Bicycle operating device

A bicycle operating device comprises a base, a user operated input, a cable actuator and a positioning abutment. The user operated input is movably arranged with respect to the base from a rest position towards an operated position. The cable actuator is movably arranged with respect to the base in response to movement of the user operated input between at least first and second cable holding positions. The positioning abutment is movably supported on the base between at least a first abutment position and a second abutment position. The positioning abutment selectively engages the user operated input to position the user operated input at an adjusted rest position in a state after the user operated input has been moved from the rest position to the operated position. The adjusted rest position is different from the rest position.

BACKGROUND

Technical Field

The present invention generally relates to a bicycle operating device.

Background Information

Bicycles are typically provided with one or more bicycle operating devices for operating one or more bicycle components. A conventional bicycle operating device includes a base member, an actuator connected to a cable of a bicycle component, and one or more user operated inputs (operating members). The user operated inputs are arranged to be movable with respect to the base member to move the actuator. In accordance with operation of the user operated inputs, the actuator moves with respect to the base member, and the bicycle component is operated via the cable being pulled or released.

SUMMARY

Generally, the present disclosure is directed to various features of a bicycle operating device. In one feature, a bicycle operating device is provided in which a rest position of the user operated input can be adjusted. In another feature, a bicycle operating device is provided that is capable of pulling and releasing a cable by movement of one user operated input.

In view of the state of the known technology and in accordance with a first aspect of the present disclosure, a bicycle operating device is provided that basically comprises a base, a user operated input, a cable actuator and a positioning abutment. The user operated input is movably arranged with respect to the base from a rest position towards an operated position. The cable actuator is movably arranged with respect to the base in response to movement of the user operated input between at least first and second cable holding positions. The positioning abutment is movably supported on the base between at least a first abutment position and a second abutment position. The positioning abutment selectively engages the user operated input to position the user operated input at an adjusted rest position in a state after the user operated input has been moved from the rest position to the operated position. The adjusted rest position is different from the rest position

With the bicycle operating device according to the first aspect, it is possible to improve the usability of the bicycle operating device.

In accordance with a second aspect of the present disclosure, a bicycle operating device is provided that basically comprises a base, a user operated input, a cable actuator and a rest position adjuster. The base supports a housing having a sidewall. The user operated input is movably arranged with respect to the base from a rest position towards an operated position. The cable actuator is movably arranged with respect to the base in response to movement of the user operated input. The cable actuator is disposed in the housing. The rest position adjuster is movably arranged with respect to the base to selectively adjust an adjusted rest position of the user operated input in a state after the user operated input has been moved from the rest position to the operated position. The adjusted rest position is different from the rest position. A part of the rest position adjuster extends outside of the sidewall of the housing.

With the bicycle operating device according to the second aspect, it is possible to improve the usability of the bicycle operating device.

In accordance with a third aspect of the present disclosure, a bicycle operating device is provided that basically comprises a base, a user operated input and a cable actuator. The user operated input is movably arranged with respect to the base from a rest position towards an operated position. The cable actuator is movably arranged with respect to the base in response to movement of the user operated input. The cable actuator includes a positioning ratchet and a cable holder. The positioning ratchet and the cable holder are separate pieces that are coupled and move together. The positioning ratchet and the cable holder define a cable path therebetween.

With the bicycle operating device according to the third aspect, it is possible to reliably attach a cable to the positioning ratchet.

In accordance with a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to the first aspect is configured so that the positioning abutment is pivotally arranged with respect to the base in a first direction and slidably arranged with respect to the base in a second direction that is different from the first direction.

With the bicycle operating device according to the fourth aspect, it is possible for a user to operate the user operated input in two directions to move the cable actuator from one of the first and second cable holding positions to the other of the first and second cable holding positions.

In accordance with a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to the fourth aspect further comprises a positioning catch movably arranged with respect to the base. The cable actuator is selectively maintained in each of the first and second cable holding positions by the positioning catch. The positioning abutment is arranged to move the positioning catch as the positioning abutment moves in the second direction.

With the bicycle operating device according to the fifth aspect, it is possible to appropriately position the cable actuator in each of the first position and the second position, and to easily release the cable actuator.

In accordance with a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to the fifth aspect is configured so that the user operated input is pivotally mounted with respect to the base about a pivot axis in a third direction and a fourth direction from the adjusted rest position.

With the bicycle operating device according to the sixth aspect, it is possible to easily operate the user operated input and move the cable actuator with a simple configuration.

In accordance with a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to the sixth aspect is configured so that the positioning catch has a first contact point and a second contact point. The positioning catch is arranged to move in response to receiving a moving force at the first contact point as the user operated input pivots in the third direction from the adjusted rest position. The positioning catch is arranged to move in response to receiving a moving force at the second contact point as the user operated input pivots in the fourth direction from the adjusted rest position.

With the bicycle operating device according to the seventh aspect, it is possible for a user to easily release the cable actuator by operating the user operated input in either of two different directions.

In accordance with an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to the sixth or seventh aspect is configured so that the positioning catch has a positioning position and a release position, which differs from the positioning position. The user operated input is operated from the adjusted rest position in the third direction to move the positioning catch from the positioning position towards the release position. The user operated input is operated from the adjusted rest position in the fourth direction to move the positioning catch from the positioning position towards the release position.

With the bicycle operating device according to the eighth aspect, it is possible for a user to easily move the positioning catch to release the cable actuator by operating the user operated input in in either of two different directions.

In accordance with a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to eighth aspects is configured so that the cable actuator includes a positioning ratchet and a cable holder. The positioning ratchet and the cable holder are coupled and move together.

With the bicycle operating device according to the ninth aspect, it is possible to appropriately position the cable actuator in each of the first position and the second position, and to easily attach a cable to the cable actuator.

In accordance with a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to the ninth aspect is configured so that the positioning ratchet and the cable holder are separate pieces that are coupled and move together. The positioning ratchet and the cable holder define a cable path therebetween.

With the bicycle operating device according to the tenth aspect, it is possible to easily construct the positioning ratchet and the cable holder.

In accordance with an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to the first aspect and any one of the fourth to tenth aspects further comprises a rest position adjuster movably arranged with respect to the base between at least two adjustment positions. The positioning abutment is moved in response to the rest position adjuster being moved.

With the bicycle operating device according to the eleventh aspect, it is possible to improve the operability of the bicycle operating device.

In accordance with a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to the eleventh aspect is configured so that the rest position adjuster is pivotally mounted with respect to the base.

With the bicycle operating device according to the twelfth aspect, it is possible to provide a simple adjustment configuration.

In accordance with a thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to the eleventh or twelfth aspect is configured so that the rest position adjuster is selectively maintained in the at least two adjustment positions by a detent.

With the bicycle operating device according to the thirteenth aspect, it is possible to prevent inadvertent movement of the rest position adjuster.

In accordance with a fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to the first aspect and any one of the fourth to thirteenth aspects is configured so that the user operated input has a first engagement portion selectively abutting the positioning abutment in a state after the user operated input has been moved from the rest position to the operated position to establish the adjusted rest position in a first adjusted rest position while the positioning abutment is in the first abutment position. The user operated input has a second engagement portion selectively abutting the positioning abutment in a state after the user operated input has been moved from the rest position to the operated position to establish the adjusted rest position in a second adjusted rest position while the positioning abutment is in the second abutment position. The first abutment position is different from the second abutment position.

With the bicycle operating device according to the fourteenth aspect, it is possible appropriately positioned the user operated input in the first and second adjusted rest positions.

In accordance with a fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to the fourteenth aspect is configured so that the user operated input has a third engagement portion selectively abutting the positioning abutment in a state after the user operated input has been moved from the rest position to the operated position to establish the adjusted rest position in a third adjusted rest position while the positioning abutment is in a third abutment position that different from the first and second abutment positions.

With the bicycle operating device according to the fifteenth aspect, it is possible to improve the operability of the bicycle operating device by providing a third adjusted rest position.

In accordance with a sixteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to fifteenth aspects further comprises a shaft supporting the cable actuator and the user operated input to pivot with respect to the base about a center axis of the shaft.

With the bicycle operating device according to the sixteenth aspect, it is possible to simplify the configuration of the bicycle operating device.

In accordance with a seventeenth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to the sixteenth aspect is configured so that the user operated input is biased with respect to the base in a direction towards the rest position.

With the bicycle operating device according to the seventeenth aspect, it is possible to simplify the configuration of the bicycle operating device.

In accordance with an eighteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to seventeenth aspects further comprises a housing that accommodates the cable actuator inside the housing.

With the bicycle operating device according to the eighteenth aspect, it is possible to protect the cable actuator inside the housing.

In accordance with a nineteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to the eighteenth aspect further comprises a handlebar attachment coupled to the base.

With the bicycle operating device according to the nineteenth aspect, it is possible to attach the bicycle operating device to a handlebar to improve the operability of the bicycle operating device.

In accordance with a twentieth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to the eighteenth or nineteenth aspect is configured so that the user operated input includes an attachment portion that is disposed inside the housing and a lever portion that extends outside of the housing from the attachment portion.

With the bicycle operating device according to the twentieth aspect, it is possible to improve the operability of the bicycle operating device by a user while protecting internal parts.

In accordance with a twenty-first aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to the twentieth aspect is configured so that the user operated input further includes a lever plate having first and second engagement portions that selectively abut the positioning abutment in a state after the user operated input has been moved from the rest position to the operated position to establish the adjusted rest position in a first adjusted rest position while the positioning abutment is in the first abutment position, and a second adjusted rest position while the positioning abutment is in the second abutment position. The first abutment position is different from the second abutment position.

With the bicycle operating device according to the twenty-first aspect, it is possible to simplify the configuration of the user operated input.

Also, other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the disclosed bicycle operating device will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which, taken in conjunction with the annexed drawings, discloses a preferred embodiment of the bicycle operating device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Referring initially toFIGS. 1 and 2, a portion of a handlebar H of a bicycle is shown that is equipped with a bicycle operating device10in accordance with one illustrative embodiment. The bicycle operating device10is arranged, for example, on a left side of the handlebar H so as to be operated by a rider's left hand. Alternatively, the bicycle operating device10can be constructed as a mirror image and arranged on a right side of the handlebar H. The bicycle operating device10is adjustably mounted to the handlebar H in a longitudinal direction as explained later.

In the illustrated embodiment, as seen inFIG. 4, the bicycle operating device10is configured to be operatively coupled to a bicycle component BC via a control cable C. In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle operating device10is configured as a gear shifter for controlling a gear position of a gear changing device such as a derailleur or an internally geared hub. However, the bicycle component operating device10can be used as a bicycle control device for operating other types of bicycle components (e.g., a suspension, an adjustable seatpost, etc.) as needed and/or desired.

Preferably, as seen inFIG. 3, the control cable C is a conventional bicycle operating cable that has an outer case C1covering an inner wire C2. In other words, the control cable C is a Bowden type cable in which the inner wire C2is slidably received within the outer case C1. The inner wire C2has a cable nipple or attachment barrel C3for attaching the inner wire C2to the bicycle component operating device10as discussed below. The bicycle component operating device10operates the bicycle component BC by selectively pulling and releasing the inner wire C2.

Referring toFIGS. 4 and 5, the bicycle operating device10basically comprises a base12, a user operated input14and a cable actuator16. Basically, the user operated input14is movably arranged with respect to the base12from a rest position RP0towards an operated position OP. The attachment barrel C3of the inner wire C2is attached to the cable actuator16. As a result of the operation of the user operated input14, the cable actuator16is moved to release or pull the inner wire C2with respect to the base12.

In the illustrated embodiment, as seen inFIG. 3, the user operated input14has at least two different rest positions. In any case, the term “rest position” as used herein refers to a state in which a part (e.g., the user operated input14) remains stationary without the need of a user holding the part in that state. As explained later, the user operated input14has a first rest position and at least one second rest position. The first rest position will hereafter be referred to simply as the rest position RP0, while the second rest position will hereafter be referred to simply as one of the adjusted rest positions RP1, RP2or RP3. In the illustrated embodiment, the rest position RP0corresponds to when the cable actuator16is in a fully released position (e.g., a low position in the case of a front derailleur) and the adjusted rest positions RP1, RP2or RP3corresponds to when the cable actuator16is in a pulled position (e.g., a top position in the case of a front derailleur that is fully pulled).

Basically, the cable actuator16is connected to the inner wire C2of the control cable C of the bicycle component BC (FIG. 3). As explained later, the bicycle operating device10is configured to pull the inner wire C2with respect to the base12in response to a cable pulling operation of the user operated input14and releases the inner wire C2with respect to the base12in response to a cable releasing operation of the user operated input14. Thus, the bicycle operating device10constitutes a bicycle cable operating device.

As seen inFIGS. 6 to 13, the cable actuator16is movably arranged with respect to the base12in response to movement of the user operated input14. In particular, the cable actuator16is movably arranged with respect to the base12in response to movement of the user operated input14between at least first and second cable holding positions. In other words, the user operated input14is operated by a user to move the cable actuator16between the first and second cable holding positions, which in turn either pull or release the inner wire C2of the control cable C with respect to the base12. The first cable holding position of the cable actuator16is shown inFIGS. 6 and 7. In the first cable holding position of the cable actuator16, the inner wire C2of the control cable C is fully released with respect to the base12. The second cable holding position of the cable actuator16is shown inFIGS. 8 to 13. In the second cable holding position of the cable actuator16, the inner wire C2of the control cable C is fully pulled with respect to the base12.

As seen inFIGS. 5, 14 and 15, the bicycle operating device10further comprises a shaft18that supports the cable actuator16and the user operated input14to pivot with respect to the base12about a center axis A of the shaft18. In this way, the shaft18acts as a pivot shaft or axle for pivotally support the user operated input14and the cable actuator16with respect to the base12. Thus, the cable actuator16moves between the first and second cable holding positions about the center axis A of the shaft18.

As seen inFIG. 4, the cable actuator16moves in a cable releasing direction R1in response to the user operated input14being operated from the rest position RP0towards the operated position OP. On the other hand, as explained later, the cable actuator16moves in a cable pulling direction R2in response to the user operated input14being operated from one of the adjusted rest positions RP1, RP2or RP3towards either the operated position OP or the rest position RP0. Thus, the rest position RP0can also be considered an operated position with respect to the adjusted rest positions RP1, RP2or RP3when the user operated input14is operated from one of the adjusted rest positions RP1, RP2or RP3towards the rest position RP0.

In the illustrated embodiment, as seen inFIG. 8, a biasing element19(e.g., a spring) is provided for biasing the cable actuator16in the cable releasing direction R1towards the first cable holding position. Thus, when the cable actuator16is released, as explained below, the cable actuator16moves in the cable releasing direction R1under the biasing force of the biasing element19.

Referring inFIGS. 7 and 9, the establishment of the first and second cable holding positions of the cable actuator16will now be discussed. Here, the bicycle operating device10further comprises a positioning catch20that is movably arranged with respect to the base12. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the positioning catch20is pivotally mounted on the base12by a pivot pin22. Basically, the cable actuator16is selectively maintained in each of the first and second cable holding positions by the positioning catch20. However, the base12also includes a stop pin23that contacts the cable actuator16in the first cable holding position such that the positioning catch20does not need to be used to maintain the cable actuator16in the first cable holding position. The stop pin23also limits the pivotal movement of the positioning catch20away from the cable actuator16.

In any case, in the illustrated embodiment, the positioning catch20has a positioning position and a release position, which differs from the positioning position. In the positioning position, the positioning catch20is engaged with the cable actuator16to prevent movement of the cable actuator16in the cable releasing direction R1. However, in the positioning position, the positioning catch20does not prevent movement of the cable actuator16in the cable pulling direction R2. In the release position, the positioning catch20is disengaged from the cable actuator16to permit movement of the cable actuator16in the cable releasing direction R1.

The positioning catch20is biased towards the positioning position by a biasing element24(e.g., a spring). Here, the biasing element24is a torsion spring having a coiled portion mounted on the pivot pin22, a first end engaged with the positioning catch20, and a second end engaged with the base12. The positioning catch20includes an abutment20athat engages the positioning catch20while the positioning catch20is in the positioning position. The positioning catch20has a first contact point CP1and a second contact point CP2. The positioning catch20receives a moving force at the first contact point CP1or the second contact point CP2to moves the positioning catch20from the positioning position to the release position in response to operation of the user operated input14as explained below. In this way, operation of the user operated input14causes a force to act on one of the first and second contact points CP1and CP2of the positioning catch20, which in turn moves the positioning catch20from the positioning position to the release position so that the cable actuator16can be released during a cable releasing operation.

As seen inFIGS. 8 and 17 to 19, here, the cable actuator16includes a positioning ratchet26and a cable holder28. The positioning ratchet26and the cable holder28are coupled and move together. Thus, the positioning catch20, the positioning ratchet26and the cable holder28form a cable position maintaining mechanism of the bicycle operating device10. As seen inFIG. 18, the positioning ratchet26and the cable holder28define a cable path P therebetween. The term “therebetween” with respect to two parts (e.g., the positioning ratchet26and the cable holder28) as used herein refers to a space disposed directly between the two adjacent parts without any intervening parts.

In the illustrated embodiment, the positioning ratchet26and the cable holder28are separate pieces that are coupled and move together. In this way, the inner wire C2can be easily attached to the positioning ratchet26by the cable holder28. Also, the positioning ratchet26and the cable holder28can be made of different materials such as the positioning ratchet26being made of a rigid metallic material and the cable holder28being made of a rigid non-metallic material. Here, the cable holder28is snap-fitted to the positioning ratchet26.

Specifically, as seen inFIGS. 17 to 19, the positioning ratchet26includes a first recess26aand a second recess26bthat are formed in the peripheral edge of the positioning ratchet26, while the cable holder28includes a first pin28aand a second pin28bthat are located in a slot28c. To couple the cable holder28to the positioning ratchet26, the peripheral edge of the positioning ratchet26is inserted into the slot28cof the cable holder28so that the first pin28ais hooked in the first recess26a. Then, the cable holder28is pivoted on the first pin28athat is hooked in the first recess26asuch that the second pin28bis snap-fitted into the second recess26b.

The positioning ratchet26includes a first stop26cand a second stop26d. The first and second stops26cand26dselectively contacts the abutment20aof the positioning catch20to establish the first and second cable holding positions of the cable actuator16. More specifically, the first stop26ccontacts the abutment20aof the positioning catch20to establish the first cable holding position of the cable actuator16. On the other hand, the second stop26dcontacts the abutment20aof the positioning catch20to establish the second cable holding position of the cable actuator16. In the illustrated embodiment, the second stop26dalso contacts the stop pin23to establish the first cable holding position of the cable actuator16. The positioning ratchet26includes a pulling abutment26ethat is used for rotating the cable actuator16in the cable pulling direction R2as explained later.

Referring back toFIGS. 4 and 5, the bicycle operating device10further comprises a housing30that accommodates the cable actuator16inside the housing30. The base12movably supports the cable actuator16inside the housing30. In other words, the cable actuator16is disposed in the housing30. The base12supports the housing30. The base12includes a first internal support31and a second internal support32that support various internal parts inside the housing30. The cable actuator16is pivotally mounted on the shaft18between the first and second internal supports31and32. The first internal support31also supports a barrel adjuster34that projects outside of the housing30. The barrel adjuster34is adjustably coupled to the first internal support31to variably fix a contact point of an end of the outer case C1relative to the base12.

Referring back toFIGS. 2 to 5, the bicycle operating device10further comprises a handlebar attachment36coupled to the housing30. Here, the housing30and the handlebar attachment36are separate members that are attached together via the internal support32. In particular, the shaft18is a bolt that extends upwardly through the internal support32, and that is threaded into the handlebar attachment36for attaching the handlebar attachment36to a part of the housing30and the internal support32. However, the handlebar attachment36can be integrally form with a part of the housing30as a one-piece member as needed and/or desired. Also, the handlebar attachment36can be adjustably mounted to the housing14as needed and/or desired. Here, the handlebar attachment36has an elongated attachment opening36afor attachment to a handlebar clamp38using a bolt40as seen inFIG. 2. The handlebar attachment36is preferably made of a strong rigid material such as a metallic material or a reinforced resin material.

The housing30covers the internal parts (seeFIG. 5) of the bicycle operating device10that release from the inner wire C2to feed out of the housing30and that pull the inner wire C2into the housing30. Here, for example, the housing30has a three-piece construction. Specifically, the housing30includes an upper housing part30A, a lower housing part30B and a side housing part30C. The housing parts30A,30B and30C are hard rigid members constructed of a suitable material such as a hard plastic or a lightweight metal such as aluminum. However, the housing14can have a variety of configurations as needed and/or desired.

The upper housing part30A is sandwiched between the internal support32and the handlebar attachment36upon fastening the shaft18to the handlebar attachment36. Also, an additional bolt41secures the handlebar attachment36to the first internal support31. The lower housing part30B is attached to the user operated input14by a screw42. Thus, the lower housing part30B moves with the user operated input14relative to the upper housing part30A and the side housing part30C. The side housing part30C is hooked onto the housing part30A and sandwiched between the upper housing part30A and the internal support32. In this way, the upper housing part30A and the side housing part30C are fixed to the base12and can be considered to be a part of the base12. While the lower housing part30B moves with the user operated input14, the lower housing part30B could be fixed to the upper housing part30A and the side housing part30C if need and/or desired. Here, the housing30has a sidewall44. In the illustrated embodiment, the sidewall44is partially defined be each of the upper housing part30A, the lower housing part30B and the side housing part30C.

Referring toFIG. 6, the user operated input14includes an attachment portion14athat is disposed inside the housing30and a lever portion14bthat extends outside of the housing30from the attachment portion. The attachment portion14ais pivotally attached to the shaft18. The lever portion14bis arranged such that the user moves the lever portion14bto pivot the user operated input14about the shaft18.

The user operated input14is biased with respect to the base12in a direction towards the rest position RP0. As seen inFIG. 6, a biasing element46(e.g., a spring) is provided for biasing the user operated input14towards the rest position RP0. In this way, when the user operated input14is released after being moved from one of the rest positions RP0, RP1, RP2or RP3to the operated position OP, the user operated input14automatically returns to one of the rest positions RP0, RP1, RP2or RP3once the user operated input14is released by the user. Basically, here, the biasing element46is a torsion spring having a coiled portion mounted on the shaft18, a first end engaged with the user operated input14, and a second end engaged with the base12.

As the user operated input14is moved from the rest position RP0towards the operated position OP, the cable actuator16is moved to pull the inner wire C2of the control cable C with respect to the base12. To prevent the user operated input14from returning to one the rest position RP0, the bicycle operating device10further comprises a positioning abutment48. The positioning abutment48selectively engages the user operated input14to position the user operated input14at an adjusted rest position RP1, RP2or RP3in a state after the user operated input14has been moved from the rest position RP0to the operated position OP. The adjusted rest position RP1, RP2or RP3is different from the rest position RP0. In other words, the user operated input14stops the user operated input14from returning to the rest position RP0and establishes the adjusted rest position RP1, RP2or RP3.

The positioning abutment48is biased towards engagement with the user operated input14by a biasing element50. The positioning abutment48is movably supported on the base12between at least a first abutment position and a second abutment position. In the illustrated embodiment, the positioning abutment48is pivotally mounted on a pivot pin52that is mounted on the positioning catch20. A portion of the pivot pin52is disposed in a control opening31ain the first internal support31of the base12. In this way, the positioning abutment48is pivotally arranged with respect to the base12in a first direction D1and slidably arranged with respect to the base12in a second direction D2that is different from the first direction D1. The positioning abutment48is arranged to move the positioning catch20as the positioning abutment48moves in the second direction D2. The biasing element50is a torsion spring having a coiled portion mounted on the pivot pin52, a first end engaged with the positioning abutment48, and a second end engaged with the positioning catch20. The biasing element50applies a biasing force to urge the positioning abutment48towards engagement with the user operated input14as discussed below. In the illustrated embodiment, the positioning abutment48includes a first control part48aand a second control part48b. As explained below, the first control part48ais restrained to establish the adjusted rest positions RP1, RP2and RP3. As explained below, the second control part48bis configured to temporarily restrain the movement of the cable actuator16in the cable releasing direction R1.

In the illustrated embodiment, as seen inFIGS. 7 to 14, the adjusted rest positions RP1, RP2and RP3of the user operated input14is adjustable. Here, the bicycle operating device10further comprises a rest position adjuster54. The rest position adjuster54is movably arranged with respect to the base12to selectively adjust the adjusted rest position RP1, RP2or RP3of the user operated input14in a state after the user operated input14has been moved from the rest position RP0to the operated position OP. The rest position adjuster54is movably arranged with respect to the base12between at least two adjustment positions. For example, the rest position adjuster54is pivotally mounted with respect to the base12.

Basically, as seen inFIGS. 7 to 14, the positioning abutment48is moved in response to the rest position adjuster54being moved. In this way, the adjusted rest position of the user operated input14is adjusted. Here, the rest position adjuster54is an adjustment dial or wheel that is turned by a user or rider. In the illustrated embodiment, the rest position adjuster54includes a dial54aand a shaft54b. The dial54aof rest position adjuster54includes a cam surface54a1that restricts the movement of the first control part48aof the positioning abutment48to establish the adjusted rest positions RP1, RP2and RP3. The dial54aof rest position adjuster54further includes a part54a2for the user to turn the dial54a. The part54a2of the rest position adjuster54extends outside of the sidewall44of the housing30. More specifically, the part54a2of the rest position adjuster54extends in a radial direction with respect to the shaft54bbeyond the sidewall44of the housing30. For example, the shaft54bof the rest position adjuster54is parallel to the shaft18that supports the cable actuator16. In this way, the adjusted rest position RP1, RP2or RP3of the user operated input14can be adjusted without disassembling any parts of the bicycle operating device10. Moreover, a rider can adjust the adjusted rest position RP1, RP2or RP3of the user operated input14while riding a bicycle in which the bicycle operating device10is installed.

As seen inFIG. 5, the opposite ends of the shaft54bare disposed in opposed openings31band32ain the first and second internal supports31and32. The shaft54bdefines a pivot axis of the rest position adjuster54such that the dial54apivots relative to the base12. The rest position adjuster54is selectively maintained in the at least two adjustment positions by a detent56. Here, the detent56extends from the first internal support31of the base12into an opening54cof the rest position adjuster54. In the illustrated embodiment, the rest position adjuster54has three adjustment positions. Thus, the opening54chas three notches N1, N2and N3that are selectively engaged by the detent56upon turning the rest position adjuster54relative to the base12.

As seen inFIGS. 20 to 21, when the user operated input14is in the rest position RP0, the rest position adjuster54is inactivate and the first control part48aof the positioning abutment48is spaced from the cam surface54a1. In particular, the second control part48bof the positioning abutment48contacts the cable holder28of the cable actuator16and a part (discussed below) of the user operated input14to prevent the positioning abutment48from pivoting into contact with the cam surface54a1. In this way, the first control part48aof the positioning abutment48is spaced from the cam surface54a1when the user operated input14is in the rest position RP0. As seen inFIGS. 20 to 21, the rest position adjuster54is inactivate in each of the first, second and third positions of the rest position adjuster54. Also, the second control part48bof the positioning abutment48contacts the cable holder28of the cable actuator16and a part of the user operated input14to prevent the positioning abutment48from engaging engagement portions64,66and68of the user operated input14(discussed below).

As seen inFIGS. 9 and 10, when the rest position adjuster54is in the first adjustment position (i.e., the detent56is in engaged with the first notch N1of the opening54c), the first control part48aof the positioning abutment48contacts a first cam section of the cam surface54a1of the rest position adjuster54. In this way, the positioning abutment48is prevented from pivoting in the first direction D1past a first predetermined position. As a result, the positioning abutment48engages the user operated input14and the user operated input14is held in the first adjusted rest position RP1.

As seen inFIGS. 11 and 12, when the rest position adjuster54is in the second adjustment position (i.e., the detent56is in engaged with the second notch N2of the opening54c), the first control part48aof the positioning abutment48contacts a second cam section of the cam surface54a1of the rest position adjuster54. In this way, the positioning abutment48is prevented from pivoting in the first direction D1past a second predetermined position. As a result, the positioning abutment48engages the user operated input14and the user operated input14is held in the second adjusted rest position RP2.

As seen inFIGS. 13 and 14, when the rest position adjuster54is in the third adjustment position (i.e., the detent56is in engaged with the third notch N3of the opening54c), the first control part48aof the positioning abutment48contacts a third cam section of the cam surface54a1of the rest position adjuster54. In this way, the positioning abutment48is prevented from pivoting in the first direction D1past a third predetermined position. As a result, the positioning abutment48engages the user operated input14and the user operated input14is held in the third adjusted rest position RP3.

A biasing element58(e.g., a spring) is provided between the base12and the rest position adjuster54to biases the detent56into one of the notches of the opening54c. The biasing element24is a torsion spring having a coiled portion mounted on the shaft54band its opposite free ends engaged with the base12. The opposed openings31band32ain the first and second internal supports31and32are slots so that the rest position adjuster54slides relative to the base12as the rest position adjuster54is pivoted relative to the base12on the shaft54b.

In the illustrated embodiment, a cable releasing operation can be performed by a user in two different ways from the adjusted rest position corresponding to the top position. Namely, from the user operated input14is pivotally mounted with respect to the base12about a pivot axis (i.e., the center axis A) in a third direction D3and a fourth direction D4from the adjusted rest position. When the user operated input14is the rest position corresponding to the low position, the user operated input14can only pivot in the third direction D3to perform a cable pulling operation.

In a cable releasing operation, the positioning catch20is arranged to move in response to receiving a moving force at one of the first and second contact points CP1and CP2as the user operated input14. Specifically, the positioning catch20is arranged to move in response to receiving a moving force at the first contact point CP1as the user operated input14pivots in the third direction D3from the adjusted rest position D3. Also, the positioning catch20is arranged to move in response to receiving a moving force at the second contact point CP2as the user operated input14pivots in the fourth direction D4from the adjusted rest position.

To effectuate a cable releasing operation by moving the user operated input14in the third direction D3, a release60is provided on the base12. The release60is pivotally mounted on the base by a pivot pin62. The release60is biased by the biasing element19that is also used to bias the cable actuator16in the cable releasing direction R1towards the first cable holding position. In particular, the biasing element19is a torsion spring having a coiled portion mounted on the shaft18, a first end engaged with the cable actuator16, and a second end engaged with the release60. The biasing element19urges both the cable actuator16and the release60towards engagement with the stop pin23.

As seen inFIGS. 9 and 10, the user operated input14has a first engagement portion64selectively abutting the positioning abutment48in a state after the user operated input14has been moved from the rest position RP0to the operated position OP to establish the adjusted rest position RP1, RP2or RP3in a first adjusted rest position RP1while the positioning abutment48is in the first abutment position. The first abutment position of the positioning abutment48is established by setting the rest position adjuster54to the first adjustment position (i.e., the detent56is in engaged with the first notch N1of the opening54c). Thus, the first control part48aof the positioning abutment48contacts a first cam section of the cam surface54a1of the rest position adjuster54. In this way, the positioning abutment48is prevented from pivoting in the first direction D1past the first predetermined position. As a result, the positioning abutment48engages the first engagement portion64of the user operated input14and the user operated input14is held in the first adjusted rest position RP1.

As seen inFIGS. 11 and 12, the user operated input14has a second engagement portion66selectively abutting the positioning abutment48in a state after the user operated input14has been moved from the rest position RP0to the operated position OP to establish the adjusted rest position RP1, RP2or RP3in a second adjusted rest position RP2while the positioning abutment48is in the second abutment position. The first abutment position is different from the second abutment position. The second abutment position of the positioning abutment48is established by setting the rest position adjuster54to the second adjustment position (i.e., the detent56is in engaged with the second notch N2of the opening54c). Thus, the first control part48aof the positioning abutment48contacts a second cam section of the cam surface54a1of the rest position adjuster54. In this way, the positioning abutment48is prevented from pivoting in the first direction D1past the second predetermined position. As a result, the positioning abutment48engages the second engagement portion66of user operated input14and the user operated input14is held in the second adjusted rest position RP2.

As seen inFIGS. 13 and 14, here, the user operated input14has a third engagement portion68that selectively abuts the positioning abutment48selectively in a state after the user operated input14has been moved from the rest position RP0to the operated position OP to establish the adjusted rest position RP1, RP2or RP3in a third adjusted rest position RP3while the positioning abutment48is in a third abutment position. The third abutment position is different from the first and second abutment positions. The third abutment position of the positioning abutment48is established by setting the rest position adjuster54is in the third adjustment position (i.e., the detent56is in engaged with the third notch N3of the opening54c), the first control part48aof the positioning abutment48contacts a third cam section of the cam surface54a1of the rest position adjuster54. In this way, the positioning abutment48is prevented from pivoting in the first direction D1past the third predetermined position. As a result, the positioning abutment48engages the third engagement portion68of the user operated input14and the user operated input14is held in the third adjusted rest position RP3.

In the illustrated embodiment, the user operated input14further includes a lever plate70. The lever plate70is fixed to the attachment portion14aof the user operated input14by a pair of screws72. Thus, the lever plate70moves together with the lever portion14b. The lever plate70has the first and second engagement portions64and66that selectively abut the positioning abutment48in a state after the user operated input14has been moved from the rest position RP0to the operated position OP to establish the adjusted rest position RP1, RP2or RP3in the first adjusted rest position RP1while the positioning abutment48is in the first abutment position, and the second adjusted rest position RP2while the positioning abutment48is in the second abutment position. The lever plate70also has the third engagement portion68that selectively abuts the positioning abutment48in a state after the user operated input14has been moved from the rest position RP0to the operated position OP to establish the adjusted rest position RP1, RP2or RP3in a third adjusted rest position RP3while the positioning abutment48is in a third abutment position.

In the illustrated embodiment, as seen inFIGS. 8, 10, 12, 14 and 16, the user operated input14is provided with a driver80that includes a pulling hook82and a release hook84. The driver80transmits the users input force to either the cable actuator16or the release60for selectively pulling or releasing the inner wire C1. Here, the driver80is pivotally mounted to the user operated input14by a pivot pin86. The movement of the driver80is controlled by a control link88. The control link88is also pivotally mounted to the user operated input14by the pivot pin86.

A biasing element90is provided to the control link88to maintain the position of the driver80with respect to the control link88. In particular, the control link88maintains a rotational phase of the driver80about the pivot pin86with respect to the user operated input14. The control link88includes a first control pin88a, a second control pin88band an abutment88c. The biasing element90is a single wire spring having a coil portion90amounted on the first control pin88a, and a pair of legs90bthat contact opposite sides of the abutment88c. The driver80includes a projection80athat protrudes through an opening88dof the control link88and in between the legs90bof the biasing element90. In this way, when the user operated input14is in either the rest position RP0or one of the adjusted rest positions RP1, RP2or RP3, the driver80is overrideably held with respect to the control link88in a neutral or center position as seen inFIGS. 8, 10, 12, 14 and 16. When the user operated input14is in either the rest position RP0or one of the adjusted rest positions RP1, RP2or RP3, the first and second control pins88aand88bcontacts a peripheral edge of the lever plate70so that the control link88does not move with respect to the user operated input14.

During a cable pulling operation, as see inFIG. 23, the pulling hook82of the driver80engages includes the pulling abutment26eof the positioning ratchet26for rotating the cable actuator16in the cable pulling direction R2as the user operated input14is pivoted in the third direction D3. Since the first and second control pins88aand88bcontacts a peripheral edge of the lever plate70, the control link88moves with respect to the user operated input14. Also, during a cable pulling operation, the driver80moves with respect to the control link88and the user operated input14due to the elastic nature of the biasing element90. In this way, the driver80can remain engaged with the positioning ratchet26of the cable actuator16during a cable pulling operation and the control link88can pivot with respect to the positioning ratchet26and the driver80.

On the other hand, during a cable releasing operation, as see inFIGS. 24 and 25, the biasing element90maintains the driver80in the neutral position with respect to the control link88. In this way, the release hook84of the driver80is maintained in the correct orientation to engage the release60during a cable releasing operation.

Now, the operation of the user operated input14will be discussed in more detail. Basically, as seen inFIG. 23, when the user operated input14is pivoted in the third direction D3from the rest position RP0to effectuate a cable pulling operation. Specifically, when the user operated input14is operated in the third direction D3from the rest position RP0to the operated position OP, the cable actuator16is pivoted in the cable pulling direction R2against the biasing force of the biasing element19. As the user operated input14moves in the third direction D3, the positioning catch20moves along the edge of the cable actuator16and then pivots to the positioning position such that the abutment20aof the positioning catch20engages the second stop26dof the cable actuator16to establish the second cable holding position of the cable actuator16. Then when the user operated input14is released from the operated position OP with the cable actuator16in the second cable holding position, the user operated input14returns to one of the adjusted rest position RP1, RP2or RP3under the biasing force of the biasing element46.

Also, as seen inFIGS. 24 and 25, the user operated input14can be pivoted in either the third direction D3or the fourth direction D4from the adjusted rest position RP1, RP2or RP3to effectuate a cable releasing operation. Specifically, the user operated input14is operated from the adjusted rest position RP1, RP2or RP3in the third direction D3to move the positioning catch20from the positioning position towards the release position. Similarly, the user operated input14is operated from the adjusted rest position RP1, RP2or RP3in the fourth direction D4to move the positioning catch20from the positioning position towards the release position. With the positioning catch20in the release position, the cable actuator16pivots in the cable releasing direction R1under the biasing force of the biasing element19.

As seen inFIG. 24, when the user operated input14is operated in the third direction D3from the adjusted rest position RP1, RP2or RP3, the release60is pivoted to contact the positioning catch20at the first contact point CP1. Thus, the pivotal movement of the release60applies a moving force at the first contact point CP1of the positioning catch20as the user operated input14pivots in the third direction D3from the adjusted rest position RP1, RP2or RP3. As a result of this pivotal movement of the release60and the moving force at the first contact point CP1of the positioning catch20, the positioning catch20pivots from the positioning position to the release position. Now, the cable actuator16pivots in the cable releasing direction R1under the biasing force of the biasing element19.

As seen inFIG. 25, when the user operated input14is operated in the fourth direction D4from the adjusted rest position RP1, RP2or RP3, the positioning abutment48moves in the second direction D2to pivot the positioning catch20from the positioning position to the release position. In particular, the sliding movement of the positioning abutment48in the second direction D2applies a moving force at the second contact point CP2of the positioning catch20as the user operated input14pivots in the fourth direction D4from the adjusted rest position RP1, RP2or RP3. As a result of this sliding movement of the positioning abutment48in the second direction D2and the moving force at the second contact point CP2of the positioning catch20, the positioning catch20pivots from the positioning position to the release position. Now, the cable actuator16pivots in the cable releasing direction R1under the biasing force of the biasing element19. However, the second control part48bof the positioning abutment48contacts the cable holder28of the cable actuator16to momentarily stop movement of the cable actuator16in the cable releasing direction R1. Then when the user operated input14is released from the operated position OP after the releasing operation, the user operated input14returns to the rest position RP0under the biasing force of the biasing element46. As the user operated input14returns to the rest position RP0, the release60pivots back to its rest position which in turn releases the positioning catch20which pivots to the positioning position. Thus, the positioning abutment48slides back in the opposite direction to the second direction D2to allow the cable actuator16to continue to move in the cable releasing direction R1to the rest position RP0. The first stop26cof the positioning ratchet26contacts the abutment20aof the positioning catch20to stop rotation of the cable actuator16in the cable releasing direction R1. Also, at the same time, the abutment20aof the positioning catch20engages the second stop26dof the cable actuator16contacts the stop pin23of the base12. With the positioning catch20in the positioning position after a cable releasing operation, the positioning catch20is engaged with the cable actuator16to prevent further movement of the cable actuator16in the cable releasing direction R1. However, in the positioning position, the positioning catch20does not prevent movement of the cable actuator16in the cable pulling direction R2.

As used herein, the following directional terms “frame facing side”, “non-frame facing side”, “forward”, “rearward”, “front”, “rear”, “up”, “down”, “above”, “below”, “upward”, “downward”, “top”, “bottom”, “side”, “vertical”, “horizontal”, “perpendicular” and “transverse” as well as any other similar directional terms refer to those directions of a bicycle in an upright, riding position and equipped with the bicycle operating device. Accordingly, these directional terms, as utilized to describe the bicycle operating device should be interpreted relative to a bicycle in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface and that is equipped with the bicycle operating device. The terms “left” and “right” are used to indicate the “right” when referencing from the right side as viewed from the rear of the bicycle, and the “left” when referencing from the left side as viewed from the rear of the bicycle.

Also, it will be understood that although the terms “first” and “second” may be used herein to describe various components, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from another. Thus, for example, a first component discussed above could be termed a second component and vice versa without departing from the teachings of the present invention. The term “attached” or “attaching”, as used herein, encompasses configurations in which an element is directly secured to another element by affixing the element directly to the other element; configurations in which the element is indirectly secured to the other element by affixing the element to the intermediate member(s) which in turn are affixed to the other element; and configurations in which one element is integral with another element, i.e. one element is essentially part of the other element. This definition also applies to words of similar meaning, for example, “joined”, “connected”, “coupled”, “mounted”, “bonded”, “fixed” and their derivatives. Finally, terms of degree such as “substantially”, “about” and “approximately” as used herein mean an amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not significantly changed.