Torque element for a motor-driven bicycle

Abstract

A method of preventing rotation of an axle of a bicycle including a dropout having a recess. The method includes coupling a motor to the axle, attaching a torque element to an end of the axle, engaging the torque element into the recess in the dropout, and inhibiting rotation of the axle relative to the dropout in response to torque from the motor.

1 . A method of preventing rotation of an axle of a bicycle including a dropout having a recess, the method comprising:
 coupling a motor to the axle;   attaching a torque element to an end of the axle, the torque element conforming to the shape of the recess;   engaging the torque element into the recess in the dropout; and   inhibiting rotation of the axle relative to the dropout in response to torque from the motor.   
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1 , further comprising removably attaching the torque element to the axle. 
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 1 , further comprising engaging an exterior surface of the torque element with an interior wall defining the recess in response to motor torque. 
     
     
         4 . The method of  claim 3 , wherein the interior wall defines the recess as wedge-shaped, the method further comprising shaping the torque element so that the exterior surface substantially matches the shape of the interior wall. 
     
     
         5 . The method of  claim 4 , wherein engaging includes sliding the torque element into the recess from an underside of the dropout. 
     
     
         6 . The method of  claim 1 , further comprising nesting the torque element in the recess so that the torque element is substantially hidden from view. 
     
     
         7 . The method of  claim 1 , further comprising supporting a cable via the torque element.