Abstract: A steering mechanism includes a flexible drive element configured as a segment of drive belt which engages the toothed drive pulley attached to the lower end of a steering post. The ends of the belt segment art attached to a drag link which translates rotational oscillatory motion imparted by the steering wheel or handlebars into linear lateral oscillatory motion. Each end of the drag link is attached to a lever arm of its respective spindle by a connecting linkage which translates the linear lateral oscillatory motion back into rotary oscillation of the spindles and their attached steered elements. The steering mechanism is located above the power unit of the vehicle so it is more easily serviced. Further, the reduction in the number of parts and wear points reduces the need for servicing of the steering mechanism.

Abstract: A drive system includes a hollow axle with a jackshaft that extends therethrough and is mounted to extend parallel thereto. Bearings rotatably connect both the hollow axle and the jackshaft to first and second chassis portions. A first end of the jackshaft extends beyond the hollow axle and is connected to a motor by a pair of clutches interconnected by a drive belt. A second end of the jackshaft extends beyond the opposite end of the axle and has a drive sprocket attached thereto that is interconnected to a first idler sprocket on an idler shaft by a first drive chain. A second idler sprocket is connected to a driven sprocket, which is affixed to the axle, by a second inboard drive chain.