Indoor Bicycle Training Device

Abstract

To provide an indoor stationary bicycle training device that offers advantages over conventionally designed exercise bicycles. [Solution] The stationary bicycle includes a tilt / pivot mechanism for tilting the indoor bicycle to simulate descending or ascending hills. The indoor bicycle includes flexible and resilient frame elements for supporting the indoor training device to move side to side under some riding conditions and simulate the side-to-side rocking motion of an outdoor bicycle under the same riding conditions. The indoor bicycle includes several combinations of frame adjustments to provide configurable dimensions for adjusting the frame to properly fit the rider, adjusted based on the corresponding dimensions of the user's outdoor bicycle. Still other aspects of the stationary bicycle device assist in creating an "outdoor" sensation while using the device.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) application claims priority to currently pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 62 / 893,563, entitled “Bicycle Training Device,” filed Aug. 29, 2019, which is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0002] The disclosed embodiments of the present invention relate generally to indoor cycling training devices and related systems, and more specifically to indoor bicycle devices that provide a variety of features including, among other features, portability, frame adjustability, and rider fit customization, integrated hill climbing and descent control, and pedaling resistance control, and the advantages of individually and in various combinations collectively providing a dynamic platform for providing a dynamic indoor training environment including simulating and emulating outdoor riding and interacting with various virtual training environments, among other advantages. [Background technology]

[0003] Indoor cycling training with the right equipment can be very enjoyable. In addition to this, busy schedules, bad weather, intensive training, and other factors motivate cyclists, from beginners to professionals, to train indoors. There are many indoor training options, including many different types of exercise bicycles that have been developed over the years. A typical exercise bicycle may resemble a real bicycle, including a seat, handlebars, pedals, crank arms, drive sprockets, and chain, but often without wheels. Exercise bicycles typically include some form of adjustable resistance to pedaling and to change the amount of power required for the rider to pedal the exercise bicycle. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 019 / 0022497 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Although useful for indoor training, conventional exercise bicycles often provide an experience that is not comfortable and that is different from actually riding a bicycle outdoors and has various other deficiencies. For example, many conventional exercise bicycles include heavy rigid frames, which may be excellent for training, but do not mean that it has the same feeling as riding outdoors. Although exercise bicycles offer many options for changing dimensions, they often cannot be adjusted in sufficient dimensions to reproduce all of the dimensional relationships between the frame members and the handlebars, seat, etc. found on a well-fitting outdoor bicycle. These issues, among others, contribute to the different feeling between riding an exercise bicycle and a conventional outdoor bicycle that includes wheels and is intended to propel the rider forward when the drive crank is engaged or actuated by the rider. The rigid frames of typical stationary training bicycles and so-called "spin" (indoor cycling) bicycles may not be able to simulate the sensation of side-to-side movement experienced when pedaling hard and standing during hard sprints or climbing, which a rider may experience when riding a bicycle outdoors. The size and control of the crank assembly, gear ratios, shift levers, and other aspects of a stationary training bicycle device may also vary as compared to an outdoor bicycle, further providing a different "stationary" experience from outdoor riding.

[0006] Computer-integrated virtual riding and training software such as TrainerRoad® and Zwift®, among many others, are also becoming more popular. Since many riders take up bicycle riding due to the enjoyment of the activity when riding outdoors, an indoor training device that is well integrated with a virtual riding system to provide the dynamic experience of outdoor riding would be beneficial. With these considerations in mind among others, various aspects of a stationary bicycle training device as disclosed herein have been devised. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a stationary bicycle device including a frame, a post pivotally coupled to a foot assembly positioned to engage a surface, a top tube extending forward from the post, in one example at an opposite end of the foot assembly, a flexible support leg structure supporting the post, the flexible support leg structure including a first flexible resilient leg and a second flexible resilient leg, the first flexible resilient leg deforms in response to a first force to tilt the post to one side and the second flexible resilient leg deforms in response to a second force to tilt the post to another side, and a tilt mechanism operably coupled to the post for controllably pivoting the post forward or backward to simulate a downhill or uphill riding position.

[0008] Another aspect involves an indoor cycle that includes a frame having a pivoting vertical orientation post supporting a seat and handlebars, and a tilt mechanism operatively coupled to the pivoting vertical orientation post for pivoting the post forward to orient the frame to simulate a downhill riding position or pivoting the post rearward to orient the frame to simulate an uphill riding position.

[0009] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a stationary indoor training device including a post, the post including an upper end section and a lower end section, extending vertically from a surface-engaging foot (or base), and an upper tube extending forward from the upper end section of the post. The upper tube, in one example, supports an adjustable seat assembly, and the post substantially supports the weight of a user on the seat of the adjustable seat assembly. The indoor training device further includes first and second flexible support arms each extending substantially forward and rearward from the foot or base, each flexible support arm configured to displace or otherwise vertically displace in response to a shift in the user's weight in a lateral motion, allowing the post to tilt or otherwise lean in the direction of the shift in the user's weight.

[0010] Yet another aspect of the present disclosure relates to an adjustable indoor stationary bicycle device including an adjustable length center post including a lower end and an upper end, and a top tube extending forwardly from the upper end of the center post and including a forward end and a rearward end. The stationary bicycle device may also include a seat assembly adjustably coupled to the rearward end of the top tube to extend forwardly or rearwardly relative to the rearward end of the top tube, the seat assembly supporting a seat and a handlebar assembly adjustably coupled to the front end of the top tube to extend forwardly or rearwardly relative to the forward end of the top tube, the handlebar assembly supporting handlebars.

[0011] Yet another aspect of the present disclosure relates to an exercise bicycle having a frame that rocks from side to side. The frame can include a first flexible elastic member and a second flexible elastic member that support the exercise bicycle on a surface. Each of the flexible elastic members includes at least two points that engage the surface and a portion between the two points that is disposed above the surface. The first flexible elastic member supports a first side of the exercise bicycle. As an example, the first flexible elastic member can define an arcuate shape. The second flexible elastic member can also define an arcuate shape. In any case, the second flexible elastic member includes at least two points that engage the surface and a second portion between the two points that is disposed above the surface, and the second flexible elastic member supports a second side of the exercise bicycle. The first flexible elastic member and the second flexible elastic member can support the frame in a normally neutral vertical orientation, with the portion of the first flexible elastic member deflecting downward toward the surface in response to a user shifting their weight to the first side, and the portion of the second flexible elastic member deflecting downward toward the surface in response to a user shifting their weight to the second side.

[0012] Yet another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method of supporting an exercise device, wherein a first flexible elastic member engages a surface to provide forward, rearward, and lateral support to the exercise device when it is oriented to one side (e.g., the left side with respect to any portion of the device along a vertical center plane defined by the handlebar stem, the seat post, and the top tube therebetween). The flexible elastic member includes a portion disposed above the surface, and the first flexible elastic member is displaced in a first direction in response to a first force applied to the first flexible elastic member, the first force corresponding to a first lateral movement of a user of the exercise device. For example, during pedaling, the user leans slightly to the left, displacing the first member and causing the bicycle frame to correspondingly tilt slightly to the left. The first flexible elastic member also returns to a neutral orientation or otherwise returns the first flexible elastic member to its pre-displacement shape in response to removal of the first force. A second flexible elastic member on the opposite side (e.g., the other right side) of the first flexible elastic member similarly displaces in response to a second force applied to the second flexible elastic member (e.g., when the user leans to the right while pedaling), the second force corresponding to a second lateral movement of the user of the exercise device.

[0013] Yet another aspect of the present disclosure relates to an adjustable stationary bicycle device including a telescoping frame post and an adjustable top tube extending forwardly from the frame post and capable of being dual telescoping, the adjustable top tube including a seat assembly support adjustably coupled within a rear end of the top tube to telescope forwardly or rearwardly relative to the top tube, and a handlebar assembly support adjustably coupled within a front end of the top tube to telescope forwardly or rearwardly relative to the top tube.

[0014] Exemplary embodiments are illustrated in the referenced figures in the drawings. It is intended that the embodiments and figures disclosed herein be considered illustrative and not limiting. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of a stationary bicycle training device according to one embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a side view of a stationary bicycle training device showing a control circuit and drive mechanism according to one embodiment. [Diagram 3] 3 is a side view of a control circuit and drive mechanism of the stationary bicycle training device of FIG. 2 in accordance with one embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is an opposite side view of a stationary bicycle training device showing a bicycle crank arm and pedal assembly according to one embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a bottom rear portion of a stationary bicycle training device showing a tilt mechanism according to one embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a bottom isometric view of a stationary bicycle training device showing a central foot assembly according to one embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a bottom rear portion of a stationary bicycle training device showing the connection between the tilt mechanism and the central foot assembly according to one embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is an isometric view of the opposite side of the bottom rear portion of a stationary bicycle training device showing the connection between the tilt mechanism and the central foot assembly according to one embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is an isometric view of a bottom rear portion of a stationary bicycle training device showing components of a central foot assembly according to one embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a side view of a tilt mechanism of a stationary bicycle training device for tilting a central post according to one embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a top view of a stationary bicycle training device showing support legs extending from the body of the device according to one embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is a front view of a stationary bicycle training device showing support legs extending from the body of the device according to one embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is a side view of a stationary bicycle training device showing support legs extending from the body of the device according to one embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is an isometric bottom view of a forefoot pad connected to a support leg of a stationary bicycle training device according to one embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 illustrates a top view of a forefoot pad connected to a support leg of a stationary bicycle training device according to one embodiment. [Figure 16] 1 is a side view of a stationary bicycle training device illustrating various adjustment mechanisms for altering the dimensions of the bicycle device according to one embodiment. [Figure 17] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a stationary bicycle training device illustrating various adjustment mechanisms for altering the dimensions of the bicycle device according to one embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a top tube of a stationary bicycle according to one embodiment. [Figure 19] 1 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for automatically adjusting an adjustment mechanism of a stationary bicycle training device according to one embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 1 is a side view of a stationary bicycle training device showing an adjustable crank arm according to one embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a flywheel member of a flywheel / motor assembly of a stationary bicycle training device according to one embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a flywheel / motor assembly of a stationary bicycle training device, showing the motor portion of the assembly, according to one embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional close-up view of a flywheel / motor assembly of a stationary bicycle training device showing the motor portion of the assembly according to one embodiment. [Figure 24] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a computer system that can be used to implement embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 25A] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a control circuit for controlling a motor of a stationary bicycle training device according to one embodiment. [Figure 25B]1 is a flow diagram of a method for generating a drive signal for a motor of a stationary bicycle training device to assist in the initial rotation of a flywheel according to one embodiment. [Figure 26] FIG. 2 is an isometric view of a handlebar assembly of a stationary bicycle training device according to one embodiment. [Figure 27] FIG. 1 illustrates an isometric side view of a shift lever / brake controller of a stationary training device according to one embodiment. [Figure 28] FIG. 13 is an isometric opposing side view of a shift lever / brake controller of a stationary training device according to one embodiment. [Figure 29] FIG. 1 is an isometric side view of a computing device of a stationary bicycle training device configured to receive input from a shift lever / brake controller according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0016] Aspects of the present disclosure relate to an indoor smart training bicycle device that offers several advantages over conventional stationary exercise bicycles. For example, an indoor bicycle provided herein can include a vertically adjustable center post supported on a central foot assembly that can include a tilt mechanism to tilt the center post forward and / or backward to provide climbing or descending simulation. In some cases, the tilt of the indoor bicycle frame can be controlled or actuated by a controller associated with the stationary bicycle in conjunction with a training program to provide the sensation of an outdoor ride. The climbing simulation can also be coupled with a resistance control such that resistance is increased for climbing simulations and decreased for descending simulations. For example, and through the controller, the center post of the stationary bicycle can be rotated, pivoted, etc. to tilt forward to simulate a downhill ride corresponding to a program or display. Similarly, the controller can control the tilt mechanism to tilt the center post backward to simulate an uphill climb corresponding to a program or display showing a rider's avatar riding the bicycle uphill. When combined with a virtual ride platform, an avatar can be shown going downhill or uphill in sync with the physical orientation and / or resistance control of the indoor cycle.

[0017] Aspects of the exercise bicycle may further include frame elements that allow for an amount of flexing of the indoor bicycle such that the indoor bicycle moves side to side while pedaling, thereby providing a relatively more comfortable feel and simulating the sensation of riding a bicycle outdoors. In one example, the indoor bicycle includes a pair of stabilizing legs that extend both outwardly and forward and outwardly and rearward from the central foot assembly. With the rider in a seated neutral position, the stabilizing legs hold the indoor bicycle in a vertical orientation. The stabilizing legs also allow the indoor bicycle to lean side to side when the rider leans side to side, such as while pedaling, standing and pedaling, or pedaling hard. The side to side motion permitted by the stabilizing legs is substantially perpendicular to the forward and post-climbing and descending leaning rotation of the indoor bicycle. The side to side motion of a stationary bicycle may emulate or otherwise approximate the leaning movement experienced while turning the bicycle.

[0018] In addition to the movement of the stationary bicycle during use described above, the indoor bicycle can also include several degrees of freedom to adjust various configurable dimensions of the frame to properly fit the rider. For example, the center post can be vertically adjustable to extend its length to various lengths, which has the advantage of at least allowing the rider to adjust the distance to the crank axle and fit the overall height of the frame to the rider's height (beyond what is possible by simply adjusting the seat height). The length of the top tube connected to the center post can also be adjusted. In one example, the top tube length is adjusted through a first horizontally adjustable arm extending rearward from the top tube and a second horizontally adjustable arm extending forward from the top tube, which provides for adjusting the top tube length to further customize the fit of the exercise bicycle for any given rider. The top tube length, like the center post length, provides a mechanism to fit the frame to the rider's size and roughly defines the distance between the seat and the handlebars beyond what is possible by simply adjusting either the seat position or the handlebar position. The bicycle seat post can be connected to the rear adjustable arm and the handlebar post can be connected to the front adjustable arm, both of which can be adjusted vertically to adjust the seat height and the handlebar height. Movement of the first and second adjustable arms (either forward or rearward relative to the top tube) allows the rider or user of the stationary bicycle to select the desired length of the top tube and the distance between the seat assembly and the handlebar assembly of the bicycle. That is, the stationary bicycle device provides vertical adjustment points for the center post, the seat post, and the handlebar post, and horizontal adjustment for the first and second adjustable arms, essentially allowing the ability to customize the indoor bicycle frame. The multiple adjustment points of the stationary bicycle device, alone or in combination, allow the bicycle fit to be adjusted for many types, sizes, and body shapes of different riders.

[0019] In some implementations, the dimensions of the stationary bicycle can be set or adjusted based on the corresponding dimensions of the user's outdoor bicycle. For example, the distance between the seat and handlebars, along with the seat height and handlebar height (in terms of their position relative to any reference point on the bicycle), can be determined from the user's outdoor bicycle, and the distances can be used to adjust various parts of the indoor bicycle frame to dimensionally match the outdoor bicycle. This can be useful for any rider, but is particularly useful when a rider wants to fit their outdoor bicycle to match the fit of their indoor bicycle. In this way, the stationary bicycle can provide a similar feel to the user's outdoor bicycle, or vice versa, by adjusting the dimensions of the indoor bicycle to match the dimensions of the user's outdoor bicycle. In some implementations, one or more of the adjustment points of the indoor bicycle can be controlled by a controller that provides adjustment signals to a motor or other mechanical device to automatically adjust the adjustment points to the determined dimensions. The determined dimensions can be provided to a controller by a computing device for adjustment of the stationary bicycle, such as through a mobile device or computing device associated with the outdoor bicycle that captures the dimensions of the user's outdoor bicycle (e.g., angles and spacing between various points on the outdoor bicycle that can be converted to an exercise bicycle). The controller or computing device can convert the determined dimensions of the outdoor bicycle into one or more settings for the adjustment points of the stationary bicycle to satisfy the dimensions of the outdoor bicycle. The controller can also automatically adjust the bicycle adjustment points for different riders of the stationary bicycle, such that a single stationary bicycle can be used by several riders and the bicycle adjusts the bicycle dimensions accordingly for each rider.

[0020] The indoor bicycle device may also include a crank component that provides an adjustment of the effective crank length. Typically and conventionally, the crank arm length is defined by the distance between the crank axle (or corresponding opening) about which the crank rotates and the pedal opening where the pedal is attached to the crank. The crank arm here includes a pedal opening for attaching the crank arm and a number of holes for attaching the pedal, each hole providing a different effective pedal length when the pedal is attached thereto. More specifically, the crank arm component may include an arm having a generally triangular end including a number of threaded holes disposed along an edge of the triangular end region. By threadingly engaging the pedal with one of the threaded holes of the crank arm, each hole defining a different crank arm length, the crank length can be quickly selected for a stationary bicycle based on crank arm preference or to match the crank length of the user's outdoor bicycle.

[0021] Further aspects of the indoor bicycle device can aid in creating an "outdoor" sensation during use of the indoor bicycle. For example, the indoor bicycle can include a flywheel / motor assembly for controlling resistance, responding to conditions in a virtual environment, and countless other possibilities for outdoor simulation, gameplay, training, and the like. Typically, a crank is coupled to a drive sprocket (gear), which is in turn coupled to a flywheel / motor assembly through a belt, chain, or other mechanism. The flywheel is used to simulate the inertia and momentum of a conventional bicycle. To increase controllability, a motor can drive or provide resistance to the flywheel. Although the system of the present invention can function with or without a flywheel alone, even with a relatively large flywheel that better simulates the inertia and momentum of an adult rider with a relatively large weight attached, the combined use of both the flywheel and the motor provides flexibility of control and riding sensation. In some examples, the motor can be actuated to turn the flywheel to simulate riding downhill or coasting, for example, to simulate the ease and speed of pedaling that occurs when riding a bicycle downhill. Similarly, the motor can provide an opposing force, i.e., a braking force, to the flywheel assembly to simulate riding uphill, for example, to simulate the resistance of gravity when riding uphill. The force that the motor assembly applies to the flywheel can also be utilized to simulate different gear ratios or gear shifts of an outdoor bicycle. In particular, one or more electronic shift levers can also be included in the stationary indoor bicycle device. The electronic shift lever can include one or more actuators that are programmable to provide different results when activated. In this manner, the shift lever can be configured to mimic or approximate a shift lever that a rider can use in connection with an "outdoor" bicycle.Additionally, the stationary bicycle can simulate the experience of a gear ratio change in response to actuation of a shift lever through control of a motor associated with the flywheel assembly; for example, rather than actually shifting gears as with an outdoor bicycle, when a user actuates an electronic shift lever, the motor is controlled to simulate any sensation of upshifting or downshifting by varying the resistance it provides. Of course, this effect can be further overlaid with environments that take into account speed, slope, rider weight, virtual drafting, etc. As a result, the stationary bicycle can include several features that provide a sense of realism to the stationary bicycle when used by a rider, such as to accompany a virtual riding program (training program, online video game, etc.) to simulate an indoor track ride, for use such as to simulate an outdoor ride.

[0022] Referring now to the figures in more detail, FIGS. 1-2 show a stationary bicycle 100 including an adjustable post 102 that extends perpendicularly from a foot assembly 104. The post 102 faces slightly rearward. A top tube 106 is attached to the top end of the central post 102 above the central foot assembly. In some cases, the top tube 106 may be welded or otherwise connected to the central post 102. The top tube 106 generally extends forward from the top end of the central post 102. In the illustrated example, the top tube is also approximately perpendicular to the central post, but may define some angle with respect to the central post that is greater or less than 90 degrees. Aspects of the top tube 106, including multiple mechanisms for adjusting the length of the top tube 106 and other dimensions of the indoor bicycle 100 associated with the top tube 106, are discussed in more detail below. As best seen in FIGS. 1-4, a drive assembly 108 is supported on a first side of the central post 102, which may be the right side from the perspective of a rider seated on the device. The drive assembly 108 can include a drive sprocket 116 connected to a crank axle 110. The drive sprocket 116 is configured to turn a belt, but can also be configured to turn a chain. In the illustrated example, the drive sprocket 116 is circular, but can also be oval. The crank axle 110 extends through the center post 102 and is pivotally supported at the center post relative to the bottom bracket, supporting a first crank arm 112 and a second crank arm 114. A first pedal 120 can be connected to the first crank arm 112, and a second pedal 122 can be connected to the second crank arm 114. By applying a downward force to each pedal 120, 122, the rider can cause a corresponding rotation of the crank axle 110 and a rotation of the drive sprocket 116 about an axis of rotation that passes through the center of the crank axle 110. Drive sprocket 116 may include teeth extending from its outer periphery that engage corresponding treads on the inner surface of drive belt 118 such that rotation of drive sprocket 116 causes drive belt 118 to rotate.

[0023] The drive belt 118 is also connected to the outer periphery of a rear gear (or sprocket) 124, which has a smaller diameter than the drive sprocket 116. The rear gear 124 is positioned generally rearward from the drive sprocket 116 and, like the drive sprocket 116, includes teeth that extend from the outer periphery of the rear gear 124 to engage corresponding teeth of the drive belt 118. The rear gear 124 operably engages a flywheel / motor assembly 126 (discussed in more detail below) such that rotation of the drive belt 118 causes corresponding rotation of the rear gear 124, and thus, rotation of the flywheel. In this manner, a rider of the stationary bicycle 100 can pedal the drive assembly 108 to cause rotation of the flywheel / motor assembly 126. As seen in FIG. 1, a protective cover 128 can be included over the drive belt 118 to prevent access to the drive assembly 108 during use. In some embodiments, a water bottle cage 130 can extend upwardly and forwardly from a front surface of the center post 102.

[0024] Returning to Figure 3, a control circuit board 132 having a number of control components may be supported on the rear surface of the central post 102. Components of a control system for the stationary bicycle 100, as described further herein, may be included on or otherwise supported on the control circuit board 132 for executing one or more drive control programs, sensor signal processing, ride simulation algorithms or programs, etc. In general, the control circuit board 132 may include components of a computing device, including memory components, processing units or components, electrical signal processing components, etc., for executing one or more programs associated with the operation and control of the indoor bicycle 100.

[0025] 1 and 5-10 in particular, as discussed above, one such control feature of stationary bicycle 100 includes forward and / or rearward tilt of central post 102, which serves to orient the indoor bicycle to simulate an uphill or downhill riding position of a conventional bicycle. The tilt of central post 102 can be controlled through a tilt mechanism 150 connected to the lower end of post 102 and central foot assembly 104. As best shown in FIGS. 6-9, central foot assembly 104 defines a generally inverted T-shape and includes a flat bottom surface 134 and side walls 136 and rounded front wall 138 (shown in FIG. 9) extending upwardly from bottom surface 134. Side walls 136 define a channel therebetween, the channel facing upwardly and spaced to receive the lower end of central post 102. More specifically, a center post mounting pin 140 passes through the side wall 136 of the center foot assembly 104 and extends through the center post 102 near the lower end of the center post to pivotally support the center post 102 relative to the center foot assembly 104. The center post mounting pin 140 allows the center post 102 to rotate in a forward or rearward rotation about the pin 140, causing the indoor frame to tilt forward or rearward to simulate a downhill or uphill frame orientation. The pins are supported in suitable bearing arrangements fixed to the respective center post and foot assemblies. Thus, in addition to connecting the center post 102 to the center foot assembly 104, the center post mounting pin 140 provides an axis of rotation for the tilt of the center post 102 of the stationary bicycle 100. In some cases, a foot pad 142 of hard plastic material can be included on the bottom surface 134 of the foot assembly 104 to provide a base on which the center post assembly engages on whatever surface the indoor cycle is positioned on.

[0026] The tilt mechanism 150 may be coupled between the foot assembly and the central post, with a motor-driven post 152 that extends or retracts to pivot the post 102 about the pivot pin 140. More specifically, the tilt mechanism 150 may be pivotally supported relative to the rear end of the central foot assembly 104. The tilt mechanism faces rearward of the central post, but may also be positioned forward of the post. In one example, the rotatable support is achieved with a pin and bearing arrangement similar to the way the central post 102 is connected to the central foot assembly 104. In particular, the tilt drive mounting pin 146 may pass through the side wall 136 of the central foot assembly 104 and extend through a pair of mounting loops 148 that extend from the housing bottom of the tilt drive motor 144. The tilt mechanism 150 is allowed to pivot or rotate forward or rearward about the tilt drive mounting pin 146. Other rotatable connections between the tilt mechanism 150 and the central foot assembly 104 are possible. The tilt drive motor 144 may include a stepper motor actuator to extend or retract the shaft 152. As best seen in FIGURE 10, the shaft 152 is connected at its lower end to the tilt drive 144 and at its upper end to a bracket 154. The shaft 152 is connected to the bracket 154 with a tilt bracket pin 156 that extends through the bracket 154 and the upper end of the shaft 152, providing rotational movement of the shaft 152 about the bracket pin 156. A forward portion of the bracket 154 is connected to the center post 102 and may optionally be welded to the center post 102.

[0027] To tilt the center post 102 to simulate an uphill or downhill orientation of the indoor bicycle 100, the tilt drive 144 receives one or more control signals from the control component 132 of the stationary bicycle 100 to cause the drive 144 to extend or retract the shaft 152. The extension of the shaft 152 causes the center post 102 to tilt forward about the axis of rotation of the center post mounting pin 140. A corresponding rotation about the bracket pin 156 and the drive mounting pin 146 also occurs as the center post 102 tilts forward. Retraction of the shaft 152 by the tilt drive 144 causes an opposite tilt of the center post 102 rearward. In this manner, the center post 102 of the stationary bicycle 100 can be tilted forward and rearward, also through control of the tilt mechanism 150. Tilting the central post 102 forward simulates the orientation of the outdoor bicycle being ridden downhill, and tilting the central post 102 rearward simulates the orientation of the outdoor bicycle being ridden uphill. During tilting of the stationary bicycle 100, the central foot assembly 104 may remain prone or otherwise motionless to provide a stable support base for the bicycle. In some cases, discussed in more detail below, tilting of the central post 102 through the tilt mechanism 150 may correspond to a program or other riding simulation program that displays an avatar of the stationary bicycle rider in response to a program indicating an uphill or downhill climb within the program, to further simulate the experience of riding an outdoor bicycle. Similarly, uphill and downhill orientation simulations may be accompanied by corresponding changes in the flywheel motor control. One example of a control mechanism for actuating or otherwise controlling the tilt of the central post 102 is included as described in U.S. Patent Application No. 2019 / 0022497, issued to Wahoo Fitness Inc., the contents of which are incorporated herein in their entirety.

[0028] Other tilt mechanisms may also or additionally be included on the stationary bicycle 100. For example, the tilt drive 144 may include any type of actuator, such as a linear actuator, preferably mechanical but also pneumatic or hydraulic, to extend or retract the tilt shaft 152, or any other motor driving a piston, stepper motor, screw drive, or other mechanical device that actuates the extension and retraction of the shaft. Additionally, the tilt drive 144 may be located at various locations on the stationary bicycle 100, such as at the top of the center post 102, in front of the center post, adjacent to the center post, etc. In still other cases, the tilt mechanism 150 may not include a tilt shaft, but instead may rotate the center post 102 in response to a drive signal. For example, a rotation actuator may be in communication with the tilt drive mounting pin 146 to rotate the center post 102 in a forward or rearward rotation about the mounting pin 146. In still other cases, additional portions of the frame of the stationary bicycle 100 may be tilted forward or rearward to simulate riding uphill or downhill. Generally, any mechanism that can be coupled with an indoor bicycle and actuated to tilt a central post about a pivot pin can be incorporated into the bicycle to simulate the experience of going up or down a hill.

[0029] As shown in Figs. 11-15, etc., the stationary bicycle 100 may include a pair of support legs 158, 160. From the area of ​​the central foot assembly, each leg includes a forward extending portion and a rearward and outward extending portion. Typically, each leg provides front and rear support as well as one side of the frame, e.g., lateral support, while the other leg supports the other side. In the area of ​​the central foot assembly, at the apex region of the front and rear / outer portions of each leg, the leg rests above the support surface and extends downward at a shallow angle to engage the support surface at the respective front and rear / outer ends. The legs are configured to provide lateral (side-to-side) and front-to-back stability to the stationary bicycle 100. In the illustrated example, each support leg 158, 160 includes a front straight portion 162, 164 and a rear angled portion 172, 174. Each support leg 158, 160 functions similarly to provide stability support to the stationary bicycle 100. The legs also provide side-to-side stability designed to flex to accommodate some side-to-side frame movement, thereby simulating the side-to-side movement experienced when pedaling an outdoor bicycle, especially in hard sprint situations, and standing on the pedals. In general, when the rider shifts his weight to one side or the other while pedaling, a force is transferred through the connection between the frames, deflecting the apex area of ​​the support leg slightly downward, regardless of which support leg the rider shifts towards, allowing the indoor cycle to tilt slightly towards the downwardly deflected leg.

[0030] In particular, the support legs 158, 160 include forward straight portions 162, 164 that extend forward and slightly downward from the central foot assembly 104. The forward extending portions are substantially parallel to the upper tube. The support legs 158, 160 are supported or otherwise connected to an upper surface of the wall 136 of the central foot assembly 104 opposite the bottom surface 134. Thus, the forward straight portions 162, 164 of the legs 158, 160 are angled downward from the upper surface of the central foot assembly 104 at their proximal ends and contact the ground at their distal ends to provide a forward support contact point with the ground. In one embodiment, the distal or front ends of the straight portions 162, 164 can extend to a level corresponding to the bottom surface 134 of the central foot assembly 104. The front foot pad 166 may connect the front or distal ends of the straight portions 162, 164 of the support legs 158, 160 together and provide cushioned front support to the stationary bicycle 100. In an alternative embodiment, each support leg 158, 160 may include a separate front foot pad on which the stationary bicycle 100 rests. The front foot pad 166 may have a generally triangular base with sides that extend upward and taper toward the rear of the stationary bicycle 100. The bottom surface of the front foot pad 166 may have one or more soft pads disposed thereon to provide cushioning to the stationary bicycle when placed on the ground. Two channels 170 may be disposed at the rear of the front foot pad 166 to receive the distal or front ends of the front straight portions 162, 164 of the legs 158, 160.

[0031] Each support leg 158, 160 may also include a rear portion 172, 174 that extends rearwardly from the foot assembly 104. Each leg includes a curved or apex region between the front and rear portions. From the curved section 171, 173, the rear portion extends both rearwardly and outwardly away from the foot assembly 104, or flares. Each leg is supported or otherwise connected to an upper surface of the wall 136 of the central foot assembly 104 opposite the bottom surface 134. The rear portion extends outwardly slightly rearward of where the leg is supported on the central foot assembly. The rear portion of each leg is angled downwardly relative to the upper surface of the central foot assembly 104. The distal ends of the rear portions 172, 174 of the support legs 158, 160 may include circular rear support feet 176, 178 that extend downwardly to provide rearward support for the stationary bicycle. In some embodiments, wheels 180 may be supported on the distal ends of the rearward portions 172, 174 of the support legs 158, 160 to assist in moving the stationary bicycle 100 from location to location.

[0032] As mentioned above, the stationary bicycle 100 is primarily supported by the central foot assembly 104 below the central post 102 as the weight of the frame and rider is transferred to the central foot assembly and its support on the ground. The legs provide both vertical and lateral support. While operating the indoor bicycle 100, the rider's weight may oscillate from side to side in response to pedaling actions performed by the rider. That is, when the rider exerts a downward force on one side of the bicycle 100, pushing the pedals and rotating the drive sprocket 116, the rider's weight momentarily shifts to that side, which may be especially noticeable when sprinting or standing pedaling. In other words, the rider may move laterally from the rider's point of view facing forward, and in response, the appropriately flexible resilient legs positioned to the right or left, respectively, below the seat and rider will each flex downward as weight is applied to the right or left, respectively, and the vertically oriented central post will pivot slightly to the left or right, simulating the side-to-side movement of an outdoor bicycle when being ridden. Even when the rider is seated, the side-to-side movement of the torso, however slight, may be sufficient to cause some flexing of the support legs to which the rider's weight is transferred. This rider movement may shift the rider's center of gravity slightly from the center of the bicycle 100 (approximately along the central post 102) to the side of the bicycle 100 where the force is being applied. When the center of gravity moves to one side, the stationary bicycle 100 will cause the central post 102 (and other components of the bicycle) to lean in the direction of the rider's weight shift, and a corresponding downward pressure can be applied to the support legs 158, 160 to cause those flexing. In some embodiments, the support legs 158, 160 can comprise a semi-rigid material so that the support legs have similar resiliency to flex in a downward motion (similar to a damped leaf spring structure) when the rider's weight is shifted to one side (as shown by arrow 182 in FIG. 13) and return to its neutral shape when the force is removed. More specifically, and as shown in FIG. 13, when the stationary bicycle is placed on a flat surface, the support legs 158, 160 and the floor (or other surface upon which the bicycle 100 rests) form a triangular shaped support structure 184.When a force is applied at the top of the support triangle 184 as the rider's weight shifts to one side of the stationary bicycle 100, the straight portion 164 and rear angled portion 174 of the support leg 158 can flex as the top of the support triangle approaches the surface on which the stationary bicycle 100 rests. Generally, the apex of the support triangle 184 is aligned with the center of gravity of the stationary bicycle 100 (the area including the center post 102, drive assembly 108, flywheel / motor assembly, etc.), so that the lateral force of leaning is concentrated at the apex of the support triangle 184. Although some flexing occurs in the support leg 158, the support leg 158 and center post 102 can remain stiff enough to keep the stationary bicycle 100 in a generally upright position while providing some lateral lean during the pedaling action. This movement can approximate a similar side-to-side lean of an outdoor bicycle. Thus, rather than providing a rigid frame design that inherently provides no side-to-side movement, the stationary bicycle 100 described herein incorporates such movement to approximate the feel and / or physical benefits (e.g., abdominal core, shoulders, joints, etc.) of outdoor cycling.

[0033] In a similar manner, the front portions 162, 164 of the support legs 158, 160 may also provide some fore-aft movement or flexing of the stationary bicycle 100 in addition to the tilting of the central post 102 described above through the tilt mechanism 150. In particular, a forward shift of the rider's center of gravity may cause a slight but similar downward movement (flexing) of at least a portion of the front portions 162, 164 of the support legs 158, 160. The downward flexing of the front portions 162, 164 of the support legs 158, 160 may mimic a flexing similar to that of an outdoor bicycle, especially during drops or aerodynamic sprints, when the rider's weight is shifted more upward and toward the front wheel of the bicycle. A similar rearward flexing of the rear portions 172, 174 of the support legs 158, 160 may occur when the rider of the stationary bicycle 100 shifts his / her weight toward the rear of the stationary bicycle 100. The flexing of the support legs 158, 160 can include an upward reaction force similar to a leaf spring mechanism. In other words, as the downward force on the support legs 158, 160 increases due to a shift in the rider's weight, the support legs 158, 160 can provide an upward reaction force to provide some resilience in either the fore-aft or side-to-side direction while keeping the stationary bicycle 100 in an upright position to further mimic the sensation of riding an outdoor bicycle that is not available through a rigid frame stationary bicycle design.

[0034] In some cases, the stationary bicycle 100 may include sensors that detect forward / backward tilt and side-to-side movement of the bicycle to modify the training program displayed to the bicycle rider. For example, a tube sensor may be installed in the central post 102 that detects pressure against the tube sensor by the inner wall of the central post 102 in any direction. In another example, an accelerometer may be included in the bicycle 100 (e.g., included in the upper tube computing device or included in the drive control circuitry 132, among other locations) to detect the movement of the stationary bicycle 100, and a gyroscope device may be included to detect the attitude of the bicycle in three dimensions. In one example, an acceleration sensor (or other position / movement sensor) may be installed on or near the handlebar stem 216 or head tube 217. Output from such sensors may be utilized to modify or otherwise interact with a simulation program associated with the stationary bicycle 100. For example, the simulation program may show an avatar of the rider of the stationary bicycle 100 through various courses and terrains. The program may be executed by one or more computing devices associated with the stationary bicycle 100 (e.g., an in-vehicle computing device, a mobile computing device of the rider, or a combination of an in-vehicle processing device and a personal computing device) and displayed on a display within the field of view of the rider. Inputs provided by the rider to the stationary bicycle 100 (e.g., pedal actuations, speed of the flywheel, power generated by the flywheel, pressing one or more buttons on the bicycle, tilt or lean movement of the bicycle, etc.) may be interpreted by the computing device and the rider's avatar within the program may respond accordingly. For example, a tube sensor in the center post 102 may detect a rightward lean of the stationary bicycle 100 by the rider and in response, show the avatar turning right within the simulation program. The sensor may also detect side-to-side acceleration and, alone or in combination with power readings, speed readings, etc., determine whether the rider is sprinting or standing and sprinting and provide an output signal accordingly.Similar avatar movement can be implemented within the program for the other types of inputs mentioned above. In another example, the simulation program can provide a moving scene that does not include an avatar, but instead approximates the rider's perspective as if the rider were riding outdoors. Sensor inputs and other inputs provided to the program can adjust the scenery accordingly to approximate the rider's movement through the depicted scenery, thereby further providing the sensation of operating an outdoor bicycle outdoors while using stationary bicycle 100.

[0035] As discussed above, the stationary bicycle 100 may include several points or mechanisms for adjusting one or more configurable dimensions of the stationary bicycle for different types and sizes of riders or for adjusting the indoor bicycle 100 to a user's preferences. For example, the center post 102 of the stationary bicycle 100 may be adjustable to change the length of the center post 102 and thereby change the stack height (e.g., the distance from the center of the drive sprocket 118 to the center of the head tube 217) of the stationary bicycle 100. To adjust the length of the center post 102 and as shown in FIGS. 16-17, the center post 102 may include a hollow outer sleeve 186 positioned about the inner post 188. The outer sleeve 186 may be adjusted vertically along the inner post 188 and locked into a defined position by a center post locking mechanism 190. The central post locking mechanism 190 may, in some cases, include a locking pin 191 that engages one or more locating slots along the inner post 188, although other locking mechanisms may be utilized to lock the central outer sleeve 186 at a selected height along the inner post 188. To adjust the height of the central post 102, a user of the stationary bicycle 100 may disengage the central post locking mechanism 190 by pulling rearward on the locking pin 191, allowing the outer sleeve 186 to slide vertically along the inner post 188. Once the desired central post 102 height is found, the locking pin 191 may be moved forward to engage one or more locating slots along the inner post 188, holding the outer sleeve 186 in the selected position. In some implementations, the outer sleeve 186 may be rotatably attached to a locking mechanism safety arm 192 that rotates in one direction to allow access to the locking pin 191 and moves back to prevent removal of the locking pin 191 while the stationary bicycle 100 is in use.

[0036] In addition to adjustments to the height of the central post 102, the length of the top tube 106 may also be adjusted through two adjustment mechanisms similar to the center post adjustment mechanism. In particular, a rearward horizontally adjustable arm 194 extends from the rearward end of the top tube 106 to adjust the distance from the rearward end of the top tube 106 to a seat assembly 196 attached to the rearward end of the adjustable arm 194. Such degrees of adjustment allow the user's body position relative to the crank axle, handlebars, etc. to be tailored for each individual rider. In some implementations, the distance from the rearward end of the top tube 106 to the seat assembly 196 may be adjusted in a manner similar to the height of the center post 102. For example, the rearward horizontally adjustable arm 194 may include a triangular-shaped cross-section and may be partially disposed within the top tube 106. A rearward adjustable arm locking mechanism 198 may be included on the top surface of the top tube 106, including a rotatable locking mechanism that engages with the top surface of the rearward horizontally adjustable arm 194 to hold the arm in place at a desired extended length. The seat assembly 196 can be connected to a rearward horizontally adjustable arm 194 at the arm's distal end from the top tube 106, so that horizontal adjustment of the rearward horizontally adjustable arm 194 can increase the distance of the seat from the end of the top tube 106. Thus, the rider can adjust the distance of the seat assembly 196 from the top tube 106 by disengaging the rearward adjustable arm locking mechanism 198, sliding the rearward horizontally adjustable arm 194 into or out of the top tube 106, and re-engaging the rearward adjustable arm locking mechanism 198 at the desired distance. Additionally, adjustment of the rearward horizontally adjustable arm 194 can increase or decrease the seat angle (e.g., the angle from the center of the drive sprocket 118 to the center of the seat assembly 196) for the rider.By providing a frame that does not have a down tube as would be present in many conventional outdoor exercise bicycles, where the down tube, conventional rigid seat tube, and conventional rigid top tube collectively provide a rigid triangle, the indoor bicycles described herein are capable of adjusting both the center post height (length) and the top tube length, since there are no structural members such as a down tube that fix the length of the center post and top tube and the shape of the frame itself.

[0037] In addition, the seat assembly 196 may include a seat height adjustment mechanism for adjusting the height of the seat 206. In particular, the seat assembly 196 may include a seat post 204 extending from a seat tube 205 attached to the rear end of the rear horizontally adjustable arm 194. The seat post 204 may extend partially vertically between the seat tube 205 and the bicycle seat 206, and the height or length of the seat post 204 that extends above the seat tube 205 may be adjusted by a seat locking mechanism 210. The seat itself may also be adjusted fore and aft relative to the top of the seat post using a rail and clamp mechanism.

[0038] The forward horizontally adjustable arm 200 also extends from the front end of the top tube 106 and can adjust the distance from the front end of the top tube 106 to a handlebar assembly 202 attached to the front end of the adjustable arm 200. Changes to the length from the top tube 106 to the handlebar assembly 202 can be adjusted in a manner similar to that described above. In particular, the forward horizontally adjustable arm 200 can include a triangular shaped bar positioned within the front opening of the top tube 106. A forward adjustable arm locking mechanism 208 can be included on the top surface of the top tube 106 that includes a rotatable locking mechanism that engages with the top surface of the forward horizontally adjustable arm 200 to hold the arm in place at a desired extended length. The handlebar assembly 202 can be connected to the forward horizontally adjustable arm 200 at the distal end of the arm from the top tube 106 such that adjustment of the forward horizontally adjustable arm 200 increases the distance from the end of the top tube 106 to the handlebar. The handlebar assembly 202 may include a handlebar 212, a brake and shift lever controller 214 (discussed in more detail below), a handlebar post 216, and a head tube 217. The handlebar post 216 may extend partially vertically between the head tube 217 and the handlebar 212 and may be adjustable to vary the height of the handlebar 212. In particular, the height or length of the handlebar post 216 that extends above the head tube 217 may be adjusted by a handlebar locking mechanism 218. A rider or user of the stationary bicycle 100 may adjust the distance of the handlebar assembly 202 from the top tube 106 (and center post 102 and seat assembly 196) by disengaging the front adjustable arm locking mechanism 208, sliding the front horizontally adjustable arm 200 into or out of the top tube 106, and re-engaging the rear adjustable arm locking mechanism 208 at the desired distance.

[0039] The general shape of the top tube 106 (and subsequently the front horizontally adjustable arm 200 and the rear horizontally adjustable arm 194, which are at least partially inserted into the top tube 106) can provide some additional side-to-side flexibility to the stationary bicycle 100. For example, FIG. 18 shows a cross-sectional view of the top tube 106 of the stationary bicycle 100. As shown, the top tube 106 is generally hollow and includes an inverted triangular cross-sectional shape, with the base of the triangle along the top of the top tube 106 and each side wall being longer than the top wall (defining an isosceles cross section). Like the support legs 158, 160, the top tube 106 (along with other components of the stationary bicycle 100) can include a semi-rigid material that provides some flexing when sufficient force is applied to the material. In one example, such a material can include aluminum. The inverted triangular shape of the top tube 106, with its apex pointing downward and its long side walls, allows some side-to-side flexing to the tube 106 when the rider applies a side-to-side force to the handlebar assembly 202 (or other parts of the stationary bicycle 100). However, forward or rearward flexing of the top tube 106 can be limited by the inverted triangular shape of the top tube 106. Similar flexibility features can be included in the front horizontally adjustable arm 200 and / or the rear horizontally adjustable arm 194. The general flexibility of the frame components of the stationary bicycle 100 allows it to mimic the sensation of movement of an outdoor bicycle during use, which is very different from traditional rigid frame stationary bicycles. The triangular shape also allows the inner tube member to wedged into the outer tube member when the length of the top tube is set, thereby providing little or no gap between the inner and outer tube side walls as would be obtained if a square tube were used.

[0040] Through the adjustment mechanisms described above, stationary bicycle 100 provides vertical adjustment of center post 102, seat post 204, and handlebar post 216, and horizontal adjustment of front horizontally adjustable arm 200 and rear horizontally adjustable arm 194, in addition to other adjustment mechanisms (handlebar stem length, seat position, etc.). These multiple adjustment dimensions of stationary bicycle 100 allow the bicycle to be adjusted or customized for many types, sizes, and body shapes of various riders of stationary bicycle 100. In some cases, the dimensions of stationary bicycle 100 can be selected to approximate the dimensions and / or feel of a rider's outdoor bicycle. Additionally, various settings or adjustments made to the adjustment mechanisms of stationary bicycle 100 can be provided to a user through a program or application. The adjustment program may be configured in some cases to determine approximate dimensions for the user's outdoor bicycle through input provided by the user or through analysis of one or more digital images of the user's outdoor bicycle and import those dimensions into the adjustment mechanisms of the stationary bicycle 100 to match the dimensions of the user's outdoor bicycle. For example, FIG. 19 is a method 220 in which the stationary bicycle 100 receives dimensional and / or size information or data associated with the user's outdoor bicycle and adjusts one or more adjustment mechanisms of the stationary bicycle 100 according to the received dimensions. In one example, the user may download or otherwise obtain a computer program or application on a mobile computing device associated with the user and execute the program on the mobile device. The computing device may perform one or more operations of the method 220 through execution of the program to adjust the dimensions of the stationary bicycle 100 according to the dimensions of the user's or another outdoor bicycle. Mobile computing devices may include, but are not limited to, laptop computers, gaming consoles, tablet devices, mobile phones, personal assistant devices, or any other computing device capable of receiving and executing applications and sending and receiving wireless signals through Bluetooth, WiFi, cellular signals, etc.

[0041] The computing device, in operation 222, can provide instructions on a display device associated with the computing device or mobile device that guide the user to obtain approximate dimensions of the user's outdoor bicycle. Such instructions can include requesting the user (through an input device associated with the mobile device) to measure and input various dimensions of the outdoor bicycle, such as frame stack height (vertical distance from the center of the gear to the center of the head tube), handlebar reach (horizontal distance from the crankshaft to the end of the center of the handlebar stem), frame reach (horizontal distance from the crank axle to the center of the head tube), seat height (vertical distance from the crank axle to the center of the seat), and seat tube angle (angle from a perpendicular line from the crank axle to the seat tube). Generally, any dimension can be requested from the user through instructions displayed on the mobile device. In another embodiment, the computing device can instruct the user to take multiple digital images of the user's outdoor bicycle centered on a particular location on or near the bicycle. For example, the computing device can instruct the user to take digital images of the bicycle with the camera centered on the center of the chain ring of the user's outdoor bicycle. Additional digital images of the bicycle may be taken, also centered around various other points on or around the bicycle for analysis by the program. In yet another example, a user may obtain a digital image of the bicycle and select contact points within the image that define the dimensions of the imaged bicycle. Additionally, the user may provide one or more body measurements, such as the user's height, inseam, and riding position.

[0042] In operation 224, the computing device can calculate one or more of the above dimensions of the outdoor bicycle through the received input data or through analysis of digital images taken by the user with the mobile device. In one example, the program can analyze each digital image to determine landmarks on the user's outdoor bicycle (center of chain ring, center of head tube, etc.) and estimate the distance between the determined landmarks. As a result, through digital image analysis of the images, the computing device can calculate or estimate various dimensions of the user's outdoor bicycle for adjustments to stationary bicycle 100.

[0043] In operation 226, the computing device may calculate one or more corresponding settings or adjustments for the adjustment mechanisms of the stationary bicycle 100 to approximate the dimensions of the outdoor bicycle. For example, the computing device may calculate the stack height of the user's outdoor bicycle from the provided information or data. A particular setting for the adjustment mechanism of the central post 102 may approximate a stack height that is the same or similar to the calculated stack height of the user's outdoor bicycle, so that adjusting the central post 102 to that setting may approximate the stack height of the user's outdoor bicycle. Other adjustment mechanisms of the stationary bicycle 100 may also include settings corresponding to the received dimensions, such as settings on the forward horizontally adjustable arm 200 to approximate the calculated handlebar reach, settings on the seat stem 204 to approximate the seat height, and settings on the rearward horizontally adjustable arm 194 to approximate the seat tube angle. In some cases, the calculated settings may include a combination of adjustments to the various adjustment mechanisms of the stationary bicycle 100 to approximate the dimensions of the outdoor bicycle. For example, the seat height of an outdoor bicycle can be approached by adjustments to both the seat stem 204 and / or the center post 102. Thus, one or more determined settings can be considered in relation to other determined settings to maintain the appearance of the stationary bicycle 100, the stability of the stationary bicycle 100, and / or the overall performance of the stationary bicycle 100. Furthermore, because the stationary bicycle 100 includes multiple adjustment mechanisms, fine adjustments to the dimensions of the bicycle can be achieved. For example, adjustment mechanisms that move both the seat assembly and the handlebar assembly fore and aft achieve multiple degrees of adjustment between the crank axle and the seat position, handlebar position, etc., in addition to simply increasing the length of the top tube. Thus, the multiple adjustment mechanisms provide a more configurable bicycle design than previous stationary bicycle designs.

[0044] Because the stationary bicycle 100 includes multiple adjustment mechanisms that can each be adjusted to change the riding dimensions of the device, the computing device may apply additional constraints or considerations when calculating settings for the bicycle's adjustment mechanisms to prioritize one adjustment over another. For example, the computing device may attempt to keep the height of the central post 102 below a threshold to ensure stability within the stationary bicycle 100. Other threshold limits for other adjustment mechanisms of the stationary bicycle 100 may also be utilized such that no setting exceeds the corresponding threshold limit. In some cases, a desired dimension may not be obtained through the adjustment mechanisms of the indoor bicycle 100. In such cases, a preference for some adjustment mechanisms over others may be considered by the computing device based on stability calculations, aesthetic considerations, rider size considerations, etc. For example, the computing device may select seat height adjustment over handlebar length or other adjustable dimension. Another consideration of the computing device may be to minimize the overall error or deviation from the target dimension across all or some adjustments such that the corresponding settings of the adjustment mechanisms account for errors at all adjustment mechanisms. Any error regarding the deviation between the desired dimensions of stationary bicycle 100 and the achieved dimensions of stationary bicycle 100 may optionally be provided to a bicycle user, such as through a display of a computing device.

[0045] In some cases, the settings of the adjustment mechanisms of the stationary bicycle 100 may be provided on a display associated with a computing device so that the user can manually adjust the stationary bicycle 100 accordingly. For example, for manual adjustment of the center post 102, the calculated settings of the center post 102 may be provided to the user. For quick adjustment of the various adjustment mechanisms, one or more indications of the different adjustment settings may be printed or otherwise provided to the user on the adjustment mechanisms or the indoor bicycle 100. In other embodiments, the corresponding settings determined for the adjustment mechanisms of the stationary bicycle 100 may be transmitted or otherwise provided to a control portion or circuitry of the stationary bicycle 100 to automatically adjust the dimensions of the stationary bicycle according to the settings determined in operation 228. For example, the user's mobile device may wirelessly transmit one or more of the corresponding settings of the adjustment mechanisms of the stationary bicycle 100 to a control circuitry on or otherwise connected to the indoor bicycle 100. In response to receiving the corresponding setting, the control circuitry of the stationary bicycle 100 may generate and transmit one or more control signals to one or more motors associated with the adjustment mechanism of the stationary bicycle 100 to apply the corresponding setting at actuation 230. For example, based on the setting of the center post 102 received from the mobile device, a center post adjustment motor may be activated to move the outer sleeve 186 of the center post vertically along the inner post 188 to a position indicated by the center post setting to approximate one or more dimensions of the user's outdoor bicycle. Other adjustment mechanisms of the stationary bicycle 100 may also be associated with or include adjustment motors to automatically adjust the dimensions of the stationary bicycle 100 according to the corresponding setting received from the mobile device. In this manner, the stationary bicycle 100 may be automatically adjusted based on the calculated corresponding setting of the adjustment mechanism determined by the computing device.

[0046] Additionally, the control circuitry of the stationary bicycle 100 may include one or more storage devices to store settings for one or more riders or users of the stationary bicycle 100. For example, a first rider may have a first set of adjustment settings corresponding to the first rider's preferences or the dimensions of the first rider's outdoor bicycle. These settings may be stored in the storage device and associated with the first rider's identity as a first rider profile. When an indication of the first rider is provided to the control circuitry (e.g., through an input device associated with the bicycle 100 or through a mobile device carried by the rider), the stationary bicycle 100 may adjust the bicycle to the stored settings such that the stationary bicycle 100 conforms to the preferences of the first rider. In one example, the indication of the first rider provided to the stationary bicycle may include an identification signal transmitted to the control circuitry from a mobile device carried by or otherwise associated with the first rider. Similarly, when an indication of a second rider is provided to the bicycle control circuitry, the second rider's settings can also be stored in the storage device of the control circuitry to adjust the stationary bicycle to conform to the second rider's preferences. Additionally, more than one setting profile can be associated with a user, such as when a user has two or more outdoor bicycles. The user can optionally select from multiple stored profiles based on which outdoor bicycle they would like the stationary bicycle 100 to resemble. In general, any number of setting profiles for any number of riders of a stationary bicycle can be stored and used to adjust the bicycle dimensions.

[0047] Additional features of the stationary bicycle 100 provide further advantages over previous stationary bicycle designs. For example, the stationary bicycle 100 may include an adjustable crank arm 112 to achieve crank length adjustment as shown in FIG. 20. The crank arm 112 has a generally triangular hammerhead shape and may be connected at a first end to the crank axle 110 such that the entire crank arm 112 is rotatable about the crank axle. A plurality of threaded holes 232 may be positioned to extend through the crank arm 112 from the end of the crank arm 112 connected to the crank axle 110 to the end of the crank arm 112 distally. The threaded holes 232 passing through the crank arm 112 may be positioned in an arcuate arrangement along the end of the crank arm 112. The threads of each crank arm hole 232 may engage corresponding threads on the mounting rod of the pedal 120 so that the pedal may be screwed or otherwise connected to the crank arm 112 at any of the crank arm hole 232 locations. By threading the pedal 120 into one of the multiple threaded holes 232 of the crank arm 112, the crank length (i.e., the length from the center of the crank axle 110 to the center of the pedal 120) can be adjusted as desired by the rider of the stationary bicycle 100. For example, the length L1 from the center of the crank axle 110 to the center of the first hole can be shorter than the length L2 from the center of the crank axle 110 to the center of the second hole of the crank arm. Since the crank arm 112 can include multiple such lengths, by selecting to insert the pedal 120 into one of the holes, the user of the stationary bicycle 100 can select the desired length (L1 to LN) for the rider's fit. Adjusting the crank length further customizes the stationary bicycle 100 to the rider's preferences or dimensions.

[0048] 21-23, the stationary bicycle 100 may also include a flywheel / motor assembly 126 including an outer, relatively heavy, flywheel member 234 configured to rotate relative to a number of internal components, which are substantially fixed relative to the outer, rotatable flywheel member 234. The flywheel member 234 is coupled to a flywheel axle 236 (depicted in FIG. 3) that communicates through an inner portion of the flywheel / motor assembly 126. As the flywheel axle 236 is connected to the rear gear 124 described above, a user's pedaling force is transferred from the drive sprocket 116 through the belt 118 to the rear gear 124 and the flywheel axle 234, which in turn rotates the flywheel member 234. The flywheel member 234 includes one or more spokes 238 that extend from a central portion of the flywheel member to an outer portion of the flywheel member 234 to provide structural support to the flywheel member 234. In one example, there are eight spokes in the flywheel member 234. One or more balancing structures 240 may be disposed on an outer portion of the flywheel member 234 and extending toward a central portion of the flywheel member 234 to provide load balancing to the flywheel member 234 and reduce or minimize vibration of the member during rotation. In one example, the balancing structures 240 may be T-shaped, and the flywheel member 234 may include eight such structures evenly spaced about the inner circumference of its outer portion.

[0049] The fixed internal components of the flywheel / motor assembly 126 include an electromagnetic motor assembly including a plurality of electromagnetic members 242 supported on a core plate 244 to provide a magnetic motor or braking force to the flywheel members 234. In some arrangements, the motor assembly can be computer controlled to dynamically adjust or apply rotational and / or braking forces to the flywheel members 234 to simulate different riding experiences. In the illustrated example, the core plate 244 defines a circular plate on which the plurality of electromagnetic members 242 extend radially from the core plate. In one embodiment, the motor assembly can be a three-phase motor including 36 electromagnetic members 242 evenly spaced around the core plate 244. The electromagnetic members 242 can include a bobbin or I-shaped portion 246 around which a conductor, such as copper wiring, is wound. The conductor can be wound around the neck of the I-shaped portion 246 between the upper portion of the I and the lower portion of the I. The wires may be continuous such that a uniform current flows around each electromagnetic member 242 to uniformly generate a consistent electromagnetic force around the core plate 244. Collectively, the electromagnetic members 242 and the wrapped wiring may generate a magnetic field that magnetically couples with the flywheel member 234. In particular, the inner surface of the flywheel member 234 includes a plurality of magnets 248. The magnets 248 have a generally keystone shaped cross section and extend partially toward the electromagnetic members 242 of the motor assembly. In one example, 38 magnets are disposed along the inner surface of the flywheel member 234. With the electromagnetic members 242 energized, the generated magnetic field may interact with the magnetic field of the magnets 248 on the flywheel member 234. During rotation of the flywheel member 234, the generated magnetic field of the electromagnetic members 242 may either impede or enhance the rotation of the flywheel member 234 depending on the direction of the current flow through the wiring of the electromagnetic members 242. In this manner, a braking force can be applied to the magnet and flywheel member 234 or an increase in rotation of the flywheel member 234 can be added by the motor assembly.

[0050] A relatively large number of magnets can create a more uniform magnetic field around the flywheel member when interacting with the motor generated magnetic field. For example, the interaction force between the magnetic fields can change when the magnets leave and enter the magnetic field generated by the first electromagnetic member (while the flywheel member 234 rotates around the electromagnetic member 242). The greater the distance between the electromagnetic members 242, the greater the difference in magnetic field interaction can be when the magnets transition from one magnetic field to the next. Including more electromagnetic members 242 and magnets 248 in the flywheel / motor assembly 126 can reduce magnetic field interaction variations. This can create a smoother feel for the motor's control of the flywheel member 234 because the magnetic field around the motor is more uniform.

[0051] Control of the current transmitted through the windings to control the motor / flywheel assembly 126 may be provided by a computing device including a processor and associated electronics associated with the stationary bicycle 100. FIG. 23 is a block diagram illustrating an example of such a computing device or computer system 1000 that may be used in implementing embodiments of the network components disclosed above. The computing system (system) includes one or more processors 1002-1006. The processors 1002-1006 may include one or more internal levels of cache (not shown) and a bus controller or bus interface unit for directing interaction with a processor bus 1012. The processor bus 1012, also known as a host bus or front side bus, may be used to connect the processors 1002-1006 with a system interface 1014. The system interface 1014 may be connected to the processor bus 1012 to interface other components of the system 1000 with the processor bus 1012. For example, system interface 1014 may include a memory controller 1014 for interfacing main memory 1016 with processor bus 1012. Main memory 1016 typically includes one or more memory cards and control circuitry (not shown). System interface 1014 may also include an input / output (I / O) interface 1020 for interfacing one or more I / O bridges or I / O devices with processor bus 1012. As shown, one or more I / O controllers and / or I / O devices, such as I / O controller 1028 and I / O device 1030, may be connected to I / O bus 1026.

[0052] The I / O devices 1030 may also include input devices (not shown), such as an alphanumeric input device including alphanumeric and other keys for communicating information and / or command selections to the processors 1002-1006. Another type of user input device includes a cursor control, such as a mouse, trackball, or cursor direction keys for communicating directional information and command selections to the processors 1002-1006 and for controlling cursor movement on a display device.

[0053] The system 1000 may include a dynamic storage device referred to as a main memory 1016 or random access memory (RAM) or other computer readable device coupled to the processor bus 1012 for storing information and instructions to be executed by the processors 1002-1006. The main memory 1016 may also be used to store temporary variables or other intermediate information during execution of instructions by the processors 1002-1006. The system 1000 may also include a read only memory (ROM) and / or other static storage device coupled to the processor bus 1012 for storing static information and instructions for the processors 1002-1006. The system described in FIG. 10 is just one possible example of a computer system that may be used or configured according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the techniques described above may be performed by computer system 1000 in response to processor 1004 executing one or more sequences of one or more instructions stored in main memory 1016. These instructions may be read into main memory 1016 from another machine-readable medium, such as a storage device. Execution of the sequences of instructions stored in main memory 1016 may cause processors 1002-1006 to perform the process steps described herein. In alternative embodiments, circuitry may be used in place of or in combination with software instructions. Thus, embodiments of the present disclosure may include both hardware and software components.

[0055] Machine-readable media includes any mechanism for storing or transmitting information in a form (e.g., software, processing application) readable by a machine (e.g., a computer). Such media can take the form of, but are not limited to, non-volatile and volatile media, and can include removable data storage media, non-removable data storage media, and / or external storage devices made available through wired or wireless network architectures along with such computer program products including one or more database management products, web server products, application server products, and / or other additional software components. Examples of removable data storage media include compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM), digital versatile disc read only memory (DVD-ROM), magneto-optical disks, flash drives, and the like. Examples of non-removable data storage media include internal magnetic hard disks, SSDs, and the like. The one or more memory devices 606 can include volatile memory (e.g., dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), and the like) and / or non-volatile memory (e.g., read only memory (ROM), flash memory, and the like).

[0056] A computer program product including mechanisms for achieving the systems and methods of the present invention in accordance with the techniques described herein may reside in main memory 1016, which may be referred to as a machine-readable medium. It will be appreciated that a machine-readable medium may include any tangible, non-transitory medium capable of storing or encoding instructions for performing any one or more of the operations of the present disclosure for execution by a machine, or capable of storing or encoding data structures and / or modules utilized by or associated with such instructions. A machine-readable medium may include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database and / or associated caches and servers) that store one or more executable instructions or data structures.

[0057] As discussed above, controlling the flywheel / motor assembly 126 may include varying the current supplied to the electromagnetic member 242 to generate a magnetic field that interacts with the magnetic field of the magnet 248 on the flywheel member 234. During rotation of the flywheel member 234, the generated magnetic field of the electromagnetic member 242 may either inhibit rotation of the flywheel member 234 (to apply a braking force to the flywheel) or increase rotation of the flywheel member 234 (to apply an acceleration force to the flywheel) in response to the direction of current flow through the wiring of the electromagnetic member 242. Furthermore, the magnetic force imparted by the electromagnetic member 242 may be directly proportional to the flow and orientation of the current through the wiring of the electromagnetic member 242. In other words, a high current signal flowing in a first direction through the wiring may apply a high braking force to the flywheel member 234, whereas a high current signal flowing in the opposite direction through the wiring may apply a high acceleration force to the flywheel member 234. A signal having a lower current may apply a smaller force to the flywheel member 234 based on the direction of current flow. In this manner, fine control of the magnetic force that the motor assembly imparts to the flywheel member 234 can be provided by the control circuitry of the stationary bicycle 100 .

[0058] To determine the current flow to the motor, the control circuit 132 may execute a control algorithm to determine the current provided to the motor assembly. In some cases and as shown in FIG. 25, the control algorithm may include as an input a speed sensor or speed encoder that provides the speed and position of the flywheel member 234 relative to a selected axis. Typical stationary bicycle flywheel sensors, such as power meters, strain gauges, etc., may not be included in the stationary bicycle 100 to provide inputs to the control function. Rather, the speed encoder may provide a relative speed of the flywheel that the control circuit 132 may use to provide a motor control signal to control the current provided to the motor. The control circuit 132 may also include an output motor control signal as another input to estimate physical characteristics of the rider and / or the stationary bicycle 100. For example, the control circuit 132 may use the output control signal to estimate the simulated speed of the rider, the torque the rider is applying to the pedals, the power generated by the flywheel member 234, etc.

[0059] In some cases, the stationary bicycle 100 can be operated in one of many operating modes. For example, one operating mode of the stationary bicycle 100 can be an "erg" mode in which the bicycle rider attempts to operate the bicycle at a constant power output. In this operating mode, the control circuit 132 can control the motor (and thus the rotational speed of the flywheel member 234, as described above) in response to the rider's cadence (or the rotation of the pedal / drive sprocket assembly) to maintain a constant estimated power output of the flywheel member 234. For example, the control circuit 132 can receive as an input the rotational speed of the flywheel member 234 from a speed encoder. From the speed input, the control circuit 132 can estimate the rider's pedaling speed (also referred to as the rider's "cadence"), the torque that the rider's cadence provides, the power that the rider's cadence generates, etc. Additional system estimates, such as drag from the system of the present invention to the flywheel member 234, and / or acceleration and acceleration components, can also be calculated. In general, the output signal to the motor is related to the rider's cadence. For example, the control circuit 132 can determine a target cadence of the rider or a target power of the rider and generate a control signal for the motor to change the rider's cadence to the target cadence or to change the power the rider is using to satisfy the cadence. Thus, if the control circuit 132 determines that the rider's cadence is increasing, the control circuit 132 can increase the resistance applied by the motor to the flywheel member 234 through application of current through the wires of the motor. In some cases, the control of the motor based on the control signal can be delayed or applied through a ramping signal to mitigate significant rotational changes of the flywheel member 234 in a short period of time. Rather, the control of the motor can be such that a smooth transition from the rider's cadence to the target cadence is applied. For example, the motor control signal generated by the control circuit 132 can include a sinusoidal waveform that approximates a sine waveform corresponding to the torque applied by the rider to the pedals. By applying a sinusoidal waveform that approximates the user's cadence to the motor control current changes, the changes to the rotation of the flywheel member 234 can provide a smoother feel to the rider.In some cases, the frequency of the sinusoidal waveform of the control signal may be similar or the same as the frequency of the estimated torque (or power) of the rider input to the stationary bicycle 100.

[0060] In another mode of operation, sometimes known as a simulation mode, the control circuit 132 can control the motor (and the flywheel member 234) to simulate an outdoor riding environment. In such a mode of operation, the control circuit 132 can include a physics model that estimates various resistances acting on the rider during a simulated outdoor riding experience, such as wind resistance, road gradient, and road resistance. The speed input from the flywheel member 234 along with a resistance setpoint can be used to estimate the rider's cadence, torque, power, and the like, as described above, and the control circuit 132 can utilize such estimates to control the motor to provide a simulated outdoor riding experience. For example, the control circuit 132 can simulate an uphill gradient by increasing the resistance acting on the flywheel member 234 through control of the motor. Similarly, a downhill gradient can be simulated by controlling the motor to provide an increasing rotational force on the flywheel member 234. Other effects of an outdoor riding experience, such as wind resistance and road resistance, can be simulated through control of the motor / flywheel assembly 126, for example, by dampening or increasing the rotation of the flywheel member 234. For example, when the rider begins to pedal or is pedaling at a speed that is determined or estimated to be low, the physics model may output a small wind resistance. However, as the rider's estimated speed increases, the physics model may increase the simulated wind resistance. As the simulated wind resistance increases, the braking force applied to the flywheel member 234 through control of the motor may likewise increase.

[0061] In some cases, the control circuitry 132 may assist the rider in starting up the stationary bicycle 100. For example, when the flywheel member 234 rotates from a stationary state, the magnets 248 may interact with the magnetic field generated from the windings around the bobbin 246, causing a cogging effect or a start-stop effect as each magnet passes through the magnetic field generated by the windings. Furthermore, it may be initially difficult for the rider to overcome the magnetic attraction between the magnets 248 and the magnetic field generated by the motor. To overcome these effects, the control circuitry 132 may be configured to first detect an initial movement or rotation of the flywheel member 234 and generate a signal to the motor to generate a force to assist in the rotation of the flywheel member 234. In particular, FIG. 25B is a flow diagram of a method 300 for generating a drive signal for a motor of a stationary bicycle training device to assist in the initial rotation of the flywheel according to one embodiment. In the method 300, the control circuitry 132 may detect an initial movement of the flywheel member 234 based on the activation of a drive mechanism of the stationary bicycle 100. The control circuitry 132 may responsively generate a control signal and send the control signal to the motor of the motor / flywheel assembly. In one particular example, the drive signal may instruct the motor to rotate the flywheel member 234 at 30 revolutions per minute (rpm). Upon expiration of time or when the target revolutions per minute of the flywheel member 234 is achieved, the control circuitry 132 may send another control signal at operation 306 to remove the drive force of the motor / flywheel assembly and operate the motor in response to the user's cadence. The motor control described above in response to the rider's cadence (and other factors) may then be performed by the control algorithm to apply braking or assist force to the flywheel 234.

[0062] Inputs from the rider of the stationary bicycle 100 can also be taken into account by the control circuitry 132 executing the control algorithm. For example, the rider can provide customizable dimensions for the virtual bicycle that can alter various calculations of the rider and / or bicycle characteristics. One such customization is a virtual wheel diameter that can be input to the control circuitry or otherwise set by the rider and provided to the control circuitry 132 for use in calculating the estimated rider speed and / or the rotational speed of the virtual wheels (associated with the rider's virtual avatar). Another customization input from the rider can include a virtual gear ratio between the front gear assembly (corresponding to the chain ring connected to the crank arm of the outdoor bicycle) and the rear gear assembly (corresponding to the cog set on the rear wheel of the outdoor bicycle). However, the gears (drive sprocket 116 and rear gear 124) of the stationary bicycle 100 are fixed in that the ratio between the diameters of the drive sprocket 116 and rear gear 124 cannot be adjusted. Conversely, the rotation of the flywheel member 234 can be controlled to simulate different gear ratios. For example, a rider may select a different gear ratio (through a shift lever assembly, discussed in more detail below) to operate stationary bicycle 100. The control circuitry 132 may use the selection of the virtual gear ratio (as well as other considerations such as the rider's speed, the speed of the flywheel member 234, and the rider's cadence) to determine a target cadence for the rider based on the selected virtual gear ratio. The control circuitry 132 may then control the motor to adjust the rotational speed of the flywheel member 234 to apply the target cadence to stationary bicycle 100.

[0063] 26-28, the stationary bicycle 100 can include a handlebar assembly 202 having a handlebar 212 and brake and shift lever controllers 214 that are connected to a handlebar post that can be inserted into the head tube 217 as described above. Generally, the handlebar 212 provides the portion of the indoor bicycle 100 that a rider can grasp while using the bicycle. The handlebar 212 can take any shape and in one example can include a portion that extends laterally from the handlebar post. The additional handlebar 212 can include an arcuate member 252 that extends downward and rearward from the end of the lateral handlebar 250. In some cases, the handlebar 212 approximates a shape and design similar to commercially available outdoor bicycles, allowing the rider of the stationary bicycle 100 to approximate the experience of riding an outdoor bicycle.

[0064] One or more shift lever / brake controllers 214 may extend from a forward end of the lateral handlebar portion 250 of the handlebar 212. The shift lever / brake controller 214 may be configured similarly to commercially available shift lever / brake assemblies for outdoor or road bicycles. The shift lever / brake controller 214 may include a shift lever controller portion 258 extending forward from the handlebar 212 and a brake controller portion 260 extending substantially vertically downward from the shift lever controller portion 258. Referring now to FIGS. 27-28, in some cases, the shift lever / brake controller 214 may include a number of actuators or buttons that a rider of the stationary bicycle 100 may use to control the operation of the bicycle. For example, a pair of shift lever upper control buttons 254 may be provided on the top surface of the shift lever / brake control portion 214 arranged in any configuration. The inner surface (i.e., the surface of the shift lever / brake controller 214 that faces the centerline of the stationary bicycle 100) may be provided with an inner shift lever button 256. The shift lever upper control button 254 and / or the inboard shift lever button 256 can be activated by pressing the button with the rider's finger, palm, or other part of the rider's hand. The brake controller portion 260 can be configured to pivot about an axis at the connection of the brake portion to the shift lever controller portion 258, such that the rider can rotate the brake portion 260 towards the shift lever controller portion 258. Additionally, one or more lateral actuators 262 can be mounted on the brake controller portion 260 and configured to rotate inwardly when depressed by the rider. A position sensor can also be associated with the lateral actuators 262 to determine activation of the lateral actuators by a rider of a stationary bicycle.

[0065] The various actuators of the shift lever / brake controller 214 can provide input signals to the control circuitry 132 of the stationary bicycle 100. For example, pivoting of the brake controller 260 can generate a signal to the control circuitry 132 to apply a braking force to the flywheel / motor 126. In some cases, the degree of pivoting or movement of the brake controller 260 can generate a higher braking force to the flywheel / motor assembly 126. Additionally, activation of one or more buttons (such as the top control button 254, the inside shift lever button 256, and / or the lateral actuators 262) can generate control signals to the motor / flywheel assembly 126 to simulate a change in the gear ratio of the stationary bicycle 100. For example, activation of one of the right lateral actuators 262 can instruct the control circuitry 132 to simulate a higher gear ratio, and activation of one of the left lateral actuators 262 can instruct the control circuitry 132 to simulate a lower gear ratio. Changing the simulated gear ratio of stationary bicycle 100 is described in more detail below.

[0066] One or more control wires 264 can connect various actuators and / or sensors to the top tube computer device 266 to provide input from the rider through the actuator of the shift lever / brake controller 214. In some cases, the actuator can communicate with the top tube computer device 266 through a wireless communication connection. In yet other cases, the actuator can communicate with the control circuitry 132 of the stationary bicycle 100 through a wireless communication connection. The top tube computer device 266 can be connected to a lower portion of the head tube 217 and extend below the forward horizontally adjustable arm 200. The top tube computer device 266 can include one or more components of the computing device described above in connection with FIG. 24 and can communicate with the control circuitry 132 through a wired or wireless connection. Inputs received from the actuator of the shift lever / brake controller 214 can be processed and / or transmitted to the control circuitry 132 for use in controlling the flywheel / motor assembly 126.

[0067] In some cases, the actuator of the shift lever / brake controller 214 can be programmed or otherwise configurable to customize the operation of the bicycle to one or more preferences of the rider. For example, a program or mobile application can communicate with the upper tube computing device 266 (or other computing device of the stationary bicycle 100) to program one or more of the inputs from the actuator. For example, the program can configure the indoor bicycle 100 to interpret activation of the upper control button 254 to change or shift a virtual gear ratio of the indoor bicycle 100. In other examples, the upper control button 254 can be configured to generate a braking force acting on the flywheel member 234, change the operating mode of the stationary bicycle 100, tilt the bicycle forward or backward, etc. In general, any operation of the stationary bicycle 100 can be controlled through the actuator of the shift lever / brake controller 214, since the control circuit 132 and / or the upper tube computing device 266 can be configured to interpret inputs from the actuator in different ways.

[0068] The top tube computing device 266 may include an additional actuator 268 that may be similarly configured to change the operating mode or change the inclination of the indoor bicycle 100 according to a program or application. In some cases, a display may be included or integrated into the top surface 270 of the top tube computing device 266. The display on the top surface 270 of the top tube computing device 266 may provide various types of information to the rider of the stationary bicycle 100, such as the operating mode of the indoor bicycle 100, rider statistics, an indication of inputs received, and information or data received from a companion program or application.

[0069] As described above, upon receiving an input to change or shift the virtual gear ratio of the stationary bicycle 100, the control circuit 132 can generate one or more motor control signals to change or otherwise alter the rotation of the flywheel member 234 in accordance with the new virtual gear ratio. In addition to other inputs to the control algorithm (such as the estimated speed of the rider's virtual avatar, the estimated torque of the rider, the estimated characteristics of the rider's virtual bicycle, and other inputs received or calculated as described above), the control circuit 132 can determine a virtual gear ratio selected by the rider through an actuator of the shift lever / brake controller 214. Using the determined information, one or more control signals to the motor can be generated by the control circuit 132 to simulate a riding experience that includes the selected virtual gear ratio. In some cases, shifting the virtual gear ratio can include determining a target cadence for the rider based on estimates such as a simulated linear speed of the rider (which can correspond to the rider's avatar in the simulation program), a virtual or simulated drive ratio, a virtual or simulated gear ratio, and a simulated rear wheel circumference. The actual gear ratio of the stationary bicycle 100, for example a 4:1 gear ratio between the drive sprocket 116 and the rear gear 124, may be known by the control circuit 132. Thus, the flywheel member 234 may rotate at four times the revolutions per minute of the drive sprocket 116 or the rider's cadence. Using this information and the calculated target cadence of the rider, the control circuit 132 may determine a target rotational speed of the flywheel member 234 and control the motor accordingly. In this manner, control of the motor may be based on a selected virtual gear ratio indicated by an actuator of the shift lever / brake controller 214.

[0070] The disclosed embodiments of the present invention include various steps described herein. The steps may be performed by hardware components or may be embodied in machine-executable instructions that can be used to cause a general-purpose or special-purpose processor programmed with the instructions to perform the steps. Alternatively, the steps may be performed by a combination of hardware, software, and / or firmware.

[0071] Various embodiments of the present disclosure have been discussed in detail above. Although specific embodiments have been discussed, it should be understood that this has been done for illustrative purposes only. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other components and configurations can be used without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. In other words, the foregoing description and drawings are illustrative and should not be construed as limiting. Numerous specific details have been set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. However, in certain instances, well-known or conventional details have not been described in order to avoid obscuring the description.

[0072] Reference to an embodiment or embodiments in the present disclosure may be to the same embodiment or any embodiment, and such reference means at least one of the embodiments. Reference to "one embodiment" or "embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The appearances of the phrase "in one embodiment" in various places in this specification do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive with other embodiments. Moreover, various features have been described that may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by other embodiments.

[0073] The terms used herein generally have their ordinary meaning in the technical field of the present invention, in the context of the disclosure of the present invention, and in the particular context in which each term is used. To the extent that some embodiments herein are referred to as indoor cycling devices or indoor training devices, the terms are meant to refer to devices that are not rideable outdoor bicycles, and are not intended to imply any other particular meaning or structural requirement. In some cases, the term "center" may be used to refer to some component, but this is not intended to imply that the component is necessarily dimensionally or mathematically centered, but rather is used generally to indicate a rough location or relative location to other components. In some cases, a first side or a second side is referenced, but it should be recognized that the first side is not the same side as the second side. In some cases, the terms left or right or front or rear (forward or backward) are used, but in such cases, the fact is that the terms are used based on the perspective of a user riding an indoor bicycle and facing the handlebars. Thus, for example, the user's left foot will be on the left pedal, the right foot on the right pedal, and the handlebars are forward. Alternatives and synonyms may be used for any one or more of the terms described herein, but no special significance should be attached to whether the term is detailed or discussed herein. In some cases, synonyms for certain terms are provided. The listing of one or more synonyms does not exclude the use of other synonyms. The use of examples anywhere in this specification, including examples of any term discussed herein, is illustrative only and is not intended to further limit the scope and meaning of the present disclosure or any example term. Similarly, the present disclosure is not limited to the various embodiments provided herein.

[0074] Without intending to limit the scope of the present disclosure, examples of instruments, devices, methods, and related results according to the embodiments of the present disclosure are given. Please note that titles or subtitles may be used in the examples for the convenience of the reader, but this should not limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way. Unless otherwise defined, technical and scientific terms used herein have the meanings as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs. In the event of any conflict, the present document, including definitions, shall prevail.

[0075] Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, while the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of the present invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all of the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations, together with all equivalents thereof. Other embodiments of the invention are described below. [Embodiment 1] 1. A stationary indoor bicycle device including a frame, The frame is a post pivotally coupled to the foot assembly positioned to engage the surface; an upper tube extending forwardly from the post; a support leg structure supporting the post and including a first flexible resilient leg and a second flexible resilient leg, the first flexible resilient leg deforming to tilt the post to one side in response to a first force and the second flexible resilient leg deforming to tilt the post to another side in response to a second force; a tilt mechanism operatively associated with the post to controllably pivot the post in a first direction to simulate a downhill riding orientation of the frame or to pivot the post in a second direction opposite the first direction to simulate an uphill orientation of the frame; Including, A stationary indoor bicycle device. [Embodiment 2] the upper tube includes a front portion and a rear portion; The device a seat assembly extending from a rearward portion of the upper tube; a handlebar assembly extending from a forward portion of the top tube; Further comprising: A stationary indoor bicycle device as described in embodiment 1. [Embodiment 3] the distance from the seat assembly to the rear portion of the top tube is adjustable, the distance from the handlebar assembly to the rear portion of the top tube is adjustable, and the length of the post is adjustable; A stationary indoor bicycle device as described in embodiment 2, characterized in that [Embodiment 4] a magnetic motor assembly including a plurality of magnetic cores arranged around the circumference of a circular central member; a flywheel member including a flywheel and a plurality of magnets on an inner surface of the flywheel;

[0023] The present invention further includes a flywheel / motor assembly including: the magnetic motor assembly is controllable to generate a magnetic field that opposes or supplements the magnetic field of the plurality of magnets of the flywheel member to generate a braking force to slow the rotation of the flywheel member or a motive force to rotate the flywheel member; A stationary indoor bicycle device as described in embodiment 1. [Embodiment 5] a control circuit configured to receive at least one input indicative of a rate of rotation of the flywheel member and generate one or more motor control signals based on the indication of the rate of rotation of the flywheel member. A stationary indoor bicycle device as described in embodiment 4. [Embodiment 6] The control circuitry further detects the first rotation of the flywheel member and transmits a start motor control signal to drive the flywheel member to a target speed over a predetermined period of time. A stationary indoor bicycle device as described in embodiment 5. [Embodiment 7] a plurality of activators configurable through a configuration program, at least one of the plurality of activators configured to generate an input to the control circuitry that adjusts a virtual gear ratio, the control circuitry further comprising the plurality of activators that generate one or more additional motor control signals based on the adjusted virtual gear ratio; A stationary indoor bicycle device as described in embodiment 5. [Embodiment 8] the operation of the tilt mechanism corresponds to a simulation program executed on a computing device and displayed on a display; A stationary indoor bicycle device as described in embodiment 1. [Embodiment 9] Each of the first flexible resilient leg and the second flexible resilient leg has a first end of the post that engages the surface forward; a second end of the post rearwardly and laterally engaging the surface; and Including, A stationary indoor bicycle device as described in embodiment 1. [Embodiment 10] The tilt mechanism includes: A shaft connected to the post; an actuator configured to expand or contract the shaft to pivot the post about the foot assembly; Including, A stationary indoor bicycle device as described in embodiment 1. [Embodiment 11] the tilt mechanism is a linear actuator pivotally coupled to the foot assembly and the post, the linear actuator including a linear extension shaft that moves in a first direction to pivot the post forward in the first direction and orient the frame to simulate a downhill riding orientation of the frame, and that moves in a second direction to pivot the post backward and orient the frame to simulate an uphill riding orientation. A stationary indoor bicycle as described in embodiment 1, characterized in that [Embodiment 12] the first force corresponds to a user leaning to one side and the second force corresponds to the user leaning to the other side. A stationary indoor bicycle device as described in embodiment 1. [Embodiment 13] the first flexible resilient leg relaxes in response to removal of the first force, and the second flexible resilient leg relaxes in response to removal of the second force. A stationary indoor bicycle device as described in embodiment 1. [Embodiment 14] 1. An indoor cycle including a frame, The frame is a pivoting vertical orientation post supporting a seat and handlebars; a tilt mechanism operatively coupled to the pivoting vertical post for pivoting the pivoting vertical post forward to orient the frame to simulate a downhill riding position or for pivoting the pivoting vertical post rearward to orient the frame to simulate an uphill riding position; Including, An indoor cycle characterized by: [Embodiment 15] The frame further includes an upper tube coupled to the pivoting vertical orientation post, the upper tube defining a forward end that supports the handlebar. 15. An indoor cycle according to embodiment 14, characterized in that [Embodiment 16] the pivoting vertical orientation post further includes a foot assembly, the pivoting vertical orientation post pivotally coupled to the foot assembly, the foot assembly further supporting the tilt mechanism; the tilt mechanism is a linear actuator pivotally coupled to the foot assembly and the pivoting vertical orientation post, the linear actuator including a linear extension shaft that moves in a first direction to pivot the pivoting vertical orientation post forward to orient the frame to simulate a downhill riding position, and that moves in a second direction to pivot the pivoting vertical orientation post rearward to orient the frame to simulate an uphill riding position. 16. An indoor cycle according to embodiment 15, characterized in that [Embodiment 17] a seat assembly extending rearwardly from the upper tube to support the seat; 16. An indoor cycle according to embodiment 15, characterized in that [Embodiment 18] a handlebar assembly extending forwardly from the top tube and supporting the handlebars; 16. An indoor cycle according to embodiment 15, characterized in that [Embodiment 19] The length of the upper tube is adjustable. 16. An indoor cycle according to embodiment 15, characterized in that [Embodiment 20] the length of said pivoting vertical orientation post is adjustable; 15. An indoor cycle according to embodiment 14, characterized in that [Embodiment 21] a magnetic motor assembly including a plurality of magnetic cores arranged around the circumference of a circular central member; a flywheel member including a flywheel and a plurality of magnets on an inner surface of the flywheel;

[0023] The present invention further includes a flywheel / motor assembly including: the magnetic motor assembly is controllable to generate a magnetic field that opposes or supplements the magnetic field of the plurality of magnets of the flywheel member to generate a braking force to slow the rotation of the flywheel member or a motive force to rotate the flywheel member; 15. An indoor cycle according to embodiment 14, characterized in that [Embodiment 22] a control circuit receiving at least one input indicative of a speed of rotation of the flywheel member and generating one or more motor control signals based on the indication of the speed of rotation of the flywheel member, the control circuit further comprising: a first input configured to detect a first rotation of the flywheel member and transmit a start motor control signal to drive the flywheel member to a target speed over a predetermined period of time; 22. An indoor cycle according to embodiment 21, characterized in that [Embodiment 23] a post including an upper end section and a lower end section, the post extending perpendicularly from a base that engages the surface; an upper tube extending forwardly from the upper end region of the post; a first flexible support member and a second flexible support member each extending substantially forward and rearward from the base, each flexible support member displaced in response to a shift in a user's weight in a lateral motion to tilt the post in the direction of the shifting weight of the user; Including, A stationary indoor cycling device. [Embodiment 24] the first flexible support member includes a first forward portion that engages the surface forward of the post and a first rearward portion that engages the surface rearward of the post and outwardly toward a first side thereof; the second flexible support member includes a second forward portion parallel to the first forward portion, the second forward portion engaging the surface forward of the post, and a second rear portion engaging the surface rearward of the post and outwardly of a second side of the post opposite the first side of the post; 24. An indoor cycling device as described in embodiment 23. [Embodiment 25] the first flexible support member defines a first arcuate section between the first anterior portion and the first posterior portion, the first arcuate section being positioned above the surface; the second flexible support member defines a second arcuate section between the second anterior portion and the second posterior portion, the second arcuate section being positioned above the surface. 25. An indoor cycling device as described in embodiment 24. [Embodiment 26] the base, the front portion of the first flexible support member, and the rear portion of the first flexible support member provide three points of support; 24. An indoor cycling device as described in embodiment 23. [Embodiment 27] a drive mechanism for engaging the flywheel assembly; The drive mechanism includes: a crank axle extending through said post; a crank arm connecting a pedal to a first end of the crank axle, the pedal being threadably connected to the crank arm at one of a plurality of threaded pedal holes disposed in an arcuate arrangement along an end of the crank arm, the engagement of the pedal with the one of the plurality of threaded pedal holes defining a crank length of the drive mechanism; Including, 24. An indoor cycling device as described in embodiment 23. [Embodiment 28] The length of the upper tube is adjustable. 24. An indoor cycling device as described in embodiment 23. [Embodiment 29] The length of the post is adjustable. 24. An indoor cycling device as described in embodiment 23. [Embodiment 30] 1. An indoor cycling device that rocks side to side, comprising: a frame including a first flexible resilient member and a second flexible resilient member supporting the frame on a surface; the first flexible resilient member engages the surface at at least two points, a first portion between the two points being disposed above the surface, the first flexible resilient member supporting a first side of the exercise bicycle; the second flexible resilient member engages the surface at at least two points, a second portion between the two points being disposed above the surface, the second flexible resilient member supporting a second side of the exercise bicycle; the first flexible, resilient member and the second flexible, resilient member support the frame in a normally neutral vertical orientation, the first flexible, resilient member deflecting downward toward the surface in response to a user shifting weight to the first side, and the second flexible, resilient member deflecting downward toward the surface in response to the user shifting weight to the second side. 1. An indoor cycling device comprising: [Embodiment 31] the first flexible, resilient member defines a first arcuate portion and the second flexible, resilient member defines a second arcuate portion; the first arcuate portion of the first flexible, resilient member flexes downwardly toward the surface in response to a user shifting their weight to the first side of the exercise bicycle, and the second arcuate portion of the second flexible, resilient member flexes downwardly toward the surface in response to the user shifting their weight to the second side of the exercise bicycle. 31. An indoor cycling device as described in embodiment 30. [Embodiment 32] the first flexible resilient member includes a first front portion that engages the surface at the front of the frame and a first rear portion that engages the surface at the rear of the exercise bicycle and outwardly toward the first side thereof; the second flexible resilient member includes a second front portion parallel to the first front portion, the second front portion engaging the surface at the front of the frame, and a rear portion engaging the surface at the rear and outwardly of a second side of the exercise bicycle. 31. An indoor cycling device as described in embodiment 30. 33. a post adjacent each of the first and second arcuate portions and positioned between the first arcuate portion of the first flexible, resilient member and the second arcuate portion of the second flexible, resilient member. 31. An indoor cycling device as described in embodiment 30. 34. the first flexible, resilient member returns to a neutral shape in response to removal of the user shifting his / her weight to the first side of the exercise bicycle, and the second flexible, resilient member returns to a neutral shape in response to removal of the user shifting his / her weight to the second side of the exercise bicycle. 31. An exercise bicycle frame as described in embodiment 30. 35. Embodiment 35 The length of the post is adjustable. 34. An exercise bicycle as described in embodiment 33. 36. The method of claim 36, the post pivots forward or rearward to orient the exercise bicycle in a downhill or uphill orientation, respectively; 34. An exercise bicycle as described in embodiment 33. 37. Embodiment 37 1. A method of supporting an exercise bicycle, comprising: On an exercise bicycle including a seat and a first flexible, resilient member oriented below and to the left of the seat, the first flexible, resilient member engages a surface to provide front and rear support for the exercise bicycle, with a portion of the first flexible, resilient member disposed above the surface, the first flexible, resilient member being: displacing the first flexible, resilient member in a first direction in response to a first force applied to the first flexible, resilient member corresponding to a left lateral movement of a user of the exercise bicycle; returning the first flexible, resilient member to its pre-displaced shape in response to removal of the first force; With a second flexible, resilient member oriented below and to the right of the seat, the second flexible, resilient member engages the surface, and the second flexible, resilient member: displacing the second flexible resilient member in response to a second force applied to the second flexible resilient member corresponding to right lateral movement of the user of the exercise bicycle; Including, A method comprising: 38. Embodiment 38 a post including an upper end supporting the seat and a lower end connected between the first flexible resilient member and the second flexible resilient member, the post being: tilting to the left in response to the displacement of the first flexible, resilient member in the first direction; tilting to the right in response to said displacement of said second flexible resilient member; Further comprising: 38. The method according to embodiment 37, 39. Embodiment 39 the left lateral movement and the right lateral movement of the user correspond to actuation of a crank assembly of an exercise device. 39. The method according to embodiment 38, characterized in that [Embodiment 40] the first lateral tilting of the post to the left and the subsequent tilting of the post to the right mimicking a corresponding movement of a bicycle during operation of the crank assembly. 40. The method of embodiment 39, characterized in that [Embodiment 41] The second flexible resilient member further comprises: in response to removal of the second force, displacing the second flexible, resilient member to return to its undeformed shape. 39. The method according to embodiment 38, characterized in that [Embodiment 42] the first flexible resilient member includes a leaf spring structure that resists the first force applied to the first flexible resilient member; 39. The method according to embodiment 38, characterized in that [Embodiment 43] an adjustable height vertical post including a lower end and an upper end; an upper tube extending forwardly from the upper end of the adjustable-height vertical post and including a forward end and a rearward end; a seat assembly adjustably coupled to the rear end of the upper tube so as to extend forwardly or rearwardly relative to the rear end of the upper tube and supporting a seat; a handlebar assembly adjustably coupled to the forward end of the top tube so as to extend forwardly or rearwardly relative to the forward end of the top tube and supporting a handlebar; Including, An adjustable indoor bicycle device characterized by: [Embodiment 44] a crank arm connecting a pedal to a first end of a crank axle, the crank arm including a plurality of threaded pedal holes disposed in an arcuate arrangement along an end of the crank arm, the engagement of the pedal with one of the plurality of threaded pedal holes defining a crank length; 44. An adjustable indoor bicycle device as described in embodiment 43. [Embodiment 45] the seat is adjustably coupled to the seat assembly; 45. An adjustable indoor bicycle device as described in embodiment 44. [Embodiment 46] The handlebar is adjustably coupled to the handlebar assembly. An adjustable indoor bicycle device as described in embodiment 45, characterized in that 47. The length of the upper tube is adjustable. 47. An adjustable indoor bicycle device as described in embodiment 46. [Embodiment 48] The adjustable indoor bike defines seven adjustments for dimensionally configuring the indoor bike device; 48. An adjustable indoor bicycle device as described in embodiment 47. 49. An embodiment of the present invention The vertical post is pivotally supported, Adjustable indoor bicycle device, a tilt mechanism operably associated with the vertical post for pivoting the post forward to simulate a downhill riding position or pivoting the post rearward to simulate an uphill riding position. 44. An adjustable indoor bicycle device as described in embodiment 43. [Embodiment 50] and further configured to receive an uphill or downhill adjustment setting and, in response thereto, cause the tilt mechanism to pivot the post rearward or forward. 50. An adjustable indoor bicycle device as described in embodiment 49. [Embodiment 51] The length of the upper tube is adjustable. 44. An adjustable indoor bicycle as described in embodiment 43. [Embodiment 52] a distance from the seat assembly to a first portion of the upper tube, a distance from the handlebar assembly to a second portion of the upper tube, and a length of a post are adjustable; 44. An adjustable indoor bicycle device as described in embodiment 43. [Embodiment 53] A vertically oriented adjustable length post; an adjustable length upper tube extending forwardly from said vertically oriented adjustable length post; Including, The adjustable length upper tube is a seat assembly support adjustably coupled within a rearward end of said adjustable length upper tube for forward or rearward adjustment relative to said adjustable length upper tube; a handlebar assembly support adjustably coupled within a forward end of said adjustable length upper tube for fore or aft adjustment relative to said adjustable length upper tube; Including, An adjustable indoor bicycle device characterized by: 54. a telescoping seat post extending from the seat assembly support to support a seat; a telescoping handlebar post extending from the handlebar assembly support to support a handlebar; Further comprising: An adjustable indoor bicycle device as described in embodiment 53. 55. the vertically oriented adjustable length post includes a lower end coupled to a foot that engages a surface, the vertically oriented adjustable length post extending from the foot at an angle to the surface; An adjustable indoor bicycle device as described in embodiment 53. 56. Embodiment 56 the vertically oriented adjustable length post is pivotally coupled to the foot; An adjustable indoor bicycle device as described in embodiment 55, characterized in that 57. a linear actuator coupled to the vertically oriented adjustable length post to adjust the angle of the vertically oriented adjustable length post relative to the surface. 57. An adjustable indoor bicycle device as described in embodiment 56. 58. Embodiment 58 further comprising an adjustable frame having seven degrees of dimensional adjustment; An adjustable indoor bicycle device as described in embodiment 53. 59. Embodiment 59 the crank arm including a plurality of threaded pedal holes arranged in an arcuate arrangement along an end of the crank arm, wherein engagement of a pedal with one of the plurality of threaded pedal holes defines a crank length. An adjustable indoor bicycle device as described in embodiment 53. [Embodiment 60] further comprising an adjustable frame having eight degrees of dimensional adjustment; An adjustable indoor bicycle device as described in embodiment 59, characterized in that [Explanation of symbols]

[0076] 100 Stationary Bicycles 102 Center Post 104 Foot Assembly 106 Upper Tube 108 Drive Assembly 116 Drive sprocket

Claims

1. 1. A stationary indoor bicycle device including a frame, The frame is A foot assembly; a post pivotally coupled to the foot assembly and extending perpendicularly from the foot assembly for pivoting; a first flexible resilient leg extending forward and rearward from a left side of the foot assembly, the first flexible resilient leg supporting a left side of the post and deforming in response to a first lateral force on the post to allow the post to tilt to the left; a second flexible resilient leg extending forward and rearward from a right side of the foot assembly, the second flexible resilient leg supporting a right side of the post and deforming in response to a second lateral force on the post to allow the post to tilt to the right; a tilt mechanism operatively associated with the post for controllably pivoting the post in a first direction to simulate a downhill riding orientation of the frame or for pivoting the post in a second direction opposite the first direction to simulate an uphill orientation of the frame; Including, the foot assembly is between at least a portion of the first flexible elastic leg and at least a portion of the second flexible elastic leg, and is below at least a portion of the first flexible elastic leg and at least a portion of the second flexible elastic leg; A stationary indoor bicycle device.

2. Including an upper tube extending forward from the post; the upper tube includes a front portion and a rear portion; The device a seat assembly extending from a rearward portion of the upper tube; a handlebar assembly extending from a forward portion of the top tube; Further comprising: a distance from the seat assembly to the rearward portion of the top tube is adjustable, a distance from the handlebar assembly to the rearward portion of the top tube is adjustable, and a length of the post is adjustable; a flywheel / motor assembly including a magnetic motor assembly including a plurality of magnetic cores arranged around the circumference of a circular central member; and a flywheel member including a flywheel and a plurality of magnets on an inner surface of the flywheel; the magnetic motor assembly is controllable to generate a magnetic field that opposes or supplements the magnetic field of the plurality of magnets of the flywheel member to generate a braking force to slow the rotation of the flywheel member or a motive force to rotate the flywheel member; 2. The stationary indoor bicycle device according to claim 1 .

3. the operation of the tilt mechanism corresponds to a simulation program executed on a computing device and displayed on a display; 2. The stationary indoor bicycle device according to claim 1 .

4. Each of the first flexible elastic leg and the second flexible elastic leg has a forward facing first end of the post; a rearwardly and laterally facing second end of the post; Including, 2. The stationary indoor bicycle device according to claim 1 .

5. The tilt mechanism includes: A shaft connected to the post; an actuator configured to expand or contract the shaft to pivot the post about the foot assembly; Including, 2. The stationary indoor bicycle device according to claim 1 .

6. the tilt mechanism is a linear actuator pivotally coupled to the foot assembly and the post, the linear actuator including a linear extension shaft that moves in a first direction to pivot the post forward in the first direction and orient the frame to simulate a downhill riding orientation of the frame, and the linear extension shaft that moves in a second direction to pivot the post backward and orient the frame to simulate an uphill riding orientation.

2. The stationary indoor bicycle device according to claim 1 .

Images