Collapsible bicycle trainer support structure

Abstract

A frame used for mounting a bicycle eliminates bending loads typically observed in U-shaped frames, where an axial load is forced on the rear axle of a bicycle wheel. The frame uses the rear axle of the bicycle as a structural member to change the loading such that bending is eliminated. This reduces the requirements for the material strength of the frame. An axle interconnect system facilitates quick adjustment and mounting of the rear axle to the frame, and may use an existing skewer of the bicycle wheel. A resistance unit may be attached to the frame, or affixed to a joint in the frame, to facilitate use with a stationary trainer. Flexible frame members may be used to permit a rocking motion of the wheel when used for stationary training, or to allow for use on unlevel ground when training outdoors or for warmup before a race.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A frame assembly used to mount a bicycle by or near a rear axle of the bicycle, comprising:
 a frame interconnect used to firmly mount the frame onto the rear axle of the bicycle and to lift the rear wheel off the ground;   a skewer or thru-axle adapter attached to the bicycle at or near the rear axle to facilitate the attachment of the frame;   an arrangement of structural members configured such that the rear axle becomes a removable member in the structure of the frame, facilitating triangulation of the loads and minimizing the bending force transmitted through any of the frame members; and   a set of foldable legs permitting a tripod or poly-pod arrangement to support each end of the skewer or thru-axle adapter.   
     
     
         2 . The frame assembly of  claim 1 , wherein there is mounted an axle interconnect system affixing the axle as a removable member in the frame, but permitting angular rotation of the bicycle relative to the rear axle axis, but restricting axial and radial movement relative to the interconnect. 
     
     
         3 . The frame assembly of  claim 2 , wherein there is mounted a resistance unit to facilitate stationary bicycle training. 
     
     
         4 . The frame assembly of  claim 3 , wherein at least one of the legs is constructed to be flexible, permitting the use of the trainer on uneven ground by means of adaptation of the relative bending of the flexible members. 
     
     
         5 . The frame assembly of  claim 3 , wherein at least one of the legs is constructed to be of collapsible length, permitting the use of the trainer on uneven ground by means of adaptation of the length of the collapsible members. 
     
     
         6 . The frame assembly of  claim 4 , wherein a central tether is used to connect the flexible members and adjust the vertical alignment of the bicycle on uneven ground. 
     
     
         7 . The frame assembly of  claim 5 , wherein a central tether is used to connect the flexible members and adjust the vertical alignment of the bicycle on uneven ground.