Quick release mechanism with integrated/attached multi-tool

Abstract

A quick release mechanism is provided. The quick release mechanism includes a shaft having a first end cap and a second end cap. The second end cap is attached to, or associated with, a lever designed and configured for actuating the quick release mechanism between closed and open positions and for use as a bicycle repair tool.

1 . A quick release mechanism comprising a shaft having a first end cap, a second end cap and a lever designed and configured for actuating the quick release mechanism between closed and open positions, said lever being further designed and configured for use as a bicycle repair tool.  
   
   
       2 . The quick release mechanism of  claim 1 , wherein said lever is removably attached to said second end cap.  
   
   
       3 . The quick release mechanism of  claim 1 , wherein said lever includes a key element, such that removal of said lever from said second end cap prevents actuation of the quick release mechanism between said closed and said open positions.  
   
   
       4 . The quick release mechanism of  claim 1 , wherein said lever includes at least one tool selected from the group consisting of a hex key, a hex socket tool, a screw driver, a tire lever and a spoke wrench.  
   
   
       5 . The quick release mechanism of  claim 1 , wherein said lever includes a chain tool.  
   
   
       6 . The quick release mechanism of  claim 3 , wherein said lever is removable from said second end cap only when the quick release mechanism is in said closed position.  
   
   
       7 . The quick release mechanism of  claim 3 , wherein said key element of said lever only engages a specific lock configuration disposed within said second end cap.  
   
   
       8 . A hex key tool comprising a body configured with at least one end portion capable of engaging a hex bolt and a lock engaging element for engaging a specific lock configuration.  
   
   
       9 . A chain tool being capable of applying a force to a pin of a chain and being configured for use as a quick release actuating lever.  
   
   
       10 . The chain tool of  claim 9 , wherein the chain tool includes a connector for removably attaching the chain tool to a shaft or an end cap of said quick release.  
   
   
       11 . A quick release mechanism comprising a shaft having a first end and a second end having a t-bar configuration and a lever being releasably attached to said t-bar, said lever being designed and configured for actuating the quick release mechanism between closed and open positions and further designed and configured for use as a bicycle repair tool.  
   
   
       12 . The quick release mechanism of  claim 11 , wherein said lever includes at least one tool selected from the group consisting of a hex key, a hex socket tool, a screw driver, a tire lever, a torx wrench and a spoke wrench.  
   
   
       13 . The quick release mechanism of  claim 11 , wherein said lever includes a chain tool.  
   
   
       14 . The quick release mechanism of  claim 11 , wherein said lever is removable from said T-bar only when the quick release mechanism is in said open position.