Abstract: A pivoting crank arm apparatus that increases the user's torque. The pivoting of the crank arms further allows the user to quickly move the pedals out of the dead zones at the top dead center and bottom dead center of the crank cycle. This prevents the user from stalling in these dead zones while climbing hills and other high torque or slow pedal speed situations. The pivoting crank arm apparatus is comprised of a set of crank arms attached by a spindle. Each crank arm is further comprised of a pivot arm with a pedal. The pivot arm being pivotally attached to the crank arm and configured to allow for the pivoting action of the present invention.

Abstract: A bicycle component includes a drive unit and a battery. The drive unit includes a housing mounted on a bicycle frame, a crankshaft provided to a first portion of the housing, and a propulsion assist motor provided to a second portion of the housing. The battery is electrical connected to the propulsion assist motor to supply electrical power to the propulsion assist motor. The propulsion assist motor includes a rotational axis extending in a direction intersecting a direction in which the crankshaft extends. At least part of the second portion and at least part of the battery are accommodated in the frame in a state in which the second portion and the battery are arranged next to each other in a direction parallel to the rotational axis of the propulsion assist motor and the battery is coupled to the second portion in an attachable and detachable manner.

Abstract: A crankset for a pedal-driven vehicle has a frame with a bottom bracket shell. The crankset includes a crank arm rotatably mounted to the bottom bracket shell of the frame; a spindle operatively connected to the crank arm at an end spaced-apart from the bottom bracket shell and rotatable about a spindle rotation axis. A stationary member fixedly mounts to the bottom bracket shell. A rotatable member operatively engages the spindle and is configured to engage the spindle in rotation. A connecting assembly operatively engages the stationary member and the rotatable member. The connecting assembly is configured to engage the rotatable member in rotation upon rotation of the crank arm about the bottom bracket shell. A pedal angular control assembly operatively connects to the spindle and is configured to control an angle of a pedal according to an angular position of the crank arm during rotation.

Abstract: An expandable wheel has rollers arranged radially about a plate within a main housing. Spokes pivotally connected to the plate are attached to linkages on which the rollers are mounted. The rollers and linkages protrude through apertures in the main housing. The rollers form the circumference of the wheel. Rotation of the plate relative to the main housing changes the angle of the spokes relative to radii of the plate. When the spokes are parallel with the radii of the plate, the rollers are pushed radially outward at a maximum distance from the plate, forming the largest wheel circumference. When the spokes are as near perpendicular as possible with respect to the radii of the plate, the rollers are pulled radially inward at a minimum distance from the plate, forming the smallest wheel circumference.

Abstract: A base member includes a first end to be mounted to a bicycle handlebar and a second end opposite to the first end. An operating member is pivotally coupled to the base member about a first pivot axis. A hydraulic unit is coupled to the operating member to operate a bicycle component in response to an operation of the operating member. At least part of the hydraulic unit is disposed closer to the first end than the first pivot axis when viewed from a first direction parallel to the first pivot axis. A wireless communicator is to wirelessly transmit a signal to an additional component in response to the input operation. A power supply is electrically connected to the wireless communicator. At least one of the wireless communicator and the power supply is disposed closer to the second end than the first pivot axis when viewed from the first direction.

Abstract: An information output device that can output the position of a load applied to the pedal is provided. A strain gauge is provided on the inner face of a crank of a bicycle and detects strain occurring in the crank. A cycle computer display unit displays an image showing the center position of the load applied to the pedal connected to the crank based on the tangential force and the torsional torque calculated based on the output values of the first strain gauge to the sixth strain gauge.

Abstract: Transition means for adapting a wheelchair are disclosed wherein a user or an occupant of the wheelchair is enabled to repeatably alternate the wheelchair between an original mode and an adapted mode by engaging and disengaging a unilaterally-connected adaptive implement.

Abstract: A bicycle drive unit comprises a housing configured to be mounted to a first base member. The housing includes a first wall at least partly defining an internal space to at least partly accommodate a bicycle crank having a crank rotational axis. The first wall includes a first transmitting surface disposed to at least partly face upward in a bicycle upright state where the crank rotational axis horizontally extends and the housing is mounted on the first base member. The first transmitting surface is configured to face a first receiving surface of the first base member to transmit an upward force from the housing to the first base member. The first transmitting surface being at least partly disposed below the crank rotational axis in the bicycle upright state.

Abstract: A bicycle electrical unit is provided for a bicycle crank assembly. The bicycle electrical unit includes a housing, a wireless communication unit and a charge receiver port. The housing is mounted on a crank arm. The wireless communication unit is enclosed in the housing. The charge receiver port is provided on the housing.

Abstract: A bicycle crank assembly comprises a sprocket unit and a crank axle. The sprocket unit includes a sprocket having a rotational center axis. The sprocket includes a plurality of driving teeth. A total number of the plurality of driving teeth is equal to or larger than 38. The crank axle extends along the rotational center axis. The sprocket unit is movable relative to the crank axle in an axial direction of the rotational center axis within a movable range having an axial length equal to or smaller than 8 mm.

Abstract: A bicycle crankset, which is adapted to connect to a chain, includes a chainring and a crankarm. The chainring has a plurality of teeth, a plurality of connecting bores of first noncircular motion path, and a plurality of connecting bores of circular motion path. The crankarm has a plurality of connecting arms to be selected to secured to the connecting bores of first noncircular motion path or the connecting bores of circular motion path. The chainring provides a first noncircular path of motion when the connecting arms of the crankarm are secured to the connecting bores of first noncircular motion path, and chainring provides a circular path of motion when the connecting arms of the crankarm are secured to the connecting bores of circular motion path.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a bicycle pedal equipped with a center-of-gravity changing means. The bicycle pedal is coupled to a crank arm of a bicycle. The bicycle pedal includes: a pedal unit including a rectangular pedal body coupled to one surface of the crank arm, and a rotation cavity formed through the top and bottom surfaces of the inside of the pedal body; and a center-of-gravity changing means provided above the pedal unit, and configured such that a center of gravity is moved forward or backward. The center-of-gravity changing means includes: a rod-shaped rotation changing shaft fitted into the inside surface of the rotation cavity; a rotation changing bent portion formed to protrude in the center of the rotation changing shaft; a plate-shaped rotation changing connection member fitted over the outside surface of the rotation changing bent portion; and a plate-shaped changing foot support provided above the rotation changing connection member.

Abstract: A bottom bracket having a shaft having a longitudinal axis (X), first and second adapters radially outside of the shaft and associated with respective ends of a bottom bracket housing. Rolling bearings are radially interposed between the shaft and the first adapters with axial locking members axially outside the rolling bearings and in axial abutment on the first and second slewing bearings. A protective screen, positioned between a selected adapter and a radially outer surface of the associated axial locking members in the axial direction and at least partially outside of the first adapter, is fixedly connected to the selected adapter and comprising a sealing member arranged in sliding contact on the radially outer surface of the associated axial locking members.

Abstract: The kit for pairing two bicycles includes a rear angle member, a seat-to-seat tube member, a pair of head-to-head tube members, and a tie-bar. The rear angle is adapted to attach between chain stays of a first bicycle and a second bicycle. The seat-to-seat tube member is adapted to attach to seat posts of the first bicycle and the second bicycle. The pair of head-to-head tube members is adapted to extend between the head tubes of the first bicycle and the second bicycle. The tie-bar is adapted to attach to a fork of the first bicycle and the second bicycle in order to provide consistent steering when in use. When installed, the kit securely aligns the first bicycle parallel with the second bicycle such that both bicycles ride and move in unison.

Abstract: A crank assembly for a pedal-driven vehicle includes a first member, a second member, and a rotary sensor. The first member rotates about a crank axis of the pedal-driven vehicle. The second member is rotationally coupled to the first member and is configured to pivot about the first member via a member pivot. The second member also is configured to receive a pedal at a pedal interface. The rotary sensor is coupled to the first member and configured to measure rotation of the second member relative to the first member.

Abstract: A tricycle may be operable between a first mode of operation steerable by a tricycle rider, and a second mode of operation steerable by an individual pushing the tricycle. In both such first and second modes, the frame of the tricycle is configured to rotatably support the rear wheels and configured to support the head tube at a distance from the rear wheels such that a distance between the head tube and rear wheels need not necessarily be changed even when the front wheel axis location is changed from one mode to another.

Abstract: A posture holding apparatus including, a base onto which a substance is placed, a supporting member being attached onto the base so that the supporting member swings between a standby state and an active state, and a swinging support member having a returning force for returning the supporting member to the standby state, wherein the swinging support member is structured by a swinging member, a biasing member for applying a biasing force to the swinging member to the standby state, a liquid pressure output member for outputting liquid pressure in response to a weight of the substance, and a displacement amount adjusting member, with which a point of action of the biasing force applied from the biasing member to the supporting member is moved in response to the liquid pressure such that a distance from the pivot to the point of action changes.

Abstract: A torque sensor for electrically assisting a vehicle with pedals includes a housing, a rotating member, an actuator, and an resistor. The housing defines a receiving chamber and is configured to be coupled to the driving member. The rotating member is rotatably mounted in the receiving chamber and configured to rotate under an external force. The resistor is received in the receiving chamber and the actuator slides along the electrical resistance and compresses a spring as a rider applies force to the pedals. The variable resistor is coupled to a controlling module which governs the assisting power. The disclosure also includes an electric bicycle using the torque sensor.

Abstract: A pedal and cleat assembly comprises a pedal body having a first end and a second end, a first retainer mounted proximate the first end of the pedal body, and a second retainer mounted proximate the second end of the pedal body. The cleat assembly is configured to be releaseably coupled to the pedal assembly and comprises a cleat body having at least one coupling area, and at least one element shaped to be maintained within or disposed on the coupling area. The at least one coupling area is positioned at a forward or rearward end of the cleat body so that the at least one element can act as a cam surface against the first or second retainer. The at least one element is configured to rotate or articulate when maintained within or disposed on the coupling area to facilitate releasing the cleat assembly from the pedal assembly.

Abstract: A crank arm is provided that includes a crank body, a sensor support member and at least one sensor. The crank body has an axle mounting portion. The sensor support member is member attached to the crank body, and has an axle support portion that is configured to support an axle. The at least one strain sensor is disposed on the sensor support member.

Abstract: The present invention involves device for measuring the drive torque and/or the driving power delivered on a hub shell by a freewheel body connected to the hub shell by a freewheel mechanism, the device including at least one deformation and/or stress sensor on or integrated to at least one ratchet of said mechanism and a drive torque and/or driving power determination circuit, connected to the sensor.

Abstract: An improved bicycle crankshaft assembly, including a crank axle with an axial axis, a first axle end, and a second axle end axially opposed to the first axle end; a first crank arm connected to the crank axle at a first crank arm interface adjacent the first axle end; a second crank arm connected to the crank axle at a second crank arm interface axially spaced from the first crank arm interface; a first bearing surrounding said crank axle adjacent said first axle end for rotation of said crank axle about said axial axis; a second bearing surrounding the crank axle and axially spaced from the first bearing. The crank axle includes reinforcement fibers for structural reinforcement of the crank axle and the crank axle is an integral crank axle that extends through the first bearing and the second bearing.

Abstract: A drive transmission group to a steer wheel of a vehicle at least a drive chain ring associable to actuating means in rotation able to impart a rotary motion to the chain ring, at least a driven chain ring solidly associated in rotation coaxially to the steer wheel, at least a first intermediate chain ring and a second intermediate chain ring connected respectively to the drive chain ring and to the driven chain ring by means of respective flexible organs, a universal joint comprising a joint spider on a first arm of which the first intermediate chain ring is associated, rotatably with respect to an axis of the first arm, and on a second arm of which the second intermediate chain ring is associated, rotatably with respect to an axis of the second arm, wherein the first intermediate chain ring is concentric to the spider.

Abstract: A bicycle with a rear drive assembly configured to allow pedal boards to be pivotable while moving in an elliptical trajectory and which allows a cyclist to ride in an erect position is disclosed. A front end of each of the pedal boards is pivotably connected to an end of a crank and each of the pedal boards is connected to or integral with a guide rod extending rearwardly from the pedal board. The guide rods are supported by a rear drive assembly comprising a transverse tube that is horizontally connected to a frame of the bicycle. A roller is mounted at each end of the transverse tube. Each roller has a groove which accommodates the cross-section of the guide rod.

Abstract: A transmission assembly for a human- and/or motor-powered vehicle, including a hollow transfer shaft, first and second inner one-way needle bearings, the first inner one-way needle bearing disposed within a first hollow end of the transfer shaft, and the second inner one-way needle bearing disposed within a second hollow end of the transfer shaft; and a first and a second outer one-way needle bearings, each having an inner diameter and an outer diameter, the first outer one-way needle bearing disposed about the outer diameter of the transfer shaft near the first hollow end of the transfer shaft, and the second outer one-way needle bearing disposed about the outer diameter of the transfer shaft near the second end of the transfer shaft, such that the inner diameter of each of the first and second outer one-way needle bearings contacts the outer diameter of the transfer shaft.

Abstract: A multi-use vehicle assembly provides a means for entertainment and mobilization. The vehicle assembly includes a frame assembly having a first frame coupled to a second frame. The frame assembly has a center frame coupled to and extending between the first frame and the second frame. A plurality of wheels is coupled to the frame assembly. The plurality of wheels comprises a left back wheel, a right back wheel, and a central front wheel. The left back wheel is coupled to the first frame. The right back wheel is coupled to the second frame. The central front wheel is coupled to the center frame. A steering mechanism is coupled to the frame assembly. The steering mechanism is mechanically coupled to the central front wheel. A drive system is operationally coupled to one of the plurality of wheels.

Abstract: Vehicular system, including front wheel having user-interface assembly configured to selectively permit user to operate between limb-operating mode and side-by-side limb cruising mode. In side-by-side limb cruising mode, first and second crank arms are free to float and position by themselves while front wheel is steered to cause vehicular system to turn in such a way that first pedal and second pedal are positioned slightly offset from each other. In side-by-side limb cruising mode, control of vehicular system is improved because rider position is more balanced and an unnatural sensation of steering involving hands and feet becomes neutralized while: user maintains hands coupled to steering assembly and also maintains feet coupled to first pedal and second pedal; steering assembly turns front wheel toward one side; first crank arm and second crank arm freely float and position themselves; and first pedal and second pedal are positioned slightly offset from each other.

Abstract: A wheel and hub assembly for a vehicle includes a clutch dog pivotally attached to a wheel. A toothed ratchet wheel is attached to a pedal crank and positioned adjacent to the clutch dog. A hub cover includes a protrusion. The hub cover is attached to the wheel in a sliding fashion so as to slide between an unlocked position, where the protrusion engages the clutch dog so as to prevent the clutch dog from engaging the toothed ratchet wheel when the pedals are turned in a forward direction; and a locked position, where the protrusion does not engage the clutch dog so that the clutch dog engages the toothed ratchet wheel when the pedals are turned in a forward direction.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an extendable bicycle comprising: (a) at least two wheels (100,500), each having an axis (120), and each capable of rotating around its own axis; (b) an extendable handle bar (200) for steering said extendable bicycle; (c) an extendable chair (400); and (d) an extendable frame (300) for pivotally holding said two wheels, and for supporting said extendable handle bar and said extendable chair, where the extendable frame can be extended from a first configuration to at least a second configuration for extending the length between said axes of said at least two wheels.

Abstract: The present invention produces a folding bicycle (1) having a frame (2) which extends in the main plane of extent (24), a front wheel (53) which can be pivoted about a first axis (56) which extends perpendicularly with respect to the main plane of extent (24), and a rear wheel (16) which can be pivoted about a second axis (23) which extends perpendicularly to the main plane of extent (24), wherein the frame (2) has a joint (37) such that the front and rear wheel (53, 16) can be pivoted with respect to one another about a third axis (41) which extends perpendicularly with respect to the roadway (42).

Abstract: The teachings provided herein are generally directed to compact vehicle drive mechanisms that can be used in the design of a foldable, carry-on vehicle. The compact drive mechanisms presented herein, for example, have contributed to the advent of the compact, carry-on bicycles set-forth in the teachings which include drive-and-steering units and drive-and-chassis units.

Abstract: A bicycle bottom bracket assembly that reduces the accumulation of dirt and/or corrosive substances inside the shaft extending between the crank arms of the assembly. The bottom bracket assembly includes a shaft having a through-cavity that extends along its longitudinal direction; a crank arm is associated with each end portion of the shaft, and the through-cavity extends unobstructed through the crank arms and the shaft.

Abstract: A bicycle having a bicycle frame comprising a head tube, a top tube, a down tube, a bottom bracket and at least one chain stay. A single, tubular member has a first portion that forms the top tube and extends downwardly from the head tube toward the bottom bracket and a unitary second portion that extends upwardly from the bottom bracket to form the seat tube. A plurality of struts extends between the tubular member and the down tube, bottom bracket or at least one chain stay. In some arrangements, the down tube and the at least one chain stay are the only frame members that contact the bottom bracket.

Abstract: A cycling vehicle (10) comprising a frame (12) and a drive wheel (14) connected to the frame (12) by a suspension (18). The suspension (18) comprises a strut (18) extending from the frame (12) to a central axis of the drive wheel (14). The strut (18) is a counterlevered from the frame (12) and is arranged set so as to be dynamically variable in length in order to provide suspension travel.

Abstract: A recumbent cycle includes a toothed belt drive system and rear suspension. It also includes a double A-arm suspension assembly and at least one transmission having a planetary gear arrangement.

Abstract: A bicycle having rotatable drive member in the form of a hollow drum (22) with pedals (48, 49). Each pedal is mounted in a foldable manner to a crank arm (24, 25) which in turn is mounted to the drum (22) by a pivoting mechanism (26, 27) allowing the pedals to be moved between an operative configuration in which each pedal projects outwardly from the drum (22), and an inoperative configuration in which each pedal (48, 49) and each crank arm (24, 25) is contained within the interior of the drum (22). The bicycle can thus be used as a training aid without the use of pedals, or in a conventional manner.

Abstract: As a professional in the field of disability, I worked in different positions and presently working as special teacher. The present invention is related to the field of education, in my day to day life I had seen many things stopping us to move forward due to the lack of resources. Pretty soon our non-renewable resources are going to be shorten, due to that, the major field is going to be effected is non-other than education. Presently in this technological world students are facing more problems in the areas of reading and writing, there is no proper technology invention to enhance reading and writing. Due to the poor technology integration, we all are facing many problems. The present invention, “Student Teacher Administrative and Research Coordinating Helper” will do the 1. Effective technology integration to enhance student natural process of reading and writing, 2. Help to operate Security, 3. Help to store solar power, 4. Provide natural sunlight into the classroom, 5. Help to store student work, 6.

Abstract: A quick release bicycle crank assembly for a bicycle allows installation and removal of cranks from a crankset without the use of tools. The quick release mechanism has a coupling and a spindle wherein the coupling includes an outer sleeve that opens and closes the coupling, thereby allowing the spindle to be inserted or removed from the coupling.

Abstract: A blow molded toy cycle has a female bearing area with tapered and recess sections. A fork has a corresponding male bearing area that includes a tapered section and an annular protrusion section. A protrusion spaced at a distance from the annular protrusion extends from the shaft and has a surface to contact a top surface of the body to secure the fork when the male and female bearing areas are in contact. The fork has integrally formed tabs that to bend around an axle to form a bearing area for the axle that allows the axle to rotate within the fork. A blow molded pedal attaches to a section of the axle and has a series of ribs disposed between side sections to form a bearing area that allows the pedal to rotate around the axle. Two rear and one front wheels attach to the body and fork respectively.

Abstract: This invention is directed to a personal vehicle comprising: a frame that defines a “U” channel in the bottom of the frame; a slot defined in a rear end of the frame; a rear portion wherein the front side of the rear portion is received into the slot of the frame to attach the rear portion to the frame wherein an angle defined by the long axis of the frame of the rear portion is obtuse; a drive system received in a drive system opening defined in the frame and disposed rearward of a pedal attachment attached to the frame; a pedal attached to the frame; and, a handle attached to a shaft carried by the front portion of the frame and a front wheel carried by the shaft.

Abstract: The present invention is an improved drive system for a personal vehicle comprising: a frame with a steerable front wheel and rear wheel connected to a drive axle connected to a crank arm by a drive linkage; a roller rotatably attached to the crank arm; a pedal pivotally attached to the frame having a cavity for receiving the roller; a contoured wear bar carried by the cavity for contacting the perimeter of the roller; a major arch included in the contoured wear bar contacting the roller when the pedal is on a down stroke; a minor arch included in the contoured wear bar for providing additional power when the pedal is near the end of its down stroke; and, a major front slope included in the wear bar for contacting the roller when the pedal is in its upstroke to place the pedal at its highest most position.

Abstract: The present invention is in the technical field of sporting and recreation. More particularly, the present invention is in the technical field of children's bikes. Conventional children's bikes last only a short time because the children outgrow them and or no longer find the style of the bike appealing. It is costly and time consuming to keep up with a child's needs and also his ever-changing tastes in trends. The present invention is a complete response to this issue. The present invention is a bicycle with a frame that has been designed to allow all sizes of wheel diameters to work on the same bike. The tires can be changed and the look of the bicycle can also be changed. Thus as a child grows, the bike can grow with him.

Abstract: A pedal drive system for a bicycle includes a front spiral cone pulley and a rear pulley. The front spiral cone pulley is attached to a crank arm, and the rear pulley is attached to a rear wheel on a bicycle in some embodiments. A power cable, or tension linkage, extends between the front spiral cone pulley and the rear pulley. The front spiral cone pulley is angularly moveable relative to the first crank arm such that the radial position of the point of engagement between the power cable and the front spiral cone pulley may be selectively manipulated for controlling the gear ratio between the front spiral cone pulley and the rear pulley. In some embodiments, the rear pulley is also a spiral cone pulley.

Abstract: A bicycle frame having a first frame section carrying a handle bar assembly and a front wheel assembly; a second frame section carrying a crank unit and a rear wheel assembly; a first primary connecting arm carried by said first frame section being received into a second primary connecting arm carried by said second frame section, wherein said first primary connecting arm is telescopically carried by said second primary connecting arm for extending and retracting said first frame section relative to said second frame section; a mounting plate included in said second frame section extending over said rear wheel assembly; a plate suspension member included in said second frame section connecting said mounting plate to said rear wheel assembly for controlling relative motion between said mounting plate and said rear wheel assembly. A rider platform is carried by said mounting plate for accommodating a rider.

Abstract: The invention relates to a compact, foldable bike with small wheels and a bicycle drive for driving the rear wheel, comprising a traction mechanism or a spur-gear transmission, driven by a crank, the distance of the bottom-bracket axle to the rear-wheel axle being larger than half the outer diameter of the rear wheel. The bicycle exhibits a front frame part and a rear frame part that are rotatably connected to each other by a folding hinge that is aligned at right angles to the ground plane, whereby the front frame part, the rear frame part, and a front-wheel fork, in the folded state, seen laterally, form the sides of a triangle having the following characteristic combination of features: The bicycle is ridden while standing up, the driving wheel and the output wheel of the bicycle drive are arranged on the same side of the bicycle frame and the steering tube exhibits a lower and an upper steering tube, that in the folded state of the bicycle are folded-in laterally beside the front wheel.

Abstract: A multi-use vehicle assembly provides a means for entertainment and mobilization. The vehicle assembly includes a frame assembly having a first frame coupled to a second frame. The frame assembly has a center frame coupled to and extending between the first frame and the second frame. A plurality of wheels is coupled to the frame assembly. The plurality of wheels comprises a left back wheel, a right back wheel, and a central front wheel. The left back wheel is coupled to the first frame. The right back wheel is coupled to the second frame. The central front wheel is coupled to the center frame. A steering mechanism is coupled to the frame assembly. The steering mechanism is mechanically coupled to the central front wheel. A drive system is operationally coupled to one of the plurality of wheels.

Abstract: A pedaled vehicle includes a frame, a wheel rotatably coupled to the frame, a crank assembly operatively coupled to the wheel and having a bore, a pedal received in the bore, and a spring clip for securing the pedal to the crank assembly. The spring clip includes at least one flexible tab or leg capable of flexing between a first configuration, where the spring clip allows a shaft of the pedal to pass through the bore, and a second configuration, where the pedal shaft is prevented from being removed from the bore. A method for coupling a pedal to a vehicle in a tool-less manner is also disclosed.

Abstract: An unmotorized sand-rideable bicycle utilizes oversized balloon tires that have an enlarged footprint to permit the bicycle to ride up over even loose sand to provide ease of pedaling, as well as enhanced steering and stability over that associated with standard bicycles. A positive traction gear assembly may be employed to switch between single and dual rear wheel drive.

Abstract: A tricycle may be operable between a first mode of operation steerable by a tricycle rider, and a second mode of operation steerable by an individual pushing the tricycle. A rider handle, in the first mode, may be configured to be rotationally coupled with the stem in a manner permitting a tricycle rider to exert forces on the rider handle and thereby turn the fork, and the rider handle in the second mode, being configured to be rotationally uncoupled from the stem, preventing forces on the rider handle from turning the fork. At least one rotation restrictor may be included for preventing the front wheel from turning to a position where the front wheel axis leads the fork axis, and for maintaining the front wheel axis in a position trailing the fork axis both when the tricycle is propelled by a tricycle rider in the first mode and when the tricycle is pushed from behind in the second mode.

Abstract: A method of using a folding vehicle having a chassis that functions as a protective, carry-on casing is provided. The vehicle has a chassis with a center member, a rotatably-lockable front strut, a rotatably-lockable rear strut, and two pivot points for converting the vehicle from an operational state to a collapsed state; and, a drive member with a crankshaft. The crankshaft and the rotatably-lockable front strut pivot share a central axis of rotation; and, the releasably-lockable front strut and the releasably-lockable rear strut are configured to fold into a complementary relationship in the interior of the channel in the collapsed state. The channel functions as a protective, carry-on case for the folding vehicle in the collapsed state.