Bicycle

Abstract

The invention relates to a bicycle (100) comprising a bicycle frame with a bottom bracket (54), a head tube (2), and a lower tube connection between the bottom bracket (54) and the head tube. The bicycle frame includes a head tube (2) in which a fork shaft of the bicycle fork is guided. The bicycle also has a handlebar for steering the front wheel by pivoting the bicycle fork. Furthermore, a front storage space support surface is provided which lies above the front wheel, in particular in the vertical direction, i.e. the support surface extends, for example, over a region which lies vertically above the axle of the front wheel. The front storage space support surface extends from a region behind the head tube to a region in front of the head tube.

Description

[0001] BICYCLE

[0002] The invention relates to a bicycle.

[0003] Several approaches exist in the current state of the art for stowing items to be transported. These include the conventional luggage rack above the rear wheel, bags that can be attached to the rack or elsewhere, and baskets above the front wheel. There are also solutions for so-called cargo bikes, which require a bicycle frame adapted to accommodate storage options. The former offer limited space and are often disadvantageous, especially with heavy loads, in terms of the center of gravity and handling. The latter, while often well-optimized for load capacity, entail significant compromises in handling and the bicycle's dimensions.

[0004] The object of the present invention is to overcome disadvantages of the prior art and to provide a bicycle with additional storage options without incurring the disadvantages of conventional cargo bikes. This object is achieved by a bicycle as defined in the patent claims.

[0005] A bicycle of the type according to the invention, as is known per se, comprises a bicycle frame with a bottom bracket, a rear wheel, a steerable front wheel, and a bicycle fork for holding the front wheel. The bicycle frame includes a head tube in which a steerer tube of the bicycle fork is guided. The bicycle also has handlebars for steering the front wheel by pivoting the bicycle fork. Furthermore, a front storage area is provided, which is located above the front wheel, in particular vertically above the front wheel; that is, the storage area extends, for example, over an area that lies vertically above the axle of the front wheel. According to one aspect of the invention, the front storage area extends from an area behind the head tube to an area in front of the head tube.

[0006] In the context of this text, the head tube is the frame tube that accommodates the steerer tube of the bicycle fork. It may, but does not necessarily, also correspond to the tube that accommodates the steering stem; the following description includes examples of bicycles where the steering stem is not guided by the head tube and is not collinear with the steerer tube.

[0007] In contrast to the state of the art, there is not only a storage space located in front of the handlebars, as is known from bicycle baskets, and whose storage surface pivots during steering movements, but a storage space, in particular with a frame-fixed storage surface that does not move with steering movements, which extends past the head tube from in front of the head tube into an area behind the head tube.

[0008] For the purposes of this text, a bicycle is a means of transportation with handlebars and (exactly) two wheels, at least one of which can be steered by a pivoting movement of the handlebars. It is a bicycle in the narrower sense, i.e., a two-wheeled land vehicle that is propelled by muscle power, with or without assistance from an electric drive. Such a bicycle in the narrower sense may, in particular, have a bottom bracket fixed to the frame and pedals. A bicycle specifically has handlebars that can be held by the user (in the case of a tandem, by one of the users) and by which a steering movement can be made, which is transmitted to the at least one steerable wheel of the bicycle.

[0009] In the narrower sense, the bicycle frame is specifically the essentially rigid structure to which the bottom bracket is firmly mounted.

[0010] The concept of the present invention is particularly advantageous in combination with a design in which the handlebars (with or without extensions) are not mounted directly on the fork steerer tube axis, but are offset relative to it. In this configuration, the necessary transmission mechanism for transferring the steering movement from the handlebars to the front wheel does not, as is the case in some embodiments, merely involve a direct and immediate coupling between the handlebars and the fork steerer tube, but rather enables the transmission of steering impulses from a handlebar axis to the fork steerer tube, which does not coincide with it. In this combination, the handlebars can be mounted further back relative to the head tube and optionally be adjustable in position, e.g., movable, relative to the frame. By offsetting the handlebars further back, significantly more space can be provided for the portion of the storage area located behind the head tube.But even in designs where the handlebars directly control the bicycle fork, the inventive method offers important additional storage space.

[0011] The front storage compartment can extend on both sides of the head tube, i.e., to the left and right of it. It can, for example, be symmetrical with respect to a longitudinally running vertical center plane.

[0012] The front storage area can be stepless, meaning that it runs at essentially the same height and / or in a common plane (straight or at most slightly inclined to the horizontal) in front of and behind the head tube – and beside the head tube. The front storage area can therefore seamlessly connect a partial front storage compartment in front of the head tube with a partial front storage compartment behind the head tube.

[0013] As is generally known, a bicycle has a downtube connection between the area around the bottom bracket on the one hand and the head tube on the other. Unlike prior art designs, this downtube connection can be branched or multi-part, meaning it can have a first, right, and a second, left downtube section, running to the right and left of the vertical, longitudinal center plane. The right and left downtube sections can extend forward and upward from a lower attachment point and be connected, for example, at the level of the lower end of the head tube or slightly above, but in any case below the upper end of the head tube, by a central connecting bridge. This central connecting bridge can also be connected to the head tube at a lower head tube attachment point, outside of the downtube sections. Such a central connecting bridge can also be considered and referred to as a downtube extension.

[0014] Note: According to the terminology commonly used in the bicycle industry, the parts of the bicycle frame running between the bottom bracket and seat tube on the one hand, and the head tube on the other, are called the "down tube" and "top tube." However, in this context, the term "tube" does not necessarily imply a specific cross-sectional shape, nor does it imply that these elements must necessarily be hollow inside. A similar principle applies to the term "seat tube," depending on the design; while the "head tube" generally has a hollow space running along its axis to accommodate the fork steerer tube.

[0015] The central connecting bridge can form part of the front storage shelf or support it entirely; that is, the front storage shelf can extend above the central connecting bridge or be partially formed by it. The front storage shelf then has sections in front of the central connecting bridge, behind the central connecting bridge, and at the location of the central connecting bridge. The distance of the partial lower tubes from a vertical, longitudinally extending center plane can be at least 8 cm, 10 cm, 15 cm, 18 cm, or even 20 cm at the level of the front storage shelf—and, for example, at the level of the central connecting bridge. Depending on the chosen design, this distance can define the width of the front storage shelf and / or the length of the central connecting bridge, and, in particular, potentially also the width of the optional belly storage axis described below.

[0016] In exemplary embodiments, a right and left downtube extension are attached to the upper side of each of the right and left downtube sections. These downtube extensions run from the first or second downtube section and / or, if applicable, from the central connecting bridge to an upper head tube junction. This creates a cargo tunnel above the front storage compartment, extending on both sides of the head tube and laterally bounded by the downtube extensions.

[0017] The inventive approach results in an extension of a cargo space, which can be formed above the front wheel, into an area behind the head tube, through a cargo space tunnel which is bounded by the down tube extensions, into the spaces between the head tube and the two down tube extensions.

[0018] Another problem that is solved by dividing the downtube connection into partial downtubes and extending the downtube is the provision of attachment options outside the area where the rider is located.

[0019] Particularly long objects are suitable for attachment outside these components, e.g. skis, surfboards or paddles, tent poles, fishing equipment, sports shooting equipment, craft materials, etc.

[0020] In the prior art, there are attachment options for items such as touring skis or surfboards. However, these present the challenge of avoiding collisions with the rider (e.g., potential knee contact, at least with wider objects). This can be addressed in the prior art by using a very long boom for the item being transported externally. However, such a long boom can transmit significant flexing and buckling movements to the conventional bicycle frame, considerably and negatively impacting its stability.

[0021] The design of the split downtube connection provides an improved approach: The additional storage space for long items is located outside the driver's compartment (knee and foot clearance) and the attachment points are located close to the rigid frame structure (no kinking effect).

[0022] This type of external mounting is particularly advantageous when the distance between the partial downtubes or downtube extensions and the vertical, longitudinal center plane is at least 16 cm, e.g. at least 18 cm or at least 20 cm or at least 21 cm, depending on the thickness of the tubes used and how protruding the mounting means (mounting plate with optional mounting hook, mounting basket, etc., see below) are designed.

[0023] For the purpose of securing long items, at least one mounting plate, mounting basket or similar may be provided on both sides of the bicycle frame, the partial down tubes and / or the down tube extensions and possibly additionally on an outrigger, e.g. in the area of ​​the chain stay, and / or straps or the like may be provided.

[0024] For attaching a very long object, such as a surfboard, additional attachment points on the rear triangle (chainstay, seat stay) of the bicycle may be provided, in addition to the attachment points on the partial downtubes or downtube extensions.

[0025] In various configurations, the front storage compartment shelf can be at least partially foldable. For example, the front storage compartment shelf can have a first, fixed section in front of the head tube (e.g., above the front wheel) and a second, foldable section behind the head tube, the latter acting as a front cargo tunnel flap that, when open, can separate the front cargo area from the rear.

[0026] The downtube extensions can, in particular, each have a section running essentially parallel to the central plane and at a distance from it (approximately vertical, obliquely forward, or possibly obliquely backward), as well as a boom section adjoining the section running parallel to the central plane on its upper side and extending towards the upper head tube junction. However, it is also possible for the downtube extensions to run in a continuous arc from the central connecting bridge or the partial downtubes to the upper head tube junction.

[0027] The front storage compartment shelf, possibly in addition to the central connecting bridge, can be formed by one or more shelves, e.g., a front shelf in front of the central connecting bridge and a rear shelf behind it. Such shelves can be foldable or removable, for example, to create a taller storage compartment at the top (see description below) – for special transport situations, e.g., transporting a houseplant.

[0028] The bicycle may also have a storage cage which may have at least one bar peripherally surrounding the front storage area, and optionally the storage plate(s), and / or at least one bar bordering the front storage area above the storage surface in the manner of a railing. Optionally, the storage cage may also have downward-supporting bars that run around the perimeter in a railing-like manner.

[0029] The storage compartment cage can optionally connect to the lower tube extensions at the front and / or rear and be attached to them – possibly reversibly, i.e., with detachable screw connections. It can hold the storage panels and thus form the mechanical framework of the storage compartment, which constitutes the front storage area. In addition to or as an alternative to the storage compartment cage, at least one peripheral storage compartment side panel can be present. This can optionally be guided by the storage compartment cage and, for example, limited at the top by the railing-like surrounding bar. It can optionally be at least partially transparent, translucent, or mesh-like, for example, at least in the front area, to improve the driver's visibility. It is also possible for the side panel to display images, especially moving images, for example, as an LED panel. These can be used as flashing signals, displays of driving information (speed, direction, etc.).or serve for entertainment and, if necessary, assume a transparent status.

[0030] In some embodiments, an optional, foldable or fixed under-tube storage compartment can be added to provide cargo space in an area that lies at least partially below a downtube junction. This compartment features a storage surface that, in its operating position, is located below the downtube junction (i.e., the lowest mechanically stable, horizontal, force-transmitting connection of the bicycle frame between the bottom bracket area on one side and the head tube on the other). In embodiments with right and left partial downtubes, the storage surface is located vertically below the partial downtubes and horizontally between them. Such an under-tube storage compartment can be designed as a hinged compartment, meaning it can, for example, be folded upwards and unfolded downwards, i.e., moved into the storage compartment's operating position.

[0031] Another concept according to one aspect of the present invention relates to the connection point between the top tube (and / or a comparable structure of the bicycle frame, which connects the head tube in a load-bearing manner to a further rearward area, e.g., possibly a sliding base of a sliding handlebar) on the one hand and the head tube on the other. According to this concept, a cavity is formed at this connection point, which extends into the interior of the head tube and which is accessible from outside the bicycle frame via a closable service opening that is closed in the operating state.

[0032] The invention according to the second aspect therefore relates to a bicycle comprising a bicycle frame with a bottom bracket, a rear wheel, a steerable front wheel, a bicycle fork for holding the front wheel and a handlebar for steering the front wheel by pivoting the bicycle fork, wherein the bicycle frame has a head tube for guiding a fork steerer tube of the bicycle fork, wherein the bicycle is characterized in that the bicycle frame forms a cavity which adjoins the head tube at the top and which transitions into an interior of the head tube (in this interior the fork steerer tube is guided), wherein the cavity is accessible through a service opening, wherein the bicycle further comprises a cover for closing the service opening.

[0033] At this junction – also referred to in this text as the head tube junction – the head tube and top tube, as well as the aforementioned sliding base of a handlebar that can be moved on a slider, and / or the down tube extensions, may be joined together. This means, for example, that the down tube extensions are joined at their upper end in the area of ​​the head tube junction to other parts of the bicycle frame, in particular by connecting their upper end to an outer surface of the cavity formed by the head tube junction. According to the second aspect, this concept is particularly advantageous, for example, as mentioned, in combination with a handlebar that is not mounted directly on the steerer tube axle, but, for example, further back.The connection point between the steering impulse transmission mechanism and the fork steerer tube is located within the aforementioned cavity and protected there, yet accessible through the service opening. This offers several advantages. The mechanical protection of this connection point also protects it from corrosion and contamination. Furthermore, the accessibility allows for solutions for the steering impulse transmission mechanism and the connection that differ from a simple, fixed linkage and enable additional functions – including, for example, the solutions presented in Swiss patent application 867 / 2025, the priority of which is claimed here.

[0034] The cavity formed by the steering head node can be accessed from the rear via a through-opening, allowing elements – e.g., a steering stay – of a steering impulse transmission mechanism to be guided into the cavity from behind. If such elements are guided within an interior space of a bicycle frame tube – e.g., the bottom bracket or top tube – that transitions into the cavity, this rear through-opening can be omitted in embodiments with the transmission mechanism.

[0035] The service opening may, in particular, be aligned with the steering stem(s). This allows for installation from the front, through the service opening. If present, the rear access opening may also be aligned with the steering stem(s).

[0036] The concept according to the second aspect is also particularly advantageous in combination with the front storage compartment surface according to the first aspect of the present invention and its embodiments, especially when a cargo tunnel is present on both sides of the head tube, which is laterally bounded by downtube extensions of the aforementioned alt. As mentioned, the downtube extensions can converge at the steering head junction, which is particularly beneficial for mechanical stability, as, for example, twisting under laterally acting forces is very effectively avoided.

[0037] However, the concept according to the second aspect can also be implemented independently of the front storage area.

[0038] Further optional features of the second aspect of the invention relate to a steering head cover arranged in front of and / or above the cavity. This cover closes the cavity at the front or top during use. It allows one or more functional elements to be housed in a central location, namely at the steering head junction at the front of the bicycle, above the head tube. Such a functional element could be, for example, a daytime running light and / or a headlight, or even a display or the like. Because the cover is removable to provide access to the cavity (even opening it can be considered "removal" within the meaning of this text), the functional element is also particularly easy to maintain, even though, due to its arrangement or integration within the steering head cover, it is perceived as part of the bicycle and the bicycle frame and may be designed accordingly.Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the figures. In the figures, identical reference numerals denote identical or analogous elements. The figures show:

[0039] Figs. 1 and 2 Views of a bicycle;

[0040] Fig. 3 shows a view of a variant of the bicycle, partially in exploded view;

[0041] Fig. 4 shows a sled, a sled base and a transmission mechanism for transferring steering impulses to a steering shaft;

[0042] Figs. 5, 6 show a view of a swivel running unit of a transmission mechanism and a section through a plane parallel to the displacement axis;

[0043] Fig. 7 shows another embodiment of a bicycle;

[0044] Fig. 8 is a side view of the bicycle from Fig. 7;

[0045] Fig. 9 shows a view of the bicycle from Figs. 7 and 8, cut along the plane IX-IX in Fig. 8;

[0046] Fig. 10 shows a view of the bicycle from Fig. 7-9 from below, with the belly storage compartment in a folded-down position;

[0047] Fig. 11 and Fig. 12 Views of the bicycle frame of the bicycle from Fig. 7-10;

[0048] Fig. 13 shows a section of a longitudinal section through the bicycle of Figs. 7-12;

[0049] Fig. 14 shows a view of a variant of the bicycle from Figs. 7-14; Fig. 15 shows an enlarged view of the area circled in Fig. 14;

[0050] Fig. 16 shows another embodiment of a bicycle;

[0051] Fig. 17 shows an enlarged view of the area circled in Fig. 16;

[0052] Figs. 18 and 19 each show a representation of the bicycle according to Figs. 7-15 with objects transported on the outside;

[0053] Fig. 20 shows a detail of the bicycle according to Fig. 7-15 in the area of ​​the steering head joint; and

[0054] Figs. 21 and 22 each show a detail of the bicycle frame of the bicycle according to Fig. 7-15 in the area of ​​the steering head node.

[0055] For the sake of simplicity, the figures do not depict attachments such as brakes, handlebar grips or pedals.

[0056] Figures 1 and 2 show a bicycle 100 with a bicycle frame 30, a bottom bracket 54 attached to it, a front wheel 104, a rear wheel 105, and a saddle 106. The bicycle can optionally have a drive motor—for example, a bottom bracket motor—and control electronics for controlling the drive motor. Figure 3 shows a variant of the bicycle from Figures 1 and 2. Figures 4–6 show details of the embodiment of Figure 3, including a pivoting running unit common to the embodiments of Figures 1–3, and in Figure 4, in addition to the carriage and carriage base of the embodiment of Figure 3. Figures 7 and 8 show another embodiment of the bicycle, and Figure 9 shows a section along plane IV–IV in Figure 8. Figure 10 shows a view of the bicycle of Figures 7–9 from below, in a state with the underbody storage compartment folded down.Figures 11 and 12 show the bicycle frame 30 of the bicycle from Figures 7-10, and Figure 13 shows a partial longitudinal section. Figures 14 and 15 show another embodiment of a bicycle with a fold-down storage compartment.

[0057] The bicycle frame, in a known configuration, has a top tube 1 and a head tube 2. In the area of ​​the top tube 1 or above the top tube 1, adjoining the head tube 2, the bicycle 100 has a sled base 4 and a sled 5.

[0058] The sled base 4 forms a fixed part relative to the bicycle frame 30. In the embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2, it has two rails 6, which in the illustrated embodiment are in the form of tubes or rods, relative to which the sled 5 is axially displaceable. In the illustrated embodiment, the rails 6 have a round cross-section. In addition to the rails 6, the sled base 4 has a connector 7 on both the front and rear sides of the rails 6. It is connected to the bicycle frame at a front and rear connection point via a base holder 8. The rail 6 can also have other cross-sectional shapes, and / or it can be integrated into the structure of the bicycle frame 30, for example, by forming the sled base with the top tube. The sled 5 is movable relative to the sled base 4 and thus also relative to the bicycle frame 30. In Figure 2, a rail cover 39 is shown slightly offset (in Figure 2).2 (not shown) and a service opening cover 52, in a version variant with integrated front light 53. The service opening cover 52 serves to close an optional service opening 51, which allows access to the head tube 2 and a double boom 16.

[0059] The carriage 5 has a running carriage 19 and the linkage 15 rotatably mounted and attached to it via a steering shaft 13 with pivot plate 10. The running carriage 19 has rail guides 63 with sliding bearings 69 (or ball bearings, needle roller bearings or similar) and sealing elements 70 and is slidably connected to the carriage base 4, i.e., to the rails 6, via these.

[0060] In the illustrated embodiment, the handlebar 15 sits directly on the steering stem 13. However, it can also be fixed to the steering stem 13 via a stem in a manner known per se. Optionally, the bearing play can be adjusted and eliminated using the so-called 'Aheadset' principle. The vertical arrangement of the carriage 19, handlebar 15, pivot plate 10 with the pivot wheels 11 can also be modified as desired, for example, by positioning the handlebar above the carriage.

[0061] A pivot-running unit 9, shown, for example, in Fig. 5 and in a horizontal section in Fig. 6, serves to transmit the steering movement to the bicycle fork 59 via a fork steerer tube 20. The pivot-running unit 9 includes the pivot plate 10 and two pivot wheels 11 rotatably attached to it, the axis of rotation of which is fixed with respect to the pivot plate 10. The axles of the pivot wheels can, for example, be screwed, welded, or formed as a single piece with the pivot plate. The pivot wheels 11 are force-transmitting components. In the example shown, they are designed as gears with straight teeth; designs as gears with helical teeth, as friction wheels, or similar would also be conceivable. The two wheels, which differ in diameter (or...The swivel wheels 11 (with equal part circle diameter and module) are rotatably mounted in a symmetrical left / right arrangement parallel to the linkage 15 and are toothed together with each other and with external guide rails 12.

[0062] The two guide rails 12 are each received in a steering strut 18. At their front end, the steering struts are each connected via a double cantilever pivot bearing 68 to a double cantilever 16, which is rotationally fixed to the fork steerer tube 20. At their rear end, the steering struts 18 are connected via a spring connector 24 – alternatively, a magnetic connector 25 (also shown in Figs. 5 and 6) or a magnetic spring connector or another suitable connecting element could be used, which prevents displacement of the steering struts 18 relative to each other away from the position shown in Fig.

[0063] The relative position shown in 5 and 6 allows for this, but it is counteracted by a force - connected to each other.

[0064] Therefore, a pivoting movement of the pivot plate 10 about the axis of the steering shaft 13 (such a pivoting movement is caused by actuating the handlebar 15, thus corresponding to a steering impulse) causes a movement of the pivot wheels 11 about the axis of the steering shaft. This is transmitted to the steering arms and thus causes a corresponding pivoting movement of the double boom 16 and therefore of the fork shaft 20. In addition, the carriage 5 is displaceable relative to the carriage base, whereby the design of the pivot-running unit 9 also allows the pivot plate 10 with the handlebar to be displaced relative to the steering arms 18 by displacing the carriage 5 relative to the carriage base 4. The two pivot wheels 11 rotate symmetrically, synchronously, and in opposite directions along the running rails 12.

[0065] The operating principle of the swivel-running unit 9 and various possibilities for its implementation are described in Swiss patent application 867 / 2025, to which explicit reference is made here.

[0066] The present invention, however, does not depend on the existence or operating principle of such a pivot-running unit. It also encompasses other embodiments in which the handlebars (movable or fixed, with or without a boom) are not located directly on the axle of the fork steerer tube, but further back, with a mechanism for transmitting steering impulses to the fork steerer tube, e.g., by means of a handlebar, chain, belt, cable, etc. Embodiments with the handlebars arranged behind the fork steerer tube have the advantage that the length of the bicycle between the bottom bracket and the front wheel can be somewhat greater than in conventional bicycles, and that, accordingly, the cargo tunnel according to the invention can also have a larger storage area.

[0067] The invention further includes embodiments in which the handlebar (directly or via an extension) is connected to the fork steerer tube and is pivotable about its axis. This means that the inventive approach to optimizing storage space is independent of the steering mechanism with a sliding mechanism and adjustable handlebar position.

[0068] Between the bottom bracket 54 and the head tube 2, a down tube connection 41 is provided, comprising a first (right) partial down tube 41.1 and a second (left) partial down tube 41.2. These are arranged symmetrically with respect to the longitudinally (sagittally) extending vertical center plane 400 (see Fig. 9). At the level of the lower headset 311 – i.e., on the underside of the head tube – a horizontal connection to the head tube 2 is provided in the form of a central connecting bridge 301.

[0069] The right partial downtube 41.1 and the left partial downtube 42.2 are each extended upwards from there by a right downtube extension 302.1 and a left downtube extension 302.2, respectively. Following the connection between the corresponding partial downtube 41.1, 41.2 and the central connecting bridge 301, the right and left downtube extensions 302.1 and 302.2 each have a vertical section and then a section angled inwards towards the upper head tube junction 304 – approximately at the level of the upper headset 310, cf. Fig. 11 (although in alternative embodiments this may be positioned significantly lower) – which can also be considered the upper connecting bridge. However, it would also be conceivable that the downtube extensions between the attachment at the middle connecting bridge 301 and the head tube attachment 30 run in an arc, i.e. without a clear separation between the vertical part on the one hand and the upper connecting bridge on the other.In the area above, below, and between the two partial downtubes 41.1, 41.2, a hinged (or fixed, see Figs. 16 and 17) abdominal storage compartment is provided for use as an abdominal cargo space 43. In the illustrated embodiment, the space located between the right partial downtube 41.1 and the left partial downtube 41.2 is used to accommodate the abdominal cargo space 43.

[0070] The storage compartment in the abdomen is foldable in the embodiments shown in Figs. 1-15. For this purpose, it has an upper storage compartment leg 46 and a lower storage compartment leg 47. A sliding bearing between a T-nut 322 (in the illustrated example concentric with a storage compartment pin 44, the function of which will be explained below) and guide rails 62 enables the lower storage compartment leg 46 and the upper storage compartment leg 47 to be moved relative to each other, and thus folded down and up.

[0071] The lower storage compartment leg 46 and the upper storage compartment leg 47 are each pivotally connected to the bicycle frame. The lower storage compartment leg 46 is pivotally connected at the rear to the lower end of the left and right partial down tubes 41.1, 41.2 or to the lower connecting bridge 41.3 mentioned below, and the upper storage compartment leg 47 is pivotally connected at the top to attachment points in the upper or middle area of ​​the left and right partial down tubes 41.1, 41.2.

[0072] In the illustrated example, the lower storage compartment leg 46 slides over the upper storage compartment leg 47 at its connection point, the T-nuts 322 with concentric storage compartment pin 44, along the left and right guide rails 62 on the side walls of the upper storage compartment leg 47, until the two storage compartment legs lie parallel or nearly parallel in the folded state. In the unfolded state, the T-nuts 322 lie at the lower end of the guide rails 62, in an arrangement in which the lower storage compartment leg lies approximately horizontally. In this arrangement, the lower storage compartment leg 46 serves as a storage surface, while the upper storage compartment leg 47 forms a cover which, for example in addition to a protective plate, protects the items lying on the storage surface from dirt and possible splashes.The upper storage compartment leg also eliminates the need for a front mudguard, as illustrated in the figures, allowing for further improved space utilization. Furthermore, without a mudguard, the upper storage compartment with its tunnel, described below, can be positioned closer to the front wheel, or lower, resulting in a lower center of gravity.

[0073] The double-sided T-nuts 322 can each have a flange on the outside which prevents the corresponding T-nut from falling out of the corresponding guide rail 62 when shear forces are applied to the bicycle frame.

[0074] In an alternative embodiment, the T-nut 322 can be omitted, and the storage compartment pin 44 can be guided directly by the guide rails 62 instead.

[0075] The hinged belly storage compartment can have a snap or locking mechanism that holds it in its closed position. In the illustrated embodiment according to Fig. 7-15, this is achieved, for example, by the storage compartment pin 44, which is designed in two parts, with storage compartment pin parts pressed outwards by a spring and which can engage in a locking mechanism as described below. Alternatively, dedicated, separate locking pins or other snap or locking mechanisms can be used, which do not necessarily have to be concentric with the T-nut.

[0076] A solution using magnets is also conceivable as a supplement or alternative. In Fig.

[0077] 13 The solution according to the present embodiment is particularly evident, in which the lower storage compartment leg 46 and the upper storage compartment leg 47 each have a magnet 372, positioned directly above one another when folded, so that the magnets 372 lock the storage compartment when folded. Alternatively, it would also be possible to attach one magnet to the bicycle frame and the other to one of the storage compartment legs.

[0078] Between the middle connecting bridge 301 and the upper storage compartment leg 74 is the sealing plate 346 (Fig. 10), which prevents the penetration of splash water in the area of ​​the slot between the components.

[0079] Protective guides 347 can be attached laterally to the upper storage compartment leg 47, which protect the upper storage compartment leg and also direct splash water downwards, thus preventing the splash water from flowing to the side and hitting the legs of the person driving.

[0080] In the illustrated embodiment, the storage compartment legs 46 / 47 are designed as two separate plates. The guide rail 62 is arranged in a side wall 321 of the upper storage compartment leg 47, with the lower storage compartment leg 46 then holding a storage compartment pin 44, the outer end of which is guided in the guide rail 62. The guide rail could also be attached to the lower storage compartment leg 46, in which case the lower leg would assume the guiding function. The storage compartment legs can optionally have lateral cargo racks 45 or similarly designed side walls; the optional storage compartment cage struts 324 of the embodiment shown in Figures 7-17, in addition to supporting the rear storage compartment cage 342 (see description below), also have the potential function of laterally guiding the cargo.

[0081] Folding the storage compartment up reduces the overall volume, making the bicycle more compact, lowering air resistance, and making the storage area less prone to dirt accumulation by allowing water to drain away easily. When folded down, the storage compartment is also less susceptible to collisions, for example, when encountering a high curb.

[0082] The storage compartment under the front of the bike also serves as a splash guard, eliminating the need for a front fender, for example. This additional storage compartment does not necessarily require any additional space in terms of the bike's overall length, as it utilizes the space below the top tube.

[0083] There are various ways to hold the storage compartment legs 46, 47 in the folded-up position, including detent connections, a cranked guide rail 62, etc. The solution shown particularly clearly in Fig. 15 consists of a two-part storage compartment pin 44, with two parts that are pushed outwards away from each other by a compression spring. Using a release handle 327, the storage compartment pin parts can be moved inwards against the spring force of the compression spring. When the storage compartment legs are in the folded-up position, the outer ends of the storage compartment pin parts engage in a locking mechanism 326 on the corresponding lower tube section 41.1, 41.2.

[0084] In the embodiment shown in Figures 14 and 15, the bicycle also has a side wall cover 323 on the outside of the side wall 321 with the guide rail 62. This cover protects the guide rail 62 on the outside and prevents the respective storage compartment pin section from being pushed further outwards. Only near an upper end position is the side wall cover provided with a through-hole 329, through which the storage compartment pin section can spring outwards and snap into the locking mechanism 326 as soon as the storage compartment legs are fully folded up.

[0085] For folding up, the abdominal storage compartment can be provided with a suitable handle, e.g. with a handle tab 371 as shown in Fig. 15.

[0086] Another feature of the bicycle 100 concerns the presence of the cargo space discussed above the front wheel, which extends from the area in front of the head tube to an area behind the head tube. By extending through the space between the central connecting bridge 301 and the down tube extensions 302.1, 302.2, as well as the head tube (2), the cargo space forms a cargo tunnel 310 past the head tube 2. To create this cargo space, the bicycle has a front storage area 75, which, in the embodiment shown in Fig. 7, is formed by a front storage plate 361, a rear storage plate 362, and the central connecting bridge 301 located between them.

[0087] In the embodiment shown in Figures 1-3, the rear storage panel 361 is replaced by a hinged front cargo compartment tunnel door 49. In its forward position, the front cargo compartment tunnel door 49 separates the front cargo compartment 48 from the rear. It can be pivoted rearward via a pivot bearing so that it rests horizontally on the outer cargo compartment racks 45, as can be seen particularly well in Figure 2. In this position, it extends the front cargo compartment 48, thus ensuring optimal utilization of the available installation space.

[0088] In other embodiments, the front storage compartment shelf runs above the central connecting bridge and, for example, without interruption.

[0089] Both the belly storage compartment 42 and the front cargo compartment 48 result in a low cargo center of gravity, located as far below the driver's center of gravity as possible, which provides good control and advantageous handling and steering behavior.

[0090] The combination of the belly storage compartment and the front cargo space together enables a double-deck cargo space (two superimposed, offset cargo space levels, firstly on the lower storage compartment leg and secondly on the front cargo space tunnel flap 49 and the storage area 75 above the front wheel), and means that despite its construction and handling characteristics similar to a conventional bicycle, the bicycle offers cargo transport capabilities that come at least close to those of a cargo bike optimized for freight but generally somewhat unwieldy in its handling.

[0091] In the embodiment shown in Figure 7, the front storage compartment has optional storage compartment tunnel side walls 345. These are particularly advantageous when many items, possibly also smaller ones, are to be transported. The storage compartment tunnel side walls 345 can be transparent, especially in the front area (in the area in front of the head tube), so that there are no obstructions to the view. As illustrated in Figure 7, the storage compartment tunnel side walls can be positioned within the area defined by the lower tube extensions 302.1, 302.2.

[0092] In the embodiment shown in Figure 7, the front cargo compartment area in front of and behind the steering tube is approximately the same length (longitudinal dimension). This means that the front storage shelf 361 and the rear storage shelf 362 are also approximately the same length. However, this is not necessary. Designs with front cargo compartment sections of different lengths in front of and behind the steering tube are also conceivable, as can be seen, for example, in the example described below in Figures 16 and 17.

[0093] In the illustrated embodiments, the downtube connection 41, in addition to the right and left partial downtubes 41.1, 41.2 (and, depending on the definition of "downtube connection" used, the central connecting bridge 301), also has a downtube connecting bridge 41.3, via which the left and right partial downtubes 41.1, 41.2 are connected to each other at their lower ends, as well as a downtube base 41.4, which connects the downtube connecting bridge 41.3 to the bottom bracket area, which in the illustrated embodiment is equipped with a mid-drive motor.

[0094] Another optional feature of the embodiments with a front cargo compartment relates to the presence of a front and rear storage compartment cage 341 or 342, see e.g. Fig. 8. This forms a framework for the front cargo compartment and may also have the function of mechanically reinforcing the storage compartment tunnel side walls 345.

[0095] The front storage cage 341 and the rear storage cage 342 are each connected to the bicycle frame, either by screws or permanently. A detachable connection has the (obvious) advantage that the bicycle can be used without the front storage compartment and, if necessary, sold without it; that is, the front storage compartment can be an add-on. The same applies to the under-seat storage compartment: this can also be an add-on, either in addition to or as an alternative to the front storage compartment.

[0096] In the illustrated embodiment, the connection between the front storage compartment cage 341 and the rear storage compartment cage 342 is made at connection points with the downtube extensions 302.1, 302.2, which in turn form parts of the bicycle frame (see Fig. 11 and Fig. 12). Optionally, the downtube extensions 302.1, 302.2 can accommodate a lighting system 351 at the front.

[0097] The embodiment shown in Figures 16 and 17 differs from the embodiments described above, among other things, by the following independently implementable Merlanale features (i.e., a bicycle can have only one or only the other, or both, or neither of these Merlanale features).

[0098] Firstly, the abdominal storage compartment is not foldable and is not formed by two separate legs, but by a single, continuous element, namely an abdominal storage compartment frame 383, which holds the abdominal storage compartment shelf 381 and the front panel 382. The abdominal storage compartment with frame, shelf, and front panel can be screwed to the frame as a whole.

[0099] Secondly, the front cargo space 48 is significantly shortened compared to the embodiments described above, in that the front storage cage 341 projects only slightly forward compared to the steering tube.

[0100] Figures 18 and 19 schematically illustrate the possibility of transporting longer objects using a bicycle of the type shown in Figures 7-15 – the same principle is also applicable to the bicycle according to Figures 16 and 17 – with left and right partial downtubes and left and right downtube extensions 302.1, 302.2, namely, for example, skis 451 or a surfboard 452 (shown with fine lines in Figure 18). For this purpose, the bicycle in the illustrated embodiment has an upper mounting plate (with fastening strap) 455 on each side of the downtube extensions 302.1, 302.2 and a lower mounting basket (with fastening strap) 457 on each side of the partial downtubes 41.1, 41.2. For particularly long goods, an optional rear mounting 454 may be provided, which is attached in a suitable manner to the chainstays or seat stays or another structure and protrudes sufficiently far to the side.

[0101] Figure 20 shows a detail of the bicycle according to Fig. 7-15, and Figures 21 and 22 show details of the bicycle frame of this bicycle, each in a region on the upper side of the head tube 2. The top tube 1, the head tube 2, the right and left down tube extensions 302.1, 302.2, and the base of the slider 4 converge at a common connection point. This connection point is also referred to in this text as the head tube node 500.

[0102] At this connection point, the bicycle fork with its steerer tube meets the pivot unit 9 in a cavity within the bicycle frame (see especially Fig. 4, which shows the connection of the pivot unit 9 to the steerer tube via the double extension 16). For accessibility of this connection, the steering head node 500 has a service opening 510.

[0103] The cavity in the steering head node 500 transitions into the interior of the steering tube, where the fork steerer tube is guided.

[0104] This service opening 510 is closed in the operating state by a steering head cover 501. The steering head cover 501 can optionally include functional parts, such as a bicycle front light 503 as illustrated in Fig. 20. It can be connected to the bicycle frame by a snap and / or screw connection.

[0105] The steering head node 500 is also open to the rear, in that it has a through-opening 515 in the rear area for the pivot-running unit 9, i.e. the steering stays 18 are guided through the through-opening 515 and lead to the connection point with the fork steerer tube 20, which in turn is guided in the head tube 2.

[0106] As an alternative to the through-opening 515, the steering struts could also run inside the sled base.

[0107] As the lower end of the steering head node 500, the steering tube 2 forms a steering set bearing seat 521 for receiving the upper headset.

Claims

- 32 - PATENT CLAIMS 1. Bicycle (100), comprising a bicycle frame (30) with a bottom bracket (54), a rear wheel (105), a steerable front wheel (104), a bicycle fork (59) for holding the front wheel (104) and a handlebar (15) for steering the front wheel (104) by pivoting the bicycle fork (59), and a front storage area (75) located above the front wheel, wherein the bicycle frame (30) has a head tube (2) for guiding a fork steerer tube (20) of the bicycle fork (59), characterized in that the front storage area extends from an area behind the head tube to an area in front of the head tube.

2. Bicycle according to claim 1, wherein the front storage area (75) extends on both sides of the steering tube (2) with respect to a longitudinally extending vertical median plane (400).

3. Bicycle according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the front storage area (75) seamlessly connects a partial front storage area in front of a head tube (2) with a partial front storage area behind the head tube (2).

4. Bicycle (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the bicycle frame has a down tube connection (41) between the bottom bracket and the head tube (2), wherein the down tube connection (41) has a right and a left partial down tube (41.1, 41.2), each of which is located on both sides of a- 33 - vertical median plane of the bicycle, wherein the right partial downtube (41.1) and the left partial downtube (41.2) are connected to each other and to the head tube (2) via a central connecting bridge (301), and the front storage shelf (75) runs above the central connecting bridge (301) or is partially formed by it.

5. Bicycle according to claim 4, comprising a front storage plate (361) in front of the middle connecting bridge (301) and a rear storage slat (361) behind the middle connecting bridge (301).

6. Bicycle according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a down tube extension (302.1, 302.2) on each side, which extend from the right or left partial down tube, and / or optionally from the middle connecting bridge (301), to an upper head tube attachment (304), whereby a cargo space tunnel (310) is formed above the front storage area (75) on both sides of the head tube and laterally limited by the down tube extensions (302.1, 302.2).

7. Bicycle according to claim 6, wherein the downtube extensions on a plane of the front storage area each have a lateral distance of at least 10 cm from a vertical, longitudinally extending central plane (400).

8. Bicycle according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a handlebar axis about which the handlebar (15) is pivotable is arranged offset to the rear relative to the fork stem (20), wherein the bicycle further comprises a transmission mechanism for transmitting steering movements from the handlebar to the fork stem.

9. Bicycle according to claim 8, wherein the handlebar axle is adjustable in its position relative to the bicycle frame.

10. Bicycle according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a side wall which surrounds the front storage area.

11. Bicycle according to claim 10, wherein the side wall is at least partially transparent, translucent, net-like or grid-like and / or is designed to reproduce moving images.

12. Bicycle according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a storage cage which has at least one bar surrounding the front storage area peripherally and in a railing-like manner, at least in some areas.

13. Bicycle according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a belly storage compartment (42) with a belly storage compartment shelf which is located at least partially below the downtube joint or can be brought into a position located at least partially below the downtube joint.

14. Bicycle according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the bicycle frame (30) forms a cavity which adjoins the head tube (2) on the upper side and which transitions into an interior of the head tube (2) in which the fork steerer tube (20) is guided, wherein this cavity is accessible through a service opening (510), and wherein the bicycle further comprises a cover (501) for closing the service opening (510).

15. Bicycle according to claim 14, comprising a down tube extension (302.1, 302.2) on each side, wherein the down tube extensions (302.1, 302.2) are connected to an outer wall of the cavity.

16. Bicycle according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the aperture (501) covers the cavity to the front and / or upwards and has a bicycle light (503).

17. Bicycle according to one of claims 14-16, wherein the handlebar (15) is not directly on the axis of the fork stem (20), but is offset to the rear relative to it, and wherein a connection point between a link impulse transmission mechanism for transmitting steering impulses from the handlebar to the fork stem (20) on the one hand and the fork stem (20) on the other hand is arranged inside the cavity.

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