Abstract: A bicycle chainwheel plate is formed to reduce the weight of a chainwheel crank and to keep its stiffness at a high level. The chainwheel plate is coupled between a crank arm and at least one sprocket. In one embodiment, the crank arm is detachable from the chainwheel plate, while in the second embodiment, the crank arm is integrally formed with the chainwheel plate as a one-piece, unitary member. The crank arm is designed to accommodate a pedal at its free end and is centrally attached to the chainwheel plate at the other end. In the first embodiment, the chainwheel plate comprises a crank attachment portion having a centrally located crank attachment hole in which a crank arm can be fixed in a non-rotatable fashion, four connecting arm portions radially extending in four directions from the crank attachment portion, and chainwheel fixing portions bifurcating and extending outward from the tips of the arm portions.

Abstract: A front drive train bicycle has practically the parts of a simple bicycle. The major difference is in the location of the drive train. The front drive train bicycle has a steerer tube extension (38) where the bottom bracket shell. (22) is attached. A crankset consisting of a bottom bracket (21), a chainwheel (24), crank arm (52), and pedals (54) is attached to the bottom bracket shell (22). A rear wheel (32) with its gear or freewheel (28) is attached to the fork tips (42). A chain (26) connects the chainwheel (24) to the rear wheel gear or freewheel (28). A front wheel (34) is attached to the rear dropouts (44). A down tube stay (30) is used instead of a chainstay (20). The front drive train bicycle has a shorter overall length because there is no bottom bracket between the two wheels and also because it uses relatively smaller wheels. It is also lighter in weight because of these. It requires less space for parking and storing away. It is easy to lift and carry around.

Abstract: A crank assembly for a bicycle uses a plurality of auxiliary sprockets and chains to achieve high ratios of wheel speed to pedal-rotation speed. The compact crank assembly is especially well suited for use on full-suspension bicycles, as high gear ratios are attained without altering the normal size and layout of the main sprocket and drive chain of the bicycle. The auxiliary sprockets may be coupled by a simple axle or, alternatively, may be coupled by a rider-adjustable transmission to provide greater control over the gear ratio of the crank assembly.

Abstract: A drive system for a tandem bicycle (10) to allow a captain or a stoker to pedal independently of one another. A unidirectional bearing, e.g., a freewheel assembly (24) is incorporated in a captain crank assembly (20), a stoker crank assembly (100), or both assemblies. In the preferred embodiment of the captain crank assembly, a first adapter plate (36) and a second adapter plate (38) attach the freewheel assembly to a chainring (34). In the preferred embodiment of the stoker crank assembly, a first adapter plate (102) and a second adapter plate (104) attach the freewheel assembly to four chainrings (114, 128, 130, 134). The captain crank assembly is coupled to the stoker crank assembly by a single chain (12), and the stoker crank assembly is coupled to a rear hub (18) of the bicycle by a single chain (14). When the freewheel assembly is incorporated in both the captain crank assembly and the stoker crank assembly, either rider may stop pedaling while the other rider continues to pedal forward.

Abstract: A bicycle mechanism to permit a forward force to be applied to the bicycle's drive wheel by backward rotation of the bicycle's pedals in addition to permitting a forward force to be applied to the drive wheel by a forward rotation of said pedals. The bicycle mechanism preferably has pedal arms, having pedals mounted thereon, mounted on a pedal shaft to drive the pedal shaft in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, and a driving means to cause the forward movement of the bicycle when the pedal shaft is driven in either a clockwise or a counterclockwise direction.

Abstract: A rear wheel suspension for a bicycle includes paired lower arm members pivotally connected to the bicycle frame seat tube such that they can pivot about an axis situated above the center of the bottom bracket, paired upper arm members adapted to receive the rear wheel axle at hub points located on an axis situated above their lower ends and pivotally connected to the respective lower arm members such that they can pivot about an axis near the rear ends of the lower arm members, and means associated with the upper ends of the upper arm members and pivotally connected to an upper pivot point on the seat tube for limiting the path and the extent of movement of the upper ends of the upper arm members.

Abstract: A drive mechanism applicable to bicycles for increasing the efficiency of pedaling action via independent pedals with a sinusoidally varying transmission ratio. The drive mechanism achieves increased efficiency by making the pedals independently synchronized with a varying transmission ratio so that the coincidence of both legs in dead centers is avoided when one pedal is in an upper and the other pedal is in a lower position, making the pedal which is going up move more rapidly than the pedal going down.

Abstract: The present invention is a bicycle which permits the rider to operate the bicycle while in the prone position. A novel sling is provided to support the torso of the rider. The sling is a hammock-style sling which supports the rider comfortably and enables the rider to go much farther, without tiring, than other prone bicycles. Further, the sling is made of nylon, or other fabric, which allows the rider's chest cavity to expand in order to facilitate breathing. And, unlike other prone bicycle designs, there is no sliding up and down with this hammock-style sling. A telescoping frame and pivoting handgrips enables the rider to adjust the bicycle to his or her own body dimensions. The present invention provides less wind resistance due to the prone position of the rider. Also, the alignment of the arms and hands with the legs and feet allows the pushing force of the legs and feet to be opposite to, and in line with, the pushing force of the arms and hands.

Abstract: A pedal drive system imparts a rotational force, in part, through linear travel of the pedal. The system comprises parallel, dislocated first and second rotating shafts. A first left sprocket and a first right sprocket are each mounted on the first shaft. A second left sprocket and a second right sprocket are each mounted on the second shaft. A left chain is looped around the first left sprocket and the second left sprocket and engages the teeth of those sprockets. A right chain is, likewise, looped around the first right sprocket and the second right sprocket and engages the teeth of those sprockets. A right pedal is affixed to the right chain, and a left pedal is affixed to the left chain. The first shaft is affixed with a forward sprocket for rotation with the first left and first right sprockets. A driven wheel is affixed with a rearward sprocket. A drive chain is looped around the forward sprocket and the rearward sprocket, and engages the teeth of those sprockets.

Abstract: An electronically controlled speed change device for bicycles has an automatic mode of operation in which, at the request of the cyclist for increase or decrease of the speed ratio, the system itself automatically provides to select the pair front crown wheel-rear sprocket which is most suitable to provide a progressive increase, or respectively a decrease, of the distance covered by the bicycle at each turn of the pedals.

Abstract: A folding, pedal-driven vehicle having a universal joint transmission system is provided. A human-powered ground vehicle having a motive power input assembly that includes foot pedals to drive a front-wheel of the vehicle through a universal joint drive gear system is also provided. Folding, recumbent vehicles for one or two riders are also provided and each includes a transmission system having a pedal-drive power input assembly pivotally connected to a universal joint which in turn is pivotally connected to a drive connection for driving a front wheel of the vehicle.

Abstract: A light weight, stowable golf cart powered by a pedaled drive train. An enclosed box frame supports three extra wide, non-pneumatic tires which are pedal powered through a push button controlled, multi-speed transmission and separate endless chain and belt drive linkages. A rear differential transfers drive power to split rear axles and the rear wheels to enhance maneuverability. Fabric fenders mount over the rear wheels. A fabric semi-recumbant seat and bag support adjust fore and aft along a railed track. A tiller handle mounts to a head tube containing pre-mounted bearings. Cable controlled front caliper brakes mount to a front fork and wheel. Foot controlled brakes operate through the multi-speed transmission. The cart disassembles for shipping, storage and transport.

Abstract: A bicycle mechanism to permit a forward force to be applied to the bicycle's drive wheel by backward rotation of the bicycle's pedals in addition to permitting a forward force to be applied to the drive wheel by a forward rotation of said pedals. The bicycle mechanism preferably has pedal arms, having pedals mounted thereon, mounted on a pedal shaft to drive the pedal shaft in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, and a driving means to cause the forward movement of the bicycle when the pedal shaft is driven in either a clockwise or a counterclockwise direction.

Abstract: A tricycle has two non-steerable rear wheels and a single steerable front wheel. One of the rear wheels is driven by a chain-sprocket drive system that includes a drive sprocket mounted on a front frame and a driven sprocket mounted on a rear frame. The front frame is tiltable, or swingable, from an upright position to a leaning position to minimize the potential for turnover of the tricycle during turning maneuvers or riding on rough terrain. Special idler sprockets are provided for the drive chain, to keep the chain in mesh with the drive sprocket when the front frame is in a leaning position.

Abstract: An electro-mechanical system for shifting gears on a multi-gear bicycle or other human-powered vehicle includes a closed loop derailleur position control system using circuitry for measuring derailleur position. Shifting gears is accomplished automatically based on rider cadence or manually using signals supplied by hand operated switches. The system calculates gear ratios based on bicycle speed and cadence and then sorts the gear ratios in order from lowest to highest. During automatic operation, the system calculates a cadence from bicycle speed and gear ratio, determines if the calculated cadence is within predetermined limits set by the rider, and it changes the gear ratio if the calculated cadence is not within the predetermined limits.

Abstract: An automatic speed range shifter for bicycles is disclosed which produces a downshift when a predetermined pedal force is exceeded and which produces an upshift when a predetermined pedal rotational speed is exceeded. A pedal force sensor comprises a strain gage element on an arm supporting an idler sprocket for the chain. A pedal rotational speed sensor comprises a magnet/coil coacting with the pedal crank. A microcomputer receives inputs from the force and speed sensors and produces control signals for the automatic shifter. The automatic shifter comprises a front shifter actuator including a reversible electrical servo motor which is coupled by a cable with the front derailleur. It also comprises a rear shifter actuator with a reversible servo motor which is coupled by a cable with the rear derailleur.

Abstract: A rear wheel suspension for a bicycle includes paired lower arm members pivotally connected to the bicycle frame seat tube such that they can pivot about an axis situated above the center of the bottom bracket, paired upper arm members adapted to receive the rear wheel axle at hub points located on an axis situated above their lower ends and pivotally connected to the respective lower arm members such that they can pivot about an axis near the rear ends of the lower arm members, and a shock absorber mechanism associated with the upper ends of the upper arm members and pivotally connected to an upper pivot point on the seat tube for limiting the path and the extent of movement of the upper ends of the upper arm members.

Abstract: In combination, a bicycle having a frame and front and rear wheels and a bicycle gearing system which includes a movable bottom bracket mounted on the frame of the bicycle. A pedal axle is rotatably mounted in the bottom bracket. A chain extends between the front gear sprocket and a selected one of the rear gear sprockets. A rear derailleur is mounted on the frame generally adjacent and forward of the rear gear sprockets, the rear derailleur operative to engage the chain and shift the chain transversely relative to the frame. The chain is of a size and shape such that when the bottom bracket is in a forward position, the chain is tensioned, and when the bottom bracket is in the rearward position, the chain is detensioned. The chain is detensioned and the rear derailleur shifts the chain transversely relative to the frame such that the chain engages a different selected one of the rear gear sprockets.

Abstract: The invention discloses a pedal mechanism for a bicycle or a piece of exercise equipment which allows one to impart forward motion to the drive wheel of the bicycle through an alternating or stair climbing pedalling motion. The downward force of one of the pedals causes the other pedal to move in the opposite direction. Depending on the position of the pedals, many different pedalling patterns are possible.

Abstract: A Pedal mechanism for a bicycle or similar piece of exercise equipment is disclosed which allows one to apply a forward force to the drive wheel by simultaneously pressing down on both pedals of the bicycle. The pedals are positioned parallel to one another extending in the same direction from the pedal shaft. The pedalling motion of the invention can be performed with the pedals positioned pointing towards the front of the bicycle or with the pedals pointing towards the rear of the bicycle. The pedalling motions are referred to as a hopping or kangaroo stroke.

Abstract: A shiftable variable ratio sprocket chain drive for rider propelled vehicles, such as bicycles, and for other uses has a shifting mechanism, such as a derailleur mechanism or a gear mechanism, a shifting actuator operable by the rider or user, and a novel hydraulic connector operatively connecting the actuator and the shifting mechanism for hydraulically operating the shifting mechanism to vary the ratio of the drive in response to operation of the actuator.

Abstract: This invention relates to the field of power transmission, and more specially, to a torque responsive belt tensioner for a friction belt. Because of recent concerns for the ecology of our planet there has been a resurgence of interest in human powered vehicles (HPV). This category incudes two, three and four-wheeled vehicles. The invention answers the need-for a power transmitting apparatus that will:a) provide forward motion,b) provide a coasting mode,c) provide a braking action,d) provide a reverse.The belt drive tensioner of this invention is lightweight and simple. It includes a rigid backing plate and idler carrier positioned on a drive shaft adjacent to a drive pulley. Two belt engaging members, rollers, or perpendicular columns or projections of sufficient height to contact the exterior surface of the drive belt are carried by the rigid backing plate.

Abstract: An automatic speed range shifter for bicycles is disclosed which produces a downshift when a predetermined pedal force is exceeded and which produces an upshift when a predetermined pedal rotational speed is exceeded. A pedal force sensor includes a strain gage element on an arm supporting an idler sprocket for the chain. A pedal rotational speed sensor includes a magnet/coil coacting with the pedal crank. A microcomputer receives inputs from the force and speed sensors and produces control signals for the automatic shifter. The automatic shifter includes a front shifter actuator including a reversible electrical servo motor which is coupled by a cable with the front derailleur. It also includes a rear shifter actuator with a reversible servo motor which is coupled by a cable with the rear derailleur.

Abstract: A twin gear drive assembly for a bicycle comprising a front gear assembly with a plurality of gears for driving the rear gear; for driving the frontal wheel with an associated front derailleur; an intermediate gear with a shaft coupled to the front gear for concurrent rotation; a drive gear or the frame beneath the front gear assembly with pedals for the rotation thereof with a chain retainer for the drive gear; a lower gear with a larger number of teeth located beneath the drive gear of the second assembly with an associated chain coupling the upper and lower gears of the supplemental gear assembly and pebbles secured to the lower gear of the second assembly for rotating the lower gear directly, the upper gear through the second chain and the first driven gear through the axle therebetween; first control means for controlling the derailleur of the first gear assembly and a second control assembly for controlling the chain in its position with regard to the gears of the second assembly at the discretion of th

Abstract: A bicycle includes a first power train to propel the bicycle forward, a second power train to propel the bicycle forward and backward, and means for setting each of the first and second power trains from withdrawn mode into operative mode or vice versa. With this arrangement, the bicycle can be used for different purposes.

Abstract: A rear wheel suspension for a bicycle includes paired lower arm members pivotally connected to the bicycle frame seat tube such that they can pivot about an axis situated above the center of the bottom bracket, paired upper arm members adapted to receive the rear wheel axle at hub points located on an axis situated above their lower ends and pivotally connected to the respective lower arm members such that they can pivot about an axis near the rear ends of the lower arm members, and means associated with the upper ends of the upper arm members and pivotally connected to an upper pivot point on the seat tube for limiting the path and the extent of movement of the upper ends of the upper arm members.

Abstract: A bicycle frame supports a sprocket, front and rear wheels and first gears axially aligned with the rear wheel. Each gear has an individual ratio with the sprocket. At a first end, a support is attached to the frame at two (2) spaced positions, one axially aligned with the rear wheel. When loosened from the frame at such aligned position, the support is pivotable at the other position to provide access to the rear wheel and the gears for maintenance or repair. At its second end, the support holds a hollow shaft in a direction substantially parallel to the gear peripheries. A drive motor, a screw and a yoke mounted on the screw extend in this parallel direction within the shaft. Channels in the shaft receive the yoke to constrain yoke rotation. The motor drives the screw and yoke to position a spool linearly in the parallel direction. A takeup arm movable with the spool carries an additional gear into alignment with an individual one of the gears.

Abstract: A derailleur mounting assembly for a bicycle having a rear wheel suspension includes a chain stay having a first end connected to a bicycle crank in a manner so as to pivot about the crank axis, and a derailleur mounted on the chain stay. The chain stay is operable to pivot about the crank axis when the rear wheel suspension allows a rear wheel to move. This allows the derailleur to be maintained in a stationary position with respect to a bike chain extended between the bicycle crank and a sprocket attached to a rear wheel.

Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning and lubricating a bicycle chain while riding is provided. The apparatus includes a water reservoir, a lubricant reservoir and a device for transporting the lubricant and water to an injecting device for injecting said fluids onto the chain. Also provided is a device for enabling the water to be added to further cleansing agents in a dispenser before being gravitated to the injecting device. Similarly, a pump is provided for forcing a controlled quality of lubricant to the injecting device.

Abstract: A front or rear derailleur for a bicycle comprising a base, an actuating assembly and a generally U-shaped chain guide. The base is a cylindrically shaped portion of flexible material that attaches the derailleur to a host frame member of a bicycle. The actuating assembly includes an actuating arm, two actuating links, a lip, a spring and adjusting screws. The actuating assembly responds to tension from an attached shifting cable, which in turn varies the compression on the spring, forcing a first actuating link to move outwardly from, or inwardly toward, the base. The chain guide, which is integral with the actuating link, moves concomitantly with the first actuating link. The second actuating link is formed between the base and the chain guide, and maintains the chain guide in a position parallel to the host frame member of the bicycle.

Abstract: A drive system suitable for a bicycle and capable of providing various drive ratios comprising first and second pairs of conical members, each pair including primary and secondary conical members, both of which are rotatable about a first or second transverse axis. The conical members each comprise a series of evenly spaced sectors with the sectors of the primary conical member being slidable between the sectors of the secondary conical member in each pair. There is a first shaft for rotating the first pair of conical members. The primary conical member of the first pair is slidably mounted on the first shaft. The secondary conical member of the first pair is fixedly mounted on the first shaft . The conical members of the second pair are mounted on a second shaft. The secondary conical member of the second pair is mounted for axial sliding movement relative to the primary conical member. A continuous V-shaped drive belt extends about both pairs of conical members.

Abstract: A drive unit of a bicycle includes a crankshaft having a pair of cranks, a chain wheel fixed to the crankshaft, and a free wheel fixed to a rotating shaft of a rear wheel and rotatably mounted on the crankshaft. An opposed pair of support frames rotatably support the crankshaft as well as the rear wheel and is hinged to a horizontal frame supporting a saddle such that the rear wheel support frames can be folded about the hinge to reduce the total length of the bicycle. A speed change unit includes a shaft rotatably supported by the pair of support frames on which a free wheel and a speed change wheel are mounted. A pair of chains connect the crankshaft and the free wheel of the drive unit to the speed change wheel and the free wheel of the speed change unit to transmit the rotating force of the chain wheel to the free wheel of the drive unit. The hinge locates the axis of the crankshaft of the drive unit on or behind a vertical center line of the saddle to reduce fatigue in operating the bicycle.

Abstract: A tandem bicycle drive train system includes a continuously variable transmission installed around each crank spindle driving an input crank spindle journalled in a continuously variable transmission unit whose output is connected to a drive sprocket which is journalled between the input crank spindle and the transmission unit. A manual ratio control assembly is suitably mounted to the frame member and positioned around the input crank spindle and suitably coupled with the transmission unit in a manner that provides a smooth, continuously variable change in the input to output rotational speed ratio. Each rider's ratio control is preferably coupled to a manual twist-grip on each rider's handle bar and can be adjusted independent of the other rider's control. The front unit output drives a single sprocket which drives one of two sprockets mounted on the rear unit. A second sprocket on the rear unit drives the rear wheel.

Abstract: An electro-mechanical system for shifting gears on a multi-gear bicycle or other human-powered vehicle includes a closed loop derailleur position control system using circuitry for measuring derailleur position. Shifting gears is accomplished automatically based on rider cadence or manually using signals supplied by hand operated switches. The system calculates gear ratios based on bicycle speed and cadence and then sorts the gear ratios in order from lowest to highest. During automatic operation, the system calculates a cadence from bicycle speed and gear ratio, determines if the calculated cadence is within predetermined limits set by the rider, and it changes the gear ratio if the calculated cadence is not within the predetermined limits.

Abstract: A pedal actuated brake system is provided for retrofitting onto a multi-speed bicycle so that back pedaling applies the brakes. A decoupler disengages the front chain sprocket from the crank when reverse-rotated to prevent application of the brakes when the bike backs up. The system may be used in addition to or in place of the existing hand brakes.

Abstract: A two-wheel drive cycle comprises a frame, a front fork assembly mounted on the frame through a pivotal connection to steer the cycle, a front wheel rotating on the fork assembly about a first axis, and a rear wheel rotating on the frame about a second axis. A front sprocket is mounted on the front wheel and centered on the first axis to drive the front wheel, while a rear sprocket is mounted on the rear wheel, is centered on the second axis and driven through the pedals or motor. A chain is meshed with both the front and rear sprockets and guided between these front and rear sprockets through a plurality of gears and pulleys, including a set of gear and pulley engaging the chain and rotatively mounted on the frame close to the pivotal connection. A spring mechanism lengthens and shortens the chain loop as the front fork assembly is turned. In operation, the front wheel is driven through the pedals or motor, the rear sprocket, the chain meshed with both the front and rear sprockets, and the front sprocket.

Abstract: A tricycle (20) disclosed includes a front section (22) and rear section (24). The front section (22) is articulated with respect to the rear section (24) so that the front section (22) can be leaned with respect to the rear section (24) from a normal orientation to lean orientation. A caliper assembly (70) interconnects the front and rear sections (22,24) at the point of articulation and includes arms (72,74) which spread when the front section (22) is leaned with respect to the rear section (24). A biasing member (76) connected to the spreadable arms (72,74) biases the arms together to obviate lean orientation. The front section (22) includes a steerable drive wheel (42) including a hub (44), a central sprocket (34) spaced from the hub (44) and an endless belt (48) interconnecting the hub (44) with the sprocket (48) to provide front wheel drive unaffected by drive apparatus. Rear wheels (86,88) are adjustably spaceable by the movement of frame arms (82,84).

Abstract: A drive apparatus for driving the front wheel of a two-wheeled vehicle, such as a bicycle, including front wheel transmission to transmit drive from the drive sprocket to the front wheel including a first chain drive to transmit drive to a first drive element positioned on the frame of the vehicle adjacent a rotatable front wheel support fork, a second chain drive mounted on the support fork to transmit drive from a second drive element to the front wheel hub and drive coupling to transmit drive from the first to the second drive element, wherein the first and second drive elements are spaced from each other along the direction of the support fork and the drive coupling includes a flexible drive shaft coupled to each drive elements by a drive assembly. The drive assemblies permit the ends of the flexible drive shaft to pivot within predetermined limits in substantially vertical planes to accommodate steering movements and be substantially unstressed even at extreme steering positions in use.

Abstract: In a handle bar comprising a horizontal straight portion fixed at its center a stem, a pair of U-shaped portions bent from the straight portion forming first grip-holders, a pair of elongated portions extended upward slantingly from the U-shaped portions toward the front center, the elongated portions being connected with a connecting member forming second grip-holders, the bar in its entirety being a substantial isosceles triangle seen from the above, brake levers and speed change levers are collectively provided on the connecting member. Both levers can be operated simply with wrist actions while arms are placed on elbow rests provided at the straight portion of the handle bar.

Abstract: A transmission system is provided for a tandem bicycle having a frame on which are mounted a front, steerable, ground engaging wheel, and a rear, driven, ground engaging wheel. The bicycle also includes front and rear pedal systems, each of which includes a shaft rotatably mounted in a hub carried by the frame, each shaft having axial ends to which pedal cranks are connected for rotating the shaft in response to pedal rotation of the cranks. The transmission system includes first apparatus for coupling the shaft of the front pedal system to the rear wheel so that pedal rotation of the cranks connected to the last mentioned shaft imparts rotation to the driven wheel. The system further includes second apparatus for coupling the shaft of the rear pedal system to the rear wheel so that pedal rotation of the cranks connected to the last mentioned shaft imparts rotation to the driven wheel.

Abstract: Novel handlebars for a bicycle are disclosed which provide gripping positions below the handlebar crosspiece. These lower drop positions allow a rider to comfortably maintain a low frontal area without the need for forwardly extending handlebar elements. The lower drop gripping positions can be included in new handlebars or can be added to conventional handlebars by installing adapter kits. Additionally, a handlebar strut system is disclosed which can more efficiently transfer rider power to the bicycle. The strut system reduces upward handlebar flex while allowing downward flex. This can allow the rider to accelerate more quickly while retaining the shock absorbing benefits of downward handlebar flex.

Abstract: A one-piece crank arm for a bicycle is machined from high strength aerospace aluminum 7075-T6. One end of the crank arm has a threaded boss to be fastened in threads of an associated spider. The opposite end of the crank arm has a ball with a passage therein for connecting a pedal. The passage in the ball has a closed end and an axis which extends at a slight angle with respect to the axis of the threads of the boss. For weight reduction, elongated grooves are formed on opposite surfaces of the crank arm.

Abstract: In a chain thrower mechanism of a bicycle derailleur gear mechanism a parallelogram linkage is formed from plastics material at least part of the joints of which are plastic film hinges.

Abstract: The dual wheel driven bicycle utilizes an elongate flexible shaft or cable for transferring rotational motion or torque to the front wheel. In the preferred embodiment, a rear ring gear is mounted on the rear wheel to drive a rear gear assembly. One end of the elongate flexible shaft is connected to and driven by the rear gear assembly; the opposite end of the elongate flexible shaft is connected to a front gear assembly which engages and drives a front ring gear connected to the front wheel. A freewheel assembly is interposed between the front ring gear and the hub of the front wheel to facilitate cornering. In an alternative embodiment, the freewheel assembly is an integral part of the front gear assembly. This invention is applicable to multi-speed and single speed bicycles.

Abstract: A steering member for a bicycle has extension sections extending outwardly from the central mounting section and a pair of opposed handgrip sections positioned adjacent to the ends of the extension sections. The extension sections are contoured along their length to have a cross-sectional shape and other contours which are complementary to the shape of the hand of the rider. Also, the handgrip sections have enlarged handgripping surfaces, that is, the curves which form the upper surfaces are adapted to be complementary to the curve of the palm of the rider's hand and the outer edges have curves adapted to be encircled by the fingers of the rider's hands.

Abstract: A traction system for driving the front and rear wheels of a bicycle of the type including a gearshift connected to the rear wheel. The gearshift is coupled to a main drive chain which is driven by the pedals of the bicycle. A first auxiliary traction chain is coupled to the rear wheel such as to be driven by the rearwheel. A second auxiliary traction chain is coupled to the front wheel of the bicycle for driving the same. A flexible transmission formed of rigid and flexible shafts interconnected by cardan joints connects the first and second auxiliary traction chains so that motion of the rear wheel is coupled to the front wheel and both wheels are simultaneously driven.

Abstract: The invention relates to an aero-type handlebar to be connected to a racer-type handlebar or mountain bike handlebar comprising two handlebar legs respectively connectable with the racer-type handlebar, projecting in the riding direction beyond the grips of the racer-type handlebar and having at its projecting ends a grip portion for a righthand or a lefthand grip, the distance between the grips of the handlebar legs being smaller than the distance between the grips of the racer-type or mountain bike handlebar. The invention accomplishes the object to suggest an improved aero-type handlebar of this time. The aero-type handlebar according to the invention is characterized in that one forearm support element each is provided on the handlebar legs, which has a support surface shaped in accordance with the forearm. The support surface according to the invention facilitates the use of the aero-type handlebar substantially.

Abstract: A power driving device for a bicycle has a planetary gear assembly mounted with a driving axle shaft, including a housing fixed to the bicycle frame with a side wall rotatably mounting the driving axle shaft and a flange wall projecting laterally from the side wall which contains the planetary gear assembly and has a ring gear fixed thereto, a pinion gear carrier fixed to the driving axle shaft for rotation together therewith upon application of a driving force to the pedals, and a sun gear fixedly connected to a driving sprocket wheel for transmitting power from the pedals to the rear wheel of the bicycle. The planetary gear assembly can provide a power changing ratio in the range of about 3.5, so that the driving sprocket wheel can have a number of teeth substantially less than the number of teeth on a conventional sprocket wheel yet, when multiplied by the power changing ratio of the planetary gear assembly, is equivalent to more than double that of the conventional sprocket wheel.

Abstract: Handlebars for a bicycle include a central crosspiece connectable to a bicycle steering post and sidewardly extending portions which may include a pair of pads for supporting a rider's forearms. A generally vertical handgrip portion is located by an intermediate section to a forward central region to permit the rider's hands to overlap each other while grasping the vertical handgrip portion and define a rider position in which the rider's elbows are located near the central rear portion and the rider's arms extend forwardly when the rider's hands are grasping the vertical handgrip portion. In certain embodiments, the vertical handgrip may be T shaped with additional horizontal sections. In other embodiments, an adapter allows the generally vertical handgrip and intermediate section to be clamped to an original bicycle handlebar.

Abstract: The dual wheel driven bicycle utilizes an elongate flexible shaft or cable for transferring rotational motion or torque to the front wheel. In the preferred embodiment, a rear ring gear is mounted on the rear wheel to drive a rear gear assembly. One end of the elongate flexible shaft is connected to and driven by the rear gear assembly; the opposite end of the elongate flexible shaft is connected to a front gear assembly which engages and drives a front ring gear connected to the front wheel. A freewheel assembly is interposed between the front ring gear and the hub of the front wheel to facilitate cornering. In an alternative embodiment, the freewheel assembly is an integral part of the front gear assembly. This invention is applicable to multispeed and single speed bicycles.