Abstract: An apparatus for removably securing an electrical element within a tubular steerer tube within a frame element consists of a canister for housing the electrical element, an expandable sleeve, and an expansion bolt coupling the canister and expandable sleeve to actuate compression of the expandable sleeve thereby securing the assembly within the tubular steerer tube. A preload cap is secured to the assembly to retain a bearing system to permit the steerer tube to rotate relative to the frame. One or more of a light, switch, and connector may be disposed in the preload cap to provide system conditions, controls, charging, communication, and so on. In certain embodiments, requirements for a central extension bolt extending from preload cap to expansion bolt are obviated, providing a relatively uninterrupted volume within the steerer tube in which to house electronics, route wiring, and so on.

Abstract: A cycle seat post having an axial hollow region has formed therein or attached thereto a retaining structure for removably securing a power cell cartridge within the hollow region. The retaining structure comprises one or more shoulders for engaging corresponding shoulders on the power cell cartridge. A retaining cap in physical engagement with the power cell cartridge secures the power cell cartridge in place. An opening in the retaining cap permits connection between a power cell retained in the power cell cartridge and electronic and/or electromechanical devices external to the power cell cartridge. A biasing member and spring claim may further secure retaining cap in place.

Abstract: A cycle seat post having an axial hollow region has formed therein or attached thereto a retaining structure for removably securing a power cell cartridge within the hollow region. The retaining structure comprises one or more shoulders for engaging corresponding shoulders on the power cell cartridge. A retaining cap in physical engagement with the power cell cartridge secures the power cell cartridge in place. An opening in the retaining cap permits connection between a power cell retained in the power cell cartridge and electronic and/or electromechanical devices external to the power cell cartridge. A biasing member and spring claim may further secure retaining cap in place.

Abstract: A vehicle that can operate as either a motorcycle or an autogiro, said vehicle having a flight mode and a motorcycle mode, said vehicle comprising: a frame having a front part and a rear part; a center-line that passes from the front of said vehicle to the rear of said vehicle through the center of said vehicle such that said vehicle's weight is distributed nearly equally to either side of said center-line; a propeller mounted to a propeller barrel that is rotatably mounted to said frame such that the junction where said frame's front part meets said frame's rear part is located within said propeller barrel; an engine mounted to the rear part of said frame, wherein said engine powers said propeller in said flight mode; a cockpit fixedly mounted to the front part of said frame, said cockpit comprising means for controlling said vehicle; at least one aircraft lift means comprising: at least one rotor that is rotatably mounted to said frame when said vehicle is in said flight mode; a front wheel steerably and

Abstract: A simplified rear suspension for a bicycle or the like comprises a wishbone seatstay structure. The wishbone structure is provided with a first extension extending toward the seat junction. A low friction guide component, for example a spherical element, is provided at the distal end of the extension. A second extension is provided at the seat junction, with a hollow interior for receiving the guide component. The guide component slides with little friction and play within the hollow interior. A stop member may also be provided within the hollow interior, stopping travel of the guide component under load. Motion of the rear wheel (via dropout) relative to the main frame (e.g., from the terrain) is translated into motion of the guide component within the hollow interior. The chainstays, in a pivotless arrangement, provide a moment which acts as a spring, resisting the motion of the dropouts and providing shock absorption and/or damping for improved ride and control.

Abstract: A vehicle that is convertible in its operation between flying as an autogiro and driving as a motorcycle, in which the propeller rotates around a section of the fuselage. The propeller span can be as large as the space between the autogiro lifting rotor blade and the ground.