Bicycle rim brake

A bicycle rim brake comprises a first brake arm, a second brake arm, and a pivotal cam member. The first brake arm is configured to pivot about a first pivot axis. The first brake arm includes a first mounting portion and a first follower. The second brake arm is configured to pivot about a second pivot axis which is different from the first pivot axis. The second brake arm includes a second mounting portion and a second follower. The pivotal cam member is configured to pivot about a third pivot axis which is different from the first pivot axis and the second pivot axis to guide the first follower and the second follower so that the first brake arm pivots about the first pivot axis and the second brake arm pivots about the second pivot axis.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a bicycle rim brake.

Discussion of the Background

Bicycling is becoming an increasingly more popular form of recreation as well as a means of transportation. Moreover, bicycling has become a very popular competitive sport for both amateurs and professionals. Whether the bicycle is used for recreation, transportation or competition, the bicycle industry is constantly improving the various components of the bicycle. One bicycle component that has been extensively redesigned is a bicycle rim brake.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention, a bicycle rim brake comprises a first brake arm, a second brake arm, and a pivotal cam member. The first brake arm is configured to pivot about a first pivot axis. The first brake arm includes a first mounting portion to which a first friction member is to be mounted, and a first follower arranged apart from the first mounting portion. The second brake arm is configured to pivot about a second pivot axis which is different from the first pivot axis. The second brake arm includes a second mounting portion to which a second friction member is to be mounted, and a second follower arranged apart from the second mounting portion. The pivotal cam member is configured to pivot about a third pivot axis which is different from the first pivot axis and the second pivot axis to guide the first follower and the second follower so that the first brake arm pivots about the first pivot axis and the second brake arm pivots about the second pivot axis.

With the bicycle rim brake according to the first aspect, the pivotal cam member is configured to pivot about the third pivot axis which is different from the first pivot axis and the second pivot axis to guide the first follower and the second follower so that the first brake arm pivots about the first pivot axis and the second brake arm pivots about the second pivot axis. Thus, it is possible to convert the pivotal movement of the pivotal cam member into the pivotal movement of the first brake arm and the pivotal movement of the second brake arm. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce a size of the bicycle rim brake corn and/or expand the possibility of design of the bicycle rim brake compared with, for example, a comparative rim brake including a structure configured to convert a linear movement of a cam member into pivotal movements of brake arms.

In accordance with a second aspect of the present invention, the bicycle rim brake according to the first aspect is configured so that the pivotal cam member includes a first cam surface configured to guide the first follower, and a second cam surface configured to guide the second follower.

With the bicycle rim brake according to the second aspect, it is possible to reduce a size of the pivotal cam member by modifying the first cam surface and the second cam surface. This can further reduce the size of the bicycle rim brake and/or can further expand the possibility of design of the bicycle rim brake.

In accordance with a third aspect of the present invention, the bicycle rim brake according to the second aspect is configured so that the first cam surface is provided on an opposite side of the second cam surface relative to the third pivot axis.

With the bicycle rim brake according to the third aspect, both sides of the pivotal cam member can be utilized as cam surfaces, allowing the size of the pivotal cam member to be further reduced. Accordingly, it is possible to further reduce the size of the bicycle rim brake and/or to further expand the possibility of design of the bicycle rim brake.

In accordance with a fourth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle rim brake according to the second or third aspect is configured so that the first cam surface has a profile different from a profile of the second cam surface.

With the bicycle rim brake according to the fourth aspect, it is possible to arrange the third pivot axis at various positions relative to the first follower and the second follower. Accordingly, it is possible to further reduce the size of the bicycle rim brake and/or to further expand the possibility of design of the bicycle rim brake.

In accordance with a fifth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle rim brake according to any one of the first to fourth aspects is configured so that the pivotal cam member is provided between the first follower and the second follower.

With the bicycle rim brake according to the fifth aspect, it is possible to utilize a space between the first follower and the second follower. Accordingly, it is possible to further reduce the size of the bicycle rim brake and/or to further expand the possibility of design of the bicycle rim brake.

In accordance with a sixth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle rim brake according to any one of the first to fifth aspects is configured so that the third pivot axis is provided between the first follower and the second follower.

With the bicycle rim brake according to the sixth aspect, it is possible to utilize a space between the first follower and the second follower. Accordingly, it is possible to further reduce the size of the bicycle rim brake and/or to further expand the possibility of design of the bicycle rim brake.

In accordance with a seventh aspect of the present invention, the bicycle rim brake according to any one of the first to sixth aspects is configured so that the third pivot axis is provided in an area defined between the first pivot axis and the second pivot axis.

With the bicycle rim brake according to the seventh aspect, it is possible to utilize the area defined between the first pivot axis and the second pivot axis. Accordingly, it is possible to further reduce the size of the bicycle rim brake and/or to further expand the possibility of design of the bicycle rim brake.

In accordance with an eighth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle rim brake according to any one of the first to seventh aspects is configured so that the first follower is rotatable about a first rotational axis, and the second follower is rotatable about a second rotational axis.

With the bicycle rim brake according to the eighth aspect, since the first follower is rotatable about the first rotational axis, it is possible to make a relative movement between the first follower and the pivotal cam member smooth. Since the second follower is rotatable about the second rotational axis, it is possible to make a relative movement between the second follower and the pivotal cam member smooth. These can make a braking operation of the bicycle rim brake smooth.

In accordance with a ninth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle rim brake according to any one of the first to eighth aspects is configured so that the first follower is provided on an opposite side of the first mounting portion relative to the first pivot axis. The second follower is provided on an opposite side of the second mounting portion relative to the second pivot axis.

With the bicycle rim brake according to the ninth aspect, it is possible to utilize a space around the opposite side of the first mounting portion in the first brake arm. Similarly, it is possible to utilize a space around the opposite side of the second mounting portion in the second brake arm. Accordingly, it is possible to further reduce the size of the bicycle rim brake and/or to further expand the possibility of design of the bicycle rim brake.

In accordance with a tenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle rim brake according to any one of the first to ninth aspects further comprises a base member to which the first brake arm is pivotally mounted about the first pivot axis and to which the second brake arm is pivotally mounted about the second pivot axis.

With the bicycle rim brake according to the tenth aspect, it is possible to deal with the bicycle rim brake as a single component.

In accordance with an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the bicycle rim brake according to any one of the first to tenth aspects further comprises an intermediate member via which an operating force is to be transmitted to the pivotal cam member.

With the bicycle rim brake according to the eleventh aspect, it is possible to transmit the operating force to the pivotal cam member via a simple structure.

In accordance with a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle rim brake according to the eleventh aspect is configured so that the intermediate member is configured to be coupled to the pivotal cam member to pivot together with the pivotal cam member about the third pivot axis.

With the bicycle rim brake according to the twelfth aspect, it is possible to transmit the operating force to the pivotal cam member by pivoting the intermediate member.

In accordance with a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle rim brake according to the eleventh or twelfth aspect is configured so that the intermediate member includes a cable attachment portion to which a control cable is to be attached.

With the bicycle rim brake according to the thirteenth aspect, it is possible to operate the bicycle rim brake via the control cable.

In accordance with a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle rim brake according to the eleventh or twelfth aspect further comprises a hydraulic cylinder including a cylinder bore, and a piston movably provided in the cylinder bore. The piston is configured to be coupled to the intermediate member.

With the bicycle rim brake according to the fourteenth aspect, it is possible to operate the bicycle rim brake via a hydraulic fluid.

In accordance with a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle rim brake according to any one of the first to fourteenth aspects further comprises a first coupling member and a second coupling member. The first coupling member is configured to couple the first brake arm to a bicycle frame to pivot relative to the bicycle frame about the first pivot axis. The second coupling member is configured to couple the second brake arm to the bicycle frame to pivot relative to the bicycle frame about the second pivot axis.

With the bicycle rim brake according to the fifteenth aspect, it is possible to easily mount the bicycle rim brake to the bicycle frame.

In accordance with a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle rim brake according to any one of the first to fifteenth aspects is configured so that the first brake arm includes a first base part, a first arm body, and a first adjuster. The first follower is attached to the first base part. The first arm body includes the first mounting portion and is coupled to the first base part to pivot relative to the first base part about the first pivot axis. The first adjuster is configured to adjust an orientation of the first arm body relative to the first base part about the first pivot axis.

With the bicycle rim brake according to the sixteenth aspect, it is possible to easily adjust a clearance between the first friction member and a bicycle rim of a bicycle wheel in a rest state where the first friction member is positioned at a rest position.

In accordance with a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle rim brake according to the sixteenth aspect is configured so that the second brake arm includes a second base part, a second arm body, and a second adjuster. The second follower is attached to the second base part. The second arm body includes the second mounting portion and is coupled to the second base part to pivot relative to the second base part about the second pivot axis. The second adjuster is configured to adjust an orientation of the second arm body relative to the second base part about the second pivot axis.

With the bicycle rim brake according to the seventeenth aspect, it is possible to easily adjust a clearance between the first friction member and a bicycle rim of a bicycle wheel in a rest state where the second friction member is positioned at a rest position.

In accordance with an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle rim brake according to the seventeenth aspect further comprises an arm biasing member configured to apply a biasing force to the first arm body and the second arm body so that the first mounting portion and the second mounting portion move away from each other.

With the bicycle rim brake according to the eighteenth aspect, it is possible to position the first brake arm at a first rest position and to position the second brake arm at a second rest position.

In accordance with a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle rim brake according to any one of the first to seventeenth aspects further comprises an arm biasing member configured to apply a biasing force to the first brake arm and the second brake arm so that the first mounting portion and the second mounting portion move away from each other.

With the bicycle rim brake according to the nineteenth aspect, it is possible to position the first brake arm at a first rest position and to position the second brake arm at a second rest position.

In accordance with a twentieth aspect of the present invention, a bicycle rim brake comprises a first brake arm, a second brake arm, and a pivotal operating member. The first brake arm is configured to pivot about a first pivot axis and includes a first mounting portion to which a first friction member is to be mounted. The second brake arm is configured to pivot about a second pivot axis which is different from the first pivot axis. The second brake arm includes a second mounting portion to which a second friction member is to be mounted. The pivotal operating member is configured to pivot about a third pivot axis which is different from the first pivot axis and the second pivot axis so that the first brake arm pivots about the first pivot axis and the second brake arm pivots about the second pivot axis. The third pivot axis is provided in an area defined between the first pivot axis and the second pivot axis.

With the bicycle rim brake according to the twentieth aspect, the pivotal operating member is configured to pivot about the third pivot axis which is different from the first pivot axis and the second pivot axis so that the first brake arm pivots about the first pivot axis and the second brake arm pivots about the second pivot axis. The third pivot axis is provided in an area defined between the first pivot axis and the second pivot axis. Accordingly, it is possible to utilize the area defined between the first pivot axis and the second pivot axis. Thus, it is possible to reduce the size of the bicycle rim brake and/or to further expand the possibility of design of the bicycle rim brake.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

First Embodiment

Referring initially toFIG. 1, a bicycle rim brake10in accordance with a first embodiment is configured to be mounted to a bicycle frame2. The bicycle rim brake10is mounted to a front fork3of the bicycle frame2and is configured to apply a braking force to a bicycle wheel4rotatably attached to the front fork3. While the bicycle rim brake10is a front rim brake in the illustrated embodiment, structures of the bicycle rim brake10can be applied to a rear rim brake if needed and/or desired.

In the present application, the following directional terms “front”, “rear”, “forward”, “rearward”, “left”, “right”, “transverse”, “upward” and “downward” as well as any other similar directional terms refer to those directions which are determined on the basis of a user (e.g., a rider) who sits on a saddle (not shown) of a bicycle with facing a handlebar (not shown). Accordingly, these terms, as utilized to describe the bicycle rim brake10, should be interpreted relative to the bicycle equipped with the bicycle rim brake10as used in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface.

As seen inFIGS. 1 to 3, the bicycle rim brake10comprises a first brake arm12and a second brake arm14. The first brake arm12is configured to pivot about a first pivot axis A1. The second brake arm14is configured to pivot about a second pivot axis A2which is different from the first pivot axis A1. In the illustrated embodiment, the first pivot axis A1is parallel to the second pivot axis A2.

As seen inFIG. 1, the bicycle rim brake10further comprises a first friction member16and a second friction member18. The first friction member16is mounted to the first brake arm12to be contact with a bicycle rim5of the bicycle wheel4. The second friction member18is mounted to the second brake arm14to be contact with the bicycle rim5of the bicycle wheel4. Specifically, the first brake arm12includes a first mounting portion20to which the first friction member16is to be mounted. The second brake arm14includes a second mounting portion22to which the second friction member18is to be mounted.

As seen inFIG. 3, the first brake arm12includes a first follower24arranged apart from the first mounting portion20. The second brake arm14includes a second follower26arranged apart from the second mounting portion22. In the illustrated embodiment, the first follower24is opposite to the first mounting portion20in the first brake arm12. The second follower26is opposite to the second mounting portion22in the second brake arm14.

As seen inFIG. 3, the bicycle rim brake10comprises a pivotal cam member28. The pivotal cam member28can also be referred to as a pivotal operating member28. The pivotal operating member28is configured to pivot about a third pivot axis A3so that the first brake arm12pivots about the first pivot axis A1and the second brake arm14pivots about the second pivot axis A2. The pivotal cam member28is configured to pivot about the third pivot axis A3to guide the first follower24and the second follower26so that the first brake arm12pivots about the first pivot axis A1and the second brake arm14pivots about the second pivot axis A2. The third pivot axis A3is different from the first pivot axis A1and the second pivot axis A2. While the third pivot axis A3is parallel to the first pivot axis A1and the second pivot axis A2in the illustrated embodiment, the third pivot axis A3can be non-parallel to the first pivot axis A1and the second pivot axis A2.

As seen inFIG. 1, the pivotal cam member28is configured to pivot about the third pivot axis A3to pivot the first brake arm12about the first pivot axis A1so that the first friction member16moves between a first rest position P11and a first operated position P12. The pivotal cam member28is configured to pivot about the third pivot axis A3to pivot the second brake arm14about the second pivot axis A2so that the second friction member18moves between a second rest position P21and a second operated position P22.

As seen inFIG. 4, the pivotal cam member28is configured to pivot about the third pivot axis A3to guide the first follower24so that the first brake arm12pivots about the first pivot axis A1between a first rest position P31and a first operated position P32. The pivotal cam member28is configured to pivot about the third pivot axis A3to guide the second follower26so that the second brake arm14pivots about the second pivot axis A2between a second rest position P41and a second operated position P42. The first rest position P31of the first brake arm12corresponds to the first rest position P11(FIG. 1) of the first friction member16. The first operated position P32of the first brake arm12corresponds to the first operated position P12(FIG. 1) of the first friction member16. The second rest position P41of the second brake arm14corresponds to the second rest position P21(FIG. 1) of the second friction member18. The second operated position P42of the second brake arm14corresponds to the second operated position P22(FIG. 1) of the second friction member18.

In the present application, the term “rest position” as used herein refers to a position at which a movable part such as the first brake arm12, the second brake arm14, the first friction member16and the second friction member18remains stationary in a state where the movable part is not operated by the user. The term “operated position” as used herein refers to a position at which the movable part has been operated by the user to perform the operation of the bicycle component.

As seen inFIGS. 1 to 3, the bicycle rim brake10further comprises a base member30to which the first brake arm12is pivotally mounted about the first pivot axis A1and to which the second brake arm14is pivotally mounted about the second pivot axis A2. Since the bicycle rim brake10further comprises the base member30, it is possible to deal with the bicycle rim brake10as a single component. However, the base member30can be omitted from the bicycle rim brake10if needed and/or desired.

As seen inFIGS. 2 and 3, the bicycle rim brake10further comprises a first coupling member32and a second coupling member34. The first coupling member32is configured to couple the first brake arm12to the bicycle frame2(FIG. 1) to pivot relative to the bicycle frame2(FIG. 1) about the first pivot axis A1. The second coupling member34is configured to couple the second brake arm14to the bicycle frame2(FIG. 1) to pivot relative to the bicycle frame2(FIG. 1) about the second pivot axis A2. Since the bicycle rim brake10includes the first coupling member32and the second coupling member34, it is possible to easily mount the bicycle rim brake10to the bicycle frame2. However, at least one of the first coupling member32and the second coupling member34can be omitted from the bicycle rim brake10if needed and/or desired.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first coupling member32couples the first brake arm12to the base member30to pivot relative to the base member30about the first pivot axis A1. The second coupling member34couples the second brake arm14to the base member30to pivot relative to the base member30about the second pivot axis A3.

As seen inFIG. 3, the first coupling member32includes a first threaded part32a. The second coupling member34includes a second threaded part34a. The first threaded part32ais threadedly engaged with a first brake mount part (not shown) of the front fork3(FIG. 1). The second threaded part34ais threadedly engaged with a second brake mount part (not shown) of the front fork3(FIG. 1).

As seen inFIG. 3, the bicycle rim brake10further comprises an additional base member36to which the first brake arm12is pivotally mounted about the first pivot axis A1and to which the second brake arm14is pivotally mounted about the second pivot axis A2. In the illustrated embodiment, the first coupling member32couples the first brake arm12to the base member30and the additional base member36to pivot relative to the base member30about the first pivot axis A1. The second coupling member34couples the second brake arm14to the base member30and the additional base member36to pivot relative to the base member30about the second pivot axis A3. The first brake arm12is provided between the base member30and the additional base member36in an axial direction D1parallel to the first pivot axis A1. The second brake arm14is provided between the base member30and the additional base member36in the axial direction D1. The first follower24, the second follower26, and the pivot cam member28are provided between the base member30and the additional base member36in the axial direction D1. The additional base member36can be omitted from the bicycle rim brake10if needed and/or desired.

As seen inFIG. 4, the pivotal cam member28includes a first cam surface28aand a second cam surface28b. The first cam surface28ais configured to guide the first follower24. The second cam surface28bis configured to guide the second follower26. The first cam surface28ahas a curved shape and is in contact with the first follower24. The second cam surface28bhas a curved shape and is in contact with the second follower26. Since the pivotal cam member28includes the first cam surface28aand the second cam surface28b, it is possible to reduce a size of the pivotal cam member28by modifying the first cam surface28aand the second cam surface28b. This can further reduce the size of the bicycle rim brake10and/or can further expand the possibility of design of the bicycle rim brake10.

In the illustrated embodiment, as seen inFIG. 4, the first cam surface28ais provided on an opposite side of the second cam surface28brelative to the third pivot axis A3. The third pivot axis A3is provided between the first cam surface28aand the second cam surface28b. Accordingly, both sides of the pivotal cam member28can be utilized as cam surfaces, allowing the size of the pivotal cam member28to be further reduced. Accordingly, it is possible to further reduce the size of the bicycle rim brake10and/or to further expand the possibility of design of the bicycle rim brake10. However, the arrangements of the first cam surface28aand the second cam surface28bare not limited to the illustrated embodiment.

As seen inFIG. 4, the first cam surface28ahas a profile different from a profile of the second cam surface28b. Thus, it is possible to arrange the third pivot axis A3at various positions relative to the first follower24and the second follower26. Accordingly, it is possible to further reduce the size of the bicycle rim brake10and/or to further expand the possibility of design of the bicycle rim brake10. However, the profile of the first cam surface28acan be equal to the profile of the second cam surface28bif needed and/or desired.

As seen inFIG. 4, the pivotal cam member28is provided between the first follower24and the second follower26. The third pivot axis A3is provided between the first follower24and the second follower26. Thus, it is possible to utilize a space between the first follower24and the second follower26. Accordingly, it is possible to further reduce the size of the bicycle rim brake10and/or to further expand the possibility of design of the bicycle rim brake10. However, the arrangements of the pivotal cam member28and the third pivot axis A3are not limited to the illustrated embodiment.

As seen inFIG. 4, the third pivot axis A3is provided in an area AR1defined between the first pivot axis A1and the second pivot axis A2. Specifically, the first pivot axis A1is spaced apart from the second pivot axis A2in a transverse direction D2. The area AR1is defined between the first pivot axis A1and the second pivot axis A2in the transverse direction D2. Since the third pivot axis A3is provided in an area AR1defined between the first pivot axis A1and the second pivot axis A2, it is possible to utilize the area defined between the first pivot axis A1and the second pivot axis A2. Accordingly, it is possible to further reduce the size of the bicycle rim brake10and/or to further expand the possibility of design of the bicycle rim brake10. However, the arrangement of the third pivot axis A3is not limited to the illustrated embodiment.

As seen inFIG. 4, the first follower24is rotatable about a first rotational axis A4. The second follower26is rotatable about a second rotational axis A5. In the illustrated embodiment, the first rotational axis A4is parallel to the second rotational axis A5. The first rotational axis A4and the second rotational axis A5are parallel to the first pivot axis A1, the second pivot axis A2, and the third pivot axis A3. The first follower24has a tubular shape. The second follower26has a tubular shape. Since the first follower24is rotatable about the first rotational axis A4, it is possible to make a relative movement between the first follower24and the pivotal cam member28smooth. Since the second follower26is rotatable about the second rotational axis A5, it is possible to make a relative movement between the second follower26and the pivotal cam member28smooth. These can make a braking operation of the bicycle rim brake10smooth.

As seen inFIG. 4, the first follower24is provided on an opposite side of the first mounting portion20relative to the first pivot axis A1. The first brake arm12includes a first base part38and a first arm body40. The first follower24is attached to the first base part38. The first follower24is rotatable relative to the first base part38about the first rotational axis A4. The first arm body40includes the first mounting portion20and is coupled to the first base part38to pivot relative to the first base part38about the first pivot axis A1.

As seen inFIG. 4, the second follower26is provided on an opposite side of the second mounting portion22relative to the second pivot axis A2. The second brake arm14includes a second base part42and a second arm body44. The second follower26is attached to the second base part42. The second follower26is rotatable relative to the second base part42about the second rotational axis A5. The second arm body44includes the second mounting portion22and is coupled to the second base part42to pivot relative to the second base part42about the second pivot axis A2.

Since the first follower24is provided on an opposite side of the first mounting portion20relative to the first pivot axis A1, it is possible to utilize a space around the opposite side of the first mounting portion20in the first brake arm12. Similarly, since the second follower26is provided on an opposite side of the second mounting portion22relative to the second pivot axis A2, it is possible to utilize a space around the opposite side of the second mounting portion22in the second brake arm14. Accordingly, it is possible to further reduce the size of the bicycle rim brake10and/or to further expand the possibility of design of the bicycle rim brake10.

As seen inFIG. 4, the first brake arm12includes a first adjuster46. The first adjuster46is configured to adjust an orientation of the first arm body40relative to the first base part38about the first pivot axis A1. In the illustrated embodiment, the first adjuster46comprises a screw. The first arm body40includes a first threaded hole40a. The first adjuster46is threadedly engaged with the first threaded hole40a. An end of the first adjuster46is contactable with the first base part38.

Rotation of the first adjuster46relative to the first base part38changes a linear position of the first adjuster46relative to the first arm body40along a center line CL1of the first threaded hole40a. The change in the linear position of the first adjuster46relative to the first arm body40changes a pivotal position of the first arm body40relative to the first base part38about the first pivot axis A1. Thus, the orientation of the first arm body40is adjusted relative to the first base part38by using the first adjuster46. Since the first brake arm12includes the first base part38, the first arm body40, and the first adjuster46, it is possible to easily adjust a clearance between the first friction member16and the bicycle rim5of the bicycle wheel4in a rest state where the first friction member16is positioned at the first rest position P11(FIG. 1).

As seen inFIG. 4, the second brake arm14includes a second adjuster48. The second adjuster48is configured to adjust an orientation of the second arm body44relative to the second base part42about the second pivot axis A2. In the illustrated embodiment, the first adjuster46comprises a screw. The second arm body44includes a second threaded hole44a. The second adjuster48is threadedly engaged with the second threaded hole44a. An end of the second adjuster48is contactable with the second base part42.

Rotation of the second adjuster48relative to the second base part42changes a linear position of the second adjuster48relative to the second arm body44along a center line CL2of the second threaded hole44a. The change in the linear position of the second adjuster48relative to the second arm body44changes a pivotal position of the second arm body44relative to the second base part42about the second pivot axis A2. Thus, the orientation of the second arm body44is adjusted relative to the second base part42by using the second adjuster48. Since the second brake arm14includes the second base part42, the second arm body44, and the second adjuster48, it is possible to easily adjust a clearance between the second friction member18and the bicycle rim5of the bicycle wheel4in a rest state where the second friction member18is positioned at the second rest position P21(FIG. 1).

As seen inFIG. 1, the bicycle rim brake10further comprises an intermediate member50via which an operating force F1is to be transmitted to the pivotal cam member28. The intermediate member50is configured to be coupled to the pivotal cam member28to pivot together with the pivotal cam member28about the third pivot axis A3. In the illustrated embodiment, the intermediate member50includes a cable attachment portion52to which a control cable6is to be attached. Specifically, an end of an inner wire6aof the control cable6is attached to the cable attachment portion52. Possible examples of the control cable6includes a Bowden cable.

As seen inFIGS. 1 and 3, the base member30includes an outer-casing receiving portion54configured to receive an outer casing6bof the control cable6. The outer-casing receiving portion54includes a receiving hole54ain which an end of the outer casing6bis provided.

Since the bicycle rim brake10further comprises the intermediate member50, it is possible to transmit the operating force F1to the pivotal cam member28via a simple structure. Since the intermediate member50is configured to be coupled to the pivotal cam member28to pivot together with the pivotal cam member28about the third pivot axis A3, it is possible to transmit the operating force F1to the pivotal cam member28by pivoting the intermediate member50. Since the intermediate member50includes the cable attachment portion52, it is possible to operate the bicycle rim brake10via the control cable6.

As seen inFIG. 3, the bicycle rim brake10further comprises a pivot shaft56configured to pivotally support the pivotal cam member28. As seen inFIG. 5, the pivot shaft56extends from the pivotal cam member28toward both sides relative to the pivotal cam member28along the third pivot axis A3. The pivot shaft56defines the third pivot axis A3. The pivot cam member28is integrally provided with the pivot shaft56as a single unitary member. However, the pivot cam member28can be a separate member from the pivot shaft56.

As seen inFIG. 6, the base member30includes a supporting hole30a. The pivot shaft56extends through the supporting hole30ain the axial direction D1. The additional base member36includes an additional supporting hole36a. The pivot shaft56extends through the additional supporting hole36a. The bicycle rim brake10further comprises a support ring58and an additional support ring60. The support ring58is provided in the supporting hole30aof the base member30and is provided between the pivot shaft56and the base member30. The additional support ring60is provided in the additional supporting hole36aof the additional base member36and is provided between the pivot shaft56and the additional base member36. The pivot shaft56is pivotally mounted to the base member30and the additional base member36via the support ring58and the additional support ring60.

The intermediate member50is configured to be coupled to the pivot shaft56. The intermediate member50is configured to pivot relative to the base member30together with the pivotal cam member28and the pivot shaft56about the third pivot axis A3. The bicycle rim brake10further comprises a fastener62such as a screw. The intermediate member50is secured to the pivot shaft56via the fastener62.

As seen inFIG. 7, the bicycle rim brake10further comprises an arm biasing member64. The arm biasing member64is configured to apply a biasing force F2to the first brake arm12and the second brake arm14so that the first mounting portion20and the second mounting portion22move away from each other. The arm biasing member64is configured to apply the biasing force F2to the first arm body40and the second arm body44so that the first mounting portion20and the second mounting portion22move away from each other. The arm biasing member64includes a first end64aand a second end64b. The first arm body40includes a first hole40a. The second arm body44includes a second hole44a. The first end64aof the arm biasing member64is provided in the first hole40aof the first arm body40. The second end64bof the arm biasing member64is provided in the second hole44aof the second arm body44. Since the bicycle rim brake10further comprises the arm biasing member64, it is possible to position the first brake arm12at the first rest position P31and to position the second brake arm14at the second rest position P41.

As seen inFIG. 1, when the inner wire6aof the control cable6is pulled, the intermediate member50pivots relative to the base member30about the third pivot axis A3in a first pivot direction D31. The pivotal cam member28pivots together with the intermediate member50relative to the base member30about the third pivot axis A3in the first pivot direction D31. This pivotal movement of the pivotal cam member28moves the first follower24and the second follower26away from each other. Thus, the first brake arm12pivots relative to the base member30about the first pivot axis A1from the first rest position P31toward the first operated position P32(FIG. 4). Similarly, the second brake arm14pivots relative to the base member30about the second pivot axis A2from the second rest position P41toward the second operated position P42(FIG. 4). The pivotal movement of the first brake arm12and the second brake arm14causes the first friction member16and the second friction member18to pinch the bicycle rim5(FIG. 1), applying the braking force to the bicycle wheel4.

When the inner wire6aof the control cable6is released, the biasing force F2of the arm biasing member62(FIG. 7) returns the first friction member16to the first rest position P11and returns the second friction member18to the second rest position P21. Thus, the first friction member16and the second friction member18move away from the bicycle rim5. At this time, the first follower24and the second follower26approach each other, causing the pivotal cam member28to pivot relative to the base member30about the third pivot axis A3in a second pivot direction D32opposite to the first pivot direction D31. This respectively returns the pivotal cam member28and the intermediate member50to initial positions (FIGS. 1 and 4).

With the bicycle rim brake10, the pivotal cam member28is configured to pivot about the third pivot axis A3which is different from the first pivot axis A1and the second pivot axis A2to guide the first follower24and the second follower26so that the first brake arm12pivots about the first pivot axis A1and the second brake arm14pivots about the second pivot axis A2. Thus, it is possible to convert the pivotal movement of the pivotal cam member28into the pivotal movement of the first brake arm12and the pivotal movement of the second brake arm14. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce a size of the bicycle rim brake10com and/or expand the possibility of design of the bicycle rim brake10compared with, for example, a comparative rim brake including a structure configured to convert a linear movement of a cam member into pivotal movements of brake arms.

Furthermore, with the bicycle rim brake10, the pivotal operating member28is configured to pivot about the third pivot axis A3which is different from the first pivot axis A1and the second pivot axis A2so that the first brake arm12pivots about the first pivot axis A1and the second brake arm14pivots about the second pivot axis A2. The third pivot axis A3is provided in an area defined between the first pivot axis A1and the second pivot axis A2. Thus, it is possible to utilize the area defined between the first pivot axis A1and the second pivot axis A2. Accordingly, it is possible to further reduce the size of the bicycle rim brake10and/or to further expand the possibility of design of the bicycle rim brake10.

Second Embodiment

A bicycle rim brake210in accordance with a second embodiment will be described below referring toFIG. 8. The bicycle rim brake210has substantially the same construction as the bicycle rim brake10except for the base member30and the intermediate member50. Thus, elements having substantially the same function as those in the first embodiment will be numbered the same here, and will not be described and/or illustrated again in detail here for the sake of brevity.

As seen inFIG. 8, the bicycle rim brake10further comprises a base member230to which the first brake arm12is pivotally mounted about the first pivot axis A1and to which the second brake arm14is pivotally mounted about the second pivot axis A2. Unlike the base member30in accordance with the first embodiment, the outer-casing receiving portion54is omitted from the base member230.

The bicycle rim brake210further comprises a hydraulic cylinder270and a piston272. The hydraulic cylinder270includes a cylinder bore274. The piston272is movably provided in the cylinder bore274. In the illustrated embodiment, the hydraulic cylinder270is mounted to the base member230instead of the outer-casing receiving portion54in accordance with the first embodiment. A fluid chamber276is defined by the hydraulic cylinder270and the piston272. A fluid chamber276is in fluid communication with a master chamber of a brake operating device (not shown) via a hydraulic hose7. Since the bicycle rim brake210comprises the hydraulic cylinder270and the piston272, it is possible to operate the bicycle rim brake210via a hydraulic fluid.

As seen inFIG. 8, the bicycle rim brake210further comprises an intermediate member250via which the operating force F1is to be transmitted to the pivotal cam member28. Unlike the intermediate member50in accordance with the first embodiment, the cable attachment portion52is omitted from the intermediate member250.

The piston272is configured to be coupled to the intermediate member250. In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle rim brake210further comprises a piston rod278, a piston biasing member280, and a stopper282. The piston rod278is operatively coupled to the piston272. The intermediate member250includes a coupling pin284having a threaded hole284a. The piston rod278includes a thread bolt278a. The thread bolt278ais threadedly engaged with the threaded hole284a. Rotation of the piston rod278changes a distance between the piston272and the coupling pin284, allowing the relative position between the piston272and the intermediate member250to be adjusted.

Movement of the piston272is transmitted to the intermediate member250via the piston rod278and the coupling pin284. The piston biasing member280is provided in the cylinder bore274. The stopper282is secured to the hydraulic cylinder270to support an end of the piston biasing member280. The stopper282has an annular shape. The piston rod278extends through an opening282aof the stopper282.

With the bicycle rim brake210, it is possible to obtain substantially the same advantageous effects as those of the bicycle rim brake10in accordance with the first embodiment.