Seat for bicycle and bicycle including such a seat

Abstract

Seat (140) for a bicycle comprising: a saddle (141) having an upper surface (142) and a lower surface (143); a saddle post (144) comprising; the seat (140) being characterized in that the saddle post (144) extends in a substantially rectilinear manner, and in that the upper surface (142) of the saddle (141) comprises: a first zone (145) called the front zone shaped to receive at least part of the buttocks of a first user as support; a second zone (146) called the rear zone, distinct from and in the extension of the front zone (145), the rear zone (146) being shaped to receive at least part of the buttocks of a second user as support. Figure for the abstract: figure 3

Description

Title of the invention: Seat for bicycle and bicycle comprising such a seat FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a cycling accessory, that is to say for a bicycle-type vehicle, also called a velocipede or bicycle or cycle.

[0002] More specifically, the invention relates to a new saddle for a bicycle allowing two people to sit on it simultaneously, and which can replace a conventional saddle. TECHNOLOGICAL BACKGROUND

[0003] Bicycles are popular vehicles, which are easy to access from a young age for travel in urban areas, in particular because, unlike vehicles such as scooters, motorcycles, mopeds and the like, they do not require authorization such as a driving license or a road safety certificate (known as "BSR"), a registration plate, regular technical inspections, compulsory gloves and helmets and, when a bicycle is equipped with electric assistance, the legislation restricts the speed to 25 km / h.

[0004] A bicycle saddle is typically shaped so that a person, the rider, can sit on it, that is to say, place at least part of his buttocks on an upper surface of the saddle. A saddle typically comprises a front area and a rear area, the front area, commonly called the beak or nose of the saddle, being narrower than the rear area so as to allow the cyclist sitting on the saddle to perform a pedaling movement with his legs to press on the pedals of the bicycle.

[0005] For many years, cycling has been growing, particularly in cities, with the arrival of self-service bicycles, electric bicycles and the development of cycle paths, in order to expand the transport options in cities. Environmental policies have also helped to encourage cycling.

[0006] However, a so-called "classic" bicycle is intended to accommodate a single cyclist, who is the driver. However, unlike the sport of cycling, the practice of cycling as a means of transport gives rise to the need to travel with several people, particularly as a couple or as a family with children, on a bicycle.

[0007] The Highway Code, in its article R.431-5 authorizes the transport of passengers on a bicycle, but on condition of having a seat fixed to the bicycle, different from that of the driver.

[0008] Thus, in order to accommodate a passenger on a bicycle, in addition to the driver, it is known to attach a device to the bicycle. Such a device may simply be a carrier- luggage, possibly equipped with a comfortable surface for the passenger's buttocks, or even a backrest for the passenger. However, such a device is not entirely satisfactory. Indeed, the mass that a luggage rack can support is generally limited to approximately 20 to 25 kg, which corresponds on average to a child aged up to 6 to 8 years. Transporting an adult on the luggage rack is therefore unsuitable. In addition, such a device is insufficient in terms of safety when the passenger is a child. There are also known child seat-type devices assembled on a bicycle. While such a seat offers increased safety, it is nevertheless tedious to assemble and disassemble, expensive and bulky when not in use. Such a seat remains unsuitable for transporting an adult.

[0009] There are also so-called cargo vehicles, such as two-wheelers or three-wheelers, which are dedicated to the transport of people or goods and which, when not transporting anything, are bulky. Such vehicles are also expensive.

[0010] Article R.431-5 specifies that the double saddle or bench seat is considered to be two seats. Thus, so-called two-seater bicycles may have a seat adapted to accommodate two people one behind the other, similar to what can be found on scooters, mopeds or even motorcycles. Such a seat is similar to a bench seat, and the frame of a two-seater bicycle is specially designed to support such a seat. The frame is therefore heavier, making using the bicycle without a passenger unnecessarily difficult, and the bicycle is expensive. In addition, on two-seater bicycles, the height of the seat is not adjustable because it is placed directly on the frame.

[0011] The so-called "long-tail" or "cargo longtail" or "shorttail" or "midtail" bicycle, designed to accommodate children at the rear of the cyclist's saddle, has the same disadvantages as the two-seater bicycle, and is even more expensive.

[0012] Finally, we can mention the tandem bicycle, designed to accommodate two cyclists, and which is not intended or adapted for a single cyclist. In addition, the tandem bicycle is intended primarily for leisure use, and not as a means of transport in an urban environment.

[0013] In addition, the high costs of reported devices or dedicated vehicles increase the risks of theft.

[0014] There is therefore a need to provide a solution, in particular to the aforementioned drawbacks.

[0015] The invention thus aims to propose a device for transporting at least one passenger, in addition to the cyclist, on a bicycle, which is easy to install and remove, which is inexpensive, and which can be adapted to a conventional bicycle.

[0016] Thus, a first object of the invention is to propose a solution for transporting a passenger on a bicycle in accordance with the Highway Code.

[0017] A second object is to propose a solution for transporting a passenger on a bicycle which is inexpensive.

[0018] A third object is to propose a solution for transporting a passenger on a bicycle which is space-saving.

[0019] A fourth object is to propose a solution for transporting a passenger on a bicycle which is easily mounted and dismounted.

[0020] A fifth object is to propose a solution for transporting a passenger on a bicycle which fits on a conventional bicycle. Summary of the invention

[0021] Thus, according to a first aspect, the invention relates to a bicycle seat comprising: • a saddle having an upper surface and a lower surface; • a seat post comprising a first end fixed to the saddle and a second end intended to be inserted into a seat tube of a bicycle.

[0022] The seat is notably characterized in that the seat post extends in a substantially rectilinear manner between the first end and the second end, and in that the upper surface of the saddle comprises: • a first zone called the front shaped to receive at least part of the buttocks of a first user as support; • a second zone called the rear zone, distinct from and an extension of the front zone, the rear zone being shaped to receive at least part of the buttocks of a second user as support.

[0023] The seat thus allows two users, namely a driver and a passenger, to sit simultaneously on the saddle, each in an area dedicated to them, on any type of bicycle, provided that said bicycle has a seat tube into which a seat post can be inserted. Thus, to transport two people simultaneously, a conventional bicycle can be used, simply by inserting the seat post into a seat tube of the bicycle frame. The height of the saddle remains adjustable simply, by sliding the seat post into the seat tube of the frame, as for single-seater saddles.

[0024] According to different aspects, it is possible to provide one and / or the other of the characteristics below taken alone or in combination.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the seat may further comprise a system for adjusting the inclination between the upper surface of the saddle and the seat post, in order to adjust the balance of the saddle, and improve comfort for users.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the front zone and the rear zone define two levels on the upper surface, so as to form a step between the two zones. on the upper surface. For example, the step can be ascending or descending between the front and rear areas, forming a stop towards the front or rear, increasing comfort and / or safety. The step also helps to form a visual demarcation between the front and rear areas.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the upper surface may comprise a bead between the front zone and the rear zone, the front zone and the rear zone being substantially at the same level. The bead makes it possible to distinguish the front zone and the rear zone, and forms a stop towards the front and towards the rear, for the comfort and / or safety of the users.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the saddle may comprise at least one handle. For example, the handle is formed by a strap arranged on the upper surface, accessible by the user installed on the rear area so that he can hold on, ensuring his safety. In addition, the strap provides a visual demarcation between the front area and the rear area.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the seat may comprise at least one lighting system fixed to the saddle, so as to ensure the visibility of the bicycle fitted with the saddle by people behind the bicycle, in particular motor vehicles.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the rear zone is articulated by sliding in the longitudinal direction relative to the front zone, so that the saddle can take at least two extreme positions: • A retracted position, in which the rear area is vertically superimposed on the front area, leaving one of the front area or the rear area at least partly accessible for a user to sit on; • A deployed position, in which the rear area is in longitudinal extension of the front area, so that both the front area and the rear area are accessible for a user to sit on.

[0031] The saddle can thus offer, in the retracted position, an experience close to or even identical to that of a classic, single-seater saddle. The bulk is also reduced when the rear area does not need to be used.

[0032] According to a second aspect, the invention provides a bicycle comprising a frame which has a seat tube and a system for clamping a post in the seat tube. The bicycle further comprises a seat as presented above. The seat post is inserted into the seat tube and locked by the clamping system.

[0033] The bicycle can thus be devoid of characteristics specific to the seat according to the invention, that is to say that the bicycle can remain identical to the prior art using usually a single-seater saddle. In other words, a bicycle intended for a single-seater seat can be used with the seat of the invention.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the bicycle may further comprise a footrest device capable of receiving the feet of the second user seated on the rear area of ​​the saddle. The user seated on the rear area can thus maintain good balance, and his feet do not hinder the driver seated on the front area. Brief description of the drawings

[0035] Embodiments of the invention will be described below with reference to the drawings, briefly described below:

[0036] [Fig.l] is a diagram showing a bicycle seen from the side equipped with a conventional single-seater seat according to the prior art.

[0037] [Fig.2] is a diagram showing a bicycle seen from the side fitted with a seat according to a first embodiment of the invention.

[0038] [Fig.3] represents a side view of the seat of [Fig.2].

[0039] [Fig.4] represents a comparison between, on the left part, a top view of the seat of [Fig.2], and, on the right-hand side, a top view of a classic single-seater seat according to the prior art.

[0040] [Fig.5] represents a three-quarter view of the seat of [Fig.2].

[0041] [Fig.6] represents a three-quarter view of a seat according to a second mode of realization of the invention.

[0042] [Fig.7a] represents a three-quarter view of a seat according to a third mode of embodiment of the invention, in a so-called retracted position.

[0043] [Fig.7b] represents the seat according to the third embodiment of the invention, in a so-called deployed position.

[0044] In the drawings, like references designate identical or similar objects. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] The invention relates to a bicycle accessory of the seat type, intended to support at least part of the weight of a cyclist. Such a seat is commonly called a saddle. The invention finds an application both on a bicycle with electric assistance and without.

[0046] In [Fig.l], a so-called classic bicycle 1 is illustrated. A classic bicycle in the sense used here is a bicycle designed for and intended to be used by a single cyclist, although it may be equipped with accessories allowing the transport of loads or passengers, in particular children, such as panniers, baskets, luggage racks, child seats, baby seats, or other. Such accessories are not present on the bicycle in [Fig.l], which is “bare”. The bicycle 1 comprises a frame 2, forming the structure of the bicycle 1. The A frame is typically formed by an assembly of tubular elements made of rigid material. For example, the frame may be entirely or partly made of metal or metal alloy, composite material or even carbon fiber, without this list being exhaustive.

[0047] In the following, for the purpose of clarity and simplicity of the following description, a forward direction and a rearward direction are defined on the bicycle, with reference to their natural meaning with respect to the forward or rearward horizontal movement of the bicycle in use.

[0048] The frame 2 comprises in particular a tube 3 called a seat tube, a tube 4 called an oblique tube and possibly a tube 5 called an upper or horizontal tube, the tubes 3, 4, 5 typically forming a triangle, as in the example of [Fig.l]. On certain models of bicycle frame, such as that of [Fig.2] presented below, the upper tube 5 may be absent, in particular on an electrically assisted bicycle. This is called a low step-over, in particular to facilitate getting on or off the bicycle. The upper tube 5 may be doubled, its inclination relative to the seat tube 3 may vary, and / or it may not be straight, depending on the models. A Injunction between the oblique tube 4 and the upper tube 5, towards the front, the bicycle 1 comprises a tube 6 called the steering tube, assembled at a first end to a stem carrying a handlebar 7, and at the other end to a fork 8. The fork 8 carries the axle of the front wheel 9 of the bicycle 1.Optionally, the bicycle 1 may comprise a damping system between the head tube 6 and the front wheel 9. The frame 2 further comprises seat stays 10 a and chainstays 11 b, extending towards the rear of the bicycle from the seat tube 3 on each side of the rear wheel 11, and which carry the axle of the rear wheel 11. The frame 2 of the bicycle 1 is assembled to a crankset 12 provided with pedals 13, connected to the axle of the rear wheel 11 in order to allow the bicycle to be set in motion by the movement of the crankset 12. For example, the crankset 12 is connected to the axle of the rear wheel 11 by a chain / sprocket system, possibly provided with chainrings to allow different gear ratios to be chosen. A braking device, the actuator of which is available at the handlebar 7, may be installed on the bicycle to apply braking to the front wheel 9 and / or to the rear wheel 11. .

[0049] In order to allow a cyclist to sit on the bicycle 1, press the pedals 13 with his feet and hold the handlebars 7 with his hands, the bicycle 1 comprises a saddle, assembled to the frame 2 on the seat tube 3.

[0050] In [Fig.l], the bicycle 1 is equipped with a conventional seat 14, intended for a single cyclist, called a single-seater. Such a conventional seat 14 comprises a saddle 15 which has an upper surface 16 and a lower surface 17.

[0051] The terms lower, upper, above, below and their variants must be understood here with reference to the natural orientation of [Fig.l] and [Fig.2], the surface lower part being intended to be turned towards the ground when the bicycle 1 is used under normal conditions with the seat.

[0052] The saddle 15 is shaped to be adapted to human anatomy, and typically comprises a thinned portion, called the beak or saddle nose, intended to be directed forward, and a wider portion, intended to be directed rearward, so that the cyclist's buttocks are at least partly supported by contact with the rear portion, and the front portion extends between the cyclist's legs to allow him to pedal while limiting the friction of the saddle against the thighs. The upper surface 16 may also be shaped to adapt to the anatomy of the buttocks, and the saddle 15 may be widened or padded under the upper surface 16 with a material providing comfort to the cyclist, for example of the foam type. The seat 14 further comprises a seat post 18, fixed to the lower surface 17, and which is inserted into the seat tube 3 of the frame 2 of the bicycle.A clamping system, for example of the clamp type, makes it possible to lock the position of the seat post 18 in the seat tube 3 to adjust the height of the seat 14.

[0053] In [Fig. 2], a bicycle 1 is shown equipped with a seat 140 corresponding to an embodiment in accordance with the invention. The frame 2 is in accordance with the description given above with reference to [Fig. 1], and will not be described again, the same references designating the same elements. In particular, the frame 2 of the bicycle 1 of [Fig. 2] is devoid of an upper tube 5, in a widespread manner for an electrically assisted bicycle, without the invention being limited solely to this type of bicycle however. The bicycle 1 of the example of [Fig. 2] further comprises a luggage rack 19, resting on the axle of the rear wheel 11 carried by the seat stays 10.

[0054] The seat 140 according to the invention is intended to receive at least two users seated on it, in this case at least one driver who is generally active, that is to say who carries out the movement of the pedals, and at least one passenger who is generally passive, for example whose feet rest on a footrest system, fixed to the frame of the bicycle, as will be seen later.

[0055] More specifically, the seat 140 comprises a saddle 141 which has an upper surface 142 and a lower surface 143. The seat 140 further comprises a seat post 144, intended to be inserted at least partially into the seat tube 3 of the bicycle 1.

[0056] The seat post 144 extends between two ends. A first end is intended to be fixed to the saddle 141, and more precisely to the lower surface 143 of the saddle 141. The fixing of the post 144 to the saddle 141 can be carried out in any known manner, for example using a carriage rigidly fixed to the first end of the seat post 144 and which engages with rails rigidly fixed to the lower surface 143 of the saddle 141. The second end of the post 144 is free, that is to say it allows the introduction of the post 144 into the seat tube 3 of the frame 2 of the bicycle 1.

[0057] The length of the rod 144, that is to say its extension dimension between its two ends, may be greater than that of a rod for a conventional saddle, in order to better distribute the forces on the frame 2 of the bicycle when the rod 144 is inserted into the seat tube 3. As will be seen later, the length of the part of the rod 144 outside the seat tube 3 is adjustable in order to adjust the height of the saddle 141.

[0058] The diameter of the rod 144 is adapted to the inner diameter of the seat tube 3. The inner diameter of the seat tube 3 may vary depending on the bicycle models. However, the inner diameter of the seat tube 3 is generally 27.2 mm (millimeters) or 30.9 mm, or 31.6 mm.

[0059] The saddle 141 is adapted for two users to sit on it, that is to say for the upper surface 142 to come into contact simultaneously with at least a portion of the buttocks of at least two users, sitting one behind the other. For this purpose, the upper surface 142 comprises: • a first zone 145 called the front zone, shaped to receive at least part of the buttocks of a first user as support; • a second zone 146 called rear, distinct from the first zone 145 and in the continuity of the front zone 145, the rear zone 146 being shaped to receive at least part of the buttocks of a second user as support.

[0060] Thus, each zone 145, 146 is dedicated to receiving a user in a comfortable manner. In particular, the user seated on the front zone 145, who is generally the driver, can drive the bicycle with a comfort substantially similar to that of a single-seater saddle. The two zones 145, 146 can be distinguished using reliefs, as will be seen later, but not necessarily. For example, the two zones 145, 146 can be distinguished visually using color, patterns or even using a strap which will be explained later.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the saddle 141 is a single piece, that is to say that the first front zone 145 is made in one piece with the rear zone 146.

[0062] The seat 140 according to the invention is referred to below as a two-seater seat 140.

[0063] More precisely, the two-seater seat 140 extends in a longitudinal direction between two ends, namely a so-called front end 147 and a so-called rear end 148. The longitudinal direction of the two-seater seat 140 is substantially horizontal, substantially coincident with the front / rear direction of the bicycle, when the two-seater seat 140 is assembled to the bicycle, although an adjustment of the inclination of the saddle 141 is possible as will be seen later.

[0064] For the sake of clarity and simplicity of the description, a horizontal transverse direction is defined below, substantially perpendicular to the direction longitudinal, and a vertical direction, substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and to the transverse direction.

[0065] The front end 147 then corresponds to the longitudinal end of the front zone 145, and the rear end 148 corresponds to the longitudinal end of the rear zone 146. The length L of the seat 140, that is to say its longitudinal dimension between the front end 147 and the rear end 148, is greater than the length LO of a conventional saddle such as the seat 14 of [Fig. 1] intended for a single user. For example, the length L of the seat 140 is at least 30% greater than the length L0 of a conventional saddle. Preferably, the length L of the seat 140 is at most 140% greater than the length L0 of a conventional saddle. For example, the length L of the seat 140 is 80% greater than the length L0 of a conventional saddle. According to one embodiment, considering a length L0 of 25 cm (centimeters) for a conventional saddle, the length L of the seat 140 is between 32.5 cm and 60 cm, and is for example 45 cm.

[0066] The rod 144 extends in a substantially rectilinear manner between its first end and its second end, in a manner similar to a conventional saddle. Thus, the two-seater seat 140 can be adapted to any type of frame 2 of a conventional bicycle 1, simply by replacing a conventional saddle with the two-seater seat 140 for two users. The bicycle 1 thus does not need to be specially designed to be equipped with the two-seater seat 140, so that it can easily be used with a conventional saddle. The two-seater seat 140 can be mounted in the same manner as a conventional saddle, for example using a clamp or an anti-theft screw system requiring an Allen key type tool, to lock the rod 144 in the seat tube 3 of the frame 2 of the bicycle. The height of the saddle 141 is adjusted in an easy and known manner.The assembly and disassembly of the two-seater seat 140 is thus easy, facilitating the passage of the bicycle 1 to adapt it to a single user or to two simultaneous users. More precisely, the bicycle typically comprises a clamp-type clamping system on the seat tube 3, which makes it possible to clamp the seat post 144 in the tube after adjusting the height of the saddle 141.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the front zone 145 and the rear zone 146 may be located at two different levels, that is to say that the upper surface 142 comprises a rising or falling step 149 for passing from the front zone 145 to the rear zone 146. According to the example of FIGS. 2 to 5, the step 149 for passing from the front zone 145 to the rear zone 146 is descending. In other words, when the seat 140 is mounted on the bicycle 1 placed on the ground to be used in normal conditions, the lower zone 146 is at a height lower than that of the front zone 145. The step 149 then forms a stop for the user sitting on the rear zone 146: the user sitting on the rear zone 146 is blocked forward by the step 149, limiting the risks of causing a fall by pushing on the user sitting on the front zone 145, for example during sudden braking. Alternatively, the upper surface 142 may comprise a bead between the front zone 145 and the rear zone 146, forming a forward stop for the user sitting on the rear zone 16 and a rear stop for the user sitting on the front zone 145. The front zone 145 and the zone 146 are then substantially at the same level, i.e. at the same height. Safety is thus improved.

[0068] The rear end 148 can be raised relative to the rest of the rear area 145, so as to block the user towards the rear. Safety is further improved.

[0069] According to the embodiment of Figures 2 to 5, the length L1 of the front zone 145 is greater than the length L2 of the rear zone 146. Indeed, the front zone 145 is intended to support the driver, that is to say the user who will operate the pedals 13 and hold the handlebars 7, so that the shape of the front zone 145, described below, is adapted to support the driver while allowing him to pedal while limiting the friction of the saddle against the thighs.

[0070] The width of the upper surface 142 of the saddle 141 is defined as being the dimension along the transverse direction.

[0071] The front zone 145 has a shape adapted to human anatomy for a cyclist sitting on it, and is close to the shape of a classic saddle in that it has at least two sections of different width: • A first section 150 called thinned, commonly called nose or saddle beak, having a first width 11, and extending from the front end 147; • A second section 151 called widened, having a second width 12, and extending in the continuity of the thinned section 150 towards the rear end 148, the second width 12 being greater than the first width 11.

[0072] The width 11 of the thinned section 150 may not be constant, the width 11 designating a characteristic width of the thinned section 150, for example a median width on the thinned section 150. Similarly, the width 12 of the widened section 151 may not be constant, the width 2 designating a characteristic width of the widened section 151, for example a median width on the widened section 151.

[0073] This shape of the front zone 145 allows the user of the front zone to perform the necessary movements with his legs for pedaling, while limiting friction of the thighs against the saddle 141. The length of the widened section 151 can then be substantially equal to the length L2 of the rear zone 146, that is to say that the length L1 of the front zone 145 is greater than the length L2 of the rear zone 146.

[0074] Alternatively or in combination, the rear area 146 may also be adapted to human anatomy so that the user seated thereon can perform the movement of pedals by limiting friction between the seat 141 and the legs. For this purpose, the rear zone 146 may also include a thinned section and a widened section. Thus, the passenger can be installed on the front zone 145 while allowing the user installed on the rear zone 146 to pedal.

[0075] According to the embodiment of figures 2 to 5, the rear zone 146 has a width substantially equal to the second width 12, so as to offer a support surface for the user seated on the zone 146 which is large enough to provide the required comfort.

[0076] For the purposes of illustration, the total length L of the saddle 141 of a two-seater seat 140 according to an embodiment of the invention is compared in Figures 4a and 4b with the length L0 of a saddle 1410 of a conventional, single-seater seat 14, according to the prior art, intended to support only a single user. The two saddles 141 and 1410 are shown on the same scale. The length L is greater than the length L0. For example, the length L1 of the front zone 145 is substantially equal to the length L0. Thus, the two-seater saddle 141 according to an embodiment of the invention corresponds substantially to a conventional single-seater saddle 1410 with the rear zone 146 added. This design makes it possible in particular to avoid having to adapt the bicycle when two users wish to use it simultaneously.

[0077] The seat post 144 is fixed to the saddle 141 at a point P. The fixing may be of the pivoting type about a substantially transverse axis, so that the inclination of the saddle 141, that is to say the angle α between the post 144 and the longitudinal direction of the saddle 141, is adjustable. For this purpose, the post 144 may be provided with a device 152 for adjusting the inclination of the saddle 141, accessible by a user. Such a device may for example be of the “Pivotal Seat Post” type, the adjustment of the inclination being carried out using a tool such as a wrench or screwdriver, through an opening in the saddle 141, accessible from the side of the upper surface 142. Alternatively, the device 152 for adjusting the inclination may comprise a saddle carriage such as that commonly found on single-seater saddles.

[0078] The saddle 141 can be made of any material ensuring adequate comfort for the users.

[0079] The point P of attachment between the rod 144 and the saddle 141 is chosen in order to ensure the balance of the seat 140 mounted on the seat tube 3 of the bicycle 1. The balance is ensured both when two users simultaneously use the two-seater seat 140 and when a single user uses the two-seater seat 140. For this purpose, it has been chosen to assume that the user seated on the front zone 145 is an adult with a maximum mass of 75 kg (kilograms) and that the user seated on the rear zone 146 can be either a child or an adult, with here also a maximum mass of 75 kg, or a total carrying mass of 150 kg.

[0080] According to one embodiment, when the adjustment device 152 is of the “Pivotal Seat Post” type, the point P is located in the thickness of the saddle 141, that is to say between the upper surface 142 and the lower surface 143, and the adjustment of the inclination makes it possible to position the point P so as to balance the saddle 141. The comfort of the users is thus increased.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the seat 140 comprises between the saddle 141 and the rod 144 a system for adjusting the position of the point P in the longitudinal direction. For example, the system for adjusting the position of the point P comprises at least two openings for cooperating with a device 152 for adjusting the inclination of the “Pivotal Seat Post” type. The two openings can each be arranged on one of the front zone 145 or the rear zone 146, allowing users to choose the position of the point P at the level of the front zone 145 or the rear zone 146, to provide the best balance depending on the difference in weight between the users. Access to the device 152 for adjusting the inclination on the side of the upper surface 142 facilitates assembly and disassembly between the saddle 141 and the rod 144.Alternatively, the device for adjusting the position of point P can allow point P to slide in the longitudinal direction, for example using a groove on the seat 141, in a substantially continuous manner between two extreme positions. The longitudinal position of point P can thus be chosen by users to provide better balance and better comfort.

[0082] The seat 140 may include the following characteristics, which may be combined but not necessarily.

[0083] The seat 140 may include an anti-theft system. For example, such a system may include a handle at the rear of the seat 141, on the lower surface 143, at the rear end 148, forming a loop through which an anti-track cable may be passed. Alternatively or in combination, the anti-theft system may also include an opening passing through the seat and through which an anti-track cable may be passed.

[0084] The seat 140 may be provided with at least one handle, preferably at least two handles, arranged on the saddle 141 so that the user sitting on the rear area 146 can grasp them to ensure their balance. The at least one handle comprises, for example, the same handle as that of the anti-theft system. The at least one handle also makes it easier for a user on the ground to handle the bicycle 1 equipped with the seat 140.

[0085] According to an embodiment illustrated in [Fig.6], the at least one handle is formed at least in part by a strap 153 available on the upper surface 142 of the saddle 141, and fixed to the saddle. Preferably, the strap 153 can visually mark the distinction between the front area 145 and the rear area 146, the surface 142 upper being devoid of relief, such as a step or a bead, at the junction between the front zone 145 and the rear zone 146. The strap 153 is easily accessible for the user installed on the rear zone 14, improving safety.

[0086] As illustrated in [Fig. 6], the seat 140 may further comprise a lighting device 154 such as a lamp, for example arranged towards the rear, in order to improve safety by increasing visibility. More specifically, the rear end 148 may be located at a higher height than the rest of the upper surface 142 of the saddle 141, so that the rear area 146 is raised towards the rear end 148 relative to the front end 147. The rear surface 143 then has a portion 155 visible to people behind the bicycle 1 on which the seat 140 is mounted. The lighting device 154 is then advantageously positioned on the visible portion 155 of the lower surface 143. The lighting device 154 may operate on an electric battery, for example rechargeable via a USB port.Alternatively or in combination, the lighting device 154 may comprise a reflective device, for example, of the catadioptric type or reflective strips, arranged towards the rear.

[0087] The seat 140 may be associated with a footrest system assembled on the bicycle. The footrest system is capable of receiving the feet of the second user seated on the rear zone 146 of the saddle 140. The footrest system is assembled to the bicycle 1, for example on the seat stays 10a and / or on the chainstays 10b, on either side of the rear wheel 10. The footrest system may be assembled on the bicycle 1 by a clip-on device, i.e. ensuring a fixing without elastic deformation, and with an adjustable position along the seat stays 10a and / or the chainstays 10b. The passenger's balance, comfort and safety are improved.

[0088] The seat 140 may further comprise an anti-vibration device, making it possible to absorb at least part of the shocks when riding the bicycle to improve the comfort of the users and limit the shocks on the frame 2 of the bicycle 1. This anti-vibration device may be part of the seat post 144, with a parallelogram suspension type device.

[0089] The seat 140 may also include an accessory holder device, allowing accessories such as a helmet or helmet box, a bag, a crate or even a baby carrier to be attached.

[0090] According to one embodiment, illustrated in Figures 7a and 7b, the rear zone 146 is articulated by sliding in the longitudinal direction relative to the front zone 145, so that the saddle 141 can take at least two extreme positions: • A retracted position ([Fig.7a]), in which the rear area 146 is vertically superimposed on the front area 145, leaving one of the front area 145 and the rear area 146 at least partly accessible for a user to sit on; • A deployed position ([Fig.7b]), in which the rear area 146 is in the longitudinal extension of the front area 145, so that both the front area 145 and the rear area 146 are accessible for a user to sit on.

[0091] According to the embodiment illustrated in Figures 7a and 7b, the front zone 145 is the zone accessible in the retracted position of the saddle 141, the rear zone 146 being under the front zone 145, that is to say that the upper surface portion 142 at the level of the rear zone 146 is at least partly opposite the lower surface 143 at the level of the front zone 145. Any variant is however conceivable, in particular in which the front zone 145 is positioned under the rear zone 146 when the saddle 141 is in the retracted position.

[0092] Thus, in the retracted position, the seat 140 is presented as a conventional single-seater seat, for a single user, with limited space requirements, suitable for a single user. The seat 140 can easily move into the deployed position if it is necessary to accommodate two users simultaneously, without needing to change the saddle, and vice versa. The transition from one position to the other is easily done, for example by manually pulling or pushing on the rear zone 146, like a drawer. A locking system in the retracted position and / or in the deployed position can be integrated into the seat 140 in order to involve an action on the part of a user to be able to move from one position to the other and avoid the unexpected movement of the rear zone 146 relative to the front zone 145.

[0093] According to one embodiment, when the saddle 141 is in the deployed position, the rear zone 146 is at a lower height than that of the front zone 145, so that a user sitting on the rear zone 146 is in abutment towards the front against the front zone 145. The transition from one position to the other then involves a single longitudinal sliding, facilitating the production of the articulation and not unduly increasing the manufacturing costs. Alternatively, it may be provided that the rear zone 146 performs a substantially vertical movement to come, in the deployed position, to a height substantially equal to that of the front zone 145.

[0094] A two-seater seating kit is also offered, comprising: • At least one 140 seat; • One or more tools for adjusting the inclination of the saddle 141 and / or the height of the saddle 141; • If applicable, the footrest system; • An explanatory note for the assembly, disassembly and use of the 140 seat.

[0095] The seat 140 thus proposed offers a simple, practical and inexpensive solution for enabling two users to be transported safely simultaneously on the same bicycle 1, within the framework of article R.431-5 of the highway code.

Claims

Claims

1. Seat (140) for a bicycle comprising: • a saddle (141) having an upper surface (142) and a lower surface (143); • a seat post (144) comprising a first end fixed to the saddle (141) and a second end intended to be inserted into a seat tube (3) of a bicycle (1); the seat (140) being characterized in that the seat post (144) extends in a substantially rectilinear manner between the first end and the second end, and in that the upper surface (142) of the saddle (141) comprises: • a first zone (145) called the front zone shaped to receive at least part of the buttocks of a first user as support; • a second zone (146) called rear, distinct from and in line with the front zone (145), the rear zone (146) being shaped to receive at least part of the buttocks of a second user as support.

2. Seat (140) according to the preceding claim, further comprising a system (152) for adjusting the inclination between the upper surface (142) of the saddle (141) and the saddle post (144).

3. Seat (140) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the front area (145) and the rear area (146) define two levels on the upper surface (142), so as to form a step (149) between the two areas (145, 146) on the upper surface (142).

4. Seat (140) according to the preceding claim, in which the step (149) rises between the front zone (145) and the rear zone (146).

5. Seat (140) according to claim 3 in which the step (149) is descending between the front zone (145) and the rear zone (146).

6. A seat (140) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the upper surface (142) comprises a bead between the front area (145) and the rear area (146), the front area (145) and the rear area (146) being substantially at the same level.

7. A seat (140) according to any preceding claim, wherein the saddle (141) comprises at least one handle.

8. Seat (140) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one lighting system fixed to the saddle (141).

9. Seat (140) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the rear zone (146) is articulated by sliding in the longitudinal direction relative to the front zone (145), so that the saddle (141) can take at least two extreme positions: • A retracted position, in which the rear zone (146) is vertically superimposed on the front zone (145), leaving one of the front zone (145) or the rear zone (146) at least partly accessible for a user to sit on; • A deployed position, in which the rear zone (146) is in the longitudinal extension of the front zone (145), so that the front zone (145) and the rear zone (146) are both accessible for two users to sit simultaneously on the saddle (141).

10. Bicycle (1) comprising a frame (2) which has a seat tube (3) and a system for clamping a rod in the seat tube (3), the bicycle (1) further comprising a seat (140) according to any one of the preceding claims, the seat rod (144) being inserted into the seat tube (3) and locked by the clamping system.

11. Bicycle (1) according to the preceding claim, comprising a footrest device capable of receiving the feet of the second user seated on the rear area of ​​the saddle (141).

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