Abstract: A track assembly is to be mounted on a drive axle of a vehicle. The track assembly has a frame, at least one leading idler wheel mounted to the front of the frame for rotation about a transverse leading idler wheel axis, at least one trailing idler wheel mounted to the rear of the frame for rotation about a traverse trailing idler wheel axis parallel to the leading idler wheel axis, and a single drive wheel assembly. The drive wheel assembly includes a sub-frame removably securable to the frame in any one of a plurality of longitudinal securement positions on the frame, and a drive wheel rotationally mounted on the sub-frame for rotation about a drive wheel axis. The drive wheel is operatively connectable to the drive axle of the vehicle. A pair of track assemblies is also described. A vehicle having the pair of track assemblies is also described.

Abstract: There is disclosed a track assembly having a frame; an endless track engaged with a track wheel system, the track wheel system having a track driving wheel and at least another wheel. An axle engaging device is rotatably mounted to the frame and is securable to a driven axle of a vehicle. An axis of rotation of the axle engaging device is spaced apart from a ground contacting area of the endless track by a distance taken along an axis perpendicular to the ground contacting area. A mechanism drivingly engages the axle engaging device to the track driving wheel. The mechanism defines a speed ratio defined as a rotational speed of the track driving wheel over a rotational speed of the axle engaging device. The distance is greater than a product of the speed ratio by a radius of the track driving wheel.

Abstract: Steering control system for snow vehicles, suitable for equipping vehicles like snowmobile type or more specifically of the standing snowmobile style (1), with a basic configuration of, at least, two front skis (4a, 4b) and one drive track (3). The system acts on one or the other ski independently, and depending of the chosen path left or right, the rider can activate the left ski system or the right ski system using a mechanism that can be manual or assisted. This swing arms system (5a, 5b) and rotating ski spindle (6a, 6b) allow an easy and stable lateral tilt of the snowmobile, and besides generate a multiple and simultaneous orientation on the ski (4a) or (4b). All these factors gives the snowmobile high maneuverability and efficient control of the trajectory.

Abstract: A vehicle includes a frame, a plurality of ground-engaging members, a steering assembly for steering the vehicle, an internal combustion engine, and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). An engine air intake system provides air to the engine and includes a first air inlet facing generally forwardly and a first rearwardly-extending conduit portion extending rearwardly from the first air inlet. The first rearwardly-extending conduit portion fluidly communicates with an engine air inlet. A CVT air intake system provides air to the CVT and includes a second air inlet facing generally forwardly and a second rearwardly-extending conduit portion extending rearwardly from the second air inlet. The second rearwardly-extending conduit portion fluidly communicates with a cooling air inlet of the CVT. The engine is disposed at least in part laterally between the first and second rearwardly-extending conduit portions.

Abstract: A mower includes a pair of track assemblies positioned on either side of a chassis. The track assemblies include drive wheels coupled to axles driven by an engine. A rocker rigidly mounts to the chassis independently of the engagement of the drive wheel with the axle. The rocker rotatably mounts to a mounting flange fastened to the chassis and includes a plurality of axles to which bogie wheels are mounted. The rocker is vertically below the axle and may be longitudinally centered on the axle or may be asymmetric with respect to the axle. All weight transferred is transferred to a track surrounding the drive wheel and bogie wheels through the rocker assembly engaging the chassis and no weight is transferred to the axle. A suspension may mount the track assembly to the chassis and the track may be long enough to replace front and back wheels.

Abstract: A balance bike conversion system may include first and second protective inserts, each having an interface adapted to engage opposite ends of a bicycle bottom bracket. A connector may be adapted to connect the first and second protective inserts, thereby securing the inserts to the bottom bracket. The connector may be adapted to adjust the distance between the inserts, thereby accommodating variability in the width of the bottom bracket. The system may further include adapters to enable the system to be used with bicycles having bottom brackets with different diameters. The protective inserts and/or adapters may provide mechanical support to the bottom bracket, thereby protecting it from damage.

Abstract: The track system has four track assemblies each mounted to a corresponding driving axle of a vehicle to receive driving power therefrom, each track assembly having: a plurality of transversally-oriented track roller shafts mounted to a frame structure, parallel to one another and interspaced from one another from including two end roller shafts each at a corresponding opposite longitudinal end; an endless track belt having an outer surface and an inner surface, the endless track belt being longitudinally oriented and wrapping the track roller shafts; an anti-diving flap having a flat body protruding upwardly and longitudinally from one longitudinal end of the endless track belt, the anti-diving flap having two structural arms, each structural arm extending around the endless track belt on a respective transversal side thereof and being secured to the frame structure.

Abstract: Combination of a drive wheel and a gearbox for a continuous track system, the gearbox (1) comprising an annular input member (2) for connection to an end part (14) of a drive axle input member (16) and an annular output member (4) connected to the drive wheel (3), the annular input member (2) and annular output member (4) being coaxially arranged with respect to a longitudinal axis (6) of the gearbox (1). The combination further comprises an annular transmission unit (8) coaxially arranged with respect to the longitudinal axis (6) of the gearbox (1) and connecting the annular input member (2) and annular output member (4) through a gear ratio (R) of less than one, the gear ratio (R) being a ratio of an angular input velocity of the annular input member (2) to an angular output velocity of the annular output member (4).

Abstract: A snow vehicle is disclosed comprising a vehicle frame, a propulsion unit coupled to the frame, and a front ski steered by a steering mechanism. The front of the vehicle includes a first front suspension and a second front suspension coupled to the ski. The rear suspension includes a bumper assembly preventing bottoming out of the rear suspension. The rear suspension is coupled to the vehicle frame such that the longitudinal spacing between the vehicle frame and rear suspension is adjustably controllable.

Abstract: A tracked vehicle such as a snowmobile is provided with a power takeoff by substitution of a gear wheel for an existing idle wheel around which the track of the vehicle is wound. The gear wheel has a circumference which is equal to the distance between two preselected drive lugs on the track.

Abstract: The track system includes a plurality of track assemblies, each having track; a frame structure to mount the track to the vehicle; and inner wheels in contact with an inner surface of the track. The track assembly also includes two drive gears disposed externally to the track and configured to frictionally engaged an outer surface of a corresponding one of the tires. The drive gears are drivingly connected with the track for transmitting power thereto. Each one of the drive gears has a rotation axis, a plurality of elongated traction bars extending substantially parallel and circumferentially to the rotation axis, and open ends. The elongated traction bars are spaced-apart from one another and define channels therebetween allowing granular and liquid materials to flow inwardly towards the rotation axis, and outwardly of the drive gears through the apertured ends.

Abstract: A wide tire kit for motorcycles has a swing arm frame, to which a first outboard strut and a second outboard strut are attached by a first side plate and a second side plate, respectively. An arced surface of the swing arm frame provides accommodating space for the wide tire, and the outboard struts are connected to the axle of the wheel. The wide tire kit is easily assembled, not requiring any specialized parts or labor to install.

Abstract: An electronic throttle control (ETC) system is disclosed for use on a recreational or a utility vehicle. The ETC system includes a drive mode selection device for selecting between a plurality of drive modes. The ETC system provides an adjustable engine idle speed and an engine power limiting feature.

Abstract: An apparatus and device are provided for a self-propelled roping training system. The apparatus includes an endless track comprising a plurality of corner sections, each of the plurality of corner sections comprising an arc length, a carriage assembly comprising a front slider assembly coupled with the track and a rear slider assembly coupled with the track, and a self-propelled vehicle coupled with the carriage assembly configured to follow a path defined by the endless track.

Abstract: A drivetrain system for a mobile machine is disclosed. The drivetrain system may have an engine, a generator driven by the engine to generate electric power, and a traction motor driven by the electric power from the generator. The drivetrain system may also have a controller in communication with the engine, the generator, and the traction motor. The controller may be configured to determine a change in loading on the traction motor, and determine a change in fueling of the engine that will be required to accommodate the change in loading on the traction motor. The controller may also be configured to selectively rate-limit the change in fueling, and implement the rate-limited change in fueling prior to transmission of the change in loading on the traction motor to the engine.

Abstract: This invention relates to a traction assembly for a vehicle which uses an endless traction band and a plurality of wheels for propulsion. More particularly, the traction assembly comprises a sprocket wheel which has a different size and number of sprocket teeth depending on whether the traction kit replaces the front wheels or the rear wheels of the vehicle. The sprocket wheel of the traction kit can also be configured such that its sprocket teeth are laterally offset. The traction kit can also comprise an anti-torque system that prevent physical contact between the traction kit and the vehicle and that can bias the position of the traction kit in order to improve the steering performance. Finally, the traction assembly can comprise a pivotable extension which lengthens the traction assembly and improves its traction capabilities.

Abstract: The present invention provides track assemblies and a method that allow bringing the contact patch towards the inside (the outside) of the suspension arm, by providing a asymmetric track assembly, either by lowering at least one inside (outside) support wheel relative to the remaining support wheels, or by using a belt that comprises, transversally, at least one first profile on the outer (inner) side thereof lower than a second profile on an inner side thereof.

Abstract: A snow cycle includes a conventional motorcycle chassis having a set of steerable front forks and a rear swing arm, which normally mount front and rear wheels of the cycle, respectively. A snow track module is mounted to the rear swing arm and has an endless track driven by a cog connected to a drive sprocket of the engine by a single chain. At least one and preferably a pair of skis are mounted off the front forks and are pivotable fore and aft as well as tiltable to either side to maintain the ski flat to the ground when the vehicle is tilted to one side or the other when making an aggressive turn.

Abstract: A snowmobile is provided that includes a frame, an engine, an endless belt drive system, and an air intake system for the engine. The frame has a forward portion and an aft portion. The engine is mounted to the forward portion and the belt drive system is mounted to the aft portion and is operatively connected to the engine. The engine is a turbocharged four-stroke type engine.

Abstract: Disclosed is a traction device for detachable association with a motor bike for winter driving, the bike having a rear wheel assembly including an axle and a rubber tire supported by laterally spaced bike struts. The traction device comprises laterally spaced opposed side strut assemblies each having a forward end and rearward end, a traction wheel assembly and an endless track. The side strut assemblies each include means adapted to pivotally connect the forward end of each of the strut assemblies to the bike adjacent the rear axle of the bike wheel assembly with the strut assemblies extending rearwardly of the bike, The traction wheel assembly is rotatably supported by the rear ends of the strut assemblies. The endless track has means for cooperating with the rubber tire of the bike and the traction wheel assembly to maintain the endless track centered on the rubber tire and the traction wheel assembly.

Abstract: There is a self-propelled mobile sled which can be maneuvered over various terrains such as earth, slopes, hills, rocks, snow, and ice. The sled, in various modifications, can be used as a toy; as a rescue vehicle; and an observation vehicle. The size of the sled can vary to adjust to the desired task.

Abstract: A conversion kit with track and ski steering assemblies to convert a two-wheeled land vehicle such as a motorcycle or bicycle to a vehicle suitable for over-snow travel. A ski assembly mounts to the steering fork of the land vehicle in place of the front wheel. A track assembly mounts to the land vehicle in place of the rear wheel. A swing arm connects to and pivots upon the land vehicle frame and angles downward behind the frame. A track circulates a fixed path around a track carriage. The track carriage extends forward from a pivot connection with the rear of the swing arm, and pivots vertically under the swing arm in scissors-fashion. The land vehicle is suspended upon the track assembly using a single shock absorber and load-distributing bell crank. A snow compacting ramp attaches to the track carriage compresses the snow ahead of the track.

Abstract: A conversion system for converting an all terrain vehicle (ATV) for use in snow and in other adverse condition, the system including an endless track assembly. Endless track assemblies are comprised of a drive cog mounted on the rear axle, having teeth for engaging a track, and a slide rail assembly for guiding and tensioning a composite track. The drive cog is uniquely designed to provide optimal power to gear ratios to be used with the drive gear of the ATV. The standard ATV axle may be replaced with a stronger axle. The track mount assembly is mounted by a bearing housing support constructed to fit the axle. The drive cog is constructed with bolt patterns compatible with bolt patterns on existing ATV axle mounts. A unique motion-limiting device keeps the track assemblies properly positioned when riding over uneven terrain. The track mount assemblies provide a dual track construction that replaces the ATV drive wheels and converts the ATV to a vehicle that can transverse terrains such as snow and mud.

Abstract: A light transport vehicle (10) which is directly steerable by a person or persons standing on the vehicle, which vehicle includes (a) an elongated, flexible platform (11); (b) a leading two-part carriage (20) and a trailing two-part carriage (30) slung to the underside of the platform; (c) a set of wheels or rollers (14, 15, 16, 17) rotatably attached to each of the two-part carriages; and (d) two diagonally-located struts (25, 26) attached to and joining outer, laterally opposing ends (27, 28, 37, 38) of the two-part carriages. Each two-part carriage includes two parallel, laterally-extending suspension members (21, 22, 31, 32).

Abstract: A snowmobile conversion frame kit including a frame member arranged for securement to a roll bar, that in turn is secured to an associated snowmobile, such that the frame member includes a steering assembly at its forwardmost end and the steering assembly includes a wheel member at each end of the steering assembly, with each wheel member having a brake system secured thereto, with a swing arm pivotally mounted to a rearwardmost end of the frame member, with the swing arm assembly having an axle mounting a tire member thereto, and a sprocket secured to the axle, such that upon power directed to the sprocket rotation of the rear wheel member is effected effecting motivation of the thusly converted snowmobile, wherein towing of the snowmobile is permitted by employing a coupling assembly arranged for grasping and securing the swing arm assembly, with the tow bar assembly having a coupling for securement to a tow vehicle.

Abstract: A kit for connecting a multiple speed bicycle to a multiple speed snow cycle, the kit including a ski assembly adapted to be mounted on the handlebar column, a drive device mounted on the rear axle and being operatively connected to the bicycle sprocket through a multiple speed derailleur and a dual belt drive assembly mounted on the bicycle below the rear axle, the drive assembly being connected to the drive device to propel the snow cycle on rotation of the sprocket.

Abstract: An attachment for tractors is mounted on the tractor frame, and provides an endless track system for supporting and driving the tractor through power supplied with chains engaging sprockets secured to the conventional drive wheels. The position of the track system permits it to remain elevated until the main drive wheels settle down into soft ground. The track speed is established at the effective peripheral velocity of the drive wheels.

Abstract: A rearwardly projecting mounting arm is provided for the rear of a lawn or garden tractor and has its forward end secured anchored relatively to the rear drive wheel axle of the tractor. The rear end portion of the mounting arm mounts longitudinal mid-portion of a transverse idle wheel axle therefrom for adjustable positioning of the idle wheel axle longitudinally of the mounting arm and the idle wheel axle includes a pair of opposite end idle wheels journalled therefrom in front-to-rear alignment with drive wheels journalled from the drive axle. The lower peripheral portions of the idle wheels are spaced approximately 1 to 2 inches above the lower peripheral portions of the drive wheels and endless flexible track assemblies are trained about corresponding drive and idle wheels.

Abstract: A device comprising a rear adapter frame with an idle crawler track and adapted to be mounted, together with a front steering skid, in lieu of the rear and front wheels, respectively, of a motor-scooter so as to enable a quick conversion thereof, when desired, into a vehicle suitable to travel on snowy ground.

Abstract: A conversion arrangement for converting a conventional rear wheel drive road vehicle to a snowmobile comprises a subframe upon the sides of which are mounted track support wheels and tracks with the subframe attached to the vehicle through the conventional rear suspension springs. At the front end of the subframe is a pair of forwardly extending levers which are attached to the front wheel hubs of the vehicle and carry skis. The skis are vertically movable under control of the vehicle front suspension by pivotal movement about a shaft at the front edge of the subframe with the amount of movement limited by the addition of an arcuate stop arrangement which cooperates with a tongue extension on the lever system. The rear drive axle of the vehicle is moved from its conventional position on the springs rearwardly to a position at a rearmost edge of the subframe with an additional drive shaft added between the vehicle drive shaft and the vehicle back axle for communication of drive.

Abstract: An endless traction belt and a method for its manufacture are provided. The traction belt has a main body made primarily of elastomeric material and is adapted to be moved in an endless path having a longitudinal axis. The main body comprises a substantially smooth inner surface and a ground engaging outer surface having a plurality of traction increasing portions or teeth. The teeth also act as sprocket engaging means for driving the belt.

Abstract: A snow traction device for motorcycles or other vehicles consisting of a frame adapted to be supported from the axle of a power driven vehicle wheel, an endless flexible belt mounted about rollers carried by the frame and moving in an elongated loop extending forwardly and rearwardly beneath the wheel so that its lower reach may engage the snow, and a pair of rollers carried rotatably by the frame and snugly engaging both the vehicle wheel and the upper reach of the belt, whereby the former drives the latter to propel the vehicle. The frame mounting is adjustable to adapt it to fit operably relative to vehicle wheels of different diameters, and the froward end portion of the lower belt reach is angled upwardly to better attack the snow. A pair of skis are disposed respectively at opposite sides of the frame, parallel to the line of vehicle travel, and are urged resiliently downwardly relative to the frame.

Abstract: A snow assembly for conversion, for snow operation, of a normally road operable vehicle includes ski and track assemblies which are adapted to be mounted on the vehicle in place of the tires normally mounted thereon for road operation. The ski assembly includes a raise bracket which is mounted to a brake housing of the vehicle by the bolts which normally mount the tire to the brake housing and a ski which is mounted at the bottom of the raise bracket such that the ski is rotatable relative to the raise bracket to vary the angle between them. The raise bracket is preferably pivotally linked to the vehicle to stabilize the bracket in the direction of movement of the vehicle. Pneumatic tires are also preferably positioned on the ski assembly to enable operation of the vehicle both in snow and on open road when the snow assembly is installed on the vehicle.