configuration to the assembly stand configuration without having to move the bicycle. For maintenance in the assembly configuration, it may not be necessary to move the bicycle.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the bicycle support platform is pivoted by at least 45°, 70°, 80°, 90°, 130°, 170°, 180°, 190°, or even more when the bicycle support platform is adjusted between the substantially horizontal position and the inclined position. A large pivot angle can avoid interference with the bicycle. Furthermore, a bicycle holding device (described below), in particular a rod element of the bicycle holding device (also described below), can be shorter with a larger pivot angle of the bicycle support platform, especially if the pivoting causes the bicycle holding device to move upward when the bicycle carrier system is mounted on the vehicle.

[0017] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the bicycle carrier system comprises a bicycle holding device for attaching the at least one bicycle to the bicycle carrier system. The bicycle holding device can be designed to hold the bicycle in the repair stand configuration of the bicycle carrier system, in particular at a distance from the bicycle support platform and / or the ground. The bicycle holding device can provide the repair stand functionality. Additionally or alternatively, the bicycle holding device can be designed to hold the bicycle in the transport configuration, in particular upright and / or on the bicycle support platform, in particular in the transport configuration of the bicycle carrier system. The bicycle holding device can comprise a bicycle support arm. The bicycle holding device can be designed to hold the bicycle in both the transport configuration and the repair stand configuration.For example, the bicycle holding device can comprise a bicycle support arm that is designed to hold the bicycle in both the transport configuration and the work stand configuration. The bicycle support arm can, for example, comprise the rod element, wherein the rod element can be designed to hold the bicycle only in the work stand configuration or in both the work stand configuration and the transport configuration. The bicycle holding device can be pivotable, in particular wherein the bicycle support arm is pivotally attached to the bicycle support platform. The bicycle carrier system, in particular the bicycle support arm, can comprise a locking device for locking pivoting of the bicycle holding device. The locking device can, for example, be designed for frictional or positive engagement.The locking device may comprise a support rod configured to lock the pivoting by releasably attaching the rod member to another part of the bicycle support device or bicycle carrier system. The bicycle support device may provide the means for securing the bicycle to the bicycle carrier system for transport. If the bicycle support device is configured to hold a bicycle in both the transport configuration and the work stand configuration, fewer or no additional means for securing and / or holding the bicycle may be required, resulting in a simple construction with few parts. For example, the bicycle support device may be configured to hold multiple bicycles in the transport configuration and only one bicycle in the work stand configuration.Alternatively, the bicycle holding device can be configured to hold only one bicycle in both the transport configuration and the workstand configuration. In this case, the bicycle carrier system can have additional bicycle holding devices for attaching additional bicycles to the bicycle carrier system without providing workstand functionality. Such additional bicycle holding devices can be configured to hold bicycles only in the transport configuration, but not in the workstand configuration.

[0018] The bicycle holding device may include a rod member. The rod member may enable the bicycle holding device to hold the bicycle in multiple positions, such as the working position and the transport position. The rod member may be configured to be movable relative to the rest of the bicycle carrier system, in particular to adjust the bicycle carrier system between the work stand configuration and the transport configuration. For example, the rod member may be pivotally and / or movably attached to a frame of the bicycle carrier system or may be configured to be attached at different positions on the frame of the bicycle carrier system. For example, the rod member may be pivotally and / or movably attached to the bicycle support platform or may be configured to be attached at different positions on the bicycle support platform.For example, the rod element can also be attached to the bicycle support platform.

[0019] Alternatively, the bar member may be pivotally and / or movably attached to a bicycle mounting arm. Such a bicycle mounting arm may include an upright bar and a curved bar, wherein the curved bar member may be movable along the vertical bar to press down on a wheel of the bicycle for attachment. For example, the bar member may be pivotally attached to an upper end of the upright bar. In a first position, the bar member may extend substantially perpendicular to the upright bar and / or in a substantially horizontal direction and / or away from the rear of the vehicle when the bicycle carrier system is mounted to the vehicle. The first position may provide the work stand functionality. The first position may be a use position.In a second position, the rod member may, for example, extend substantially parallel to the upright rod. The second position may be a stowed position. Such adjustability of the rod member may provide additional clearance for the bicycle in the repair stand configuration and otherwise not significantly increase the dimensions of the bicycle carrier system in the transport configuration. The upright rod may be pivotally and / or movably attached to the bicycle support platform, for example such that the upright rod can be adjusted between a use position, such as at least one upright position in which the rod extends substantially orthogonally upwardly from the bicycle support platform, and a stowed position in which it extends, for example, substantially parallel to the bicycle support platform.

[0020] Additionally, the rod member may be mounted so as to be rotatable along its longitudinal axis, for example, on the upright bar, the frame, and / or the bicycle support platform. Rotating the rod member may allow adjustment of the bicycle position without detaching the bicycle from the bicycle carrier system during maintenance. This may, for example, allow the bicycle to be turned over while still held by the bicycle carrier system in the repair stand configuration.

[0021] The bicycle mounting device may also include additional rod elements. The rod element may be configured to be movable relative to the rest of the bicycle carrier system, in particular to adjust the bicycle carrier system between the repair stand configuration and the transport configuration, or may be movably attached to another rod element of the bicycle mounting device.

[0022] The bicycle holding device, in particular the rod element of the bicycle holding device, is attached to the bicycle support platform on the vehicle-facing side of the bicycle support platform when the bicycle carrier system is mounted on the motor vehicle. Such attachment allows the rod element to be tilted away from the rear of the vehicle and / or displaced upwardly when the bicycle support platform is adjusted away from the rear of the vehicle, such as by pivoting and / or sliding. Bicycle clearance to the ground and / or to the bicycle support platform can thus be increased when the bicycle carrier system is used in the repair stand configuration. Furthermore, bicycle clearance to the vehicle can be increased, thereby avoiding unwanted contact of the bicycle with the vehicle during maintenance work, which could otherwise scratch the vehicle.

[0023] Alternatively, the bicycle holding device, in particular the rod element of the bicycle holding device, is attached to the bicycle support platform on a side of the bicycle support platform facing away from the vehicle when the bicycle carrier system is mounted on the motor vehicle. Such a side is easier to access if the bicycle is not detached from the bicycle carrier system during adjustment from the transport configuration to the workstand configuration. Furthermore, such a position of the bicycle holding device has synergy with a non-adjustable bicycle support platform. In such a configuration, the bicycle holding device on the side of the bicycle support platform facing away from the vehicle provides better clearance for the vehicle.The portion of the bicycle support device configured to support the bicycle in the workstand configuration may be an outermost portion of the bicycle support device relative to the vehicle when the bicycle carrier system is mounted to the vehicle.

[0024] The bicycle holding device can be configured to be slid along the bicycle support platform to adjust its position, particularly in the left-right direction, when the bicycle carrier system is mounted on the vehicle. For example, the bicycle holding device can be adjusted to a central position in the workstand configuration to prevent the bicycle from protruding on the left or right side of the vehicle. In the transport configuration, the bicycle holding device can be adjusted toward an end portion of the bicycle support platform. Such a position can facilitate the bicycle holding device, particularly a curved rod of a bicycle attachment arm, being pressed down onto a wheel of the bicycle for attachment to the bicycle carrier system.In such a configuration, an additional fastener, such as a strap on the bike support platform, can secure the other wheel of the bike to the bike rack system.

[0025] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the bicycle holding device, in particular the rod element of the bicycle holding device, is designed to hold the bicycle further away from the rear of the motor vehicle in the work stand configuration than in the transport configuration of the bicycle carrier system when the bicycle carrier system is mounted on the motor vehicle. Additionally or alternatively, the bicycle holding device, in particular the rod element of the bicycle holding device, extends further away from the rear of the motor vehicle in the work stand configuration than in the transport configuration of the bicycle carrier system when the bicycle carrier system is mounted on the motor vehicle. For example, in the transport configuration, the rod element can extend substantially vertically, in particular upwards, away from the bicycle support platform.In the work stand configuration, the rod element can extend at an angle to the vertical, in particular away from the rear of the vehicle, due to a tilting of the bicycle support platform. Additionally or alternatively, the bicycle holding device, in particular the rod element of the bicycle holding device, is arranged higher in the work stand configuration than in the transport configuration of the bicycle carrier system when the bicycle carrier system is mounted on the motor vehicle, in particular due to an adjustment of the bicycle support platform to the tilted position when the bicycle carrier system is mounted on the motor vehicle. Additionally or alternatively, the bicycle holding device, in particular the rod element of the bicycle holding device, extends transversely to a vertical orientation in the work stand configuration when the bicycle carrier system is mounted on the motor vehicle.Additionally or alternatively, the bicycle holding device, in particular the rod element of the bicycle holding device, extends substantially vertically in the transport configuration when the bicycle carrier system is mounted on the motor vehicle. Additionally or alternatively, the bicycle holding device, in particular the rod element of the bicycle holding device, extends substantially orthogonal to the bicycle support platform in the transport configuration and / or the work stand configuration. Handling of the bicycle holding device is thus facilitated. If the bicycle holding device, in particular the rod element, is adjustable between a use position and a stowage position (described below), the bicycle holding device can only extend substantially orthogonal to the bicycle support platform and / or hold the bicycle further away from the rear of the motor vehicle when in its use position.

[0026] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the rod element has an irregular cross-section, such as a triangular or trapezoidal cross-section. Such a design can result in a stable rod element. Furthermore, the irregular shape can prevent other devices and elements of the bicycle holding device attached to the rod element from rotating around the rod element, which helps to reliably hold a bicycle in place.

[0027] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the rod element is extendable, in particular telescopically extendable. For this purpose, the rod element can comprise two or more rod sections. The extendable rod element can facilitate the loading of bicycles into the repair stand configuration of the bicycle carrier system. Furthermore, a reach of the bicycle holding device can be easily adjusted with the extendable rod element. Furthermore, the rod element can be adjusted to a short length, for example, by collapsing the telescopically extendable rod element, to avoid interference with bicycles in the transport configuration. The extendability of the rod element can also allow other components of the bicycle holding device to be attached to the rod element in a fixed position while maintaining flexibility to adapt to different bicycle geometries.For example, when set to a long length, the telescopic pole element can hold even large bikes off the ground and / or the bike support platform in the repair stand configuration. For example, when set to a short length, the telescopic pole element can hold the bike upright on the bike support platform in the transport configuration. Furthermore, the telescopic pole element can be easily adjusted to accommodate different bike sizes.

[0028] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the bicycle holding device is designed to be adjusted between a use position and a storage position, in particular by pivoting the rod element relative to the bicycle support platform and / or in particular wherein the bicycle holding device extends substantially perpendicularly away from the bicycle support platform in the use position and / or in particular wherein the bicycle holding device extends substantially parallel along the bicycle support platform in the storage position. For example, a pivot axis of the bicycle holding device can extend in the forward-backward direction of the vehicle when the bicycle carrier system is mounted on the vehicle and the bicycle support platform is in the transport position, if it is adjustable.For example, the rod element is pivotally attachable to the rest of the bicycle carrier system, in particular with one end attached to the bicycle support platform, on top of a wheel rack, a cargo wing, or a bicycle attachment arm. The rod element can be configured for adjustment between a use position and a stowed position. In the use position, the rod element can be arranged to hold the bicycle in the repair stand configuration and / or the transport configuration. In the stowed position, the rod element can be arranged to avoid interference with bicycles. For example, in the stowed position, the rod element can be arranged adjacent to a portion of a frame of the bicycle carrier system, in particular parallel to the portion of the frame of the bicycle carrier system. Interference when loading and unloading bicycles can thus be avoided.Furthermore, such a position can facilitate space-saving storage of the bike rack system when not in use. In the stowed position, each rod element can be arranged under a side of the bike support platform facing the bike.

[0029] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the bicycle holding device comprises a locking device configured to lock the bicycle holding device in position. In particular, the locking device can lock the bicycle holding device in position relative to the bicycle support platform. Moving the bicycle support platform can nevertheless cause a corresponding movement of the bicycle holding device. For example, the locking device can lock the bicycle holding device in position by preventing pivoting of the rod element. For example, the rod element can be rotationally locked in position by the locking device, in particular in its stowed position and / or use position. The locking device can also lock a length adjustment of the rod element if it is configured for length adjustment.For example, during use to hold the bicycle in the transport configuration, telescopic length adjustment may only be prevented by friction between two elements of the telescopic pole member. The locking device, when engaged, may provide a positive lock to prevent length adjustment. For example, friction may be sufficient to hold the pole member at its set length when the bicycle is held upright only in the transport configuration of the bike rack. The bicycle may rest with its weight on the bicycle support platform in the transport configuration. In comparison, the bicycle may rest with its full weight on the pole member in the repair stand configuration.When the bicycle is held spaced apart from other parts of the bicycle carrier system in the repair stand configuration, the bar member may collapse under the weight of the bicycle if the length adjustment is not locked. The locking device may be configured to provide a sufficiently strong locking mechanism to prevent the bar member from changing its position and / or length under the weight of a bicycle and / or when subjected to force during maintenance in the repair stand configuration. Such a sufficiently strong locking mechanism may be provided, for example, with a positive locking mechanism or a lever-based friction engagement.

[0030] The locking device may comprise a support rod having a first end secured to the bicycle carrier system at a distance from the rod member and / or the bicycle mounting arm. An opposite second end of the support rod, in particular comprising a fastening element, such as a sleeve element, may be secured to the rod member and / or a portion of a bicycle mounting arm, such as an upright rod, in an adjustable position. For example, the support rod may be secured to the vehicle-facing side of the bicycle support platform. For example, the rod member may be pivotally mounted in the center of the vehicle-facing side of the bicycle support platform, and the support rod may be pivotally or slidably mounted off-center of the vehicle-facing side of the bicycle support platform. The support rod may be less stable, more stable, or similarly constructed compared to the rod member.The sleeve member may be configured to enclose the rod member and / or the upright rod. A sleeve member is a simple and easily retrofittable attachment for the support rod member to the rod member. Other attachment means are also possible, such as a protruding member slidably received in a corresponding groove of the rod member and / or the upright rod. The support rod may have a protruding member at its second end as the attachment member for attachment to the rod member. In one embodiment, the support rod may be pivotally attached to the rod member at one end and releasably attached to the bicycle support device, for example, to a mid-portion of the upright rod.Alternatively, the support rod can be pivotally attached at one end to another part of the bicycle holding device, such as the upright rod, and releasably attached to the rod element, in particular a central section. The releasably attachable end of the support rod can comprise a hook. A hook can enable easy attachment and detachment. Alternatively, the releasably attachable end of the support rod can comprise a strap. A strap can reliably prevent accidental release. The support rod can thus prevent pivoting of the rod element by locking the rod element in its use position and optionally also in the stowed position. The support rod can thus form part of the locking device. The second end of the support rod can be adjustably attached to the rod element and / or the bicycle attachment arm, in particular by the locking device.Alternatively, the second end of the support rod may be attached to the rod member and / or the upright rod, and the first end may be adjustably attached to the bicycle carrier at a distance from the rod member. For example, the first end may be configured to slide along the bicycle support platform during adjustment of the rod member position. The support rod member may lock the pivoting of the rod member and / or the bicycle mounting arm and further support the rod member and / or the bicycle mounting arm when receiving the load from a bicycle held in the repair stand configuration during maintenance. The support rod may be configured to increase the resilience of the bicycle carrier system in the repair stand configuration without requiring heavy reinforcement of the rod member. The locking device may be integrated into the sleeve member.

[0031] The locking device can be designed to be adjustable between a locked state and an open state, in particular with an adjustment device. In the locked state, the locking device can block adjustment of the bicycle holding device, in particular pivoting of the rod element and / or the bicycle fastening arm. The locking device can be designed for manual adjustment between the two states, for example by means of a rotary knob or pivoting lever of an adjustment device. Such a locking device is simple and robust. The locking device can be preloaded into one state, in particular the locked state. Such a locking device can prevent undesired adjustment, in particular of the bicycle holding device in the workstand configuration.For example, the locking device may include a spring that forces a pin into engagement with the rod member and / or the bicycle mounting arm. The locking device may allow adjustment of the position of the second end along the rod member and / or the bicycle mounting arm in one direction in the locked state, but prevent adjustment in another direction.For example, the locking device can allow adjustment of the fastening element, in particular sliding of the sleeve element, toward an end of the rod element and / or the bicycle fastening arm relative to its bicycle support attachment even in the locked state, so that a user can always adjust the rod element and / or the bicycle fastening arm from the storage position to the use position, but prevent sliding toward an end of the rod element and / or the bicycle fastening arm that is attached to the bicycle support platform. This can prevent a user from forgetting to adjust the locking device to the locked state, which could otherwise cause the bicycle holding device to collapse during use of the work stand, without reducing the comfort when adjusting the bicycle carrier system.Such functionality can be provided, for example, with a locking device having a ratchet mechanism. For example, a push button or lever can release the locking device from the locked state to the unlocked state. In the unlocked state, the locking device can enable movement, in particular sliding, of the fastening element toward one end of the rod element and / or the bicycle attachment arm attached to the bicycle support platform and / or the bicycle attachment arm, so that the rod element can be adjusted to its stowed position.

[0032] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the bicycle holding device is designed for length adjustment, in particular wherein the rod element is designed as a telescopic rod element, as described above. Alternatively or additionally, the bicycle holding device can have a length-fixing device, such as a clamp or friction fit. The length-fixing device can be integrated into the fastening element that fastens the second end of the support rod to the rod element. The locking device can be designed to provide the function of the length-fixing device.

[0033] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the bicycle holding device comprises an accessory and / or tool holder. For example, the accessory and / or tool holder can be formed by the fastening element that fastens the second end of the support rod to the rod element and / or the bicycle fastening arm. For example, the accessory and / or tool holder can be formed by the sleeve element. Alternatively or additionally, the accessory and / or tool holder can be integrated into the length fixing device. The accessory and / or tool holder can have at least one through-hole for receiving a tool and / or form a shell. For example, the accessory and / or tool holder can be formed integrally as part of the sleeve element, requiring only a small number of parts.The accessory and / or tool holder can facilitate work on a bicycle held by the bike rack system in the repair stand configuration.

[0034] The bicycle mounting device can be configured to provide the accessory and / or tool holder functionality in the repair stand configuration and / or the transport configuration. For example, the accessory and / or tool holder can be configured to include the tray for receiving loose spare parts in the repair stand configuration, particularly with the bicycle support platform in the tilted position, when the bicycle carrier system is mounted on the vehicle. For example, the accessory and / or tool holder can be rotatably attached to the fastening element.The accessory and / or tool holder may have a center of gravity relative to its pivot mount such that the accessory and / or tool holder is kept level even when the bicycle carrier system configuration is adjusted, in particular at least when the bicycle support platform is adjusted between the inclined position and the substantially horizontal position when the bicycle carrier system is mounted on the vehicle. Thus, loss of spare parts and tools can be prevented if the user forgets to collect them before adjusting the bicycle carrier system configuration. For example, the accessory and / or tool holder may be inaccessible with the pole member and / or the bicycle mounting arm in the stowed position and / or may only be usable with the pole member in the use position.The accessory and / or tool holder may also be configured to release held objects when the bike rack system is adjusted to its transport configuration, for example, by having an angle relative to the ground that causes tools and spare parts to drop. This can prevent the objects from falling from the bike rack system when the vehicle is driven.

[0035] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the bicycle holding device, in particular the rod element of the bicycle holding device, is designed such that the bicycle rests on the bicycle holding device in the transport configuration and / or the work stand configuration of the bicycle carrier system. With such a construction, the bicycle holding device can be simple and have few moving parts. When the bicycle rests on the bicycle holding device in its work stand position, a front wheel can touch the ground to provide additional stability when work is being done on the bicycle. When the bicycle rests only on the bicycle holding device in the work stand configuration, the bicycle can be quickly and easily attached to the bicycle carrier system in the work stand configuration for stabilization, for example, for washing and performing basic maintenance.If the bicycle is resting only on the bicycle holder in the transport configuration, no or only a simple adjustment of the bicycle holder may be required to convert the bicycle carrier system into the repair stand configuration.

[0036] In some embodiments, the rod element of the bicycle mounting device cannot contact the bicycle in the transport configuration. Instead, for example, only the bicycle mounting arm, in particular its curved rod, can contact the bicycle, in particular a wheel of the bicycle. Such a configuration allows for easy retrofitting of the work stand functionality and dedicated construction of the curved rod for attaching the bicycle to the bicycle carrier system in the transport configuration and the rod element for attaching the bicycle to the bicycle carrier system in the work stand configuration.

[0037] If the bicycle holding device is designed so that the bicycle rests on the bicycle holding device in the transport configuration of the bicycle carrier system, the bicycle holding device can be formed by the bicycle support platform, a bicycle support frame, which in particular extends substantially orthogonally from the bicycle support platform, a bicycle attachment arm, which in particular is configured as a vertical bicycle support arm, a bracket arm, and / or another protruding part of the bicycle carrier system. For example, one of the aforementioned parts can be designed such that the bicycle can rest thereon with its seat or top tube in the transport configuration of the bicycle carrier system without touching and / or resting on other parts of the bicycle carrier system.For example, such a part may be configured to receive a portion of the seat and / or top tube of the bicycle when the bicycle support platform is in its tilted position. The respective part may tilt together with the bicycle support platform, thereby adjusting it to a position in which the bicycle can rest thereon, allowing the bicycle carrier system to function as a workstand. Thus, the bicycle holding device may not require any additional, and in particular moving, parts. Alternatively, the bicycle holding device may be formed by additional and / or different parts than those listed above, for example, by the bicycle holding device comprising a rod element.

[0038] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the bicycle holding device, in particular the rod element of the bicycle holding device, has a receiving portion designed to receive the seat and / or top tube of the bicycle resting on the bicycle holding device in the transport configuration of the bicycle carrier system. Such a construction can provide improved engagement and therefore stability of the bicycle during maintenance. For example, the receiving portion or even the entire rod element can have a V-shaped longitudinal extension. Thus, the bicycle naturally comes to rest on the underside of the V-shape, providing a predetermined working position without the need for additional fixation. Alternatively or additionally, the rod element can, for example, have a trapezoidal cross-section, which can form the receiving portion.The trapezoidal cross-section may provide a natural position for the bicycle, for example, slightly tilted forward. For example, the smaller of the two parallel sides of the trapezoidal cross-section faces upwards and / or towards the bicycle in the repair stand configuration, thereby providing a support surface. This surface may be located under a front portion of a saddle resting on the bar member. A slanted side of the trapezoidal cross-section may contact another part of the bicycle, such as a seat post, thereby providing another support surface. The bar member may be pivotally mountable and / or integrated into the bicycle carrier system or attachable to other parts of the system.

[0039] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the bicycle holding device comprises a bicycle fixing device for releasably engaging with a frame, a wheel, and / or a seat post of the at least one bicycle. The bicycle fixing device can be configured to releasably fix the bicycle to the bicycle carrier system. For example, the bicycle fixing device can be configured to fix the bicycle to the bicycle carrier system in the work stand configuration and / or the transport configuration. For example, the bicycle fixing device can be arranged on an end portion of the rod element. The bicycle fixing device can be configured as a clamping device and / or as a strap. A clamping device can be configured to enable fixation of differently shaped and / or sized frames, wheels, and / or seat posts.Alternatively or additionally, the bicycle securing device may extend transversely, such as orthogonally, to a longitudinal extent of the rod member. The bicycle securing device may comprise a curved rod that is adjustable in position, for example, to press down on a wheel of the bicycle. The curved rod may be part of the bicycle mounting arm and / or may be slidably attached to a substantially upright rod of the bicycle mounting arm.

[0040] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the bicycle securing device comprises a clamp, in particular a pivotable clamp with a triangular engagement shape, and / or a strap for engaging with the at least one bicycle. A clamp, in particular with a triangular engagement shape, can prevent unwanted rotation of the engaged bicycle frame. Such a construction is particularly useful when the frame section engaged by the clamp has a non-circular cross-section, as is found on many bicycles with carbon frames. A strap is a very light and simple element for engaging with the bicycle.

[0041] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the strap for engaging the at least one bicycle is configured to form a loop around a portion of the bicycle frame. For example, the strap may comprise a clip or hook at one end that is attached to the bar member and / or the strap itself to form the loop. The strap can thus be adjusted between a looped state and a non-looped state. The strap may be configured to be wrapped around a portion of the frame of the bicycle. The strap may be configured to hold either only the bicycle in the repair stand configuration or the transport configuration, or both.

[0042] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the strap for engaging the at least one bicycle is configured to be adjustable between a bicycle-holding configuration and a stowed configuration. For example, the strap may form a loop in the bicycle-holding configuration. For example, the strap may be substantially straight in the stowed configuration. For example, the strap may lie flat on the pole element in the stowed configuration and / or be attached with a free end such that it does not form a loop. The strap thus does not hinder bicycle transport and / or cannot move due to airflow caused by the moving vehicle, which could potentially cause the strap to strike a bicycle and / or the vehicle. For example, the strap may comprise a clip that enables attachment to the pole element with a free end.An opposite end of the strap can be permanently attached to the bar element. Using the same clip, the free end can also be attached to a central portion of the strap itself to form the loop, thus adjusting the strap to its bike-holding configuration. Alternatively, a central portion of the free end of the strap can be attached somewhere, for example, to the bar element, to form a closed loop for holding the bike.

[0043] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the bicycle holding device is configured to allow rotational adjustment of the bicycle fastening device relative to the rest of the bicycle carrier system, in particular to the bar element. This may allow adjustment of the bicycle holding device to the specific geometry of the bicycle. Furthermore, this may allow adjustment of the bicycle mounting position held in the workstand configuration. For example, the bicycle may be turned over while held by its seat post to facilitate maintenance on an underside of the bicycle. The rotational adjustment may be released by an actuating element, such as a lever or knob. The lever or knob may also be used to lock the bicycle holding device in position.The bicycle locking device can be designed for rotation about a longitudinal extent of the bicycle locking device, for example, transversely to an extent of the rod element. The bicycle locking device can be designed for stepwise rotation defined by engaging teeth. Such a design can provide great stability.

[0044] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the bicycle securing device is designed to contact the at least one bicycle with a soft and / or elastic material, such as rubber or foam. Such a construction can protect the bicycle, in particular from scratches.

[0045] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the bicycle securing device has a honeycomb-like surface structure, which in particular corresponds to a cross-section of the rod element, on the sides that contact the at least one bicycle and / or a surface area provided for actuating the securing device. Such a construction can protect the bicycle engaged therewith and result in a lightweight bicycle carrier system.

[0046] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the bicycle holding device comprises a carrier fixing device configured to fasten the bicycle holding device to the rest of the bicycle carrier system, in particular to releasably fasten the bicycle holding device to the rest of the bicycle carrier system. The bicycle carrier fixing device may be configured to enable fastening of the bicycle holding device at a plurality of different spaced-apart positions and / or to move the bicycle holding device relative to the rest of the bicycle carrier system when fastened in a specific position. For example, an angle of the rod element of the bicycle holding device relative to the bicycle support platform can thus be adjusted by a user, for example by rotation.Likewise, the position of the bicycle mounting device can be slidably adjusted, for example, along a frame, a bicycle mounting arm, a bicycle support platform, and / or a bar element of the bicycle carrier system. Thus, the bicycle carrier system can be adjusted according to different user needs, different bicycle geometries, and / or between its transport and workstand configurations.

[0047] A further aspect relates to a carrier fixing device configured to fasten a bicycle holding device to a bicycle carrier system, which is in particular configured to fasten the bicycle holding device of the bicycle carrier system according to the first aspect to the rest of the bicycle carrier system. For example, the bicycle holding device can be configured as a system with a plurality of different carrier fixing devices and / or for exchanging the carrier fixing device. Thus, the bicycle holding device can be adapted to various bicycle carrier systems for rear mounting on a motor vehicle without a work stand capability in order to provide such a capability for such bicycle carrier systems. The carrier fixing device can be configured to selectively enable movement of the bicycle holding device, for example, pivoting of the rod element.The carrier fixing device can be designed to rotationally lock the bicycle holding device in position, particularly in its transport position and / or work stand position. For this purpose, the carrier fixing device can comprise a locking element. As an alternative to a detachable fastening, the bicycle holding device can also be permanently attached.

[0048] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the carrier fixing device is arranged at an end portion of the rod element opposite the end portion with the bicycle fixing device. This enables a long reach of the bicycle holding device, for example, it allows the bicycle to be held at a distance from the bicycle support platform in the workstand configuration. Alternatively or additionally, a position of the carrier fixing device and / or bicycle fixing device is adjustable along the longitudinal extent of the rod element. This allows the reach of the bicycle holding device to be adjusted. Adaptation of the bicycle holding device in the transport configuration to differently sized bicycle frames and / or adjustment of the vertical position of the bicycle held in the workstand configuration is possible.The bicycle holding device can be configured for stepwise adjustment of the position of the carrier fixing device and / or the position of the bicycle fixing device along the longitudinal extent of the rod element and / or the bicycle fastening arm. Adjustment of each fixing device can only be possible if released by a corresponding lever and / or can be locked by this lever. The rod element can have a scale on its surface indicating a position of the carrier fixing device and / or bicycle fixing device. This scale can enable a user to quickly adjust the carrier fixing device and / or bicycle fixing device to a desired and / or previous position.Alternatively or additionally, rotation of the carrier fixing device and / or bicycle fixing device about the longitudinal extent of the rod element is blocked, in particular due to a cross-section of a through-hole in the respective fixing device that corresponds to a non-circular cross-section of the rod element, such as a triangular or trapezoidal cross-section. Alternatively, the carrier fixing device is arranged on the bicycle fixing device without a rod element connecting the two fixing devices. Such a design is compact and simple.

[0049] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the bicycle carrier system comprises a bicycle support frame, which in particular extends substantially orthogonally from the bicycle support platform, a vertical bicycle support arm, a bracket arm, the bicycle fastening arm, and / or another protruding part. The carrier fixing device can be configured to be attached to the bicycle support frame of the bicycle carrier system, the vertical bicycle support arm of the bicycle carrier system, the bracket arm of the bicycle carrier system, the bicycle fastening arm of the bicycle carrier system, and / or the other protruding part of the bicycle carrier system. In particular, the bicycle holding device can thus be attached to the same part of a bicycle carrier system as arms used to hold attached bicycles upright in the transport configuration. The bicycle holding device can replace one or more such arms.The carrier fixing device can be designed for a clamping attachment to the rest of the bicycle carrier system, in particular a screw clamp attachment.

[0050] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the bicycle holding device is the only part of the bicycle carrier system that holds the at least one bicycle in the repair stand configuration, in particular wherein the wheels of the at least one bicycle are spaced from the bicycle support platform and / or the ground and / or the at least one bicycle is suspended from the bicycle holding device. Alternatively or additionally, the bicycle holding device can be configured to hold the at least one bicycle in its position in the transport configuration together with other parts of the bicycle carrier system, in particular substantially upright, wherein the wheels of the at least one bicycle rest on the bicycle support platform.

[0051] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the rod element can be pivotally and / or extendably attached to the rest of the bicycle carrier system, in particular with one end on the bicycle support platform, on top of a wheel rack, a load wing, or on the bicycle fastening arm. Alternatively or additionally, the rod element can be configured to at least partially lift the at least one bicycle in the repair stand configuration away from the bicycle support platform, in particular with its rear wheel and / or by engaging with the bicycle frame from below in the repair stand configuration, in particular a pedal hub of the at least one bicycle. For example, the rod element can be pivoted upwards and / or extended to at least partially lift the bicycle away from the bicycle support platform.Such a design, which lifts the bicycle from below in the transport configuration, may not require clamping the bicycle in the workstand configuration. This design may be lighter and require fewer moving parts. Furthermore, when not used as a workstand, the bar member may not interfere with loading and unloading a bicycle onto the bike rack system in the transport configuration. In comparison, the bicycle may be more accessible for maintenance in a design in which the bicycle holding device clamps to the frame and / or seatpost. The pedal hub may provide a large and stable portion for engaging the bicycle with the bar member. For example, the at least one bicycle partially rests on the bar member in the transport configuration.

[0052] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the bicycle holding device comprises a stand device, wherein the stand device is configured to support the bicycle holding device as a bicycle repair stand on the ground independently of the rest of the bicycle carrier system. Thus, a user can use the bicycle holding device as a bicycle repair stand at a distance from the vehicle. For example, the user can therefore even perform maintenance on their bicycle even if the parking position of their vehicle does not provide enough space at the rear of the vehicle.

[0053] For example, the stand can be arranged at an end portion of the pole element opposite the bicycle securing device. This allows a high working position for the bicycle to be achieved. Alternatively or additionally, the stand can be detachably attached to the pole element. When not needed, the stand can thus be left at home. Furthermore, the stand can be carried in the interior of the vehicle.

[0054] Alternatively or additionally, the stand can be configured to be adjustable between a collapsed position and a ready-to-use position. In the collapsed position, the stand can be configured to occupy less space than in the ready-to-use position and / or not to interfere with securing bicycles to the bicycle carrier system in the transport configuration with the attached bicycle holding device and / or mounting the bicycle carrier system to the vehicle with the attached bicycle holding device.

[0055] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the stand device is configured as a tripod. A tripod is a simple and lightweight stand that can stand securely even on uneven ground. For example, respective legs of the tripod can be configured to pivot from a folded position to an unfolded position when a release element of the stand device is actuated. For example, unfolding and / or folding can be possible when a button is pressed. The rod element of the bicycle holding device can be configured to form one of the legs of the tripod. The rod element can be configured to be unfolded and unfolded. Respective foldable legs of the tripod can be connected to the rod element at one end and a linkage that limits a maximum unfolded angle.

[0056] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the bicycle carrier system is configured to be adjusted into the workstand configuration by attaching the bicycle holding device. Alternatively or additionally, the bicycle carrier system can be configured to be adjusted into the workstand configuration by adjusting the bicycle holding device, in particular the rod element, into a workstand position. Alternatively or additionally, the bicycle carrier system can be configured to be adjusted into the workstand configuration by adjusting the bicycle support platform into the inclined position. Thus, the bicycle carrier system can be easily adjusted between its configurations.

[0057] According to one embodiment of the bicycle carrier system, the bicycle carrier system may comprise a locking system. The locking system may be configured to lock the bicycle carrier system in the work stand configuration and / or transport configuration. Additionally or alternatively, the locking system may be configured to lock the bicycle carrier system to the vehicle and / or the bicycle holding device to the rest of the bicycle carrier system. Additionally or alternatively, the locking system may be configured to lock any attached bicycle to the bicycle carrier system, for example, by locking the bicycle fixing device in a position engaging the bicycle. Additionally or alternatively, the locking system may be configured to lock the bicycle support platform in position. For example, the locking system may comprise at least one lock cylinder and one key.The locking system can increase the security of valuables for the user.

[0058] A second aspect relates to a bicycle holding device for a bicycle carrier that can be mounted on the rear of a motor vehicle. The bicycle holding device is designed for releasable attachment to a bicycle carrier, in particular as part of the bicycle carrier system according to the first aspect. The bicycle holding device can correspond to the bicycle holding device described as part of the first aspect. The bicycle holding device can be designed to hold at least one bicycle in a position for performing maintenance on the at least one bicycle when the bicycle holding device is attached to the bicycle carrier and the bicycle carrier is mounted on the vehicle. The bicycle holding device can therefore enable a bicycle carrier to also provide bicycle repair stand functionality.The bicycle holding device can be configured to be retrofitted and thus upgrade an existing bicycle carrier that can be mounted on the rear of a motor vehicle. Additionally or alternatively, the bicycle holding device can be configured to hold at least one bicycle in a position for performing maintenance on the at least one bicycle when the bicycle holding device is on the ground. In this case, a repair stand functionality can therefore be provided independently of the motor vehicle.

[0059] According to one embodiment of the bicycle holding device, the bicycle holding device can be configured to be used as a bicycle stand on the ground when not attached to the bicycle carrier system. For example, the bicycle holding device is always configured to be used as a bicycle stand on the ground when not attached to the bicycle carrier system, or can be configured to be used as a bicycle stand on the ground when not attached to the bicycle carrier system with the stand attached thereto. The stand can be configured to require deployment, for example, by unfolding the legs, before the bicycle holding device is placed on the ground.

[0060] According to one embodiment of the bicycle holding device, the bicycle holding device is designed to replace an arm of the bicycle carrier, which is designed to hold the at least one bicycle upright during transport by the vehicle. Thus, the number of additional parts on a bicycle carrier capable of providing workstand functionality can be reduced. For example, when the bicycle holding device is used with a bicycle carrier, a previously used arm for holding the bicycle upright during transport can be discarded.

[0061] The bicycle holding device may include additional parts compared to a conventional bicycle holding device without work stand functionality. For example, the bicycle holding device may include an additional rod element attached to a bicycle fixation arm or replacing a rod element that is not capable of a bicycle holding device with work stand functionality. As another example, the bicycle holding device may include reinforcement parts, such as the support rod.

[0062] A third aspect relates to a bicycle stand retrofit kit for a bicycle carrier that can be mounted on the rear of a motor vehicle, in particular wherein the bicycle carrier has a bicycle support platform and a bicycle holding device. The retrofit kit is designed to provide the bicycle carrier with an adjustment function between a transport configuration for transporting at least one bicycle attached to the bicycle carrier and a work stand configuration for performing maintenance on at least one bicycle attached to the bicycle carrier when the bicycle carrier is mounted on the vehicle and the retrofit kit is mounted on the bicycle carrier. The retrofit kit enables a user to upgrade an existing bicycle carrier system with the work stand functionality. The retrofit kit and the bicycle carrier can form a bicycle carrier system according to the first aspect.For example, the bike rack retrofit kit may include additional parts for a bike holding device of the existing bike rack, such as the locking device and / or the support rod and / or the fastening element.

[0063] According to one embodiment of the bicycle stand retrofit kit, the retrofit kit comprises a locking device, which in particular forms part of the bicycle holding device when the retrofit kit is mounted on the bicycle carrier, which is designed to lock the bicycle holding device in position relative to the bicycle support platform. For example, the locking device can be designed to prevent pivoting of the bicycle holding device relative to the bicycle support platform in its locked state. The locking device can be designed to prevent length adjustment of the bicycle holding device in its locked state. The locking device can be designed to prevent movement of a fastening element of the retrofit kit along a rod element of the bicycle holding device.

[0064] The retrofit kit may include a rod element, in particular a telescopically length-adjustable rod element, configured to replace a rod element of the bicycle holding device. The telescopically length-adjustable rod element replacing a rod element may, for example, allow the bicycle to be held further apart from the rest of the bicycle carrier in the repair stand configuration than with the existing rod element when set to a long length. For example, when set to a shorter length, the telescopically length-adjustable rod element may hold a bicycle upright on the bicycle support platform in the transport configuration of the bicycle carrier.Alternatively or additionally, the rod element of the retrofit kit can be configured to be attached to an existing rod element of the bicycle holding device, for example, to form the telescopically length-adjustable rod element. Alternatively or additionally, the rod element can be configured for attachment to an existing part of the bicycle holding device, such as a bicycle fixing arm. For example, the rod element can be configured for adjustable attachment. In particular, the rod element can be pivotally attached to the bicycle fixing arm so that the rod element can be adjusted between its use position and its storage position.

[0065] According to one embodiment of the bicycle stand retrofit kit, the locking device comprises a support rod that can be fastened with a first end to the bicycle carrier system at a distance from the rod element and / or the bicycle fastening arm, and with an opposite second end to the rod element and / or the bicycle fastening arm, in particular with a fastening element that can be fastened to a rod element and / or the bicycle fastening arm of the bicycle holding device. The fastening element can be designed, for example, as a sleeve element. The fastening of the second end of the support rod to the rod element and / or the bicycle fastening arm of the bicycle holding device can be adjustable, in particular automatically adjustable, when the rod element and / or the bicycle fastening arm of the bicycle holding device are adjusted between their storage position and their use position.Alternatively or additionally, the attachment of the first end of the support rod to the bicycle carrier system can be adjustable, in particular automatically adjustable, when the rod element and / or the bicycle fastening arm of the bicycle holding device are adjusted between its storage position and its use position.

[0066] According to one embodiment of the bicycle stand retrofit kit, the locking device comprises an adjustment device, in particular comprising a lever, a clamp, and / or a quick-release button, which is configured to adjust the locking device between a locked state and a released state. In the locked state, the locking device can lock the bicycle holding device in position relative to the bicycle support platform, as previously described. The adjustment device can also bias the locking device toward a state, such as the locked state. The adjustment device can comprise a ratchet mechanism that allows adjustment of an adjustable attachment of the support rod element in one direction but blocks adjustment in another direction.

[0067] According to one embodiment of the bicycle stand retrofit kit, the retrofit kit is designed to replace an arm of the bicycle carrier that is designed to hold the at least one bicycle substantially upright during transport by the vehicle. For example, the retrofit kit may comprise a telescopic rod element or rigid rod element that is particularly designed to replace the arm of the bicycle carrier, the support rod, and the fastening element in the form of the sleeve element. Alternatively or additionally, the retrofit kit may be designed for attachment to an arm of the bicycle carrier that is designed to hold the at least one bicycle substantially upright during transport by the vehicle, such as a bicycle fixation arm.

[0068] According to one embodiment of the bicycle stand retrofit kit, the retrofit kit is configured to provide an accessory and / or tool holder for the bicycle carrier when mounted to the bicycle carrier. For example, the retrofit kit may form a shelf on the rod member that holds the bicycle in the work stand configuration, in particular on a bicycle-holding end of the rod member that holds the bicycle in the work stand configuration. The accessory and / or tool holder may be provided by the fastening element of the retrofit kit, for example, integrally formed in a plastic part of the sleeve member, such as an injection-molded part. The accessory and / or tool holder may also be configured as an additional part, for example, configured for attachment to the sleeve member and / or rod member.The accessory and / or tool holder can be provided at least in the transport configuration of the bike rack when the retrofit kit is mounted on the bike rack. In other configurations, such as the transport configuration and / or when the bar element is in the stowed position, the accessory and / or tool holder may not be usable but may still be present on the bike mounting device.

[0069] A fourth aspect relates to a bicycle carrier that can be mounted on the rear of a motor vehicle, in particular wherein the bicycle carrier has a bicycle support platform and a bicycle holding device. The bicycle carrier according to the fourth aspect is designed to receive a bicycle stand retrofit kit according to the third aspect. For example, the bicycle carrier can be configured to attach the sleeve member and / or the support rod and / or the rod member. For example, the bicycle support platform can comprise a portion configured to attach the support rod, such as a through-hole or a slot for attaching the first end of the support rod. For example, a bicycle fixing arm can comprise a portion configured to attach the rod member, such as a through-hole or a slot for attaching the rod member.

[0070] A fifth aspect relates to the use of a bicycle carrier system for rear mounting on a motor vehicle and / or a bicycle holding device for a bicycle carrier that can be mounted on the rear of a motor vehicle, for transporting at least one bicycle, which is attached to the bicycle carrier system, with the motor vehicle and as a work stand for performing maintenance on at least one bicycle, which is attached to the bicycle carrier system. For example, the fifth aspect relates to the use of the bicycle carrier system according to the first aspect and / or the bicycle holding device according to the second aspect and / or the bicycle carrier according to the fourth aspect with the retrofit kit according to the third aspect. The use may comprise a step of mounting the retrofit kit on the bicycle carrier.The use may include a step of adjusting the bicycle carrier system and / or the bicycle holding device between a transport configuration and a workstand configuration. In particular, a part of the bicycle carrier system and / or the bicycle holding device can be adjusted to a position such that the bicycle can hang therefrom without touching the ground. In particular, a part of the bicycle carrier system can be adjusted so that the bicycle can rest thereon with its seat and / or top tube so as not to touch and / or rest on the ground and / or other parts of the bicycle carrier system, with other parts of the bicycle, such as the wheels, touching a bicycle support platform of the bicycle carrier system.

[0071] Preferred embodiments and expedient developments of one aspect may also represent preferred embodiments and expedient developments of other aspects. Further features of the present invention will become apparent from consideration of the information contained above and in or in combination with the following detailed description, drawings, and claims. The present invention is illustrated by way of example and not limitation in the figures of the accompanying drawings. SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE CHARACTERS Fig. 1 shows a schematic side view of a first embodiment of a bicycle carrier system mounted on the rear of a motor vehicle in a transport configuration. Fig. 2 shows a schematic side view of the bicycle carrier system according to Fig. 1 with a bicycle carrier platform in an inclined position. Fig. 3 shows a schematic side view of the bicycle carrier system according to Fig. 1 in a work stand configuration. Fig. 4 shows in a schematic perspective view details of a first embodiment of a bicycle holding device of the bicycle carrier system according to Fig. 1. Fig. 5 shows in a further schematic perspective view details of the bicycle holding device of Fig. 4. Fig. 6 shows in a schematic perspective view the bicycle holding device of Fig. 4 detached from the rest of the bike rack system and in a workstand configuration. Fig. 7 shows a schematic rear view of a second embodiment of a bicycle carrier system mounted on the rear of a motor vehicle in a transport configuration. Fig. 8 shows a schematic perspective rear view of the bicycle carrier system of Fig. 7 in a workstand configuration. Fig. 9 shows in a schematic side view details of a second embodiment of a bicycle holding device of the bicycle carrier system according to Fig. 1. Fig. 10 shows in a schematic perspective view details of the bicycle holding device of Fig. 9, which now has a stand. Fig. 11 shows in a schematic perspective view details of the bicycle holding device of Fig. 8 in a workstand configuration. Fig. 12 shows a schematic side view of a third embodiment of a bicycle carrier system mounted on the rear of a motor vehicle in a work stand configuration. Fig. 13 shows a schematic perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a bicycle carrier system in a work stand configuration. Fig. 13a shows in a schematic perspective view the fourth embodiment of the bicycle carrier system in the work stand configuration with a strap for holding the bicycle in a stowed configuration. Fig. 14 shows a schematic side view of the bicycle carrier system of Fig. 13. Fig. 15 shows in a schematic perspective view the bicycle carrier system of Fig. 13, which is mounted on the rear of a motor vehicle in the assembly stand configuration. Fig. 15a shows a schematic perspective view of the bicycle carrier system of Fig. 13a, mounted to the rear of a motor vehicle in the assembly stand configuration and with the strap for holding the bicycle in a bicycle holding configuration. Fig. 16 shows a schematic side view of a bicycle stand retrofit kit, which is also part of the bicycle carrier system of Fig. 13 is. Fig. 17 shows a schematic perspective view of the bicycle stand retrofit kit from Fig. 13. Fig. 18 shows a schematic perspective view of a fifth embodiment of a bicycle carrier system in a work stand configuration. Fig. 19 shows a schematic perspective view of the bicycle carrier system of Fig. 18, which is at least partially set to a transport configuration. Fig. 20 shows a schematic perspective view of a slightly different design of the bicycle carrier system of Fig. 18 in the assembly stand configuration. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0072] Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of a bicycle carrier system 10 mounted to the rear of a motor vehicle 12 in a transport configuration. Here, the bicycle carrier system 10 is mounted to a tow ball, although the bicycle carrier system 10 may be configured to be mounted to a fixed point, a trailer hitch, or a tailgate 14 of the vehicle 12. The bicycle carrier system 10 includes a bicycle carrier 16. The bicycle carrier 16 includes means for mounting to the motor vehicle 12 and a bicycle support platform 18. The bicycle support platform 18 may be arranged substantially horizontally when the bicycle carrier 16 is mounted to the vehicle 12, as shown in Fig. 1. The bicycle support platform 18 includes taillights that can be connected to the vehicle 12. On an upper side of the bicycle support platform 18, the bicycle support platform 18 has grooves for receiving the wheels of bicycles to be transported. Here, a single bicycle 20 rests with its wheels on the bicycle support platform 18 in the grooves and is thus supported by the bicycle support platform 18 during transport. The bicycle carrier 16 shown is designed to transport two bicycles simultaneously. In other embodiments, only a single bicycle or three or more bicycles can be transported.

[0073] As in Fig. 1, the bicycle carrier 16 is configured to transport the bicycle 20 upright. To hold the bicycle 20 in place, its wheels are secured in place on the bicycle support platform 18 with straps. Furthermore, the bicycle carrier 16 includes a frame 22 extending substantially vertically from the bicycle support platform 18 on a side of the bicycle support platform 18 facing the vehicle 12. The frame 22 prevents the bicycle from falling onto the rear of the vehicle 12. The frame 22 is formed by a tube having an inverted U-shape. However, other suitable means and shapes are possible, such as a single, straight, upright support.

[0074] The bicycle carrier system 10 further includes a bicycle holding device 24 and a bicycle holding arm 60. The bicycle holding device 24 is attached at one end to the frame 22 and at another portion to the bicycle 20. The bicycle holding device 24 therefore holds the bicycle 20 upright during transport, thereby further securing the bicycle 20. Further details of the bicycle holding device 24 are explained below. The bicycle holding arm 60 can be attached at its free end portion to a second bicycle that is transported with the bicycle carrier system 10. Since Fig. 1 shows only one bicycle 20 being transported, the bicycle support arm 60 is not currently used to support a bicycle. Similar to the bicycle support device 24, one end of the bicycle support arm 60 is attached to the frame 22.

[0075] Fig. 1 shows the tailgate 14 of the vehicle 12 in a closed position. Fig. Figure 2 shows the tailgate 14 in an open position, allowing access to the interior of the vehicle 12, and in particular, a luggage compartment. To open the tailgate 14, the tailgate 14 is pivoted about an upper hinge. However, such a movement can be prevented by the bicycle carrier system 10, as shown in Fig. 1. For example, the frame 22 and / or the transported bicycle 20 may be in the way of the tailgate 14 when it is pivoted about its upper hinge. To avoid a collision, the bicycle support platform 18 may be moved from its Fig. 1 and away from a rear end of the vehicle 12 into a position shown in Fig. 2 shown inclined position. As shown in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 2, the bicycle holding device 24 continues to hold the bicycle 20 on the bicycle support platform 18 in an upright position relative to a top surface of the bicycle support platform 18. The bicycle holding device 24 prevents the bicycle 20 from moving. The pivoting of the bicycle support platform 18 can be released, for example, with a lever.

[0076] Fig. 3 shows the bicycle carrier system 10 adjusted to its workstand configuration. As in Fig. 3, the bicycle 20 in this configuration is held above the ground only by the bicycle support device 24, which clamps an upper tube of the frame of the bicycle 20. Thus, the wheels can rotate freely, and the underside of the bicycle 20 is also easily accessible. In particular, the wheels of the bicycle 20 are spaced from the platform in a horizontal direction. In some embodiments and / or in some positions of the bicycle support device 24, a single wheel of the bicycle 20 can rest on the ground. Maintenance can be easily performed on the bicycle 20 when it is attached to the bicycle carrier system 10 in the repair stand configuration, as shown in Fig. 3. The bicycle holding device 24 is designed to hold the bicycle 20 in the air without any additional aids, while being rigid enough and clamping the frame of the bicycle 20 with sufficient force to prevent unwanted movement of the bicycle 20 relative to the rest of the bicycle carrier system 10 during maintenance work on the bicycle 20. The bicycle carrier system 10 in the repair stand configuration thus allows even complex maintenance work to be performed on the bicycle 20.

[0077] To adjust the bicycle carrier system 10 to the work stand configuration, the position of the bicycle holding device 24 relative to the frame 22 has been adjusted, for example, to raise the bicycle 20 higher relative to the frame 22. However, in some embodiments, the bicycle holding device 24 may remain in the same position as in the transport configuration. Furthermore, the bicycle support platform 18 has been adjusted to its inclined position to provide sufficient clearance beneath the bicycle 20 and to avoid contact between the bicycle support platform 18 and the bicycle 20. However, in some embodiments, in the work stand configuration, the bicycle support platform may remain in the substantially horizontal position. To adjust the bicycle carrier system 10 between its configurations, the bicycle 20 and optionally other bicycles attached thereto are detached and / or unloaded from the bicycle carrier system 10.For this purpose, straps that hold the wheels of the bicycle 20 in place may be loosened. However, in some embodiments, at least one or all of the bicycles attached to the bicycle carrier system 10 may remain attached during adjustment of the bicycle carrier system configuration.

[0078] The Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 shows further details of the bicycle holding device 24 according to a first embodiment. The bicycle holding device 24 comprises a rod element 26 formed by a single part, such as a tube or a rod. At an upper end portion, a bicycle fixing device 28 is attached to the rod element 26 at a fixed position. In the presently shown embodiment, the rod element 26 is formed by a tube with a round cross-section. The bicycle fixing device 28 comprises a clamping device 30 extending substantially orthogonally to a longitudinal extent of the rod element 26. The clamping device 30 is designed to releasably engage a frame or seat post of a bicycle. Sides of the clamping device 30 designed to contact the bicycle 20 are covered with a soft and / or elastic material, such as rubber, to protect the bicycle 20.For this purpose, an actuating element can tighten and / or loosen the clamping device 30. In the present embodiment, the actuating element is designed as a rotatable knob 32. Furthermore, the clamping device 30 can be rotated about its longitudinal axis relative to the rod element 26. For this purpose, another actuating element can release a blocking engagement between the clamping device 30 and an element 34 of the bicycle fixing device 28, which is attached to the rod element 26. The blocking engagement is provided here by corresponding teeth 36, and the actuating element is designed as a lever 58. By releasing the lever 58, the teeth 36 disengage, and the clamping device 30 is freely rotatable. This allows a user to adjust a working position of the bicycle 20, which is held by the bicycle holding device 24 in the repair stand configuration.For example, the bicycle can thus be turned over while being held by the bicycle carrier system 10. Furthermore, rotation of the clamp also allows adaptation of the bicycle holding device 24 to a geometry of the frame of the bicycle 20 in the transport configuration of the bicycle carrier system 10, thereby allowing the bicycle 20 to be secured more securely and / or more easily in the transport configuration.

[0079] The bicycle holding device 24 further comprises a carrier fixing device 38. The carrier fixing device 38 is designed to releasably fasten the bicycle holding device 24 to the rest of the bicycle carrier system 10 or the bicycle carrier 16. In the embodiment shown, the carrier fixing device 38 is designed to fasten the bicycle holding device 24 to the frame 22. For this purpose, the carrier fixing device 38 has walls that form a through-hole 40 that can be opened on the side to place the frame 22 therein. Furthermore, the bicycle carrier fixing device 38 is designed for quick attachment and detachment, as well as for fixing the bicycle holding device 24 in its position. For this purpose, a lever 42 can tighten or loosen a hinge part 44 of the wall that forms the through-hole 40. By tightening the lever 42, a diameter of the through-hole 40 can be reduced.In other embodiments, the carrier fixing device 38 may be configured to alternatively or additionally secure the bicycle holding device 24 to other parts, such as an upright support or the bicycle support platform 18.

[0080] The carrier fixing device 38 is designed to be displaced along the extension of the rod element 26, thereby changing its position relative to the bicycle fixing device 28. As shown in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 4, the carrier fixing device 38 is positioned quite close to the bicycle fixing device 28. The carrier fixing device 38 can be moved along the longitudinal extent of the rod member 26 to adjust a reach of the bicycle holding device 24 for holding the bicycle 20. For this purpose, the carrier fixing device 38 has a further lever 36 that locks the carrier fixing device 38 to the rod member 26. When released, the lever 36 allows the carrier fixing device 38 to be moved along the rod member 26. This also allows a user to adjust a working position of the bicycle 20 held by the bicycle holding device 24 in the repair stand configuration. For example, the bicycle can thus be held further away from the ground in the repair stand configuration.Furthermore, a reach adjustment also allows adaptation of the bicycle holding device 24 to a geometry of the frame of the bicycle 20 in the transport configuration of the bicycle carrier system 10, whereby the bicycle 20 can be fixed more securely and / or more easily in the transport configuration.

[0081] Fig. 6 shows the bicycle holding device 24 in a work stand configuration independent of the bicycle rack 16. For this purpose, the rack fixing device 38 has been removed, and a stand device 48 has been removably attached to the pole member 26. In some embodiments, the rack fixing device 38 may remain attached to the pole member 26 when the stand device 48 is attached to the pole member 26. The stand device 48 is configured to support the bicycle holding device 24 on the ground as a bicycle work stand independent of the rest of the bicycle rack system 10 and the bicycle rack 16.

[0082] In the embodiment shown, the stand device 48 is configured as a tripod, which allows for secure standing on uneven ground, which is often encountered outdoors and in parking lots. The stand device 48 has a rod element 50 that is attached to the rod element 26. The rod element 50 is also formed by a single part, such as a tube or a rod. Similar to the support fixing device 38, a position of the stand device 48 can be adjusted along the extension of the rod element 26 in order to adjust a height of the bicycle holding device 24 in its Fig. 6. The rod member 50 also acts as one of the legs of the tripod. Two other legs 52 are pivotally attached at one end to a sliding member 54, which is attached to the rod member 50. The sliding member 54 can be moved along a longitudinal extent of the rod member 50 to fold and unfold the tripod. Fig. 6 shows the unfolded tripod with the legs 52 extending away from the pole member 50 and the stand assembly 48 in a ready-to-use configuration that allows the bicycle support assembly 24 to be used as a workstand. A maximum angle, and thus unfolding of the legs 52, is limited by a respective individual link 62, each pivotally attached at one end to a lower end of the pole member 50 and at an opposite end to a midsection of the respective leg 52. The link members 62 also increase the stability of the tripod. Sliding the sliding member 54 upward along the pole member 50 folds the legs 52 toward the pole member 50, thus collapsing the tripod.In the folded position, the legs 52 are arranged substantially parallel to the pole element 50, which allows for easy carrying and space-saving storage.

[0083] A position of the sliding element 54 can be locked to the rod element 50, for example with the knob 56 shown.

[0084] The legs 52 extend substantially transversely to the rod member 50 in the same direction as the clamping device 30 extends from the rod member 26. The legs 52 can therefore support the weight of the bicycle 20 attached to the clamping device 30 while requiring only a small footprint. This arrangement can reliably prevent the bicycle holding device 24 from tipping over during bicycle maintenance when using the bicycle holding device 24 as a work stand independent of the bicycle carrier 16. The bicycle 20 can be secured to the bicycle holding device 24 in the work stand configuration without being mounted to the bicycle carrier 16 in a manner similar to that described above. For example, the bicycle fixing device 28 can be integrated into the frame or seat post of the bicycle 20 in a manner similar to that described in Fig. 3 shown intervene.

[0085] Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 show a second embodiment of a bicycle carrier system 100. The overall structure is similar to the bicycle carrier system 10: The bicycle carrier system 100 is also designed for rear mounting on a motor vehicle 12. The bicycle carrier system 100 is also designed, when mounted on the vehicle 12, to be converted between a transport configuration shown in Fig. 7, for transporting at least one bicycle 20 attached to the bicycle carrier system 100, and a work stand configuration shown in Fig. 8, for performing maintenance on at least one bicycle 20 attached to the bicycle carrier system 100. The bicycle carrier system 100 also includes a bicycle support platform 110. Wheels of the bicycle 20 may also be secured to the bicycle support platform 110 with straps.

[0086] However, the bicycle carrier system 100 does not include a frame 22 with a bicycle support arm and a bicycle holding device attached thereto for holding a secured bicycle upright in the transport configuration of the bicycle carrier system 100. Instead, the bicycle carrier system 100 includes a rod member 102 that can partially engage a wheel of the bicycle 20. As shown in Fig. 7, the rod member 102 engages a front wheel of the bicycle 20 to hold it upright.

[0087] Accordingly, a bicycle holding device 104 of the bicycle carrier system 100 differs from the bicycle holding device 24 of the bicycle carrier system 10. The bicycle holding device 104 includes a carrier fixing device 106 slotted onto a central portion of a rod member 108 of the bicycle support platform 110 for attachment to the rest of the bicycle carrier system 100.

[0088] The bicycle holding device 104 further includes a rod element 112, which is pivotally attached at one end to the carrier fixing device 106. The rod element 112 is formed by a single part, such as a tube or a rod. In the transport configuration, the rod element 112 is arranged substantially horizontally and / or parallel to the rod element 102 of the bicycle support platform 110. In this position, the rod element 112 is not in contact with a frame of the bicycle 20. The rod element 112 can be pivoted upwardly toward the bicycle 20 arranged on the bicycle support platform 110 in order to adjust the bicycle carrier system 100 to its repair stand configuration, as shown in Fig. 8. The rod member 112 thus engages the bicycle 20 from below, in the embodiment shown at a pedal hub of the frame of the bicycle 20. The bicycle 20 is thus at least partially raised from the bicycle support platform 110, which facilitates at least some basic maintenance work.

[0089] For example, the rod member 112 may lift only the rear wheel of the bicycle 20 away from the bicycle support platform 110, facilitating maintenance tasks such as adjusting a gear shifter of the bicycle 20. The rod member 102 may remain engaged with the front wheel of the bicycle 20, helping to securely hold the bicycle 20 in position during maintenance. The bicycle holding device 104, unlike the first embodiment, does not include a clamping device. Instead, the rod member 112 may simply be formed so that the pedal hub of the bicycle 20 can rest thereon, resulting in a simple construction with few moving parts. Furthermore, adjustment between configurations of the bicycle carrier system 100 is easy and does not require unloading the bicycle 20. Instead, the rod member 112 may simply lift a portion of the bicycle 20 away from the bicycle support platform 110 and from its transport position.

[0090] The Fig. 9 to Fig. 11 show a second embodiment of the Fig. 4 to Fig. 6. The second embodiment of the bicycle holding device 24 is also designed for attachment to the frame 22 of the bicycle carrier 16. The overall functionality and configuration are similar to the first embodiment, so only essential differences are described herein. The bicycle holding device 24 according to the second embodiment can also be mounted on the frame 22 of the bicycle carrier 16, either in addition to any bicycle holding arms or to replace at least one of the bicycle holding arms.

[0091] The rod element 26 of the second embodiment of the bicycle holding device 24 has a non-round shaped cross-section, as in Fig. 10. Instead, its cross-section is trapezoidal. This shape prevents unwanted rotation of the carrier fixing device 38 and bicycle fixing device 28 around the rod element 26.

[0092] Furthermore, Fig. 10, the stand device 48 is detached from the rod element 26. The cross section of the rod element 50 of the stand device 48 corresponds to the cross section of the rod element 26. Thus, the stand device 48 can only be attached to the rod element 26 in one orientation. This ensures that the clamping device 30 and the stand device 48 are aligned, extending in the same direction transversely away from the rod element 26. Thus, a secure stand can be ensured, as was described for a similar orientation used for the first embodiment in Fig. 6, and as for this embodiment in Fig. 11 can be seen.

[0093] Fig. Figure 10 also shows the stand assembly 48 with the legs 52 folded onto the rod member 50, whereby the stand assembly 48 is collapsed. As can be seen from Fig. As can be seen from Figure 10, the stand device 48 is thus compact so as to be stored and transported independently of the rest of the bicycle holding device 24.

[0094] As from Fig. As can be seen from Figure 9, the design of the bicycle fixing device 28 and its clamping device 30 of the bicycle holding device 24 according to the second embodiment also differs from the first embodiment. This clamping device 30 has a triangular basic cross-section. Such a geometry enables secure clamping of bicycles with carbon frames, whose tubes are typically not round in cross-section, in addition to bicycles with frames with round tubes. Furthermore, such a shape of the clamping device 30 can prevent undesired rotation of the bicycle frame within the clamping device 30.

[0095] Fig. Figure 11 illustrates how the second embodiment of the bicycle holding device 24 can also be used as a bicycle repair stand independent of the bicycle carrier 16. For this purpose, the stand device 48 has now been attached to the rod element 26 and the legs 52 have been unfolded.

[0096] Fig. 12 shows a third embodiment of a bicycle carrier system 200. The overall structure is similar to the bicycle carrier system 10: The bicycle carrier system 200 is also designed for rear mounting on a motor vehicle 12. The bicycle carrier system 200 is also designed, when mounted on the vehicle 12, to be convertible between a transport configuration for transporting at least one bicycle 20 attached to the bicycle carrier system 200 and a work stand configuration which is Fig. 12, for performing maintenance on at least one bicycle 20 attached to the bicycle carrier system 200. The bicycle carrier system 200 also includes a bicycle support platform 18. Wheels of the bicycle 20 may also be secured to the bicycle support platform 18 with straps.

[0097] The bicycle carrier system 200 differs primarily from the bicycle carrier system 10 due to the design of the bicycle support device 202. The bicycle support device 202 includes a rod assembly 208 with a first rod member 204 and a second rod member 206 configured to telescopically extend the bicycle support device 202, although the length of the bicycle support device 202 may be fixed in other embodiments. The first rod member 204 is pivotally mounted to the frame 22, while it is configured to be rotationally locked in position, although the mounting of the bicycle support device 202 may be fixed in other embodiments.

[0098] The second rod element 206 has a receiving portion with a V-shaped longitudinal extension, as shown in Fig. 12. A front portion of the saddle of the bicycle 20 rests on the second rod member 206 at a base of the receiving portion. Thus, the bicycle 20 rests in a stable, predetermined working position on the bicycle carrier system 200 or the rod assembly 208 without the need for fixation. The bicycle 20 can be easily lifted and hung on the bicycle holding device 202 for washing and basic maintenance without the need for fixation. In some embodiments, the bicycle 20 can tilt forward when suspended from the bicycle holding device 202, possibly even touching the ground with its front wheel, instead of being held entirely in the air by the bicycle holding device 202, as in Fig. 12 shown.

[0099] As from Fig. 12, the bicycle 20 is spaced apart from the bicycle support platform 18 in the workstand configuration due to the extension of the bicycle holding device 202. In other embodiments, the bicycle 20 may alternatively or additionally be spaced apart due to the bicycle support platform 18 being adjusted to an inclined position, similar to Fig. 2. The bicycle support platform 18 can also be pivoted further. In a simple embodiment, the bicycle holding device 202 can comprise only a single rod element with a receiving portion for the bicycle 20 resting on the bicycle holding device 202 in the transport configuration of the bicycle carrier system 200, such as a V-shaped portion of the rod element. For example, a single tube or rod can be bent in one section to provide the receiving portion.

[0100] The Fig. 13, Fig. 14 and Fig. 15 show a fourth embodiment of a bicycle carrier system 400. The overall structure is similar to the other bicycle carrier systems: The bicycle carrier system 400 is also configured for rear mounting on a motor vehicle 12. The bicycle carrier system 400 is also configured, when mounted on the vehicle 12, to be adjusted between a transport configuration for transporting at least one bicycle 20 attached to the bicycle carrier system 400 (not shown) and a work stand configuration for performing maintenance on at least one bicycle 20 attached to the bicycle carrier system 400. The bicycle carrier system 400 also includes a bicycle support platform 410.

[0101] As can be seen, the bicycle holding device 402 of the bicycle carrier system 400 differs from the other embodiments. The bicycle carrier system 400 is configured to transport up to three bicycles standing upright on the bicycle support platform 410 when the bicycle support platform 410 is adjusted to its first, substantially horizontal position. For this purpose, the bicycle support platform has three individual bicycle racks 412 mounted on a frame at a distance from one another. Rod members 414, 416, and 418, each associated with one of the bicycle racks 412, are pivotally mounted to the frame. Each bicycle transported on a corresponding bicycle rack 412 can be held upright in the transport configuration by one of the rod members 414, 416, and 418.Each rod element 414, 416, and 418 is configured to clamp a part of the corresponding bicycle, such as a bicycle frame section or a seat post. At a free end, each of the rod elements 414, 416, and 418 includes a clamping device for holding a bicycle.

[0102] Alternatively, at least one or all of the rod members 414, 416 and 418 may have different means for holding the bicycle 20. Such an alternative is shown for the rod member 418 in the Fig. 13a and Fig. 15a. In this embodiment, a strap 800 is permanently attached at one of its ends to the free end of the rod member 418. As shown in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 15a, the strap 800 may be attached at a mid-portion thereof to form a loop. This loop is wrapped around a bar of the frame of the bicycle 20. Alternatively, the strap 800 is attached by its free end to the bar member 418 to form the loop. For example, the strap 800 may include evenly spaced holes along its length so that the strap 800 may be attached to the bar member 418 in a length-adjustable manner. The strap 800 may thus be tightened around the frame of the bicycle 20 to securely hold the bicycle 20.

[0103] Fig. 13a shows how the strap 800 can be adjusted from the bicycle-holding configuration to a stowed configuration when not in use to hold the bicycle 20. The strap 800 is held with its free end in a substantially straight, extended manner along the length of the rod member 418. For this purpose, the strap 800 may comprise a plastic clip. Alternatively, such a clip may also be attached to the rod member 418. The strap 800 can then be attached to and detached from the clip for adjustment between a bicycle-holding configuration and a stowed configuration. If the clip is part of the strap 800, it can also be used to form the loop for holding the bicycle 20.

[0104] Each pole member 414, 416, and 418 can be individually pivoted between a use position and a stowed position. In the stowed position, the pole members 414, 416, and 418 are arranged substantially parallel to the bicycle support platform 410 and the adjacent bicycle racks 412. The pole members 414, 416, and 418 do not extend beyond a bicycle-facing side of the racks 412. In the stowed position, the pole members 414, 416, and 418 cause less drag when the vehicle 12 is driven with the bicycle carrier system 400 mounted. Furthermore, in the stowed position, the pole members 414, 416, and 418 do not interfere with the loading and unloading of bicycles, particularly when the bicycle carrier system 400 is used in the repair stand configuration. In the use position, the rod elements 414, 416 and 418 can hold a corresponding bicycle.The rod member 418 is shown in the use position and extends substantially orthogonal to the bicycle support platform 410.

[0105] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 15, the rod member 418, which is disposed on a vehicle-facing side of the bicycle support platform 410 when the bicycle carrier system 400 is mounted to the vehicle 12, is configured to support the bicycle 20 as a work stand. To adjust the bicycle carrier system 400 to the work stand configuration, the rod member 418 is adjusted to its use position, and the bicycle support platform 410 is adjusted from its first, substantially horizontal position to its second, inclined position. As best shown in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 14, the tilt axis of the bicycle support platform 410 extends in the left-right direction when the bicycle carrier system 400 is mounted on the vehicle 12 and is located at an end portion opposite the vehicle-facing side of the bicycle support platform 410. Thus, tilting the bicycle support platform 410 causes the rod member 418 to be displaced upward and tilted away from the rear of the vehicle 12. In the tilted position, a vehicle-facing side of the bicycle support platform 410 is positioned higher than in the substantially horizontal position, while an opposite side may maintain its height or be positioned lower. This provides additional clearance for the bicycle 20 from the ground and the vehicle 12 when the bicycle carrier system 400 is used as a repair stand. Undesirable contact of the bicycle 20 with the vehicle can thus be avoided.Furthermore, the second position of the bicycle support platform 410 may be configured as a vehicle tailgate access position that may provide access to the tailgate 14 of the vehicle 12 even when the bicycle 20 is mounted in the work stand configuration, as shown in FIG. Fig. 15. Overall, the bicycle support platform 410 is moved away from the tailgate 14 of the vehicle 12 when the bicycle support platform 410 is tilted for position adjustment. The rod member 418 of the bicycle holding device 402 extends farther from the rear of the motor vehicle 12 in the work stand configuration than in the transport configuration of the bicycle carrier system 400 when the bicycle carrier system 400 is mounted to the motor vehicle 12.

[0106] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 15, maintaining the pole members 414 and 416, which are located farther from the vehicle 12 than the pole member 418, in their stowed position when the bicycle rack system 400 is used as a work stand avoids interference with the bicycle 20. In one embodiment, gravity can maintain these pole members 414 and 416 in the stowed position even when the bicycle support platform 410 is tilted. In the use position, the pole members 414, 416, and 418 are each attached by their free ends to a bicycle, thereby maintaining them in the use position. For example, the pole members 414, 416, and 418 that hold bicycles in the transport configuration of the bicycle rack system 400 need only prevent the bicycles from leaning to their sides. Otherwise, the rod elements 414, 416 and 418 can fold back into their respective stowed positions under the influence of gravity.In another embodiment, the bicycle carrier system 400 may be provided with some form of locking device that holds the rod members 414, 416 and 418 in their respective positions.

[0107] The rod member 418, which holds the bicycle 20 in the repair stand configuration, is subjected to high loads. In particular, during maintenance work, a user may push against the bicycle or even the rod member 418 itself in the pivoting direction toward the stowed position. To withstand such high loads and prevent the rod member 418 from folding into its stowed position, the bicycle holding device 402 of the bicycle carrier system 400 is reinforced.

[0108] The reinforcement components, which can be provided as a bicycle stand retrofit kit, are isolated in the Fig. 16 and Fig. 17. The bicycle support device includes an additional support rod 420. A first end of the support rod 420 is rotatably mounted to the bicycle support platform 410 at a distance from a mounting of the rod member 418. For example, the first end of the support rod 420 includes a pin inserted into a corresponding hole in the bicycle support platform. An opposite second end of the support rod 420 is adjustably mounted along the length of the rod member 418. For this purpose, a mounting member in the form of a sleeve member 422 is arranged at the second end of the support rod 420. The rod member 418 is encased in the sleeve member 422, thereby allowing the second end of the support rod 420 to slide along the rod member 418 when the rod member 418 is adjusted between its stored position and its use position.The support rod 420 provides lateral support for the bicycle holding device 402 with the rod member 418.

[0109] Furthermore, a locking device is integrated into the sleeve element 422. In the example shown, the locking device comprises a lever 424, which Fig. 16 and Fig. 17 is shown in an open position. Thus, the locking device is in its open state, allowing the sleeve member 422 to slide freely along the length of the rod member 418. When the lever 424 is depressed, the locking device is adjusted to its locked state. In the locked state, the sleeve member is fixed in position along the length of the rod member 418, for example, by clamping and / or a positive locking. Thus, pivoting of the rod member 418 is blocked, thereby holding it in its use position. Furthermore, loads acting on the rod member 418 can be additionally supported by the support rod 420, resulting in a very rigid bicycle holding device.In another configuration, the locking device may be biased toward the locked state and / or include a push button for adjusting the locking device to its open state.

[0110] In one embodiment, the rod member 418 that holds the bicycle 20 in the bicycle stand configuration is configured for length adjustment, particularly telescopic length adjustment. This allows the bicycle 20 to be held farther away from the bicycle support platform 410 in the work stand configuration, while holding differently sized bicycles upright in the transport configuration. The other rod members 414 and 416 can also be configured for length adjustment to hold differently sized bicycles upright in the transport configuration. The adjustment range of the rod members 414 and 416 can be smaller than that of the rod member 418 that holds the bicycle 20 in the bicycle stand configuration in such a configuration.The retrofit kit may also include components, such as rods, for retrofitting a length adjustment to an existing rod element on the vehicle-facing side of the bicycle support platform 410 and / or for extending the adjustment range of such an existing rod element. The locking device may be configured to lock the length adjustment of the rod element 418, which holds the bicycle 20 in the bicycle stand configuration, in particular with a positive locking mechanism.

[0111] How best in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 17, the sleeve member 422 includes a plurality of through-holes 426 and forms a tray 428. The through-holes 426 form tool holders in the sleeve member 422. For example, a user can insert and store hex wrenches into the through-holes 426 during maintenance of the bicycle. The tray 428 can hold accessories, such as spare parts. For example, a user can place screws in the tray 428 during maintenance of the bicycle. The sleeve member 422 is thus configured to provide an accessory and / or tool holder for the bicycle carrier system 400. In the example shown, the accessory and / or tool holder is integrally formed in the sleeve member 422. In another embodiment, it may be provided as a separate device.The accessory and / or tool holder is configured to be level with the ground when the pole member 418 is in its use position and the bicycle support platform 410 is in its tilted position when the bicycle carrier system 400 is mounted to the vehicle 12. In another embodiment, the accessory and / or tool holder is rotatably attached to the sleeve member 422 such that the accessory and / or tool holder self-levels in a substantially horizontal position.

[0112] The Fig. 18 and Fig. 19 show a fifth embodiment of a bicycle carrier system 500. The overall structure is similar to the other bicycle carrier systems: The bicycle carrier system 500 is also configured for rear mounting on a motor vehicle 12. The bicycle carrier system 500 is also configured, when mounted on the vehicle 12, to be adjusted between a transport configuration for transporting at least one bicycle 20 attached to the bicycle carrier system 500 and a work stand configuration for performing maintenance on at least one bicycle 20 attached to the bicycle carrier system 500. The bicycle carrier system 500 also includes a bicycle support platform 510. The bicycle support platform 510 of the bicycle carrier system 500 is not adjustable. The bicycle support platform 510 of the bicycle carrier system 500 cannot be tilted, unlike some of the other embodiments.

[0113] The bicycle carrier system 500 includes a bicycle holding device 520. The bicycle holding device 520 includes at least one bicycle securing arm 530. The bicycle securing arm 530 is attached to the bicycle support platform 510 on a side opposite the tailgate 14 of the vehicle 12, which is a side facing away from the vehicle 12. The bicycle securing arm 530 includes an upright pole 532 that extends substantially upwardly from the bicycle support platform 510 in the transport and work stand configurations, as shown in FIGS. Fig. 18 and Fig. 19. A curved rod 534 extends from the rod 532 toward the tailgate 14 of the vehicle 12. A position of the curved rod 534 on the rod 532 can be adjusted by sliding the curved rod 534 along the length of the rod 532. A position of the curved rod 534 can be fixed to the rod 532, for example, by means of a hand screw, as shown in Fig. 18, or by other fastening means. The bicycle fixing arm 530 is pivotally attached to the bicycle support platform 510 at one end. In Fig. 18, the bicycle locking arm 530 is shown in its substantially upright position. The bicycle locking arm 530 is adjusted to the substantially upright position for the repair stand configuration of the bicycle carrier system 500. The bicycle locking arm 530 can be tilted to a position substantially parallel to the bicycle support platform 510, corresponding to a stowed position of the bicycle locking arm 530. In the stowed position, the upright rod 532 extends parallel to the bicycle support platform 510 rather than upright.

[0114] In the transport configuration, the bicycle fixing arm 530 can be inclined to a left or right side of the bicycle carrier system 500 (not shown). This facilitates bicycle attachment by pressing the curved rod 534 onto a wheel of the bicycle 20 to secure the bicycle 20 in position. The other wheel of the bicycle 20 can be fixed to the bicycle support platform 510 by other means, for example, with a strap that is Fig. 18 and Fig. 19 is not shown. The bicycle fixing arm 530 can be fixed in position to the bicycle support platform 510, resulting in a simple and stable construction. A mounting position of the bicycle fixing arm 530 to the bicycle support platform 510 can also be adjustable, allowing, for example, the bicycle fixing arm 530 to be moved from the Fig. 18 to the right end of the bicycle support platform 510. Such adjustability may allow the use of a shorter rod 532, as the distance between the attachment of the bicycle fixing arm 530 to the bicycle support platform 510 and the top of the wheel of the bicycle 20 for attachment by the curved rod 534 may be shorter. Additional fastening means for securing the wheel to the bicycle fixing arm 530 may be provided on the curved rod 534, such as a strap.

[0115] The bicycle holding device 520 further includes a rod element 540. The rod element 540 is attached to the upright rod 532 of the bicycle fixing arm 530. In the example shown, the rod element 540 is adjustably attached to the upright rod 532 of the bicycle fixing arm 530. The rod element 540 can be slid along the length of the upright rod 532 to adjust a height of the bicycle 20 held in the work stand configuration of the bicycle carrier system 500, which can be particularly comfortable for the user and allows adaptation of the work stand functionality of the bicycle carrier system 500 to vehicles of different heights. The position of the rod element 540 can be fixed to the upright rod 532, for example, by means of a hand screw, as shown in Fig. 18, or by other fastening means. Alternatively, the rod member 540 may be fixedly secured, for example, at a specific position at the end of the upright rod 532 opposite the bicycle support platform 510.

[0116] The rod element 540 is in the Fig. 18, pivotally attached to the upright rod 532 of the bicycle fixing arm 532. Fig. 18 shows a use position of the rod member 540. In the use position, the rod member 540 is configured to support the bicycle 20 spaced from the bicycle support platform 510, for example, at the seat post of the bicycle 20. The use position of the rod member 540 provides the work stand functionality. In the use position, the rod member 540 extends substantially perpendicularly from the upright rod 532 of the bicycle locking arm 530 and away from the rear of the vehicle 12.

[0117] Fig. 19 shows a stowed position of the rod member 540. In the stowed position, the rod member 540 extends substantially parallel to the upright rod 532 of the bicycle fixing arm 530. The rod member 540 thus does not extend, or only slightly extends, beyond the bicycle support platform 510. Thus, the bicycle fixing arm 530 can be easily adjusted to its stowed position. The orientation of the rod member 540 relative to the upright rod 532 of the bicycle fixing arm 530 can be fixed by tightening a hand screw or other fastener. The pivoting of the rod member 540 relative to the rod 532 of the bicycle fixing arm 530 and the optional adjustment of the rod member 540 along the upright rod 532 of the bicycle fixing arm 530 can be blocked together by the same fastener.

[0118] The bicycle carrier system 500 can also accommodate parts of the Fig. 16 and Fig. 17. For example, the bicycle locking arm 530 may be supported in its upright position by the support rod 420 to reinforce the bicycle holding device 520 in the workstand configuration of the bicycle carrier system 500. The support rod 420 may be adjustably attached at one end to the upright rod 532 of the bicycle locking arm 530 with the sleeve member 422. The opposite end of the support rod 420 may be attached to the bicycle support platform 510 spaced from the attachment of the bicycle locking arm 530, or at least spaced from the attachment of the upright rod 532 of the bicycle locking arm 530 to the bicycle support platform 510. The support rod 420 with the sleeve member 422 may also block pivoting of the bicycle locking arm 530, similar to the bicycle carrier system 400.

[0119] The upright rod 532 of the bicycle locking arm 530 may also be configured as a telescopic rod that allows for length adjustment. The end of the rod member 540 configured to hold the bicycle 20 may include a clamp, strap, or other means for holding the bicycle 20.

[0120] The bicycle holding device 520 of the bicycle carrier system 500 may include an additional bicycle fixing arm (not shown) configured to hold a second bicycle upright on the bicycle support platform 510 closer to the rear of the vehicle 12.

[0121] Fig. 20 shows a slightly different design of the bicycle carrier system 500 from Fig. 18. In Fig. 20, the bicycle carrier system 500 is shown in its workstand configuration. As can be seen, the upright pole 532 is configured as a telescopic pole in this configuration. Furthermore, the pole member 540 is pivotally attached at one end to a central portion of the upright pole 532, which corresponds to an upper end of a lower segment of the upright pole 532. An opposite end of the pole member 540 is configured to hold the bicycle 20, as shown in Fig. 20 shown. Fig. Fig. 20 does not show a curved bar 534, although such a bar may be attached to the upright bar 532 to hold the bicycle 20 upright on the bicycle support platform 510 in the transport configuration. Furthermore, a locking device in its locked state may hold the upright bar 532 in the Fig. 20. When released, the locking device can allow the upright pole 532, and thus the bicycle support device 520, to pivot into a stowed position substantially parallel to the bicycle support platform 510.

[0122] The 500 bicycle carrier system from Fig. 20 includes a support rod 420. The support rod member 420 is pivotally attached at one end to a central portion of the rod member 540. An opposite end of the support rod 420 includes a hook. Alternatively, the end may include various fastening means, such as a magnet or a strap. As shown in Fig.20, the support rod 420, which is attached to the upright rod 532 by the hook, prevents the rod member 540 from pivoting downward into its stowed position parallel to the upright rod 532. The support rod 420 thus locks the rod member 540 in its use position and helps support the bicycle 20 when the workstand function of the bicycle carrier system 500 is provided. The support rod 420 may be configured to also be attached to the upright rod 532 or a portion of the bicycle support platform 510 when the rod member 540 is arranged in its stowed position and thus extends substantially parallel to the rod 532. This may prevent undesired movement of the rod member 540 when the bicycle carrier system 500 is in its transport configuration. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 10,668,866 B2

[0004]

Claims

[1] Bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400; 500) for rear mounting on a motor vehicle (12), in particular on a tow ball, a fixed point, a trailer coupling and / or a tailgate (14), wherein the bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 400; 500) is designed, when mounted on the vehicle (12), to be adjustable between a transport configuration for transporting at least one bicycle (20) attached to the bicycle carrier system (10; 100) and a work stand configuration for carrying out maintenance on at least one bicycle (20) attached to the bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400; 500). [2] Bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400; 500) according to claim 1, wherein the bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400; 500) comprises a bicycle support platform (18; 110; 410; 510) which is designed to support the at least one bicycle (20) attached to the system in the transport configuration, in particular wherein the bicycle (20) rests with its wheels on the platform (18; 110; 410; 510), wherein in particular the bicycle support platform (18; 110; 410) is designed for adjustment, in particular for pivotable adjustment, between at least a first position and a second position, in particular with a substantially horizontal position and / or a bicycle transport position as the first position and with an inclined position and / or a vehicle tailgate access position as the second position, in particular wherein the inclined position of the bicycle support platform (18; 110; 410) allows a tailgate (14) of the vehicle (12) to be opened when the bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400) is mounted on the motor vehicle, even when at least one bicycle (20) is attached to the bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400) and / or in particular wherein a side of the bicycle support platform (18; 110; 410) facing the vehicle is inclined upwards and / or a side of the bicycle support platform opposite the side facing the vehicle is inclined downwards and / or in particular wherein the bicycle support platform (18; 110; 410) when the bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400) is mounted on the motor vehicle 200;400) is inclined away from the tailgate (14) of the vehicle (12) when the bicycle support platform (18; 110; 410) is adjusted from the substantially horizontal position to the inclined position.; [3] Bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400) according to claim 2, wherein in the assembly stand configuration of the bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400), the bicycle support platform (18; 110; 410) is in the second position, in particular the inclined position, and in the transport configuration of the bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400), the bicycle support platform (18; 110; 410) is in the first position, in particular the substantially horizontal position and / or wherein adjusting the bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400) from the transport configuration to the work stand configuration comprises adjusting the bicycle support platform (18; 110; 410) from the first position to the second position. [4] Bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400; 500) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400; 500) has a bicycle holding device (24; 104; 202; 402; 520) for fastening the at least one bicycle (20) to the bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400; 500), in particular having a rod element (26; 112; 206, 204; 414, 416, 418; 540) and / or designed to hold the bicycle both in the transport configuration and in the assembly stand configuration and / or having a bicycle support arm. [5] Bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400; 500) according to claim 4, wherein the bicycle holding device (24; 104; 202; 402; 520), in particular the rod element (26; 112; 206, 204; 414, 416, 418; 540) of the bicycle holding device (24; 104; 202; 402; 520), is designed such that the bicycle (20) in the transport configuration of the bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400; 500) and / or the assembly stand configuration of the bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400; 500) on the bicycle holding device (24; 104; 202; 402; 520) rests, wherein in particular the bicycle holding device (24; 104; 202; 402; 520) is formed by the bicycle support platform (18; 110; 410; 510), a bicycle support frame (22) which extends in particular substantially orthogonally from the bicycle support platform (18; 110; 410; 510), a vertical bicycle support arm, a bracket arm and / or another projecting part of the bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400; 500), and / or wherein the bicycle holding device (24; 202; 402; 520) is designed to hold the bicycle (20) upright on the bicycle support platform (18; 410; 510) in the transport configuration of the bicycle carrier system (10; 200; 400; 500), and / or wherein the bicycle holding device (24; 104; 202; 402; 520) is designed to hold the bicycle (20) in the assembly stand configuration of the bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400; 500), in particular spaced from the ground and / or the bicycle support platform (18; 110; 410; 510), and / or wherein the bicycle holding device (24; 202; 402), in particular the rod element (26; 206, 204; 414, 416, 418) of the bicycle holding device, is attached to the bicycle support platform on the side of the bicycle support platform (18; 410) facing the vehicle when the bicycle carrier system (10; 200; 400) is mounted on the motor vehicle (12), or wherein the bicycle holding device (520), in particular an upright rod (532) of the bicycle holding device (520), is attached to the bicycle support platform on a side of the bicycle support platform (510) facing away from the vehicle when the bicycle carrier system (500) is mounted on the motor vehicle (12), and / or wherein the bicycle holding device (24; 202; 402), in particular the rod element (26; 206, 204; 414, 416, 418) of the bicycle holding device (24; 202; 402), has a receiving portion which is designed to receive the seat and / or top tube of the bicycle (20) which rests on the bicycle holding device (24; 202; 402) in the transport configuration of the bicycle carrier system (10; 200; 400), in particular wherein the receiving portion has a V-shaped longitudinal extension and / or a trapezoidal cross-section. [6] Bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400; 500) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the bicycle holding device (24; 104; 202; 402; 520), in particular the rod element (26; 112; 206, 204; 414, 416, 418; 540) of the bicycle holding device (24; 104; 202; 402; 520), is designed to hold the bicycle further away from the rear of the motor vehicle (12) in the assembly stand configuration than in the transport configuration of the bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400; 500), when the bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400; 500) is mounted on the motor vehicle (12), and / or wherein the bicycle holding device (24; 202; 402; 520), in particular the rod element (26; 206, 204; 414, 416, 418; 540) of the bicycle holding device (24; 202; 402; 520), extends further away from the rear of the motor vehicle in the assembly stand configuration than in the transport configuration of the bicycle carrier system (10; 200; 400; 500), when the bicycle carrier system (10; 200; 400; 500) is mounted on the motor vehicle (12), and / or wherein the bicycle holding device (24; 202; 402), in particular the rod element (26; 206, 204; 414, 416, 418) of the bicycle holding device (24; 202; 402), is arranged higher in the assembly stand configuration than in the transport configuration of the bicycle carrier system (10; 200; 400) when the bicycle carrier system (10; 200; 400) is mounted on the motor vehicle, in particular due to an adjustment of the bicycle carrier platform (18; 110; 410) into the inclined position when the bicycle carrier system (10; 200; 400) is mounted on the motor vehicle (12), and / or wherein the bicycle holding device (24; 202; 402; 520), in particular the rod element (26; 206, 204; 418; 532) of the bicycle holding device (24; 202; 402; 520), extends in the assembly stand configuration transversely to a vertical orientation when the bicycle carrier system (10; 200; 400; 500) is mounted on the motor vehicle, and / or wherein the bicycle holding device (24; 202; 402; 520), in particular the rod element (26; 206, 204; 418; 532) of the bicycle holding device (24; 202; 402; 520), extends substantially vertically in the transport configuration when the bicycle carrier system (10; 200; 400; 500) is mounted on the motor vehicle (12), and / or wherein the bicycle holding device (24; 202; 402), in particular the rod element (26; 206, 204; 418) of the bicycle holding device (24; 202; 402), extends substantially orthogonally to the bicycle carrier platform (18; 410) in the transport configuration and / or the assembly stand configuration. [7] Bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400; 500) according to one of the preceding claims 4 to 6, wherein the bicycle holding device (24; 104; 202; 402; 520) has a bicycle fixing device (28) for releasably engaging with a frame, a wheel and / or a seat post of the at least one bicycle (20), which is arranged, for example, at an end section of the rod element (26), in particular is designed as a clamping device (30) and / or as a strap and / or as a displaceably mounted curved rod (534) and / or extends transversely to a longitudinal extent of the rod element (26). [8] Bicycle carrier system (400; 500) according to one of the preceding claims 4 to 7, wherein the bicycle holding device is designed to be adjusted between a use position and a storage position, in particular by pivoting the rod element (414, 416, 418) relative to the bicycle carrier platform (410; 510) and / or in particular wherein the bicycle holding device extends substantially perpendicularly away from the bicycle carrier platform (410; 510) in the use position and / or in particular wherein the bicycle holding device (402; 520) extends substantially parallel along the bicycle carrier platform (410; 510) in the storage position and / or wherein the bicycle holding device (402; 520) comprises a locking device which is designed to lock the bicycle holding device in position, in particular relative to the bicycle carrier platform (410; 510) and / or in particular by preventing pivoting of the rod element (414, 416, 418) and / or a bicycle fixing arm (530) and / or in particular wherein the locking device comprises a support rod (420) which is attached with a first end to the bicycle carrier system (400, 500) spaced from the rod element (418; 540) and / or the bicycle fixing arm (520) and with an opposite second end, in particular comprising a fastening element, such as a sleeve element (422), which is attached to the rod element (418) and / or a part of a bicycle fixing arm (520), such as an upright rod (532), in a adjustable position, and / or wherein the bicycle holding device (402) is designed for length adjustment, in particular wherein the rod element (418) is designed as a telescopic rod element and / or in particular comprising a length fixing device, such as a clamp or friction fit, in particular wherein the length fixing device is integrated into the fastening element (422), that the second end of the support rod (422) is fastened to the rod element (418) and / or the bicycle fixing arm (530) and / or wherein the bicycle holding device comprises an accessory and / or tool holder, which is formed in particular by the fastening element (422) which fastens the second end of the support rod to the rod element (418) and / or the bicycle fixing arm (530) and / or is integrated into the length fixing device and / or in particular has at least one through-hole for receiving a tool and / or forming a shell, in particular wherein the bicycle holding device is designed to provide the accessory and / or tool holder functionality in the assembly stand configuration and / or transport configuration. [9] Bicycle holding device (24; 104; 202; 402; 520) for a bicycle carrier (16) which can be mounted on the rear of a motor vehicle (12), wherein the bicycle holding device (24; 104; 202; 402; 520) is designed for releasable attachment to a bicycle carrier (16), in particular as part of the bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400; 500) according to one of the preceding claims, and the bicycle holding device (24; 104; 202; 402; 520) is designed to hold at least one bicycle (20) in a position for performing maintenance on the at least one bicycle (20), in particular when the bicycle holding device (24; 104; 202; 402; 520) is attached to the bicycle carrier (16) and the bicycle carrier (16) is mounted on the vehicle (12) and / or when the bicycle holding device (24; 104; 202) is on the ground. [10] Bicycle stand retrofit kit for a bicycle carrier (16) which can be mounted on the rear of a motor vehicle (12), in particular wherein the bicycle carrier (16) has a bicycle support platform (410) and a bicycle holding device (402), wherein the retrofit kit is designed to provide the bicycle carrier (16) with an adjustment function between a transport configuration for transporting at least one bicycle (20) attached to the bicycle carrier (16) and a work stand configuration for performing maintenance on at least one bicycle (20) attached to the bicycle carrier when the bicycle carrier is mounted on the vehicle (12) and the retrofit kit is mounted on the bicycle carrier. [11] Bicycle stand retrofit kit according to claim 10, wherein the retrofit kit comprises a locking device, which in particular forms part of the bicycle holding device when the retrofit kit is mounted on the bicycle carrier (16), which is designed to lock the bicycle holding device in position relative to the bicycle support platform (410), which is designed in particular to prevent pivoting of the bicycle holding device relative to the bicycle support platform (410) in its locked state, and / or which is designed in particular to prevent a length adjustment of the bicycle holding device (402) in its locked state, and / or which is particularly designed to prevent movement of a fastening element (422) of the retrofit kit along a rod element (418) and / or a bicycle fixing arm (530) of the bicycle holding device, and / or wherein the retrofit kit comprises a rod element (418), in particular a telescopically length-adjustable rod element (420), which is designed to replace a rod element (418) of the bicycle holding device and / or to fasten it to the rod element and / or the bicycle fixing arm (530) of the bicycle holding device, and / or which is designed to be fastened to the bicycle fixing arm (530), in particular to an end opposite the bicycle carrier platform (510) and / or with a pivotable fastening. [12] Bicycle stand retrofit kit according to claim 11, wherein the locking device comprises a support rod (420) which can be fastened with a first end to the bicycle carrier system (400) spaced from the rod element and with an opposite second end to the rod element (420) in an adjustable position, in particular with a fastening element, such as a sleeve element (422), which can be fastened to a rod element (418) of the bicycle holding device, and / or wherein the locking device comprises an adjusting device, in particular comprising a lever (424), a clamp and / or a quick-release button, which is designed to adjust the locking device between a locking state and a released state, and / or wherein the retrofit kit is designed to replace an arm of the bicycle carrier (16) which is designed to hold the at least one bicycle (20) substantially upright during transport with the vehicle (12). [13] Bicycle stand retrofit kit according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the retrofit kit is designed to provide an accessory and / or tool holder for the bicycle carrier (16) when mounted on the bicycle carrier (16), in particular wherein the accessory and / or tool holder is provided by the fastening element (422) of the retrofit kit and / or in particular wherein the accessory and / or tool holder is provided at least in the transport configuration of the bicycle carrier (16) when the retrofit kit is mounted on the bicycle carrier (16). [14] Bicycle carrier (16) which can be mounted on the rear of a motor vehicle (12), in particular wherein the bicycle carrier has a bicycle support platform (18; 110; 410; 510) and a bicycle holding device, wherein the bicycle carrier (16) is designed to receive a bicycle stand retrofit kit according to one of claims 1 to 13. [15] Use of a bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400; 500) for rear mounting on a motor vehicle (12) and / or a bicycle holding device (24; 104; 202; 402; 520) for a bicycle carrier (16) mountable on the rear of a motor vehicle (12), in particular the bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400; 500) according to one of claims 1 to 8 and / or the bicycle holding device (24; 104; 202; 402; 520) according to claim 9 and / or the bicycle carrier according to claim 14 with the retrofit kit according to one of claims 10 to 13, for transporting at least one bicycle (20) which is attached to the bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400; 500). is, with the motor vehicle (12) and as a repair stand for carrying out maintenance on at least one bicycle (20) which is attached to the bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400; 500), in particular wherein the use of the bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400; 500) and / or the bicycle holding device (24; 104; 202; 402;520) comprises a step of adjusting the bicycle carrier system (10; 100; 200; 400; 500) and / or the bicycle holding device (24; 104; 202; 402; 520) between a transport configuration and a work stand configuration.;

Images