Bicycle hub assembly

Abstract

A bicycle wheel hub assembly includes a sprocket support body. The sprocket support body includes at least ten external spline teeth structurally designed to mesh with a bicycle rear sprocket assembly. Each of the at least ten external spline teeth has an external spline driving surface and an external spline non-driving surface.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a bicycle wheel hub assembly. Prior Technology

[0002] Cycling is becoming an increasingly popular form of recreation and transportation. Furthermore, cycling has become a very popular competitive sport for both amateurs and professionals. Whether bicycles are used for recreation, transportation, or competition, the bicycle industry is constantly improving various components. One bicycle component that has been significantly redesigned is the wheel assembly. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a bicycle hub assembly includes a sprocket support body. The sprocket support body includes at least ten external spline teeth structurally designed to engage with a bicycle rear sprocket assembly. Each of the at least ten external spline teeth has an external spline driving surface and an external spline non-driving surface.

[0004] In the case of the bicycle wheel assembly according to the first configuration, compared to a sprocket support body including nine or fewer external splines, at least ten external splines reduce the rotational force applied to each of the at least ten external splines. This improves the durability of the sprocket support body and / or improves the freedom of choice of materials for the sprocket support body without reducing the durability of the sprocket support body.

[0005] According to the second embodiment of the present invention, the bicycle wheel hub assembly of the first embodiment is structurally designed such that the total number of one of the at least ten external spline teeth is equal to or greater than 20.

[0006] In the case of the bicycle wheel assembly according to the second configuration, compared to a sprocket support body including nine or fewer external splines, at least twenty external splines further reduce the rotational force applied to each of the at least twenty external splines. This further improves the durability of the sprocket support body and / or improves the freedom of choice in selecting the material of the sprocket support body without reducing the durability of the sprocket support body.

[0007] According to the third embodiment of the present invention, the bicycle wheel hub assembly of the second embodiment is structurally designed such that the total number of the at least ten external spline teeth is equal to or greater than 25.

[0008] In the case of the bicycle wheel assembly according to the third configuration, compared to a sprocket support body including nine or fewer external splines, at least twenty-five external splines further reduce the rotational force applied to each of the at least twenty-five external splines. This further improves the durability of the sprocket support body and / or improves the freedom of choice of materials for the sprocket support body without reducing its durability.

[0009] According to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, the bicycle wheel hub assembly of any one of the first to third embodiments is structurally designed such that the at least ten external spline teeth have a first external pitch angle and a second external pitch angle different from the first external pitch angle.

[0010] In the case of the bicycle hub assembly according to the fourth state, the difference between the first outer pitch angle and the second outer pitch angle helps the user to correctly install the bicycle rear sprocket assembly onto the sprocket support body, especially regarding the circumferential position of each sprocket in the bicycle rear sprocket assembly.

[0011] According to the fifth embodiment of the present invention, the bicycle wheel hub assembly of any one of the first to fourth embodiments is structurally designed such that at least one of the at least ten external spline teeth has a first spline shape that is different from the second spline shape of one of the other of the at least ten external spline teeth.

[0012] In the case of the bicycle wheel assembly according to the fifth state, the difference between the first spline shape and the second spline shape helps the user to correctly install the bicycle rear sprocket assembly to the sprocket support body, especially regarding the circumferential position of each sprocket in the bicycle rear sprocket assembly.

[0013] According to the sixth embodiment of the present invention, the bicycle wheel hub assembly of any one of the first to fifth embodiments is structurally designed such that at least one of the at least ten external spline teeth has a first spline size that is different from the second spline size of one of the other ten external spline teeth.

[0014] In the case of the bicycle wheel assembly according to the sixth state, the difference between the size of the first spline and the size of the second spline helps the user to correctly install the bicycle rear sprocket assembly onto the sprocket support body, especially regarding the circumferential position of each sprocket in the bicycle rear sprocket assembly.

[0015] According to the seventh embodiment of the present invention, the bicycle wheel assembly of any one of the first to sixth embodiments is structurally designed such that each of the at least ten external splines has a maximum circumferential width. The sum of one of these maximum circumferential widths is equal to or greater than 55 mm.

[0016] In the case of a bicycle wheel assembly based on the seventh state, it is possible to improve the strength of at least ten external spline teeth in the shear direction.

[0017] According to the eighth embodiment of the present invention, the bicycle wheel hub assembly, as in the seventh embodiment, is structurally designed such that the sum of the maximum circumferential widths of the circumferences is equal to or greater than 60 mm.

[0018] In the case of the bicycle wheel assembly according to the eighth state, it is possible to further improve the strength of at least ten external splines in the shear direction.

[0019] According to the ninth embodiment of the present invention, the bicycle wheel assembly of the eighth embodiment is structurally designed such that the sum of the maximum circumferential widths of the circumferences is equal to or greater than 65 mm.

[0020] In the case of the bicycle hub assembly according to the ninth state, it is possible to further improve the strength of at least ten external splines in the shear direction.

[0021] According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, a bicycle hub assembly includes a sprocket support body. The sprocket support body includes a plurality of external splines structurally designed to engage with a bicycle rear sprocket assembly. At least two of the plurality of external splines are circumferentially arranged with respect to a rotational central axis of the bicycle hub assembly at a first external pitch angle. The first external pitch angle is in the range of 10 degrees to 20 degrees.

[0022] In the case of the bicycle wheel assembly according to the tenth configuration, compared to a sprocket support body with an outer pitch angle greater than the first outer pitch angle, the first outer pitch angle reduces the rotational force applied to each of the at least two outer splines. This improves the durability of the sprocket support body and / or improves the freedom of choice in selecting the material of the sprocket support body without reducing the durability of the sprocket support body.

[0023] According to the eleventh embodiment of the present invention, the bicycle wheel hub assembly of the tenth embodiment is structurally designed such that the first outer pitch angle is in the range of 12 to 15 degrees.

[0024] In the case of the bicycle wheel assembly according to the eleventh configuration, compared to a sprocket support body with an outer pitch angle greater than the first outer pitch angle, the first outer pitch angle further reduces the rotational force applied to each of the at least two outer splines. This further improves the durability of the sprocket support body and / or improves the freedom of choice in selecting the material of the sprocket support body without reducing the durability of the sprocket support body.

[0025] According to the twelfth embodiment of the present invention, the bicycle wheel hub assembly of the eleventh embodiment is structurally designed such that the first outer pitch angle is in the range of 13 to 14 degrees.

[0026] In the case of the bicycle hub assembly according to the twelfth configuration, compared to a sprocket support body with an outer pitch angle greater than the first outer pitch angle, the first outer pitch angle further reduces the rotational force applied to each of the at least two outer splines. This further improves the durability of the sprocket support body and / or improves the freedom of choice in selecting the material of the sprocket support body without reducing the durability of the sprocket support body.

[0027] According to the thirteenth embodiment of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly of any one of the tenth to twelfth embodiments is structurally designed such that at least two of the plurality of external splines are circumferentially arranged with respect to the rotational axis of the bicycle hub assembly at a second external pitch angle. This second external pitch angle is different from the first external pitch angle.

[0028] In the case of the bicycle hub assembly according to the thirteenth state, the difference between the first outer pitch angle and the second outer pitch angle helps the user to correctly install the bicycle rear sprocket assembly onto the sprocket support body, especially regarding the circumferential position of each sprocket in the bicycle rear sprocket assembly.

[0029] According to the fourteenth aspect of the present invention, a bicycle wheel hub assembly includes a sprocket support body. The sprocket support body includes at least one external spline tooth structurally designed to engage with a bicycle rear sprocket assembly. The at least one external spline tooth has an external spline tip diameter equal to or less than 30 mm.

[0030] In the case of the bicycle hub assembly according to the fourteenth configuration, the external spline tip diameter allows the bicycle hub assembly to mount a bicycle rear sprocket assembly, including a sprocket with ten or fewer sprocket teeth, to the bicycle hub assembly. This widens the gear range of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly mounted to the bicycle hub assembly.

[0031] According to the fifteenth embodiment of the present invention, the bicycle wheel assembly of the fourteenth embodiment further includes a brake rotor support body, the brake rotor support body including at least one additional external spline tooth structurally designed to engage with a bicycle brake rotor. The at least one additional external spline tooth has an additional external spline tip diameter larger than the external spline tip diameter.

[0032] In the case of the bicycle hub assembly according to the fifteenth type, the braking performance is improved by widening the gear range of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly that is mounted to the bicycle hub assembly.

[0033] According to the sixteenth embodiment of the present invention, such as the fourteenth or fifteenth embodiment, the bicycle wheel hub assembly is structurally designed such that the top diameter of the external spline is equal to or greater than 25 mm.

[0034] In the case of the bicycle hub assembly according to the sixteenth type, it is possible to ensure the strength of the sprocket support body while enabling the bicycle hub assembly to install a bicycle rear sprocket assembly including a sprocket with ten or fewer sprocket teeth to the bicycle hub assembly.

[0035] According to the seventeenth embodiment of the present invention, the bicycle rear wheel hub assembly, as in the sixteenth embodiment, is structurally designed such that the top diameter of the external spline is equal to or greater than 29 mm.

[0036] In the case of the bicycle hub assembly according to the seventeenth type, it is possible to ensure the strength of the sprocket support body while enabling the bicycle hub assembly to install a bicycle rear sprocket assembly including a sprocket with ten or fewer sprocket teeth to the bicycle hub assembly.

[0037] According to the eighteenth embodiment of the present invention, the bicycle wheel hub assembly of any one of the fourteenth to seventeenth embodiments is structurally designed such that the at least one external spline tooth has an external spline base diameter equal to or less than 28 mm.

[0038] In the case of the bicycle hub assembly according to the eighteenth type, the outer spline base diameter can be increased by increasing the radial length of the transmission surface of at least one outer spline tooth. This improves the strength of the sprocket support body.

[0039] According to the nineteenth embodiment of the present invention, the bicycle wheel hub assembly of the eighteenth embodiment is structurally designed such that the bottom diameter of the outer spline is equal to or greater than 25 mm.

[0040] In the case of the bicycle wheel hub assembly according to the nineteenth type, it is possible to ensure the strength of the sprocket support body by widening the gear range of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly installed to the bicycle wheel hub assembly.

[0041] According to the twentieth embodiment of the present invention, the bicycle wheel hub assembly, as in the nineteenth embodiment, is structurally designed such that the bottom diameter of the outer spline is equal to or greater than 27 mm.

[0042] In the case of the bicycle wheel hub assembly according to the twentieth state, it is possible to ensure the strength of the sprocket support body by widening the gear range of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly installed to the bicycle wheel hub assembly.

[0043] According to the twenty-first embodiment of the present invention, the bicycle wheel assembly of any one of embodiments fourteen to twentieth is structurally designed such that the at least one external spline includes a plurality of external spline teeth, the plurality of external spline teeth including a plurality of external spline drive surfaces for receiving a transmission rotational force from a transmission of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly during pedaling. Each of the plurality of external spline drive surfaces includes a radially outermost edge, a radially innermost edge, and a radial length defined from the radially outermost edge to the radially innermost edge. The sum of the radial lengths of the plurality of external spline drive surfaces is equal to or greater than 7 mm.

[0044] In the case of the bicycle wheel assembly according to the twenty-first specification, it is possible to increase the radial length of multiple external spline drive surfaces. This improves the strength of the sprocket support body.

[0045] According to the twenty-second embodiment of the present invention, the bicycle wheel hub assembly of the twenty-first embodiment is structurally designed such that the sum of the radial lengths is equal to or greater than 10 mm.

[0046] In the case of the bicycle wheel assembly according to the twenty-second specification, it is possible to further increase the radial length of the plurality of external spline drive surfaces. This further improves the strength of the sprocket support body.

[0047] According to the twenty-third embodiment of the present invention, the bicycle wheel hub assembly of the twenty-second embodiment is structurally designed such that the sum of the radial lengths is equal to or greater than 15 mm.

[0048] In the case of the bicycle wheel assembly according to the twenty-third specification, it is possible to further increase the radial length of the plurality of external spline drive surfaces. This further improves the strength of the sprocket support body.

[0049] According to the twenty-fourth embodiment of the present invention, the bicycle wheel hub assembly of any one of the fourteenth to twenty-third embodiments is structurally designed such that the sprocket support body includes a larger diameter portion having an outer diameter greater than the top diameter of the outer spline.

[0050] Based on the twenty-fourth type of bicycle wheel assembly, it is possible to improve the design freedom of the internal structure of the bicycle wheel assembly. For example, a transmission structure such as a one-way coupling structure can be accommodated within the internal cavity of this larger diameter portion of the sprocket support body.

[0051] According to the twenty-fifth embodiment of the present invention, the bicycle wheel hub assembly of the twenty-fourth embodiment is structurally designed such that the outer diameter is in the range of 32 mm to 40 mm.

[0052] In the case of the bicycle wheel assembly according to the twenty-fifth specification, it is possible to further improve the design freedom of the internal structure of the bicycle wheel assembly. For example, it is possible to easily place a transmission structure such as a one-way coupling structure in the internal cavity of this larger diameter section.

[0053] According to the twenty-sixth embodiment of the present invention, the bicycle wheel assembly of the twenty-fourth embodiment further includes a hub axle, the hub axle including an axial contact surface for contacting a bicycle frame. The sprocket support body is rotatably mounted on the hub axle about a rotational central axis. A first axial length is defined relative to the rotational central axis in an axial direction from the axial contact surface to the larger diameter portion. The first axial length is in the range of 35 mm to 41 mm.

[0054] In the case of the bicycle wheel hub assembly according to the twenty-sixth type, it is possible to ensure the axial length of at least one external spline tooth.

[0055] According to the twenty-seventh embodiment of the present invention, the bicycle wheel hub assembly of the twenty-sixth embodiment is structurally designed such that the first axial length is equal to or greater than 39 mm.

[0056] In the case of the bicycle hub assembly according to the twenty-seventh type, it is possible to further ensure the radial length of at least one external spline tooth.

[0057] According to the twenty-eighth embodiment of the present invention, the bicycle wheel hub assembly of the twenty-sixth embodiment is structurally designed such that the first axial length is in the range of 35 mm to 37 mm.

[0058] In the case of the bicycle wheel assembly according to the twenty-eighth state, it is possible to further ensure the axial length of at least one external spline tooth.

[0059] According to the twenty-ninth embodiment of the present invention, the bicycle wheel hub assembly of the twenty-sixth embodiment is structurally designed such that the larger diameter portion has an axial end furthest from the axial contact surface in the axial direction. A second axial length is defined in the axial direction from the axial contact surface to the axial end. The second axial length is in the range of 38 mm to 47 mm.

[0060] In the case of the bicycle wheel assembly according to the twenty-ninth state, it is possible to ensure the axial length of at least one external spline tooth, while improving the design freedom of the internal structure of the bicycle wheel assembly.

[0061] According to the thirtieth embodiment of the present invention, the bicycle wheel hub assembly, as in the twenty-ninth embodiment, is structurally designed such that the second axial length is in the range of 44 mm to 45 mm.

[0062] In the case of the bicycle wheel assembly based on the 30th state, it is possible to further ensure the axial length of at least one external spline tooth, while improving the design freedom of the internal structure of the bicycle wheel assembly.

[0063] According to the thirty-first embodiment of the present invention, the bicycle wheel hub assembly of the twenty-ninth embodiment is structurally designed such that the second axial length is in the range of 40 mm to 41 mm.

[0064] In the case of the bicycle wheel assembly according to the thirty-first state, it is possible to further ensure the axial length of at least one external spline tooth, while improving the design freedom of the internal structure of the bicycle wheel assembly.

[0065] According to the thirty-second embodiment of the present invention, the bicycle wheel hub assembly of any one of the twenty-fourth to thirty-first embodiments is structurally designed such that the axial length of one of the larger diameter portions is in the range of 3 mm to 6 mm.

[0066] Based on the bicycle wheel assembly of the thirty-second type, it is possible to further improve the design freedom of the internal structure of the bicycle wheel assembly. For example, a transmission structure such as a one-way coupling structure can be accommodated in the internal cavity of this larger diameter portion of the sprocket support body.

[0067] According to a thirty-third aspect of the present invention, a bicycle hub assembly includes a sprocket support body. The sprocket support body includes at least nine external spline teeth structurally designed to mesh with a bicycle rear sprocket assembly. At least one of the at least nine external spline teeth has an asymmetrical shape relative to a circumferential tooth tip centerline. The at least one of the at least nine external spline teeth includes an external spline driving surface and an external spline non-driving surface. The external spline driving surface has a first external spline surface angle defined between the external spline driving surface and a first radial line extending from a rotational central axis of the bicycle hub assembly to the radially outermost edge of one of the external spline driving surfaces. The external spline non-driving surface has a second external spline surface angle defined between the external spline non-driving surface and a second radial line extending from the rotational central axis of the bicycle hub assembly to the radially outermost edge of one of the external spline non-driving surfaces. The second external spline surface angle is different from the first external spline surface angle.

[0068] In the case of the bicycle wheel assembly according to the thirty-third type, it is possible to reduce the weight of the sprocket support body while ensuring the strength of the external spline teeth of the sprocket support body.

[0069] According to the thirty-fourth embodiment of the present invention, the bicycle wheel hub assembly of the thirty-third embodiment is structurally designed such that the first external spline surface angle is smaller than the second external spline surface angle.

[0070] In the case of the bicycle wheel assembly according to the thirty-fourth type, it is possible to effectively reduce the weight of the sprocket support body while ensuring the strength of the external spline teeth of the sprocket support body.

[0071] According to the thirty-fifth embodiment of the present invention, such as the thirty-third or thirty-fourth embodiment, the bicycle wheel assembly is structurally designed such that the first external spline surface angle is in the range of 0 to 10 degrees.

[0072] In the case of the bicycle hub assembly according to the thirty-fifth state, the first external spline surface angle ensures the strength of the external spline drive surface.

[0073] According to the thirty-sixth embodiment of the present invention, the bicycle wheel hub assembly of any one of the thirty-third to thirty-fifth embodiments is structurally designed such that the second external spline surface angle is in the range of 0 degrees to 60 degrees.

[0074] In the case of the bicycle hub assembly according to the thirty-sixth state, the second external spline surface angle reduces the weight of the external spline teeth of the sprocket support body.

[0075] According to the thirty-seventh embodiment of the present invention, the bicycle wheel hub assembly of any one of the thirty-third to thirty-sixth embodiments is structurally designed such that the at least ten external spline teeth have a first external pitch angle and a second external pitch angle different from the first external pitch angle.

[0076] In the case of the bicycle hub assembly according to the thirty-seventh type, the difference between the first outer pitch angle and the second outer pitch angle helps the user to correctly install the bicycle rear sprocket assembly onto the sprocket support body, especially regarding the circumferential position of each sprocket in the bicycle rear sprocket assembly. Simple Explanation of the Diagram

[0077] A more complete evaluation of the invention and its many accompanying advantages will become readily available and better understood when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and with reference to the following detailed description, wherein:

[0078] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a bicycle transmission system according to one embodiment.

[0079] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the bicycle drivetrain illustrated in Figure 1.

[0080] Figure 3 is another perspective view of the bicycle drive system illustrated in Figure 2.

[0081] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the bicycle drive system taken along line IV-IV in Figure 2.

[0082] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of the bicycle hub assembly of the bicycle drive system illustrated in Figure 2.

[0083] Figure 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the bicycle transmission system illustrated in Figure 4.

[0084] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the sprocket support body of the bicycle hub assembly of the bicycle drive system illustrated in Figure 2.

[0085] Figure 8 is another perspective view of the sprocket support body of the bicycle hub assembly of the bicycle drive system illustrated in Figure 2.

[0086] Figure 9 is a side view of the sprocket support body illustrated in Figure 7.

[0087] Figure 10 is a side view of the sprocket support body of the modified bicycle wheel hub assembly.

[0088] Figure 11 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the sprocket support body illustrated in Figure 7.

[0089] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the sprocket support body illustrated in Figure 7.

[0090] Figure 13 is a perspective view of the bicycle hub assembly of the bicycle drive system illustrated in Figure 2.

[0091] Figure 14 is a side view of the bicycle hub assembly of the bicycle drive system illustrated in Figure 2.

[0092] Figure 15 is a rear view of the bicycle hub assembly of the bicycle drive system illustrated in Figure 2.

[0093] Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of the bicycle wheel assembly taken along line XVI-XVI in Figure 5.

[0094] Figure 17 is a side view of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly of the bicycle drivetrain illustrated in Figure 2.

[0095] Figure 18 is an exploded perspective view of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly illustrated in Figure 17.

[0096] Figure 19 is a partial exploded perspective view of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly illustrated in Figure 17.

[0097] Figure 20 is another exploded perspective view of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly illustrated in Figure 17.

[0098] Figure 21 is another exploded perspective view of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly illustrated in Figure 17.

[0099] Figure 22 is another exploded perspective view of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly illustrated in Figure 17.

[0100] Figure 23 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly taken along line XXIII-XXIII of Figure 17.

[0101] Figure 24 is a perspective view of the smallest sprocket of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly illustrated in Figure 17.

[0102] Figure 25 is another perspective view of the smallest sprocket of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly illustrated in Figure 17.

[0103] Figure 26 is a side view of the smallest sprocket of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly illustrated in Figure 17.

[0104] Figure 27 is a side view of the modified minimum sprocket.

[0105] Figure 28 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the smallest sprocket illustrated in Figure 24.

[0106] Figure 29 is a cross-sectional view of the smallest sprocket illustrated in Figure 24.

[0107] Figure 30 is a cross-sectional view of the sprocket support body and the smallest sprocket of the bicycle drive system illustrated in Figure 2.

[0108] Figure 31 is a partial exploded perspective view of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly illustrated in Figure 17.

[0109] Figure 32 is a perspective view of the sprocket support of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly illustrated in Figure 17. Implementation

[0110] Embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein similar reference numerals designate corresponding or identical elements in various figures.

[0111] Referring first to Figure 1, a bicycle drivetrain 10 according to one embodiment includes a bicycle hub assembly 12 and a bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14. The bicycle hub assembly 12 is fastened to a bicycle frame BF. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 is mounted on the bicycle hub assembly 12. A bicycle brake rotor 16 is mounted on the bicycle hub assembly 12.

[0112] The bicycle drivetrain 10 further includes a crank assembly 18 and a bicycle chain 20. The crank assembly 18 includes a crankshaft 22, a right crank arm 24, a left crank arm 26, and a front sprocket 27. The right crank arm 24 and the left crank arm 26 are fastened to the crankshaft 22. The front sprocket 27 is fastened to at least one of the crankshaft 22 and the right crank arm 24. The bicycle chain 20 engages with the front sprocket 27 and the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 to transmit pedaling force from the front sprocket 27 to the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14. The crank assembly 18 includes the front sprocket 27 as a single sprocket in the illustrated embodiment. However, the crank assembly 18 may include a plurality of front sprockets. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 is a rear sprocket assembly. However, the structure of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 can be applied to the front sprocket.

[0113] In this application, the following directional terms "forward," "backward," "forward," "rearward," "left," "right," "lateral," "upward," and "downward," as well as any other similar directional terms, refer to the direction determined based on the user (e.g., rider) sitting on the bicycle seat (not shown) and facing the handlebars (not shown). Therefore, when these terms are used to describe the bicycle drivetrain 10, the bicycle hub assembly 12, or the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14, they should be interpreted with respect to a bicycle equipped with the bicycle drivetrain 10, the bicycle hub assembly 12, or the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 as used in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface.

[0114] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the bicycle hub assembly 12 and the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 have a rotational axis A1. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 is rotatably supported by the bicycle hub assembly 12 about the rotational axis A1 relative to the bicycle frame BF (Figure 1). The bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 is structurally designed to engage with the bicycle chain 20, thereby transmitting a transmission rotational force F1 between the bicycle chain 20 and the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 during pedaling. During pedaling, the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 rotates about the rotational axis A1 in the transmission rotation direction D11. The transmission rotation direction D11 is defined along the circumferential direction D1 of the bicycle hub assembly 12 or the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14. The opposite rotational direction D12 is the opposite direction of the transmission rotation direction D11 and is defined along the circumferential direction D1.

[0115] As shown in Figure 2, the bicycle hub assembly 12 includes a sprocket support body 28. A bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 is mounted on the sprocket support body 28 to transmit a rotational force F1 between the sprocket support body 28 and the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14. The bicycle hub assembly 12 further includes a hub shaft 30. The sprocket support body 28 is rotatably mounted on the hub shaft 30 about a rotational axis A1. The bicycle hub assembly 12 includes a locking ring 32. The locking ring 32 is fastened to the sprocket support body 28 to hold the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 relative to the sprocket support body 28 in an axial direction D2 parallel to the rotational axis A1.

[0116] As shown in Figure 4, the bicycle hub assembly 12 is fastened to the bicycle frame BF by a wheel fastening structure WS. The hub axle 30 has a through hole 30A. The fastening rod WS1 of the wheel fastening structure WS extends through the through hole 30A of the hub axle 30. The hub axle 30 includes a first axle end 30B and a second axle end 30C. The hub axle 30 extends along the rotation center axis A1 between the first axle end 30B and the second axle end 30C. The first axle end 30B is disposed in a first groove BF11 of the first frame BF1 of the bicycle frame BF. The second axle end 30C is disposed in a second groove BF21 of the second frame BF2 of the bicycle frame BF. The hub axle 30 is held between the first frame BF1 and the second frame BF2 by the wheel fastening structure WS. The wheel fastening structure WS includes structures known in the claimed bicycle. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, it will not be described in detail here.

[0117] As seen in Figures 4 and 5, the bicycle hub assembly 12 further includes a brake rotor support body 34. The brake rotor support body 34 is rotatably mounted on the hub shaft 30 about a rotational axis A1. The brake rotor support body 34 is coupled to the bicycle brake rotor 16 (Figure 1) to transmit braking rotational force from the bicycle brake rotor 16 to the brake rotor support body 34.

[0118] As shown in Figure 5, the bicycle wheel assembly 12 further includes a wheel body 36. The wheel body 36 is rotatably mounted on the wheel axle 30 about a rotational center axis A1. In this embodiment, the sprocket support body 28 is a separate component from the wheel body 36. The brake rotor support body 34 is integrally formed as a single piece with the wheel body 36. However, the sprocket support body 28 may be integrally formed with the wheel body 36. The brake rotor support body 34 may be a separate component from the wheel body 36.

[0119] The hub body 36 includes a first flange 36A and a second flange 36B. A first spoke (not shown) is coupled to the first flange 36A. A second spoke (not shown) is coupled to the second flange 36B. The second flange 36B is spaced apart from the first flange 36A in the axial direction D2. The first flange 36A is disposed between the sprocket support body 28 and the second flange 36B in the axial direction D2. The second flange 36B is disposed between the first flange 36A and the brake rotor support body 34 in the axial direction D2.

[0120] The locking ring 32 includes an external threaded portion 32A. The sprocket support body 28 includes an internal threaded portion 28A. When the locking ring 32 is fastened to the sprocket support body 28, the external threaded portion 32A and the internal threaded portion 28A are threadedly engaged.

[0121] As shown in Figure 6, the bicycle hub assembly 12 further includes a ratchet structure 38. The sprocket support body 28 is operatively coupled to the hub body 36 via the ratchet structure 38. The ratchet structure 38 is structurally designed to couple the sprocket support body 28 to the hub body 36, thereby allowing the sprocket support body 28, together with the hub body 36, to rotate in the drive rotation direction D11 (Figure 5) during pedaling. The ratchet structure 38 is structurally designed to allow the sprocket support body 28 to rotate relative to the hub body 36 in the reverse rotation direction D12 (Figure 5) during coasting. Therefore, the ratchet structure 38 can be interpreted as a one-way coupling structure 38. The ratchet structure 38 includes structures known in the bicycle industry. Therefore, for the sake of simplicity, it will not be described in detail here.

[0122] The bicycle wheel hub assembly 12 includes a first bearing 39A and a second bearing 39B. The first bearing 39A and the second bearing 39B are disposed between the sprocket support body 28 and the hub shaft 30 to rotatably support the sprocket support body 28 relative to the hub shaft 30 about the rotation center axis A1. In this embodiment, each of the sprocket support body 28, the brake rotor support body 34, and the hub body 36 is made of a metallic material such as aluminum, iron, or titanium. However, at least one of the sprocket support body 28, the brake rotor support body 34, and the hub body 36 may be made of a non-metallic material.

[0123] As seen in Figures 7 and 8, the sprocket support body 28 includes at least one external spline tooth 40 structurally designed to engage with the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 (Figure 6). The sprocket support body 28 includes a plurality of external spline teeth 40 structurally designed to engage with the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 (Figure 6). That is, at least one external spline tooth 40 includes a plurality of external spline teeth 40. The sprocket support body 28 includes at least nine external spline teeth 40 structurally designed to engage with the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 (Figure 6). The sprocket support body 28 includes at least ten external spline teeth 40 structurally designed to engage with the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 (Figure 6).

[0124] The sprocket support body 28 includes a base support 41 with a tubular shape. The base support 41 extends along the rotation center axis A1 and has a single diameter portion (as shown in Figure 7). External spline teeth 40 extend radially outward from the base support 41. The sprocket support body 28 includes a larger diameter portion 42, a flange 44, and a plurality of helical external spline teeth 46. The larger diameter portion 42 and the flange 44 extend radially outward from the base support 41. The larger diameter portion 42 is disposed in the axial direction D2 between the plurality of external spline teeth 40 and the flange 44. The larger diameter portion 42 and the flange 44 are disposed in the axial direction D2 between the plurality of external spline teeth 40 and the plurality of helical external spline teeth 46. As seen in Figure 6, the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 is held in the axial direction D2 between the larger diameter portion 42 and the locking flange 32B of the locking ring 32. The larger diameter portion 42 may have an internal cavity, allowing a transmission structure, such as a one-way coupling, to be accommodated within the internal cavity. The larger diameter portion 42 may be omitted from the bicycle hub assembly 12 if necessary.

[0125] As shown in Figure 9, the total number of at least ten external spline teeth 40 is equal to or greater than 20. The total number of at least ten external spline teeth 40 is equal to or greater than 25. In this embodiment, the total number of at least ten external spline teeth 40 is 26. However, the total number of external spline teeth 40 is not limited to this embodiment and the above range.

[0126] At least ten external spline teeth 40 have a first external pitch angle PA11 and a second external pitch angle PA12. At least two of the external spline teeth 40 are circumferentially arranged with respect to the rotational axis A1 of the bicycle hub assembly 12 at the first external pitch angle PA11. At least two of the external spline teeth 40 are circumferentially arranged with respect to the rotational axis A1 of the bicycle hub assembly 12 at the second external pitch angle PA12. In this embodiment, the second external pitch angle PA12 is different from the first external pitch angle PA11. However, the second external pitch angle PA12 may be substantially equal to the first external pitch angle PA11.

[0127] In this embodiment, the external spline teeth 40 are configured with a first external pitch angle PA11 in the circumferential direction D1. Two of the external spline teeth 40 are configured with a second external pitch angle PA12 in the circumferential direction D1. However, at least two of the external spline teeth 40 may be configured with a different external pitch angle in the circumferential direction D1.

[0128] The first outer pitch angle PA11 is in the range of 10 degrees to 20 degrees. The first outer pitch angle PA11 is in the range of 12 degrees to 15 degrees. The first outer pitch angle PA11 is in the range of 13 degrees to 14 degrees. In this embodiment, the first outer pitch angle PA11 is 13.3 degrees. However, the first outer pitch angle PA11 is not limited to this embodiment or the ranges described above.

[0129] The second outer pitch angle PA12 is in the range of 5 degrees to 30 degrees. In this embodiment, the second outer pitch angle PA12 is 26 degrees. However, the second outer pitch angle PA12 is not limited to this embodiment and the range described above.

[0130] The outer spline teeth 40 have substantially the same shape as each other. The outer spline teeth 40 have substantially the same spline size as each other. When viewed along the rotation center axis A1, the outer spline teeth 40 have substantially the same profile as each other. However, as seen in Figure 10, at least one of the at least ten outer spline teeth 40 may have a first spline shape that differs from the second spline shape of another of the at least ten outer spline teeth 40. At least one of the at least ten outer spline teeth 40 may have a first spline size that differs from the second spline size of another of the at least ten outer spline teeth 40. When viewed along the rotation center axis A1, at least one of the at least ten outer spline teeth 40 may have a profile that differs from the profile of another of the at least ten outer spline teeth 40. In Figure 10, one of the outer spline teeth 40 has a spline shape that differs from the spline shape of the other teeth in the outer spline teeth 40. One of the external spline teeth 40 has a spline size different from the spline size of the other teeth in the external spline teeth 40. When viewed along the rotation center axis A1, one of the external spline teeth 40 has a profile different from the profile of the other teeth in the external spline teeth 40.

[0131] As shown in Figure 11, each of at least ten external spline teeth 40 has an external spline driving surface 48 and an external spline non-driving surface 50. The plurality of external spline teeth 40 includes a plurality of external spline driving surfaces 48 for receiving the transmission rotational force F1 from the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 (Figure 6) during pedaling. The plurality of external spline teeth 40 includes a plurality of external spline non-driving surfaces 50. The external spline driving surfaces 48 can contact the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 to receive the transmission rotational force F1 from the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 (Figure 6) during pedaling. The external spline driving surfaces 48 face the opposite rotational direction D12. The external spline non-driving surfaces 50 are disposed on the opposite side of the external spline driving surfaces 48 in the circumferential direction D1. The external spline non-driving surfaces 50 face the transmission rotational direction D11, thereby not receiving the transmission rotational force F1 from the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 during pedaling.

[0132] At least ten external spline teeth 40 each have a maximum circumferential width MW1. The maximum circumferential width MW1 is defined as the maximum width at which the thrust F2 applied to the external spline teeth 40 is received. The maximum circumferential width MW1 is defined as the straight-line distance based on the external spline drive surface 48.

[0133] Each of the plurality of external spline driving surfaces 48 includes a radially outermost edge 48A and a radially innermost edge 48B. The external spline driving surfaces 48 extend from the radially outermost edge 48A to the radially innermost edge 48B. A first reference circle RC11 is defined on the radially innermost edge 48B and centered on the rotational axis A1. The first reference circle RC11 intersects the external spline non-driving surface 50 at a reference point 50R. The maximum circumferential width MW1 extends linearly from the radially innermost edge 48B to the reference point 50R in the circumferential direction D1.

[0134] Each of the plurality of external spline non-driving surfaces 50 includes a radially outermost edge 50A and a radially innermost edge 50B. The external spline non-driving surfaces 50 extend from the radially outermost edge 50A to the radially innermost edge 50B. A reference point 50R is disposed between the radially outermost edge 50A and the radially innermost edge 50B. However, the reference point 50R may coincide with the radially innermost edge 50B.

[0135] The sum of the maximum circumferential widths MW1 is equal to or greater than 55 mm. The sum of the maximum circumferential widths MW1 is equal to or greater than 60 mm. The sum of the maximum circumferential widths MW1 is equal to or greater than 65 mm. In this embodiment, the sum of the maximum circumferential widths MW1 is 68 mm. However, the sum of the maximum circumferential widths MW1 is not limited to this embodiment or the ranges described above.

[0136] As shown in Figure 12, at least one external spline tooth 40 has an external spline tip diameter DM11. The external spline tip diameter DM11 is equal to or greater than 25 mm. The external spline tip diameter DM11 is equal to or greater than 29 mm. The external spline tip diameter DM11 is equal to or less than 30 mm. In this embodiment, the external spline tip diameter DM11 is 29.6 mm. However, the external spline tip diameter DM11 is not limited to this embodiment and the above ranges.

[0137] At least one external spline tooth 40 has an external spline root diameter DM12. At least one external spline tooth 40 has an external spline root circle RC12, which has an external spline root diameter DM12. However, the external spline root circle RC12 may have a diameter different from the external spline root diameter DM12. The external spline root diameter DM12 is equal to or less than 28 mm. The external spline root diameter DM12 is equal to or greater than 25 mm. The external spline root diameter DM12 is equal to or greater than 27 mm. In this embodiment, the external spline root diameter DM12 is 27.2 mm. However, the external spline root diameter DM12 is not limited to this embodiment and the above ranges.

[0138] The larger diameter portion 42 has an outer diameter DM13 that is larger than the outer spline top diameter DM11. The outer diameter DM13 is in the range of 32 mm to 40 mm. In this embodiment, the outer diameter DM13 is 35 mm. However, the outer diameter DM13 is not limited to this embodiment.

[0139] As shown in Figure 11, each of the plurality of external spline drive surfaces 48 includes a radial length RL11 defined from the outermost radial edge 48A to the innermost radial edge 48B. The sum of the radial lengths RL11 of the plurality of external spline drive surfaces 48 is equal to or greater than 7 mm. The sum of the radial lengths RL11 is equal to or greater than 10 mm. The sum of the radial lengths RL11 is equal to or greater than 15 mm. In this embodiment, the sum of the radial lengths RL11 is 19.5 mm. However, the sum of the radial lengths RL11 is not limited to this embodiment.

[0140] A plurality of external spline teeth 40 have an additional radial length RL12. The additional radial length RL12 is defined from the root circle RC12 of each external spline tooth to the outermost radial end 40A of the plurality of external spline teeth 40. The sum of the additional radial lengths RL12 is equal to or greater than 12 mm. In this embodiment, the sum of the additional radial lengths RL12 is 31.85 mm. However, the sum of the additional radial lengths RL12 is not limited to this embodiment.

[0141] At least one of the at least nine external spline teeth 40 has an asymmetrical shape with respect to the circumferential tooth tip centerline CL1. The circumferential tooth tip centerline CL1 is the line connecting the rotation center axis A1 and the circumferential center point CP1 of the radial outermost end 40A of the external spline teeth 40. However, at least one of the external spline teeth 40 may have a symmetrical shape with respect to the circumferential tooth tip centerline CL1. At least one of the at least nine external spline teeth 40 includes an external spline driving surface 48 and an external spline non-driving surface 50.

[0142] The outer spline drive surface 48 has a first outer spline surface angle AG11. The first outer spline surface angle AG11 is defined between the outer spline drive surface 48 and a first radial line L11. The first radial line L11 extends from the rotation center axis A1 of the bicycle hub assembly 12 to the outermost radial edge 48A of the outer spline drive surface 48. A first outer pitch angle PA11 or a second outer pitch angle PA12 is defined between adjacent to the first radial line L11 (see, for example, FIG9).

[0143] The outer spline non-drive surface 50 has a second outer spline surface angle AG12. The second outer spline surface angle AG12 is defined between the outer spline non-drive surface 50 and the second radial line L12. The second radial line L12 extends from the rotation center axis A1 of the bicycle hub assembly 12 to the outermost radial edge 50A of the outer spline non-drive surface 50.

[0144] In this embodiment, the second external spline surface angle AG12 is different from the first external spline surface angle AG11. The first external spline surface angle AG11 is smaller than the second external spline surface angle AG12. However, the first external spline surface angle AG11 may be equal to or greater than the second external spline surface angle AG12.

[0145] The first external spline surface angle AG11 is in the range of 0 to 10 degrees. The second external spline surface angle AG12 is in the range of 0 to 60 degrees. In this embodiment, the first external spline surface angle AG11 is 5 degrees. The second external spline surface angle AG12 is 45 degrees. However, the first external spline surface angle AG11 and the second external spline surface angle AG12 are not limited to this embodiment and the above ranges.

[0146] As seen in Figures 13 and 14, the brake rotor support body 34 includes at least one additional external spline tooth 52 structurally designed to engage with the bicycle brake rotor 16 (Figure 4). In this embodiment, the brake rotor support body 34 includes an additional base support 54 and a plurality of additional external spline teeth 52. The additional base support 54 has a tubular shape and extends from the hub body 36 along the rotation center axis A1. The additional external spline teeth 52 extend radially outward from the additional base support 54. The total number of additional external spline teeth 52 is 52. However, the total number of additional external spline teeth 52 is not limited to this embodiment.

[0147] As shown in Figure 14, at least one additional external spline tooth 52 has an additional external spline tip diameter DM14. As shown in Figure 15, the additional external spline tip diameter DM14 is larger than the external spline tip diameter DM11. The additional external spline tip diameter DM14 is substantially equal to the outer diameter DM13 of the larger diameter portion 42. However, the additional external spline tip diameter DM14 may be equal to or smaller than the external spline tip diameter DM11. The additional external spline tip diameter DM14 may be different from the outer diameter DM13 of the larger diameter portion 42.

[0148] As shown in Figure 16, the hub axle 30 includes an axial contact surface 30B1 for contacting the bicycle frame BF. In this embodiment, the axial contact surface 30B1 can contact the first frame BF1 of the bicycle frame BF. The first frame BF1 includes a frame contact surface BF12. When the bicycle hub assembly 12 is fastened to the bicycle frame BF by the wheel fastening structure WS, the axial contact surface 30B1 contacts the frame contact surface BF12.

[0149] The first axial length AL11 is defined relative to the rotation center axis A1 in the axial direction D2 from the axial contact surface 30B1 to the larger diameter portion 42. The first axial length AL11 is in the range of 35 mm to 41 mm. The first axial length AL11 may be equal to or greater than 39 mm. The first axial length AL11 may also be in the range of 35 mm to 37 mm. In this embodiment, the first axial length AL11 is 36.2 mm. However, the first axial length AL11 is not limited to this embodiment and the above range.

[0150] The larger diameter portion 42 has an axial end 42A that is furthest from the axial contact surface 30B1 in the axial direction D2. The second axial length AL12 is defined in the axial direction D2 from the axial contact surface 30B1 to the axial end 42A. The second axial length AL12 is in the range of 38 mm to 47 mm. The second axial length AL12 can be in the range of 44 mm to 45 mm. The second axial length AL12 can also be in the range of 40 mm to 41 mm. In this embodiment, the second axial length AL12 is 40.75 mm. However, the second axial length AL12 is not limited to this embodiment and the above ranges.

[0151] The axial length AL13 of the larger diameter portion 42 is in the range of 3 mm to 6 mm. In this embodiment, the axial length AL13 is 4.55 mm. However, the axial length AL13 is not limited to this embodiment or the range described above.

[0152] As shown in Figure 17, the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 includes at least one sprocket. The at least one sprocket includes a minimum sprocket SP1 and a maximum sprocket SP12. The minimum sprocket SP1 may also be referred to as sprocket SP1. The maximum sprocket SP12 may also be referred to as sprocket SP12. In this embodiment, the at least one sprocket further includes sprockets SP2 to SP11. Sprocket SP1 corresponds to a high-speed gear. Sprocket SP12 corresponds to a low-speed gear. The total number of sprockets in the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 is not limited to this embodiment.

[0153] The minimum sprocket SP1 includes at least one sprocket tooth SP1B. The total number of at least one sprocket tooth SP1B of the minimum sprocket SP1 is equal to or less than 10. In this embodiment, the total number of at least one sprocket tooth SP1B of the minimum sprocket SP1 is 10. However, the total number of at least one sprocket tooth SP1B of the minimum sprocket SP1 is not limited to this embodiment and the above scope.

[0154] The largest sprocket SP12 includes at least one sprocket tooth SP12B. The total number of at least one sprocket tooth SP12B of the largest sprocket SP12 is equal to or greater than 46. The total number of at least one sprocket tooth SP12B of the largest sprocket SP12 is equal to or greater than 50. In this embodiment, the total number of at least one sprocket tooth SP12B of the largest sprocket SP12 is 51. However, the total number of at least one sprocket tooth SP12B of the largest sprocket SP12 is not limited to this embodiment and the above scope.

[0155] Sprocket SP2 includes at least one sprocket tooth SP2B. Sprocket SP3 includes at least one sprocket tooth SP3B. Sprocket SP4 includes at least one sprocket tooth SP4B. Sprocket SP5 includes at least one sprocket tooth SP5B. Sprocket SP6 includes at least one sprocket tooth SP6B. Sprocket SP7 includes at least one sprocket tooth SP7B. Sprocket SP8 includes at least one sprocket tooth SP8B. Sprocket SP9 includes at least one sprocket tooth SP9B. Sprocket SP10 includes at least one sprocket tooth SP10B. Sprocket SP11 includes at least one sprocket tooth SP11B.

[0156] The total number of at least one sprocket tooth SP2B is 12. The total number of at least one sprocket tooth SP3B is 14. The total number of at least one sprocket tooth SP4B is 16. The total number of at least one sprocket tooth SP5B is 18. The total number of at least one sprocket tooth SP6B is 21. The total number of at least one sprocket tooth SP7B is 24. The total number of at least one sprocket tooth SP8B is 28. The total number of at least one sprocket tooth SP9B is 33. The total number of at least one sprocket tooth SP10B is 39. The total number of at least one sprocket tooth SP11B is 45. The total number of sprocket teeth of each of sprockets SP2 to SP11 is not limited to this embodiment.

[0157] As shown in Figure 18, sprockets SP1 to SP12 are separate components. However, at least one of sprockets SP1 to SP12 may be provided at least partially integrally with the other of sprockets SP1 to SP12. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 includes a sprocket support 56, a plurality of spacers 58, a first ring 59A, and a second ring 59B. In the illustrated embodiment, sprockets SP1 to SP12 are attached to the sprocket support 56.

[0158] As shown in Figure 19, sprocket SP1 includes a sprocket body SP1A and a plurality of sprocket teeth SP1B. The plurality of sprocket teeth SP1B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP1A. Sprocket SP2 includes a sprocket body SP2A and a plurality of sprocket teeth SP2B. The plurality of sprocket teeth SP2B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP2A. Sprocket SP3 includes a sprocket body SP3A and a plurality of sprocket teeth SP3B. The plurality of sprocket teeth SP3B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP3A. Sprocket SP4 includes a sprocket body SP4A and a plurality of sprocket teeth SP4B. The plurality of sprocket teeth SP4B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP4A. Sprocket SP5 includes a sprocket body SP5A and a plurality of sprocket teeth SP5B. The plurality of sprocket teeth SP5B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP5A. The first ring 59A is located between sprockets SP3 and SP4. The second ring 59B is located between sprockets SP4 and SP5.

[0159] As shown in Figure 20, sprocket SP6 includes a sprocket body SP6A and a plurality of sprocket teeth SP6B. The plurality of sprocket teeth SP6B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP6A. Sprocket SP7 includes a sprocket body SP7A and a plurality of sprocket teeth SP7B. The plurality of sprocket teeth SP7B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP7A. Sprocket SP8 includes a sprocket body SP8A and a plurality of sprocket teeth SP8B. The plurality of sprocket teeth SP8B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP8A.

[0160] As shown in Figure 21, sprocket SP9 includes a sprocket body SP9A and a plurality of sprocket teeth SP9B. The plurality of sprocket teeth SP9B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP9A. Sprocket SP10 includes a sprocket body SP10A and a plurality of sprocket teeth SP10B. The plurality of sprocket teeth SP10B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP10A. Sprocket SP11 includes a sprocket body SP11A and a plurality of sprocket teeth SP11B. The plurality of sprocket teeth SP11B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP11A. Sprocket SP12 includes a sprocket body SP12A and a plurality of sprocket teeth SP12B. The plurality of sprocket teeth SP12B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP12A.

[0161] As shown in Figure 22, the sprocket support 56 includes a hub engagement portion 60 and a plurality of support arms 62. The plurality of support arms 62 extend radially outward from the hub engagement portion 60. The support arms 62 include a first attachment portion 62A to an eighth attachment portion 62H. The plurality of spacers 58 include a plurality of first spacers 58A, a plurality of second spacers 58B, a plurality of third spacers 58C, a plurality of fourth spacers 58D, a plurality of fifth spacers 58E, a plurality of sixth spacers 58F, and a plurality of seventh spacers 58G.

[0162] As shown in Figure 23, the first spacer 58A is disposed between sprockets SP5 and SP6. The second spacer 58B is disposed between sprockets SP6 and SP7. The third spacer 58C is disposed between sprockets SP7 and SP8. The fourth spacer 58D is disposed between sprockets SP8 and SP9. The fifth spacer 58E is disposed between sprockets SP9 and SP10. The sixth spacer 58F is disposed between sprockets SP10 and SP11. The seventh spacer 58G is disposed between sprockets SP11 and SP12.

[0163] Sprockets SP6 and the first spacer 58A are attached to the first attachment portion 62A by an adhesive structure such as an adhesive. Sprockets SP7 and the second spacer 58B are attached to the second attachment portion 62B by an adhesive structure such as an adhesive. Sprockets SP8 and the third spacer 58C are attached to the third attachment portion 62C by an adhesive structure such as an adhesive. Sprockets SP9 and the fourth spacer 58D are attached to the fourth attachment portion 62D by an adhesive structure such as an adhesive. Sprockets SP10 and the fifth spacer 58E are attached to the fifth attachment portion 62E by an adhesive structure such as an adhesive. Sprockets SP11 and the sixth spacer 58F are attached to the sixth attachment portion 62F by an adhesive structure such as an adhesive. Sprockets SP12 and the seventh spacer 58G are attached to the seventh attachment portion 62G by an adhesive structure such as an adhesive. The sprocket SP5 and the second ring 59B are attached to the eighth attachment portion 62H by an adhesive structure such as an adhesive. The hub engagement portion 60, sprockets SP1 to SP4, the first ring 59A and the second ring 59B are held in the axial direction D2 between the larger diameter portion 42 and the locking flange 32B of the locking ring 32.

[0164] In this embodiment, each of the sprockets SP1 to SP12 is made of a metallic material such as aluminum, iron, or titanium. Each of the sprocket support 56, the first spacer 58A to the seventh spacer 58G, the first ring 59A, and the second ring 59B is made of a non-metallic material such as resin. However, at least one of the sprockets SP1 to SP12 may be at least partially made of a non-metallic material. At least one of the sprocket support 56, the first spacer 58A to the seventh spacer 58G, the first ring 59A, and the second ring 59B may be at least partially made of a metallic material such as aluminum, iron, or titanium.

[0165] At least one sprocket includes at least one internal spline tooth structurally designed to engage with a bicycle wheel assembly 12. As seen in Figures 24 and 25, at least one sprocket includes at least ten internal splines structurally designed to engage with a bicycle wheel assembly 12. At least one internal spline tooth includes a plurality of internal splines. Therefore, at least one sprocket includes a plurality of internal splines structurally designed to engage with a bicycle wheel assembly 12. In this embodiment, sprocket SP1 includes at least ten internal splines 64 structurally designed to engage with a bicycle wheel assembly 12. In this embodiment, sprocket SP1 includes internal splines 64 structurally designed to engage with the external splines 40 of the sprocket support body 28 of the bicycle wheel assembly 12. The sprocket body SP1A has an annular shape. The internal splines 64 extend radially inward from the sprocket body SP1A.

[0166] As shown in Figure 26, the total number of at least ten internal spline teeth 64 is equal to or greater than 20. The total number of at least ten internal spline teeth 64 is equal to or greater than 25. In this embodiment, the total number of internal spline teeth 64 is 26. However, the total number of internal spline teeth 64 is not limited to this embodiment or the above range.

[0167] At least ten internal spline teeth 64 have a first internal pitch angle PA21 and a second internal pitch angle PA22. At least two of the internal spline teeth 64 are circumferentially arranged with respect to the rotational axis A1 of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 at the first internal pitch angle PA21. At least two of the internal spline teeth 64 are circumferentially arranged with respect to the rotational axis A1 at the second internal pitch angle PA22. In this embodiment, the second internal pitch angle PA22 is different from the first internal pitch angle PA21. However, the second internal pitch angle PA22 may be substantially equal to the first internal pitch angle PA21.

[0168] In this embodiment, the internal spline teeth 64 are arranged circumferentially in the circumferential direction D1 with a first internal pitch angle PA21. Two of the internal spline teeth 64 are arranged in the circumferential direction D1 with a second internal pitch angle PA22. However, at least two of the internal spline teeth 64 may be arranged in the circumferential direction D1 with another internal pitch angle.

[0169] The first internal pitch angle PA21 is in the range of 10 degrees to 20 degrees. The first internal pitch angle PA21 is in the range of 12 degrees to 15 degrees. The first internal pitch angle PA21 is in the range of 13 degrees to 14 degrees. In this embodiment, the first internal pitch angle PA21 is 13.3 degrees. However, the first internal pitch angle PA21 is not limited to this embodiment or the ranges described above.

[0170] The second internal pitch angle PA22 is in the range of 5 degrees to 30 degrees. In this embodiment, the second internal pitch angle PA22 is 26 degrees. However, the second internal pitch angle PA22 is not limited to this embodiment or the range described above.

[0171] At least one of the at least ten internal spline teeth 64 has a first spline shape that is different from the second spline shape of the other at least ten internal spline teeth 64. At least one of the at least ten internal spline teeth 64 has a first spline size that is different from the second spline size of the other at least ten internal spline teeth 64. At least one of the at least ten internal spline teeth 64 has a cross-sectional shape that is different from the cross-sectional shape of the other at least ten internal spline teeth 64. However, as seen in Figure 27, the internal spline teeth 64 may have the same shape as each other. The internal spline teeth 64 may have the same size as each other. The internal spline teeth 64 may have the same cross-sectional shape as each other.

[0172] As shown in Figure 28, at least one internal spline tooth 64 includes an internal spline driving surface 66 and an internal spline non-driving surface 68. The at least one internal spline tooth 64 includes a plurality of internal spline teeth 64. The plurality of internal spline teeth 64 includes a plurality of internal spline driving surfaces 66 for receiving the transmission rotational force F1 from the bicycle hub assembly 12 (Figure 6) during pedaling. The plurality of internal spline teeth 64 includes a plurality of internal spline non-driving surfaces 68. The internal spline driving surface 66 can contact the sprocket support body 28 to transmit the transmission rotational force F1 from the sprocket SP1 to the sprocket support body 28 during pedaling. The internal spline driving surface 66 faces the transmission rotation direction D11. The internal spline non-driving surface 68 is disposed on the opposite side of the internal spline driving surface 66 in the circumferential direction D1. The internal spline non-transmission surface 68 faces the opposite rotation direction D12, so that the transmission rotational force F1 is not transmitted from the sprocket SP1 to the sprocket support body 28 during pedaling.

[0173] At least ten internal spline teeth 64 each have a maximum circumferential width MW2. The maximum circumferential width MW2 is defined as the maximum width at which the thrust F3 applied to the internal spline teeth 64 is received. The maximum circumferential width MW2 is defined as the straight-line distance based on the internal spline drive surface 66.

[0174] The internal spline driving surface 66 includes a radially outermost edge 66A and a radially innermost edge 66B. The internal spline driving surface 66 extends from the radially outermost edge 66A to the radially innermost edge 66B. A second reference circle RC21 is defined on the radially outermost edge 66A and centered on the rotation center axis A1. The second reference circle RC21 intersects the internal spline non-driving surface 68 at a reference point 68R. The maximum circumferential width MW2 extends linearly from the radially innermost edge 66B to the reference point 68R in the circumferential direction D1.

[0175] The internal spline non-driving surface 68 includes a radially outermost edge 68A and a radially innermost edge 68B. The internal spline non-driving surface 68 extends from the radially outermost edge 68A to the radially innermost edge 68B. A reference point 68R is disposed between the radially outermost edge 68A and the radially innermost edge 68B.

[0176] The sum of the maximum circumferential widths MW2 is equal to or greater than 40 mm. The sum of the maximum circumferential widths MW2 is equal to or greater than 45 mm. The sum of the maximum circumferential widths MW2 is equal to or greater than 50 mm. In this embodiment, the sum of the maximum circumferential widths MW2 is 50.8 mm. However, the sum of the maximum circumferential widths MW2 is not limited to this embodiment.

[0177] As shown in Figure 29, at least one internal spline tooth 64 has an internal spline tip diameter DM21. At least one internal spline tooth 64 has an internal spline root circle RC22, and the internal spline root circle RC22 has an internal spline tip diameter DM21. However, the internal spline root circle RC22 may have a diameter different from the internal spline tip diameter DM21. The internal spline tip diameter DM21 is equal to or less than 30 mm. The internal spline tip diameter DM21 is equal to or greater than 25 mm. The internal spline tip diameter DM21 is equal to or greater than 29 mm. In this embodiment, the internal spline tip diameter DM21 is 29.8 mm. However, the internal spline tip diameter DM21 is not limited to this embodiment and the above ranges.

[0178] At least one internal spline tooth 64 has an internal spline base diameter DM22 equal to or less than 28 mm. The internal spline base diameter DM22 is equal to or greater than 25 mm. The internal spline base diameter DM22 is equal to or greater than 27 mm. In this embodiment, the internal spline base diameter DM22 is 27.7 mm. However, the internal spline base diameter DM22 is not limited to this embodiment and the above ranges.

[0179] As shown in Figure 28, a plurality of internal spline drive surfaces 66 include a radially outermost edge 66A and a radially innermost edge 66B. Each of the plurality of internal spline drive surfaces 66 includes a radial length RL21 defined from the radially outermost edge 66A to the radially innermost edge 66B. The sum of the radial lengths RL21 of the plurality of internal spline drive surfaces 66 is equal to or greater than 7 mm. The sum of the radial lengths RL21 is equal to or greater than 10 mm. The sum of the radial lengths RL21 is equal to or greater than 15 mm. In this embodiment, the sum of the radial lengths RL21 is 19.5 mm. However, the sum of the radial lengths RL21 is not limited to this embodiment and the above range.

[0180] A plurality of internal spline teeth 64 have an additional radial length RL22. The additional radial length RL22 is defined from the root circle RC22 of each internal spline tooth to the innermost radial end 64A of the plurality of internal spline teeth 64. The sum of the additional radial lengths RL22 is equal to or greater than 12 mm. In this embodiment, the sum of the additional radial lengths RL22 is 27.95 mm. However, the sum of the additional radial lengths RL22 is not limited to this embodiment and the range described above.

[0181] At least one of the internal spline teeth 64 has an asymmetrical shape relative to the circumferential tooth tip centerline CL2. The circumferential tooth tip centerline CL2 is a line connecting the rotation center axis A1 and the circumferential center point CP2 of the innermost radial end 64A of the internal spline tooth 64. However, at least one of the internal spline teeth 64 may have a symmetrical shape relative to the circumferential tooth tip centerline CL2. At least one of the internal spline teeth 64 includes an internal spline driving surface 66 and an internal spline non-driving surface 68.

[0182] The internal spline drive surface 66 has a first internal spline surface angle AG21. The first internal spline surface angle AG21 is defined between the internal spline drive surface 66 and a first radial line L21. The first radial line L21 extends from the rotation center axis A1 of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 to the outermost radial edge 66A of the internal spline drive surface 66. A first internal pitch angle PA21 or a second internal pitch angle PA22 is defined between adjacent first radial lines L21 (see, for example, FIG. 26).

[0183] The internal spline non-drive surface 68 has a second internal spline surface angle AG22. The second internal spline surface angle AG22 is defined between the internal spline non-drive surface 68 and the second radial line L22. The second radial line L22 extends from the rotation center axis A1 of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 to the outermost radial edge 68A of the internal spline non-drive surface 68.

[0184] In this embodiment, the second internal spline surface angle AG22 is different from the first internal spline surface angle AG21. The first internal spline surface angle AG21 is smaller than the second internal spline surface angle AG22. However, the first internal spline surface angle AG21 may be equal to or greater than the second internal spline surface angle AG22.

[0185] The first internal spline surface angle AG21 is in the range of 0 to 10 degrees. The second internal spline surface angle AG22 is in the range of 0 to 60 degrees. In this embodiment, the first internal spline surface angle AG21 is 5 degrees. The second internal spline surface angle AG22 is 45 degrees. However, the first internal spline surface angle AG21 and the second internal spline surface angle AG22 are not limited to this embodiment and the above ranges.

[0186] As shown in Figure 30, the internal spline teeth 64 mesh with the external spline teeth 40 to transmit the rotational force F1 from the sprocket SP1 to the sprocket support body 28. The internal spline driving surface 66 can contact the external spline driving surface 48 to transmit the rotational force F1 from the sprocket SP1 to the sprocket support body 28. In the state where the internal spline driving surface 66 and the external spline driving surface 48 are in contact, the internal spline non-driving surface 68 and the external spline non-driving surface 50 are spaced apart.

[0187] As shown in Figure 31, sprocket SP2 includes a plurality of internal splines 70. Sprocket SP3 includes a plurality of internal splines 72. Sprocket SP4 includes a plurality of internal splines 74. The first ring 59A includes a plurality of internal splines 76. As shown in Figure 32, the hub engagement portion 60 of the sprocket support 56 includes a plurality of internal splines 78. The plurality of internal splines 70 have a structure substantially the same as the structure of the plurality of internal splines 64. The plurality of internal splines 72 have a structure substantially the same as the structure of the plurality of internal splines 64. The plurality of internal splines 74 have a structure substantially the same as the structure of the plurality of internal splines 64. The plurality of internal splines 76 have a structure substantially the same as the structure of the plurality of internal splines 64. The plurality of internal splines 78 have a structure substantially the same as the structure of the plurality of internal splines 64. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, a detailed description will not be provided here.

[0188] As used herein, the term "comprising" and its derivatives are intended to be open terms specifying the presence of stated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps, but not excluding the presence of other unstated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps. This concept also applies to words with similar meanings, such as the terms "having," "including," and their derivatives.

[0189] The terms “component,” “section,” “part,” “part,” “element,” “body,” and “structure,” when used in the singular, can have the dual meaning of a single component or a plural component.

[0190] The ordinal numbers of "first" and "second" as used in this application are merely identifiers and have no other meaning, such as a specific order or the like. Furthermore, for example, the term "first element" does not imply the existence of "second element," and the term "second element" does not imply the existence of "first element."

[0191] As used herein, the term "pair" can encompass configurations in which paired elements have different shapes or structures, except for configurations in which paired elements have the same shape or structure as each other.

[0192] Therefore, the terms "a", "one or more" and "at least one" are used interchangeably in this document.

[0193] Finally, as used herein, degree terms such as “substantially,” “approximately,” and “roughly” mean a reasonable deviation of the term being modified so that the final result is not significantly altered. All numerical values ​​described in this application can be understood to include terms such as “substantially,” “approximately,” and “roughly.”

[0194] Obviously, numerous modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the foregoing teachings. Therefore, it should be understood that the invention may be practiced in ways other than those specifically described herein, within the scope of the appended claims.

[0195] 10: Bicycle drivetrain 12: Bicycle wheel assembly 14: Bicycle rear sprocket assembly 16: Bicycle brake rotor 18: Crank assembly 20: Bicycle chain 22: Crankshaft 24: Right crank arm 26: Left crank arm 27: Front sprocket 28: Sprocket support body 28A: Internally threaded portion 30: Wheel hub axle 30A: Through hole 30B: First shaft end 30B1: Axial contact surface 30C: Second shaft end 32: Locking ring 32A: External threaded portion 32B: Locking flange 34: Brake rotor support body 36: Wheel hub body 36A: First flange 36B: Second flange 38: Ratchet structure / One-way coupling structure 39A: First bearing 39B: Second bearing 40: External spline 40A: Outermost radial end 41: Base support component 42: Larger diameter portion 42A: Axial end 44: Flange 46: External spline teeth of the spiral 48: External spline drive surface 48A: Outermost radial edge 48B: Innermost radial edge 50: External spline non-transmission surface 50A: Outermost radial edge 50B: Innermost radial edge 50R: Reference point 52: Additional external splines 54: Additional base support 56: Sprocket support component 58: Spacer / Sprocket Support 58A: First spacer 58B: Second spacer 58C: Third spacer 58D: Fourth spacer 58E: Fifth spacer 58F: Sixth spacer 58G: Seventh spacer 59A: First Ring 59B: Second Ring 60: Hub engagement part 62: Support arm 62A: First Attachment Part 62B: Second Attachment 62C: Third Attachment 62D: Fourth Attachment 62E: Fifth Annex 62F: Sixth Annex Section 62G: Seventh Attachment Section 62H: Eighth Annex 64: Internal spline teeth 64A: Innermost radial end 66: Internal spline drive surface 66A: Outermost radial edge 66B: Innermost radial edge 68: Internal spline non-transmission surface 68A: Outermost radial edge 68B: Innermost radial edge 68R: Reference point 70: Internal spline teeth 72: Internal spline teeth 74: Internal spline teeth 76: Internal spline teeth 78: Internal spline teeth A1: Rotation center axis AG11: First external spline surface angle AG12: Second external spline surface angle AG21: First internal spline surface angle AG22: Second internal spline surface angle AL11: First axial length AL12: Second axial length AL13: Axial length BF: Bicycle frame BF1: First Frame BF2: Second Frame BF11: First Groove BF12: Frame contact surface BF21: Second Groove CL1: Center line of circumferential tooth tip CL2: Center line of circumferential tooth tip CP1: Center point of the circle CP2: Center point of the circle D1: Circumferential direction D2: Axial direction D11: Direction of rotation of transmission D12: Reverse rotation direction DM11: External spline tip diameter DM12: External spline base diameter DM13: outer diameter DM14: Additional external spline top diameter DM21: Internal spline top diameter DM22: Internal spline base diameter F1: Transmission rotational force F2: Thrust F3: Thrust IV-IV: Line L11: First radial line L12: Second radial line L21: First radial line L22: Second radial line MW1: Maximum circumference width MW2: Maximum circumference width PA11: First outer pitch angle PA12: Second outer pitch angle PA21: First internal pitch angle PA22: Second internal pitch angle RC11: First reference circle RC12: External spline root circle RC21: Second reference circle RC22: Internal spline root circle RL11: Radial length RL12: Additional radial length RL21: Radial length RL22: Additional radial length SP1: Sprockets SP1A: Sprocket Body SP1B: Sprocket teeth SP2: Sprocket SP2A: Sprocket Body SP2B: Sprocket teeth SP3: Sprockets SP3A: Sprocket Body SP3B: Sprocket teeth SP4: Sprocket SP4A: Sprocket Body SP4B: Sprocket teeth SP5: Sprocket SP5A: Sprocket Body SP5B: Sprocket teeth SP6: Sprockets SP6A: Sprocket Body SP6B: Sprocket teeth SP7: Sprocket SP7A: Sprocket Body SP7B: Sprocket teeth SP8: Sprockets SP8A: Sprocket Body SP8B: Sprocket teeth SP9: Sprockets SP9A: Sprocket Body SP9B: Sprocket teeth SP10: Sprockets SP10A: Sprocket Body SP10B: Sprocket teeth SP11: Sprockets SP11A: Sprocket Body SP11B: Sprocket teeth SP12: Sprockets SP12A: Sprocket Body SP12B: Sprocket teeth WS: Wheel fastening structure WS1: Fastening rod XVI-XVI: Line XXIII-XXIII: Line

Claims

1. A bicycle hub assembly having a rotational central axis, the bicycle hub assembly comprising: a sprocket support body including at least ten external spline teeth structurally designed to mesh with a bicycle rear sprocket assembly, the at least ten external spline teeth having a first external pitch angle and a second external pitch angle different from the first external pitch angle, the first external pitch angle being in the range of 10 degrees to 20 degrees, the second external pitch angle being in the range of 5 degrees to 30 degrees, wherein the at least ten external spline teeth include a plurality of external spline drive surfaces for receiving a transmission rotational force from the bicycle rear sprocket assembly during pedaling; each of the plurality of external spline drive surfaces includes a radially outermost edge, a radially innermost edge, and a radial length defined from the radially outermost edge to the radially innermost edge; the sum of the radial lengths of the plurality of external spline drive surfaces is equal to or greater than 7 mm; Each of the plurality of external spline drive surfaces has an external spline surface angle defined between the external spline drive surface and a radial line extending from the rotation center axis to the outermost radial edge of the external spline drive surface; and the external spline surface angle is in the range of 0 degrees to 10 degrees.

2. The bicycle wheel assembly of claim 1, wherein each of the at least ten external spline teeth has a symmetrical shape relative to a circumferential tooth tip centerline.

3. The bicycle wheel assembly of claim 1, wherein at least one of the at least ten external spline teeth has a first spline shape that is different from the second spline shape of one of the other ten external spline teeth.

4. The bicycle wheel assembly of claim 1, wherein at least one of the at least ten external spline teeth has a first spline size that is different from the second spline size of one of the other ten external spline teeth.

5. The bicycle hub assembly of claim 1, wherein at least two of the at least ten external spline teeth are circumferentially arranged with respect to the rotational axis of the bicycle hub assembly at the first external pitch angle.

6. The bicycle wheel assembly of claim 5, wherein the first outer pitch angle is in the range of 12 to 15 degrees.

7. The bicycle hub assembly of claim 1, wherein at least two of the at least ten external splines are circumferentially arranged with respect to the rotational axis of the bicycle hub assembly at the second external pitch angle.

8. The bicycle wheel assembly of claim 1, wherein the sum of such radial lengths is equal to or greater than 10 mm.

9. The bicycle wheel assembly of claim 1, wherein the total number of one of the at least ten external splines is equal to or greater than 20.

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