Mounting element and bicycle with a mounting element

Description

[0001] The present invention relates in one aspect to a mounting element for a bicycle, which is designed to connect a bicycle frame to a rear derailleur of a derailleur, and in two further aspects to a bicycle with a mounting element.

[0002] Rear derailleurs are typically attached to the right dropout of a bicycle frame using a derailleur hanger. The derailleur hanger is usually a separate mounting element from the bicycle frame (see, for example, DE 20 2019 000 904 U1, EP 3 095 684 B1, EP 3 187 402 B1, and US 2013 / 0241175 A1). It is mounted on the right dropout and has a mounting opening radially offset from the rear wheel axle for attaching the base element of the derailleur. Even though the term derailleur hanger may originally have referred to the mounting opening itself, the mounting element containing the mounting opening is technically referred to as a "derailleur hanger." In technical terms, the term "hanger" is commonly used for this mounting element. Bicycle frames with a derailleur hanger integrated into the right dropout, particularly a one-piece one, are also known (see [unclear]).(e.g., US 4,565,383 and DE-OS 2 260 252), which are of lesser interest in the context of the present invention. Document EP3187402B1 shows the preamble of independent claims 1 and 2.

[0003] For the assembly of the rear derailleur, the derailleur hanger, which is separate from the bicycle frame, is usually attached to the frame at one end coaxially with the rear wheel axle and at the other end to the base element (also known as the "B-knuckle") of the rear derailleur. The base element is rotatable relative to the derailleur hanger about a rotational axis (B-axis) in order to adjust the derailleur to a desired position relative to the rear axle and thus to a sprocket set of a rear wheel. This allows a chain guide assembly, which is mounted on a movable element (also known as the "P-knuckle") so that it can rotate about a rotational axis (P-axis), to be brought into the correct starting position. The movable element is connected to the base element via a movement mechanism, in particular a pivoting mechanism.

[0004] Derailleur hangers vary considerably depending on the manufacturer and method of attachment. As already mentioned, they can be formed as one piece with the frame or, as is of particular interest here, as a separate component. Separate derailleur hangers are usually clamped to the frame either via quick-release axles or thru-axles. Clamping is possible on both the outside and inside of the frame. This means that, depending on the derailleur hanger used, the rear derailleur assumes a different position relative to the rear wheel axle and also to the sprocket set. These differences in both axial and radial position complicate derailleur design and installation. The derailleur must be readjusted depending on the derailleur hanger.

[0005] Possible adaptations of a mounting element to a mounting section of a bicycle frame using multiple functional components, which can, for example, compensate for the above positioning differences, but can also facilitate the assembly of the rear wheel, are known from patent application DE 10 2018 206 104 of the same applicant. The invention is defined by the claims.

[0006] The present invention proposes a mounting element by means of which a rear derailleur of a derailleur system can be mounted to a rear support section of a bicycle frame, non-coaxially with respect to the rear wheel axle. Providing a bicycle equipped with such a conventional rear derailleur system can be conveniently carried out (as is known per se) on the basis of the following and other conventional components: a rear wheel (rear wheel) with a stator assembly comprising a rear wheel axle assembly and a rotor assembly which is rotatably mounted or mountable relative to the stator assembly and comprises a wheel hub carrying a pinion set of the derailleur, and a bicycle frame which has a left rear mounting section and a right rear mounting section for an inner axle of the rear wheel axle assembly of the rear wheel, which have a predetermined defined axial distance along a geometric axis of the inner axle mounted to the frame by means of the mounting sections and each form a counter bearing for a component group arranged on the inner axle, clamped between the mounting sections in the mounted state and comprising an assembly of the stator assembly; and the rear derailleur for non-coaxial mounting with respect to the geometric axis, comprising: a base element, a movement mechanism preferably designed as a pivoting mechanism, a movable element, and a chain guide arrangement, wherein the movement mechanism connects the base element to the movable element, and the chain guide arrangement is rotatably connected to the movable element about a rotation axis. The base element comprises a first connection end for mounting radially offset from the geometric axis on the bicycle frame or a support element (derailleur hanger) and a second connection end for coupling to the movement mechanism. The support element serves to mount the rear derailleur on the bicycle frame, wherein in particular a support element that can be positioned or is positioned on an axial inner side of an associated one of the rear support sections is considered here.When the rear derailleur is mounted on the bicycle frame, such a mounting element (derailleur hanger) is part of the component group clamped between the mounting sections when assembled. A mounting opening in the mounting element, by means of which the first connection end of the base element can be secured to the mounting element, is then radially offset from the geometric axis.

[0007] Typically, the mounting bracket required for assembly is provided by the frame manufacturer in a coordinated manner. This ensures a precise fit between the frame and the mounting bracket, but does not take into account the use of other bicycle components, such as the rear derailleur and rear wheel hub. This can result in tolerances dependent on the selection of the mounting bracket. These tolerances can make it difficult to precisely adjust the rear derailleur to shift the chain between different chain sprockets during a gear change. This can lead to a malfunction in which the gear change is delayed or the chain even disengages from the chain sprockets.

[0008] The derailleur hanger, as a separate component detachably connected to the bracket section and the rear derailleur, also serves to protect the expensive or often irreparable bicycle components—the bicycle frame and the rear derailleur—in the event of an unintentional force acting on one of the aforementioned components, for example, in a bicycle crash. Using a practical example, this means that after a bicycle crash in which the bracket element is damaged, it can be replaced on-site at a relatively low cost and with minimal material input. The cyclist can carry the necessary spare parts and tools on every bike ride. Even if this is a practical solution, it still requires a certain amount of time to repair the damage and expertise to replace the bracket element.

[0009] The TaskThe invention therefore consists in providing a support element and a bicycle which contribute to preventing damage to a bicycle frame and / or a derailleur and / or a support element, and / or which enable a shortening or avoidance of downtimes during which power transmission through a bicycle chain is disrupted.

[0010] In a first aspect The present invention relates to a support element, which is adapted to connect a bicycle frame to a rear derailleur of a derailleur, and which comprises a first portion having an opening or recess for receiving a portion of a bicycle rear wheel axle, and a second portion having a mounting opening to which a base element of the rear derailleur can be secured.

[0011] According to this first aspectThe invention achieves the object in that the holding element is formed with at least one region made of plastic and one region made of metal, and the region made of plastic is firmly connected to the region made of metal.

[0012] The term "firmly connected" in this context can be understood to mean that both areas, i.e., the plastic area and the metal area, cannot be separated from each other without causing damage. For example, the plastic area can be cast or glued to the metal area. Alternatively, a firm connection can also be created using a screw connection, which, with the appropriate tool, allows for non-destructive separation of the areas. Nevertheless, the areas are "firmly connected" within the meaning of the invention.

[0013] Plastic components can be manufactured in large quantities in many different dimensions, shapes, and configurations using injection molding. This allows the plastic portion to be adapted to the specified geometries of the bicycle frame and / or the rear derailleur, which is to be mounted on the mounting element. Such adaptation can, for example, compensate for manufacturing tolerances in the bicycle frame, which would otherwise affect the positioning accuracy and adjustability of the rear derailleur. The mounting element therefore contributes to increasing the reliability of the shifting operations of the rear derailleur, which switch a chain of the derailleur between different sprockets of a rear sprocket set, and thus to preventing malfunctions.

[0014] Adaptation of the mounting element to the specified geometries of the bicycle frame and / or the rear derailleur can occur primarily in the first section of the mounting element, which has the opening or recess for receiving the mounting section of the bicycle rear axle. Therefore, the plastic-made region is preferably located predominantly in the first section of the mounting element.

[0015] The plastic area may be a fiber-reinforced plastic, in particular a glass fiber-reinforced plastic or a carbon fiber-reinforced plastic.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment, the metal portion is tab-shaped and extends into the first and second sections or at least partially forms them, and at least partially forms the opening or recess and at least partially the mounting opening.

[0017] The metal section allows for a stable design of the mounting element. The mounting element can thus provide sufficient strength against the forces acting on it during normal use.

[0018] Furthermore, the opening or recess and / or the mounting hole can be located exclusively within the metal area. This allows the mounting element to be made even more stable and thus more durable.

[0019] The solid connection mentioned at the beginning between the plastic area and the metal area can be achieved, for example, by injecting the plastic area around the metal area.

[0020] Such a connection is very reliable and contributes to a long service life of the mounting element, even if it is exposed to high stresses when installed.

[0021] A suitable embodiment of the holding element consists in that the area made of metal is designed with at least one through-hole or at least one recess, which is / are filled with plastic belonging to the area made of plastic.

[0022] Filling the at least one through-hole or the at least one recess with the plastic material belonging to the plastic area provides a way to make the fixed connection between the metal area and the plastic area particularly stable. This allows the mounting element to be made even more stable and thus more durable.

[0023] The at least one through-hole filled with plastic or the at least one recess filled with plastic is preferably formed in the second section, adjacent to the mounting opening and adjacent to an edge region of the plastic region. Generally, an arrangement of the at least one through-hole or the at least one recess close to the edge region of the metal region may be preferred in a central region arrangement.

[0024] It is generally proposed that the holding element, preferably its plastic-made region, has at least one stop formation which is suitable for abutting or striking against at least one counter-stop formation of the bicycle frame.

[0025] The stop formation can be a stop surface, which can simultaneously be an outer lateral edge surface of the support element. The support element can have multiple stop formations. For example, the plastic region can have a projection having a stop formation.

[0026] In the case according to the invention, in which the mounting element is mountable on an inner side of an associated rear mounting section of the bicycle frame, the mounting element, particularly in its plastic-made region, can have an axially protruding collar pointing away from this mounting section. A guide opening or guide recess formed by the axially protruding collar preferably has a U-shaped or J-shaped configuration in a plan view of the axially protruding collar.

[0027] When the mounting element is mounted to the associated rear mounting section of the bicycle frame, the guide opening or guide recess formed by the axially projecting collar can be used to guide and position an axle guide of a rear wheel of the bicycle during assembly of the rear wheel to the mounting section of the bicycle frame. For example, a sleeve of the axle guide of the rear wheel is guided along the guide opening or positioning recess and held in position in abutment therewith, aligned with the opening or recess of the mounting element, while the hub axle, in particular a thru-axle, is guided through the axle guide, in particular a thru-axle guide, of the rear wheel and further through the opening or recess of the mounting element. This enables precise positioning of the components relative to one another and shortens the time required for installing the rear wheel.

[0028] In the holding element according to the invention, the area thereof, preferably made of plastic, forms a deflection surface area on which a bicycle chain can slide transversely to its longitudinal direction.

[0029] The deflection surface area is preferably formed on one or the axially projecting collar. The deflection surface area is preferably designed such that a chain in a faulty state, i.e. when it is not engaged with a pinion of a pinion set of the rear derailleur, but rests on the deflection surface area, can slide towards the pinion set and re-engage with a pinion, preferably the smallest pinion. In this way, the aforementioned faulty state is remedied promptly without a cyclist having to interrupt their ride. Furthermore, the deflection surface area can be configured to prevent the bicycle chain from jamming on the bicycle frame, for example between the smallest pinion of the pinion set of the rear derailleur and the mounting element, when the bicycle chain of the derailleur is in the aforementioned faulty state.This prevents damage to the bicycle frame caused by the chain. To achieve the latter effect, the deflection surface area should be designed such that, when installed, the distance between the deflection surface area and the smallest pinion of the sprocket set is less than the width of the bicycle chain links.

[0030] The discharge surface area has an inclined discharge surface. In this context, the term "inclined" means that an angle between a flat surface of the support element and the inclined discharge surface is not equal to 90°. The angle between the flat surface and the inclined discharge surface can preferably be between 70° and 10°, more preferably between 60° and 20°, and even more preferably between 30° and 50°.

[0031] The discharge surface region can also have a discharge surface whose shape deviates from a flat configuration. For example, the discharge surface can be bounded on its longitudinal sides by a first and a second edge. The surface between the first and second edges can be substantially concavely curved or substantially convexly curved, or can be a combination of a concave and / or convex and / or flat configuration.

[0032] A maximum distance between the first and the second edge, measured in plan view, can be approximately between 2 mm and 10 mm, better between 4 mm and 8 mm, even better between 5 mm and 6 mm.

[0033] Furthermore, the support element can have more than one deflection surface region, preferably two deflection surface regions, wherein all deflection surface regions can be designed according to one of the above embodiments, but can differ from one another. One deflection surface region can be configured to be arranged adjacent to a tight side of the chain in the assembled state, while another can be arranged adjacent to a slack side of the chain. The two deflection surface regions can have a different distance from the center of the opening or recess.

[0034] According to the invention, the mounting element can be mounted on / on the inside of a / on the associated rear mounting section of the bicycle frame and can rest against this mounting section by means of the area made of plastic and / or can be brought into positive engagement with a mounting opening of this mounting section.

[0035] It is understood that the plastic area can be specifically adapted to the respective shape of the support section, thus enabling precise positioning of the support element.

[0036] In principle, it is conceivable that the mounting element can be mounted on one or the inside of the associated rear mounting section of the bicycle frame by means of a receptacle for a fastening screw and a through axle formed in the plastic area, wherein the receptacle can preferably be brought into positive engagement with one or the mounting opening of the mounting section.

[0037] The receptacle for the fastening screw can at least partially engage with the mounting opening. Furthermore, the receptacle for the fastening screw can have the shape of a hollow cylinder. This allows the mounting element to be precisely positioned during its assembly to the mounting section and can then be very quickly and firmly connected to the mounting section with a fastening screw.

[0038] Generally, in the assembled state, the mounting element can be connected to the associated rear mounting section of the bicycle frame using the fastening screw in such a way that the opening or recess of the mounting element adjoins a mounting opening of the associated rear mounting section of the bicycle frame, and both form a common through-opening for a hub axle. Consequently, in the assembled state, a hub axle can pass through the opening or recess, the fastening screw, and the mounting opening in the associated rear mounting section.

[0039] The mount can compensate for manufacturing tolerances of the mounting section and / or its mounting opening. This is possible, on the one hand, due to the elastic properties of the plastic. On the other hand, the mount can have a contact area and / or a compensation area, for example, a slightly tapered outer circumference. In general, the mount can improve the positioning of the mounting element relative to the mounting section, which in turn is important for the proper positioning of the rear derailleur and its reliability during operation.

[0040] Preferably, the receptacle for the fastening screw has an internal thread which can be brought into engagement with an external thread, in particular a left-hand thread, of the fastening screw.

[0041] The internal thread of the holder for the fastening screw can be created during the injection molding process by overmolding a left-hand thread.

[0042] In an assembled state, in which the mounting element connects a bicycle frame to the rear derailleur of the derailleur, the fastening screw can be screwed into the retaining screw receptacle. In this state, the hub axle, preferably a thru axle, can extend through the opening or recess and the fastening screw.

[0043] The receptacle for the fastening screw preferably protrudes at least 5 mm, better at least 10 mm, and even better at least 15 mm, from a surface of the metal portion of the mounting element facing the receptacle for the fastening screw. This improves engagement of the receptacle in the mounting opening of the mounting section of the bicycle frame. Furthermore, a certain length of the receptacle is advantageous for reliably screwing the fastening screw into the receptacle.

[0044] The combination of a receptacle design in the plastic area and the use of a metal fastening screw makes it possible to utilize the advantages of both plastic, such as its easy formability and elasticity, and metal, such as its high rigidity and abrasion resistance. This reduces the susceptibility of the mounting element to failure.

[0045] In addition, in a conceivable embodiment, the mounting element, preferably its plastic-made region, has a spacer, which can be placed or is placed preferably adjacent to an inner side of a / the associated rear mounting section in order to define the positioning of the metal-made region relative to the associated rear mounting section of the bicycle frame.

[0046] The spacer can therefore also determine the position of the rear derailleur in relation to the sprocket set assigned to the rear wheel. This means that if the thickness of the spacer increases in the axial direction of the opening or recess, the metal section of the support element and the rear derailleur attached to it move closer to the rear wheel. Therefore, with appropriate dimensioning of its thickness, the spacer can be important for the correct positioning of the rear derailleur in relation to the sprocket set and its reliability during operation. Furthermore, the plastic design of the spacer allows adaptation to the selected frame or sprocket set. For example, a bicycle manufacturer or supplier could select the one with the most appropriately dimensioned spacer from several support elements.

[0047] Preferably, the spacer is arranged in the first section of the mounting element. The spacer can be arranged between the opening or recess and the mounting opening. The spacer and the receptacle for the fastening screw can be arranged adjacent to one another and / or formed integrally with one another.

[0048] Alternatively or in addition to the spacer element, the mounting element, preferably its plastic portion, can have a mounting flange that can be placed or is placed adjacent to an inner side of a corresponding rear mounting section, preferably to define the metal portion relative to the corresponding rear mounting section of the bicycle frame. The mounting flange can be detachably connected to the mounting element, for example, by being plugged onto the mounting element's receptacle.

[0049] Instead of the system flange, the mounting element can have a flange receptacle, which can preferably be placed or is placed adjacent to an inner side of a / the associated rear mounting section, in order to preferably position the metal-made region in a defined manner relative to the associated rear mounting section of the bicycle frame.

[0050] Both the system flange and the flange receptacle of the support element can facilitate positioning of the support element on the associated support section.

[0051] In a second aspect, which is not claimed, it is a Bicycle,which comprises a bicycle frame with a rear wheel drivable by means of a derailleur system, which rear wheel has a sprocket set of the derailleur system, wherein a chain of the derailleur system engaging with a selected sprocket in a respective selected gear can be transferred between the sprockets of the sprocket set by means of a rear derailleur of the derailleur system, wherein the rear derailleur is connected to the bicycle frame by means of a mounting element mounted on an inner side of an associated rear mounting section of the bicycle frame. The mounting element comprises a first section having an opening or recess in which a section of a bicycle rear wheel axle of the rear wheel is received, and a second section having a mounting opening to which a base element of the rear derailleur is attached.

[0052] The support element may be the support element previously described in accordance with the first aspect of the invention. Alternatively, the support element may be formed with at least one plastic portion and one metal portion, and the plastic portion may be detachably connected to the metal portion.

[0053] According to this second aspect The object is achieved in that the holding element is or can be fixed in a desired position on the associated rear holding section by frictional engagement and, in the event of the application of a twisting force exceeding the frictional holding force, can be rotated from the desired position in the direction of a stop position in which the holding element is in abutment with at least one rotation stop of the rear holding section.

[0054] In this context, the term "rotatable" means a rotation which is clearly distinguishable from a simple manufacturing play and is preferably at least 10°, better at least 20°, even better at least 30°.

[0055] The mounting element is preferably rotatable about a rotational axis whose center lies in an opening or recess in the mounting element. This opening or recess can be configured to accommodate a section of a bicycle rear wheel axle.

[0056] An alignment of the holding element in the target position can differ from an alignment of the holding element in the stop position by a rotation angle of approximately 25° to 105°, better from approximately 40° to 90°, even better from approximately 55° to 75°.

[0057] The holding force is preferably provided by means of mutually abutting surfaces of the mounting element and the mounting section. When using a mounting element according to the first aspect of the invention, for example, an outer surface of the receptacle for a fastening screw can form-fit against an inner surface of a mounting opening of the mounting section, wherein a holding force is provided between the aforementioned surfaces. Additionally or alternatively, a surface of the spacer can bear against a surface of the mounting section, so that a holding force is also provided between these surfaces.

[0058] The previously mentioned twisting can occur, for example, during movement of the bicycle if an obstacle exerts a force on the rear derailleur. In conventional bicycles, where such twisting of the mounting element is not possible, this force is transferred directly to the mounting element, which usually leads to damage to the mounting element or even to the bicycle frame rigidly attached to it and / or the rear derailleur rigidly attached to it. The mounting element according to the invention can counteract such damage by at least partially absorbing such a force when applied and using it to twist the mounting element from the desired position towards the stop position, preferably in a reverse rotational movement.

[0059] Likewise, for example, the rotation of the support element relative to the associated rear support section can occur if an object disrupts the intended orbital movement of the chain in such a way that the chain moves the rear derailleur from its operating position, and this movement is transmitted to the support element connected to the rear derailleur. If this external force is greater than the frictional holding force between the support element and the associated rear support section, the support element can rotate relative to the associated support section, thus preventing damage to the rear derailleur or the chain itself.

[0060] Preferably, the frictional holding force also acts during the rotation of the mounting element, in particular during the reverse rotation, so that the rotation process requires a certain amount of time, which the cyclist has as reaction time during which they can react accordingly to the force. For example, the cyclist can stop pedaling or a chain drive and / or manually remove the force acting on the mounting element. With active or passive removal of the obstacle or the force exerted on the rear derailleur, the rotation can be stopped before the mounting element is in the stop position (a second stop position), in which the mounting element is in contact with at least one rotation stop of the rear mounting section.Otherwise, the rotation can be continued until the support element is in the stop position (second stop position).

[0061] The stop position can be any stop position in which the rotation of the support element in the direction of rotation is stopped. The rotation of the support element equally causes a rotation of the rear derailleur and a concomitant increase in the chain's travel. This means that when the support element is rotated toward the stop position, chain tension increases. Stopping the rotation of the support element in the stop position prevents chain tension from leading to damage. The stop position (second stop position) is therefore preferably configured to prevent damage to the rear derailleur and / or the chain itself due to the chain tension caused by the rotation of the support element.

[0062] It is generally proposed that the rear mounting section has two rotation stops, a forward rotation stop and a reverse rotation stop, wherein the mounting element is in a first stop position corresponding to the desired position in abutment with the forward rotation stop and, in the event of the application of the twisting force exceeding the frictional holding force, is rotatable into a second stop position (previously referred to merely as stop position) in abutment with the reverse rotation stop.

[0063] In the mounted state, the forward rotation stop limits rotation of the support element in a forward rotation direction of the support element and the reverse rotation stop limits rotation of the support element in a reverse rotation direction of the support element in the mounted state.

[0064] Preferably, the holding element is designed according to the first aspect of the invention and advantageously has the first stop formation of the holding element, which in the first stop position abuts against a counter-stop formation of the forward rotation stop, wherein the first stop formation can be formed by the region made of plastic.

[0065] Such a design of the first stop formation takes advantage of the easy moldability of plastic and its elastic properties. The former allows for precise adaptation of the stop formation of the support element to the counter-stop formation of the forward rotation stop, while the latter can prevent damage to the frame and the support element when the first stop formation of the support element hits the counter-stop formation of the forward rotation stop.

[0066] Preferably, the first stop formation is a first stop surface. The first stop surface can be formed by the axially protruding collar of the mounting element according to the first aspect, for example, it can be an outer edge surface of the axially protruding collar facing away from the mounting element. The first stop formation can also be arranged on the projection formed by the collar.

[0067] A contact area between the first stop formation of the holding element, which abuts the forward rotation stop in the first stop position, and the counter-stop formation of the forward rotation stop of the holding section is preferably at least 10 mm 2< .

[0068] The contact surface is necessary to prevent the mounting element from twisting in the forward direction of rotation and beyond the forward rotation stop, for example, during assembly. The contact surface is preferably sufficiently large to provide a holding force that prevents undesired twisting of the mounting element and is greater than the torsional force acting on the mounting element in the forward direction of rotation that is expected during operation. Preferably, the mounting element is pretensioned toward the first stop position during bicycle operation by means of a chain tensioner of the bicycle chain of the derailleur.

[0069] It is conceivable that the holding element designed according to the first aspect has a second stop formation which, in the second stop position, abuts against a counter-stop formation of the reverse rotation stop, wherein the second stop formation is preferably formed by the region made of plastic.

[0070] The advantageous effects mentioned above with regard to the first stop formation are analogous for the second stop formation.

[0071] Preferably, the second stop formation is a second stop surface. The second stop surface can be formed by the axially projecting collar, for example, an outer edge surface of the collar facing away from the mounting element. The second stop formation can also be arranged on the projection formed by the collar.

[0072] The first stop formation can be arranged adjacent to the second stop formation. For example, if the first and second stop formations are designed as first and second stop surfaces, respectively, the angle between the first stop surface and the second stop surface can be between 70° and 120°.

[0073] It can be provided that a recess, for example an edge or a slope thereof, in the associated holding section or a projection protruding therefrom forms the counter-stop formation of the forward rotation stop.

[0074] The first stop formation, preferably the first stop surface, of the mounting element can engage in a form-fitting manner with the counter-stop formation of the forward rotation stop, preferably with an edge of the forward rotation stop of the mounting section. One surface of this edge can extend at a right angle to the adjoining surfaces or be formed as an inclined surface.

[0075] It is generally proposed that the or a recess in the associated support section or the or a projection protruding therefrom forms the counter-stop formation of the reverse rotation stop.

[0076] Preferably, the counter-stop formation of the forward rotation stop and the counter-stop formation of the reverse rotation stop are formed by a common projection or a common recess on the support portion.

[0077] Alternatively, the counter-stop formation of the forward rotation stop may be a first edge surface of the recess or projection and / or the counter-stop formation of the reverse rotation stop may be a second edge surface of the further recess or projection.

[0078] The second stop formation, preferably the second stop surface, of the mounting element can engage in a form-fitting manner with the counter-stop formation of the reverse rotation stop, preferably with an edge of the reverse rotation stop of the mounting section. One surface of this edge can extend at a right angle to the adjoining surfaces or be formed as an inclined surface.

[0079] The projection may be formed integrally with the support portion or may be screwed or screwable onto the support portion.

[0080] In a further development of the invention, the holding element can form a deflection surface area on which a chain can slide transversely to its longitudinal extent in a direction pointing away from the inside of the associated rear holding section.

[0081] The deflection surface region can be configured according to the deflection surface region of the first aspect of the invention. In the case of an inclined deflection surface, this can be inclined with respect to a flat surface of the support element, wherein the inclined deflection surface slopes downwards in a direction away from the inner side of the associated rear support section.

[0082] Generally, when mounted on the inside of the associated rear support section of the bicycle frame, the support element can extend into a space between a smallest pinion of the sprocket set of the rear derailleur and the inside of the associated rear support section. This extension is preferably such that a distance between the smallest pinion and the support element prevents the chain from jamming therebetween. In other words, the distance is smaller than the width or thickness of a chain link.

[0083] In a third aspect The present invention relates to a Bicycle,preferably according to the second aspect of the invention, which comprises a bicycle frame with a rear wheel which can be driven by means of a derailleur system and which has a sprocket set of the derailleur system, wherein a chain of the derailleur system engaging with a selected sprocket in a respective selected gear can be transferred between the sprockets of the sprocket set by means of a rear derailleur of the derailleur system, wherein the rear derailleur is connected to the bicycle frame by means of a mounting element mounted on an inner side of an associated rear mounting section of the bicycle frame, wherein the mounting element comprises a first section which has an opening or recess in which a section of a bicycle rear wheel axle of the rear wheel is received, and a second section which has a mounting opening to which a base element of the rear derailleur is fixed.

[0084] The support element may be the support element previously described in accordance with the first aspect of the invention. Alternatively, the support element may be formed with at least one plastic portion and one metal portion, and the plastic portion may be detachably connected to the metal portion.

[0085] According to this third aspectAccording to the invention, the object is achieved in that the holding element is designed on at least one outer edge region with a deflection surface region with an inclined deflection surface, on which the chain, when it has jumped off from a pinion of the pinion set in the direction of the holding element beyond the axial region of the pinion set, can rest and can then slide off in the direction of the smallest pinion in order to achieve or contribute to restoring the engagement of the chain with the pinion or pinions of the pinion set.

[0086] In other words, the chain can re-engage with a pinion, possibly the smallest pinion, on its own or / and can at least be re-engaged with a pinion, possibly the smallest pinion, by means of the rear derailleur.

[0087] Thus, in a fault condition in which the chain is not engaged with one of the pinions of the sprocket set, the deflection surface area can be configured to cause the chain to move toward a pinion, preferably the smallest pinion, of the sprocket, thereby restoring the normal state in which the chain is engaged with one of the pinions of the sprocket. The fault condition can thus be remedied without the cyclist having to interrupt their ride.

[0088] As explained in more detail later, the discharge surface region may comprise a substantially planar discharge surface, a convex discharge surface, or a concave discharge surface. The discharge surface region may also comprise a combination of the aforementioned discharge surface configurations.

[0089] It is particularly important that the distance between an outer surface of the support element facing the sprocket set and the smallest sprocket be such that the chain cannot become trapped between them. Preferably, the outer surface facing the sprocket set is the one that protrudes furthest in this direction.

[0090] Such a design avoids a malfunction caused by a jammed chain, which can only be remedied by interrupting the bicycle ride. For example, a bicycle manufacturer or supplier can select a mounting element according to the first aspect that allows for the desired distance. This selection can be made individually for each bicycle and depends on the selected bicycle frame and sprocket set, as well as their manufacturing tolerances.

[0091] It is generally proposed that, with respect to a center point of an opening or recess of the holding element, a radial level of a first edge of the deflection surface region closest to the pinion set lies at the radial level of a tip circle diameter of the smallest pinion of the pinion set or is offset radially inwardly relative to this.

[0092] The inwardly offset radial level of the first edge of the discharge surface area relative to the tip diameter of the smallest pinion allows the chain to slide along the discharge surface area until it engages with a pinion.

[0093] The first edge of the deflection surface region can have a straight and / or curved profile. A curved edge can be adapted, at least in sections, to the curvature of the smallest pinion.

[0094] It is further proposed that the deflection surface region has a second edge which is closer to the associated rear support section than the first edge and is offset outwards with respect to the radial level of the first edge.

[0095] The edges can be arranged such that an imaginary extension intersecting the two edges of the deflection surface area and extending toward the smallest pinion can also intersect the circumferential surface of the smallest pinion defined by the tip circle diameter of the smallest pinion of the pinion set, or the smallest pinion within the tip circle. This geometric design of the edges with respect to the smallest pinion enables effective re-engagement of the chain and the smallest pinion by means of the deflection surface area.

[0096] Preferably, the surface between the first and second edges is substantially planar, substantially concave, substantially convex, or has a combination of one or more of the aforementioned shapes. This allows the chain to slide toward the smallest sprocket without damaging parts of the bicycle frame.

[0097] A maximum distance between the first and the second edge can advantageously be, measured in plan view, approximately between 2 mm and 10 mm, better between 4 mm and 8 mm, even better between 5 mm and 6 mm.

[0098] In a further development of the invention, the holding element can comprise two separately designed deflection surface areas which are arranged at different angles of rotation with respect to a / the center point of an opening or recess of the holding element.

[0099] In operation, the chain is guided around at least one front sprocket and one pinion of the rear sprocket set. A distinction is made between the tight side of the chain, which is the pulled side of the chain and pre-tensioned by the forces introduced into the chain at the front sprocket, and the slack side of the chain, which is the loose side of the chain. Preferably, one of the two deflection surface areas is adjacent to the tight side and the other adjacent to the slack side. Such an arrangement increases the probability that a chain link will be deflected by one or both of the deflection surface areas to one, preferably the smallest, pinion and engage with it. A malfunction is thus prevented even more effectively, for example in the event of unusual chain movements, such as those that can occur off-road.

[0100] The two deflection surface areas can be arranged at different radial levels with respect to the center of the opening or recess. For example, the one of the two deflection surface areas is arranged at a radially larger level and points towards a slack side of the chain. Engagement with the rear sprockets. The deflection surface area adjacent to the tight side of the chain serves to allow the chain to slide towards the smallest sprocket, i.e. away from the components of the bicycle frame. This is intended to prevent the chain from jamming on the bicycle frame, thereby continuing to enable the chain to slide longitudinally and allowing forces to be transferred from the tight side of the chain to the position at which chain links are in contact with the deflection surface area adjacent to the slack side of the chain.

[0101] The deflection surface area adjacent to the slack side of the chain can serve to allow the chain to slide toward a pinion tooth of the smallest pinion. Since the chain resting there belongs to the slack side of the chain, it is pre-tensioned there by the chain guide, which can create favorable conditions for the re-engagement of chain links with the smallest pinion.

[0102] Preferably, when a contact line or a contact point of an outer edge of an outer plate of a chain link of the chain with the deflection surface area adjacent to the slack side is located at a radial level which corresponds to a radial level of a tip circle diameter of the smallest pinion or a tooth tip edge of a tooth tip of a pinion tooth of the smallest pinion further from the holding element, an inner edge of an inner plate of a chain link adjacent to the chain link, further from the holding element, is located at the same axial level as a tooth tip edge determining the tip circle diameter or the tooth tip edge further from the holding element or - preferably - has a greater axial distance from the holding element than this tooth tip edge.

[0103] One condition for the re-engagement of the chain links in the tooth spaces of pinions of the smallest pinion can therefore be that an inner edge of an inner plate (preferably a plate furthest from the support element) of a pair of inner plates of a chain link is located on a tooth tip edge (preferably a plate furthest from the support element) of a tooth tip of a pinion tooth of the smallest pinion. Particularly favorable conditions can arise if a small pinion with a comparatively smaller number of teeth is selected. The engagement of the tooth tip can occur on a pair of inner plates of a chain link as well as on a pair of outer plates of a chain link. It is understood that the space available for the engagement of a pinion tooth is larger for a pair of outer plates than for a pair of inner plates.

[0104] As a result of the action of the deflection surface area adjacent to the slack side, a section of the chain runs in engagement with the smallest pinion again after a tooth tip has engaged the space formed by a pair of inner or outer plates. Consequently, the radial level of the deflection surface area adjacent to the slack side must be selected such that when an outer plate of a chain link rests against this deflection surface area, the inner edge of an inner plate (preferably a plate further from the support element) can rest against a tooth tip of the smallest pinion. It is even better if the inner edge of the inner plate (preferably the inner plate further from the support element), preferably its uppermost corner, contacts the tooth tip edge or a surface of the tooth tip edge facing away from the support element or the tooth tip tip.

[0105] For precise relative positioning of the mounting element to the mounting section, it is conceivable for the bicycle to further comprise a mounting flange that is connectable or connected to the mounting element or formed by it. Alternatively, the mounting flange can be connectable or connected to the mounting section or formed by it.

[0106] For this purpose, a contact surface of the support element facing the support section can bear against a counter contact surface of the support section, wherein preferably one of the contact surface and the counter contact surface is formed on the contact flange.

[0107] Preferably, the contact surface and the counter-contact surface have corresponding designs, which enables precise positioning. This can also be achieved by dimensionally accurate design of the contact surface and counter-contact surface.

[0108] Preferably, the contact flange with the contact surface can protrude from the mounting element, and the counter-contact surface can be formed by the mounting section and recessed relative to an adjacent surface of the mounting section. The contact flange can engage in a recess forming the counter-contact surface. It is understood that for exact positioning, the recess and / or the contact flange can be manufactured with particularly precise dimensions.

[0109] For example, the counter-contact surface may have no paint or a paint coating with a thinner layer than that of a surface of the mounting section adjacent to the counter-contact surface. In this way, the recess could be formed essentially by the thickness of the paint application or coating on the surface of the mounting section. A complex adjustment of the contour of the rear mounting section during the manufacture of the bicycle frame with the mounting section would therefore be unnecessary.

[0110] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to embodiments shown or illustrated in the figures. Figure 1 shows an exploded view of a mounting element according to an embodiment of the invention as well as parts not belonging to the mounting element that are required for assembly. Figure 2 shows the Figure 1parts shown in an assembled state in a sectional view ( Figure 2a ) and a perspective view ( Figure 2b ). Figure 3 shows an assembly comprising a rear wheel hub, a pinion set, a support element, a fastening screw, a washer, a screw-in sleeve and a rear derailleur, in an assembled state as a sectional view ( Figure 3a ) and an enlargement of a part of it ( Figure 3b ). Figure 4 shows a schematic representation of a deflection surface area of ​​a support element, a chain and a tooth tip of a pinion tooth according to an embodiment of the invention ( Figure 4b ) and a plan view of a schematically represented chain ( Figure 4a). Figure 5 shows a support element connecting a frame and a rear derailleur in a first stop position or target position of the support element with a support section of the frame, with a view of an inner side of the support section ( Figure 5a ) and on an outer side of the support section ( Figure 5b ) and in a second stop position of the support element with the support section with a view to the inside of the support section ( Figure 5c ). Figure 6 shows a rear end of a frame with a support section designed according to a first embodiment with a recess designed according to a first alternative and a projection designed according to a first alternative, viewed from the inside ( Figure 6a ) and the outside ( Figure 6c ) of the support section and a sectional view along line II ( Figure 6b ). Figure 7 shows the Figure 6illustrated support section with a support element mounted thereon, wherein the support element in a first stop position with the support section with a view to an inner side ( Figure 7a ) and a back ( Figure 7b ) of the support section and in a second stop position looking at the inside ( Figure 7c ) of the support section. Figure 8 shows a rear end of a frame with a support section designed according to a first embodiment with a recess designed according to a second alternative and a projection designed according to a second alternative, viewed towards an inner side ( Figure 8a ) of the support section and a sectional view along line II-II ( Figure 8b ). Figure 9 shows the Figure 8 illustrated support section with a support element mounted thereon, wherein the support element is in a first stop position ( Figure 9a ) and a second stop position ( Figure 9b ) with the support section, each viewed from an inside of the support section. Figure 10 shows a rear end of a frame with a support section designed according to a first embodiment, with a recess designed according to a third alternative, and a projection designed according to a third alternative, viewed from an inside ( Figure 10a ) of the support section and a side view along line III-III ( Figure 10b ). Figure 11 shows the Figure 10 illustrated support section with a support element mounted thereon, wherein the support element is in a first stop position ( Figure 11a ) and a second stop position ( Figure 11b) with the support section with a view of the inside of the support section. Figure 12 shows a rear end of a frame with a support section designed according to a second embodiment with a projection designed according to a first alternative in a perspective view ( Figures 12a and 12c ) and a side view along line IV-IV ( Figure 12b ). Figure 13 shows the Figure 12 illustrated support section with a support element mounted thereon, wherein the support element is in a first stop position ( Figure 13a ) and a second stop position ( Figure 13c ) with the support section with a view of an inside of the support section and in a perspective view in the first stop position ( Figure 13b). Figure 14 shows a rear end of a frame with a mounting section formed according to a third embodiment with a recess in a perspective view ( Figure 14a ) and a sectional view along line VV ( Figure 14b ). Figure 15 shows the Figure 14 illustrated support section with a support element mounted thereon, wherein the support element is in a first stop position ( Figure 15a ) and in a second stop position with the support section ( Figure 15b ) is shown with a view of the inside of the support section. Figure 16 shows a further embodiment of the support element in a perspective view ( Figure 16a ), a sectional view ( Figure 16b ) and a rear view ( Figure 16c ).

[0111] Figure 1shows a perspective view of a mounting element 1 according to the invention, which comprises a plastics-made area 2 and a metals-made area 3. In one embodiment according to the invention, the plastics-made area 2 is firmly connected to the metals-made area 3, however, for the sake of a better view, Figure 1 a non-connected representation of both areas 2, 3 has been chosen. A representation in which both areas 2, 3 are connected is shown in Figure 2 The mounting element 1 is designed to connect a bicycle frame 4 with a rear derailleur 5 of a derailleur, as shown for example in Figure 5can be seen. To provide this connection, the support element 1 comprises a first portion having an opening or recess 6 for receiving a portion of a bicycle rear wheel axle, for example, a thru-axle. Furthermore, the support element 1 comprises a second portion having a mounting opening 7 to which a base element of the rear derailleur 5 can be secured.

[0112] As in Figure 1As can be seen, the metal region 3 can be tab-shaped and form both the opening or recess 6 and the mounting opening 7. To mount the rear derailleur 5 to the mounting element 1, a screw-in sleeve 8 can be inserted into the mounting opening 7 and held therein, for example, with a press fit. The screw-in sleeve 8 can have a protruding edge on one side, so that screwing in the rear derailleur 5 on the side opposite the edge can lead to a firm connection between the mounting element 1 and the rear derailleur 5.

[0113] For assembly of the Figures 1 and 2By attaching the mounting element 1 shown to an inner side of an associated rear mounting section 9 of the bicycle frame 4, the mounting element 1 can be connected to the rear mounting section 9 by means of a receptacle 10 formed in alignment with the opening or recess 6. For this purpose, the receptacle 10 can be brought into positive engagement with a mounting opening 11 of the mounting section 9, as is shown, for example, in Figure 3 is evident.

[0114] If the holder 10 is made from the plastic area 2, it is recommended to support this area with a material whose strength and abrasion resistance are higher than that of plastic. This can be achieved, for example, by means of a fastening screw 12 inserted into the holder 10, which extends through the holder 10 and, if necessary, into the opening or recess 6. A connection between the fastening screw 12 and the holder 10 can be made by means of a screw connection, wherein preferably an external thread of the fastening screw 12 engages an internal thread of the holder 10. The fastening screw 12 can therefore be screwed into the holder 10.

[0115] The threaded connection provided for screwing the fastening screw 12 into the receptacle 10 is preferably designed as a left-hand thread. This can be advantageous for mounting the rear wheel to the bicycle frame 4 using a thru axle. In this way, when screwing the fastening screw 12 into the receptacle 10, the fastening screw 12 can be turned counterclockwise. For example, when subsequently inserting the thru axle, which extends through the fastening screw 12, a certain frictional force can exist between an outer surface of the thru axle and an inner surface of the fastening screw 12. This means that rotation of the thru axle can be at least partially transmitted to the fastening screw 12. The left-hand thread thus prevents screwing the thru axle into the fastening screw 12 from causing it to become loose.Instead, screwing in the quick-release axle can also lead to the fastening screw 12 being secured in the receptacle 10. Another possible configuration is for the left-hand thread to be designed with two thread pitches, which can provide favorable conditions for the aforementioned case of screwing the fastening screw 12 into the receptacle 10. The larger thread pitch can help prevent the fastening screw 12 from being overtightened.

[0116] For a uniform distribution of the force to be transmitted from the head of the fastening screw 12 to the support section 9, a washer 13 can be inserted between the head of the fastening screw 12 and the receptacle 10 and adjacent to the support section 9.

[0117] After mounting the support element 1 to the support section 9, the receptacle 10 can completely fill the support opening 11 of the support section 9 and can adjoin the support opening 11 on one side to the washer 13 or the head of the fastening screw 12 and on the other side to the first section of the support element 1.

[0118] In one possible embodiment of the support element 1, the region of the support element 1 that abuts the inside of the support section 9 can be formed from the plastic region 2. In a preferred embodiment, during the manufacture of the support element 1, this region can be designed with different thicknesses and function as a spacer 14, which defines the position of the metal region 3 relative to the associated rear support section 9 of the bicycle frame 4.

[0119] For the assembly of the rear wheel, for example by means of a quick-release axle, this is at least through the fastening screw 12 and a rear wheel hub 15 connected to a rear wheel, as for example in Figure 3visible, to guide. Consequently, during this assembly, the quick-release axle guide 16 formed by the rear wheel axle can be aligned flush with the opening or recess 6 as well as a through-opening of the fastening screw 12. To facilitate this alignment, the mounting element 1 can have a collar 17 which projects axially, for example in the direction of the rear wheel hub 15, and which can have a guide opening or guide recess 18. This guide opening or guide recess 18, shown in the present case in a U-shape, can be designed such that a sleeve of the quick-release axle guide 16 of the rear wheel hub 15 can slide along surfaces of the guide opening or guide recess 18 until it rests in the curvature of the U, whereby an aligned alignment of the quick-release axle guide 16 with the opening or recess 6 can be achieved.

[0120] The support element 1 can - as realized in the embodiments shown in the figures - have a deflection surface area 19, 20, which can be delimited by at least a first edge 21 and an opposite second edge 22. The deflection surface area 19, 20 between the first edge 21 and the second edge 22 is, for example, designed to slope downwards towards a pinion set 23, as shown in Figure 3 Even if in Figure 3 For reasons of clarity, the bicycle chain is not shown, but it is clearly understandable that in a functioning bicycle, such a chain engages with a pinion of the pinion set 23 and, before being deflected, runs around one of the pinions in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the illustration.

[0121] In a fault condition, for example during a gear shift, i.e. when the chain is switched from one pinion to another, or in the event of a disturbance due to environmental influences, for example bushes in a wooded area, the chain can become disengaged from the pinions of the pinion set 23. Due to gravity and the chain tension, the chain can move in the direction of the holding section 9 in such a fault condition and in doing so will most likely come into contact with the deflection surface area 19, 20. In such a case, the chain that has become disengaged from the pinion set and has come into contact with the deflection surface area can slip transversely to its longitudinal direction, which is perpendicular to the plane of the illustration, in the direction of the pinion set and thus re-engage with a pinion, preferably the smallest pinion 24, of the pinion set 23.Preferably, two deflection surface areas 19, 20 are provided for this purpose, both of which are designed to allow the chain to slip transversely to its longitudinal direction in the direction of the pinion set 23.

[0122] The deflection surface area 19, 20 can thus quickly rectify a malfunction of the bicycle without manual intervention. This can be achieved particularly effectively if, in addition or alternatively, jamming of the chain between an outer surface 26 of the mounting element 1 facing in the direction of the sprocket set 23 is avoided. For this purpose, a distance 25 between the outer surface 26 of the mounting element 1 facing in the direction of the sprocket set 23 and the smallest sprocket 24 can be such that the chain cannot get in between. This distance 25 can be varied, for example, by means of the design of the spacer 14. For example, a thicker design of the spacer 14, with an otherwise identical design of the mounting element 1, would move the outer surface 26 further in the direction of the smallest sprocket 24, thus reducing the distance 25.

[0123] In the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the figures, the deflection surface region 19, 20 is made of plastic. This is an advantageous design because plastic is highly moldable and thus adaptable to different pinion sets 23 and mounting sections 9. However, it is also possible to design the deflection surface regions 19, 20 from the metal region 3.

[0124] Looking at it more closely, the engagement of a chain with a pinion of the pinion set 23 means the engagement of a pinion tooth 50 between a pair of inner plates 51 or in a pair of outer plates 52 of a chain, which is schematically shown by means of four chain links in Figure 4aare shown. In the operating state, the chain runs at least around a front sprocket and a pinion of the rear sprocket set 23 and can be divided into sections, so-called strands (load strand and slack strand), according to the forces acting on it. In the Figure 3 In the example shown, one of the two discharge surface areas 19 is preferably a discharge surface area 19 adjacent to the load strand and the other is a discharge surface area 20 adjacent to the slack strand. In Figure 4b The latter is shown enlarged to explain the functioning of this discharge surface area 20 in more detail.

[0125] Figure 4bshows a state in which the chain, with an outer link plate 53 closer to the support element 1, preferably by means of its outer edge, rests against the deflection surface region 20 adjacent to the slack side and contacts this at a contact line or a contact point 54, while an inner link plate 55 further from the support element 1 can be in contact with the pinion tooth 50, preferably with a tooth tip edge 56 further from the support element 1. The tooth tip edge 56 can also be designed as an elongated tip, and the inner link plate 55 further from the support element 1 can then be in contact with this tip.

[0126] InIn a desirable state, the contact line or contact point 54 can be at a radial level 57, which corresponds to a radial level 57 of a tip diameter of the smallest pinion or a tooth tip edge 56 of a tooth tip of a pinion tooth 50 of the smallest pinion 24, said tooth tip being further away from the mounting element 1. Furthermore, the inner edge of an inner link plate 55 of a chain link 51 adjacent to the chain link 52, said inner link plate being further away from the mounting element 1, can lie at the same axial level 58 as a tooth tip edge 56 determining the tip diameter or the tooth tip edge 56 further away from the mounting element 1, or—preferably—has a greater axial distance from the mounting element 1 than this tooth tip edge 56.That is, the tooth tip edge 56 furthest from the support element 1 can rest on the inner plate 55, wherein desirably this tooth tip edge 56 can rest on the inner edge of the inner plate 55 furthest from the support element 1, as shown in . Figure 4b is shown. The deflection surface area 20 adjacent to the slack side can thus allow a pinion tooth 50 to slide between a pair of inner plates 51 as well as between a pair of outer plates 52, whereby the chain can again engage with the smallest pinion 24.

[0127] The above explanations show that various forces can act on the plastic area 2 during assembly and / or use of the bicycle with the mounting element 1. For increased safety, it is therefore recommended to ensure that the previously mentioned firm connection between the plastic area 2 and the metal area 3 is always guaranteed despite the various forces acting on the plastic area 2. To achieve this requirement, it is proposed to injection mold the plastic area 2 around the metal area 3. An even better connection can be achieved if the metal area 3 has one or more through holes or recesses 27 which can be filled with plastic 28 belonging to the plastic area 2.During injection molding, the plastic can flow into the through holes or recesses, fill them, and ensure a firm connection between both areas 2, 3 after the plastic has cooled. In the process shown in . Figures 1 and 2 In the embodiment shown, two through holes 27 are provided in the metal region 3, which are filled with parts 28 of the plastic region 2 flowing into them.

[0128] The following is a Bicycle described, the bicycle frame 104 and the support element 101, which connects this bicycle frame 104 to a rear derailleur 105 of a derailleur, are designed in such a way that damage to the aforementioned parts can be avoided in various fault situations.

[0129] The support element 101 can also be the previously described support element 1. Alternatively, it can be a support element that is constructed essentially like the support element 1, but in which the plastic region 2 can be detachably connected to the metal region 3. Components or parts that are present in both the support element 1 and the support element 101, and / or interact with them, are designated below with 100 increased reference numerals. The previously described embodiments continue to apply unless otherwise stated and will not be repeated again.

[0130] The bicycle, apart from its bicycle frame 104 and support element 101, can be a bicycle known from the prior art, having a rear wheel drivable by means of a derailleur, wherein a rear wheel hub 115 connected to the rear wheel has a sprocket set 123 of the derailleur. Depending on the gear selected by the operator, the chain engages a selected sprocket of the sprocket set 123 and can be moved between the sprockets of the sprocket set 123 by means of the derailleur, for example, by targeted movement of the rear derailleur 105.

[0131] The support element 101 can be one that has an opening or recess 106 in which a portion of a bicycle rear wheel axle of the rear wheel is received, and a mounting opening 107 to which a base element of the rear derailleur 105 is attached. In the exemplary embodiments considered below, the support element 101 connected to the rear derailleur 105 is connected to an inner side of an associated rear support portion 109 of the bicycle frame 104.

[0132] Figure 5 shows how the previously mentioned damage to the rear support section 109, the support element 101 and the rear derailleur 105 can be avoided according to an embodiment of the invention. It should be noted that in the illustrations of the rear derailleur 105 in Figures 5a and cthe forces transmitted to the rear derailleur 105 by the chain are not taken into account, so that the position of the chain guide and chain tension rollers of the rear derailleur 105 in reality differs from the representations in Figures 5a and c may vary.

[0133] In the normal operating state, the support element 101 is in a Figures 5a,bapparent desired position, in which the mounting element 101 is or can be frictionally secured to the associated rear mounting section 109. The frictionally secured mounting element 101 can be achieved by means of a fastening screw 112, which extends from an outer side of the rear mounting section 109 through a mounting opening 111 thereof and through the opening or recess 106 of the mounting element 101 and engages in a receptacle 110. For example, the previously described fastening by means of the fastening screw 12, the washer 13, and the receptacle 10 can be used.

[0134] How best in Figures 3a,bAs can be seen, a frictional holding force can thus arise between the rear mounting section 109 and the mounting element 101 between mutually abutting surfaces of both elements. When using the previously described mounting element 1, for example, the outer surface of the receptacle 10 and the surface of the spacer 14 facing the mounting section 9 rest frictionally against the rear mounting section 9, 109 and can thus provide a frictional holding force between the rear mounting section 109 and the mounting element 101.

[0135] In the event of application of a torsional force exceeding this frictional holding force, in Figures 5a, c in the direction of the arrow 130 in the counterclockwise direction, the support element 101 is in relation to the support section 109 starting from the Figures 5 a,b shown target position (first stop position) in the direction of a Figure 5cshown stop position (second stop position). Even if in Figure 5c represents a complete rotation up to the second stop position, the rotation can also be in a position not shown between the Figure 5a shown target position and the one in Figure 5c Stop in the second stop position shown.

[0136] The angle of rotation of the support element 101 can be limited by two rotation stops 131, 132. One of the rotation stops can be a forward rotation stop 131 and the other a reverse rotation stop 132. The forward rotation stop 131 can allow a forward rotation, i.e. Figure 5aenable a clockwise rotation of the support element 101 until it is in a first stop position corresponding to the desired position, in contact with the forward rotation stop 131. In practice, the forward rotation stop 131 can serve as a positioning aid when mounting the support element 101 to the support section 109 and enable a defined positioning of both elements relative to one another.

[0137] The reverse rotation stop 132 can limit rotation in the direction 130 in the event of the application of the rotational force exceeding the frictional holding force. Figure 5cshows the support element 101 in the second stop position in contact with the reverse rotation stop 132. The reverse rotation stop 132 prevents rotation of the support element 101 leading to damage to the rear derailleur 105, which can be caused by increased chain tension resulting from the rotation of the rear derailleur 105 attached to the support element 101.

[0138] In the first stop position, as in Figure 5a shown, a stop formation 133 of the support element 101 rests against a counter-stop formation of the forward rotation stop 131. In the second stop position, as in Figure 5c As shown, a second stop formation 134 of the support element 101 abuts the counter-stop formation of the reverse rotation stop 132.

[0139] The mounting element 1 described above can have the aforementioned stop formations as a first stop formation 33 and a second stop formation 34, and when using this mounting element 1, the first stop formation 33, 133 and / or the second stop formation 34, 134 is preferably formed from its plastic-made region 2. In this way, the stop formations 33, 34, 133, 134 can be adapted to the corresponding counter-stop formations by means of the easily moldable plastic. The elastic properties of the plastic can also dampen the impact of the stop formation and the counter-stop formation. As shown in Figure 1 As can be seen, the first stop formation 33, 133 and / or the second stop formation 34, 134 can be formed by the axially projecting collar 10.

[0140] In the following, exemplary embodiments of the mounting section with various alternative designs of the rotation stops 131, 132, 231, 232, 331, 332, 431, 432 are described. The reference numerals of each exemplary embodiment are each increased by 100. The previously described functionalities of the components or parts correspond to the previous embodiments and will not be repeated again.

[0141] All of the following and in the Figures 6 to 15 The embodiments shown of a rear support section 209, 309, 409 have - as conventionally known - a support opening 211, 311, 411 for fastening a support element 201, 301, 401 thereto.

[0142] In the Figures 6 to 11the support section 209 is shown according to a first embodiment, in which a counter-stop formation of the forward rotation stop 231 is formed on an edge of a recess 235 of the support section 209 and a counter-stop formation of the reverse rotation stop 232 is formed on a projection 238 connected to the support section 209.

[0143] A first possible design of the recess 235 is in Figure 6 , in which an edge of the recess 235 can have a straight profile in a first section 236 and a curved profile around the mounting opening 211 in an adjoining second section 237, wherein the two sections 236, 237 preferably merge into one another with little or no offset. Preferably, the counter-stop formation of the forward rotation stop 231 is formed by the first section 236 of the edge of the recess 235 with a straight profile.

[0144] As in Figure 6 As can be seen, a preferably round projection 238, 239, which is integrally / fixedly connected to the support section 209, can form the counter-stop formation of the reverse rotation stop 232. Preferably, the projection 238, 239 borders the edge of the recess 235, preferably its transition region between the first section 236 and the second section 237.

[0145] Figure 7 shows the Figure 6 illustrated support section 209 with the support element 201 attached thereto. In the Figure 7aIn the view shown, looking at an inner side of the support section 209, the support element 201 is in the first stop position or desired position with the support section 209. Furthermore, it can be seen that the first stop formation 233 of the support element 201 is in abutment with the counter-stop formation of the forward rotation stop 231 formed by the edge of the recess 235. A Figure 7a corresponding rear view of the support element 201 attached to the support section 209 is shown in Figure 7b shown.

[0146] The position of the support element 201 after it has been rotated in the direction of the reverse rotation direction 230 into the second stop position is shown in Figure 7cIt can be seen that in this second stop position, the second stop formation 234 of the mounting element 201 is in abutment with the counter-stop formation of the reverse rotation stop 232, which is formed by the projection 238, 239. It can also be seen that the part of the mounting element 201 which provides the second stop formation 234, preferably at a projection 242 thereof, protrudes beyond the recess 235. Such a projection 42 can also be provided by the mounting element 1 described above, preferably by its axially projecting collar 10.

[0147] Figure 8 shows a second possible embodiment of the recess 235, in which the first straight section 236 of its edge merges with an offset into the second curved section 237 of its edge. As in Figure 9aAs can be seen, the first stop formation 233 of the holding element 201 can rest on the straight first portion 236 of the edge of the recess 235 when the holding element 201 is in the first stop position or desired position.

[0148] The Figure 6 The projection 239 shown integrally / fixedly connected to the support section 209 may alternatively be designed as a projection 240 detachably connected to the support section 209, as shown in Figure 8 shown. For example, the mounting portion 209 may have a recess into which the detachable projection 240 may be screwed or pressed by means of a press fit. For example, in this way, a projection 240 adapted to the mounting element 201 may be selected and connected to the mounting portion 209 during the assembly of the mounting element 201 to the mounting portion 209. The detachable projection 240 may then, as previously described with respect to Figures 6 and 7described, form the counter-stop formation of the reverse rotation stop 232, which, as in Figure 9b shown, in the second stop position in abutment with the second stop formation 234 of the holding element 201.

[0149] The projection 238 can - regardless of its design as a projection 239, 240 connected integrally or detachably to the support section 209 - be adjacent to the Figure 8a apparent offset between the first portion 236 and the second portion 237 of the edge of the recess 235.

[0150] Figure 10shows a third possible embodiment of the recess 235, the edge of which can comprise three straight sections 236, 236', 236", wherein an offset can be arranged between the first straight section 236 and the second straight section 236' and / or between the second straight section 236' and the third straight section 236". This third possible embodiment, preferably also the second and / or first possible embodiment, of the recess 235 provides a distance between the edge of the recess and a boundary of the mounting opening 211.

[0151] Furthermore, Figure 10 a third possible embodiment of the projection 238 as an elongated projection 241. For example, an edge region of the elongated projection 241 can extend adjacent to the first section 236, preferably adjacent to the first section 236. The elongated projection 241 can, as shown in the sectional view in Figure 10bvisible, form the first portion 236 of the edge of the recess 135 in a lower portion and protrude from a surface of the holding portion 209 in an upper portion.

[0152] Figure 11a shows the elongated projection 241 in the first stop position or target position, in which the first stop formation 233 of the holding element 201 is in abutment with the first portion 236 of the edge of the recess 235, i.e., the lower portion of the elongated projection 241. At the same time, the first stop formation 233 can also abut against the upper portion of the elongated projection 241.

[0153] Furthermore, the elongated projection 241 can have a rounded area on which the counter-stop formation of the reverse rotation stop 232 is preferably formed and on which the second stop formation 234 of the holding element 201 can strike in the second stop position, as in Figure 11b shown.

[0154] In the Figures 12 and 13The mounting section 309 is shown according to a second exemplary embodiment, in which the counter-stop formation of the forward rotation stop 331 and the counter-stop formation of the reverse rotation stop 332 are formed on a projection 338 connected to the mounting section 209. The projection can, as explained with reference to the first exemplary embodiment, be a projection 239 integrally / fixedly connected to the mounting section 309 or a projection 240 detachably connected to the mounting section 309 and having a round and / or elongated shape or another suitable shape. In this second exemplary embodiment of the mounting section 309, it preferably has no recess and consequently also no edge of the recess.

[0155] The support element 301 is in Figures 13a,b in the first stop position or target position and in Figure 13cin the second stop position. These figures show that the projection 338 can form the counter-stop formation of the forward rotation stop 231, against which the first stop formation 333 of the support element 301 can abut in the first stop position or target position, as well as the counter-stop formation of the reverse rotation stop 332, against which the second stop formation 334 of the support element 301 can abut in the second stop position.

[0156] In the Figures 14 and 15 the support portion 409 is shown according to a third embodiment, in which a counter-stop formation of the forward rotation stop 431 as well as a counter-stop formation of the reverse rotation stop 432 is formed on the edge of the recess 435 of the support portion 409.

[0157] The edge of the recess may comprise a first straight section 436, a second curved section 437, and a third straight section 436', which preferably merge into one another. In the first stop position or target position, see Figure 15a , the first stop formation 433 of the support element 401 can be in abutment with the counter-stop formation of the forward rotation stop 231 formed by the first portion 436 of the edge of the recess. In the second stop position, see Figure 15b , the second stop formation 434 of the support element 401 can be in abutment with the counter-stop formation of the reverse rotation stop 432 formed by the third portion 436' of the edge of the recess.

[0158] The design of the recess 235, 435 at the rear end of the mounting section 209, 409, which on one side merges into the terminal edge of the mounting section 209, 409 and is delimited on the other side by an edge of the recess 235, 435, can be designed identically for the recesses according to the first and / or the third exemplary embodiment. The edge of the recess 235, 435 can connect the recess to the inward-facing surface of the mounting section 209, 409. There can be a distance between the edge of the recess 235, 435 and the boundary of the mounting opening 211, 411. This distance can be at least 1 mm, preferably 3 mm, and even more preferably 5 mm.

[0159] In Figure 16A further possible embodiment of a holding element 1001 is shown. This holding element can be one of the previously mentioned holding elements 1, 101, 201, 304, 401. Components or parts which are present in both the holding element 1 and the holding element 1001, and / or which interact with them, are designated below with 1000 increased reference numerals, and their function will not be repeated again. It is understood that the holding element 1001 can also be used instead of the holding elements 101, 201, 301, and 401 used in the previously described embodiments. Furthermore, it can be a holding element 1001 in which the plastic region 1002 is detachably connected to the metal region.

[0160] The Figure 16The illustrated mounting element 1001 can have a contact flange 1043, which can preferably be formed as a circular ring according to the illustration. This contact flange 1043, in particular a contact surface 1044 thereof, can be configured to bear against and / or contact a counter contact surface of the mounting section, which faces inward toward the mounting element. In the assembled state, the contact surface 1044 can face toward the mounting section.

[0161] How best in Figures 16a and bAs can be seen, the contact flange 1043 can adjoin the spacer 1014. Preferably, the contact flange 1043 is formed integrally with the holding element 1001, in particular integrally with its plastic region 1002. However, the contact flange 1043 can also be glued, screwed, pressed, or latched to the holding element 1001. Preferably, the contact surface 1044 and the counter-contact surface have corresponding configurations. Even more preferably, the contact surface 1044 and the counter-contact surface are formed particularly dimensionally true. In this way, the holding element 1001 can be aligned with respect to the holding section. It is understood that the contact flange 1043 can have various other shapes for the desired alignment. For example, individual projections or other shapes would also be conceivable.

Claims

1. Bracket element (1; 101; 201; 301; 401; 1001) which is mountable on an inner side of an associated rear bracket portion (9; 109; 209; 309; 409) of a bicycle frame (104; 204; 304; 404) and which is configured to connect the bicycle frame (104; 204; 304; 404) to a rear gearshift mechanism (5; 105) of a derailleur system, comprising: - a first portion, which has an opening or aperture (6; 1006) for receiving a portion of a bicycle rear-wheel axle, and - a second portion, which has a mounting opening (7) to which a base element of the rear gearshift mechanism (5; 105) is fixable, characterized in that the bracket element (1; 101; 201; 301; 401; 1001) is formed with at least a region (2) made from plastic and a region (3) made from metal, and the region (2) made from plastic is connected fixedly to the region (3) made from metal, wherein the bracket element (1; 101; 201; 301; 401; 1001), preferably the region (2) thereof made from plastic, forms a deflecting-surface region (19, 20), with an oblique deflecting surface, on which a chain can slip transversely to its longitudinal direction in the direction of a pinion assembly (23) of the derailleur system.

2. Bicycle, comprising a bicycle frame (104; 204; 304; 404) with a rear wheel which is drivable by means of a derailleur system and which has a pinion assembly (23) of the derailleur system, wherein a chain of the derailleur system that engages with a selected pinion in a respective selected gear is transferrable between the pinions of the pinion assembly (23) by means of a rear gearshift mechanism (5; 105) of the derailleur system, wherein the rear gearshift mechanism (5; 105) is connected to the bicycle frame (104; 204; 304; 404) by means of a bracket element (1; 101; 201; 301; 401; 1001) which is mounted on an inner side of an associated rear bracket portion (9; 109; 209; 309; 409) of the bicycle frame (104; 204; 304; 404) and which comprises: - a first portion, which has an opening or aperture (6; 1006) in which a portion of a bicycle rear-wheel axle of the rear wheel is received, and - a second portion, which has a mounting opening (7) to which a base element of the rear gearshift mechanism (5; 105) is fixed, characterized in that the bracket element (1; 101; 201; 301; 401; 1001), on at least one outer edge region, is designed with a deflecting-surface region (19, 20), with an oblique deflecting surface, on which the chain, when it has jumped from a pinion of the pinion assembly (23) beyond the axial region of the pinion assembly (23) in the direction of the bracket element (1; 101; 201; 301; 401; 1001), can bear and can then slip in the direction of the smallest pinion (24) so as to re-establish engagement of the chain with the or a pinion of the pinion assembly (23) or to contribute thereto.

3. Bicycle according to Claim 2, characterized in that the bracket element (101; 201; 301; 401; 1001) is formed with at least a region (1002) made from plastic and a region made from metal, and the region (1002) made from plastic is connected releasably to the region made from metal.

4. Bicycle according to either of Claims 2 and 3, characterized in that a distance (25) between an outer surface (26), oriented in the direction of the pinion assembly, of the bracket element (1; 101; 201; 301; 401; 1001) and the smallest pinion (24) is such that the chain cannot become jammed therebetween.

5. Bicycle according to one of Claims 2 to 4, characterized in that, with respect to a centre of a / the opening or aperture (6; 1006) of the bracket element (1; 101; 201; 301; 401; 1001), a radial level of a first edge (21), most closely adjacent to the pinion assembly (23), of the deflecting-surface region (19, 20) is at the radial level of a tip-circle diameter of the smallest pinion (24) of the pinion assembly (23) or is radially inwardly offset in relation thereto.

6. Bicycle according to Claim 5, characterized in that the deflecting-surface region (19, 20) has a second edge (22) which is closer to the associated rear bracket portion (9; 109; 209; 309; 409) than the first edge (21) and which is outwardly offset in relation to the radial level of the first edge (21).

7. Bicycle according to one of Claims 2 to 6, characterized in that an imaginary extension intersecting the two edges (21, 22) of the deflecting-surface region (19, 20) and extending in the direction of the smallest pinion (24) also intersects the circumferential surface, defined by the tip-circle diameter of the smallest pinion (24) of the pinion assembly (23), of the smallest pinion (24), or the smallest pinion (24) within the tip circle.

8. Bicycle according to one of Claims 2 to 7, characterized in that the deflecting-surface region (19, 20) is a deflecting-surface region (19) adjacent to a load strand of the chain or is a deflecting-surface region (20) adjacent to an empty strand or extends in such a way as to be adjacent both to the load strand and to the empty strand of the chain, or the bracket element (1; 101; 201; 301; 401; 1001) comprises two separately formed deflecting-surface regions (19, 20) of which one is adjacent to the load strand of the chain and the other is adjacent to the empty strand of the chain, wherein preferably the two deflecting-surface regions (19, 20) are arranged at different rotational angles with respect to a / the centre of a / the opening or aperture (6; 1006) of the bracket element (1; 101; 201; 301; 401; 1001).

9. Bicycle according to Claim 8, characterized in that the two deflecting-surface regions (19, 20) are arranged at different radial levels with respect to the centre of the opening or aperture (6; 1006).

10. Bicycle according to Claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, if a line of contact or a point of contact (54) of an outer edge (53) of an outer link plate of a chain link (51, 52) of the chain with the deflecting-surface region (20) adjacent to the empty strand is at a radial level (57) which corresponds to a radial level (57) of a tip-circle diameter of the smallest pinion (24) or of a tooth-tip edge (56) of a tooth tip of a pinion tooth (50) of the smallest pinion (24) that is relatively far from the bracket element (1; 101; 201; 301; 401; 1001), an inner edge (55) of an inner link plate, relatively far from the bracket element (1; 101; 201; 301; 401; 1001), of a chain link (52, 51) adjacent to the chain link (51, 52) is at the same axial level (58) as a tooth-tip edge (56) determining the tip-circle diameter or the tooth-tip edge (56) relatively far from the bracket element (1; 101; 201; 301; 401; 1001), or - preferably - is at a greater axial distance from the bracket element (1; 101; 201; 301; 401; 1001) than said tooth-tip edge (56).

11. Bicycle according to one of Claims 2 to 10, characterized in that the bicycle furthermore has an abutment flange (1043) which is connectable or connected to the bracket element (1001) or is formed by the latter, or which is connectable or connected to the bracket portion (9; 109; 209; 309; 409) or is formed by the latter.

12. Bicycle according to Claim 11, characterized in that an abutment surface (1044), oriented towards the bracket portion (9; 109; 209; 309; 409), of the bracket element (1001) abuts against a counterpart abutment surface of the bracket portion (9; 109; 209; 309; 409), wherein one of the abutment surface (1044) and the counterpart abutment surface is formed on the abutment flange (1043).

13. Bicycle according to Claim 12, characterized in that the abutment flange (1043) projects with the abutment surface (1044) from the bracket element (1001), and the counterpart abutment surface is formed by the bracket portion (9; 109; 209; 309; 409) and is recessed in relation to an adjacent surface of the bracket portion (9; 109; 209; 309; 409), wherein preferably the abutment flange (1043) engages into a depression which forms the counterpart abutment surface.