Patent attributes
An image forming apparatus includes a first image bearing member; a plurality of second image bearing members; an endless belt opposing the first and second image bearing members; a driving roller; a supporting roller; a first transfer member opposing the first image bearing member; a plurality of second transfer members provided opposing the second image bearing members; and a supporting member for supporting the second transfer members. The supporting member is movable between a first position as a contact position and a second position as a spaced position. When image formation is effected in a state in which the supporting member is positioned in the first position, a nip between the first image bearing member and the belt member is positioned to be spaced from a rectilinear line connecting contact positions of the belt member with the second image bearing members.