Abstract: A rod-end front suspension is provided for an off-road vehicle. The rod-end front suspension comprises a spindle assembly that is pivotally coupled with an upper suspension arm by way of a first rod-end joint and pivotally coupled with a lower suspension arm by way of a second rod-end joint. A steering rod-end joint coupled with the spindle assembly pivotally receives a steering rod. An axle assembly coupled with the spindle assembly conducts torque from a transaxle to a wheel coupled with the spindle assembly. Each of the first and second rod-end joints comprises a ball rotatably retained within a casing. The ball is fastened within a recess between parallel prongs extending from the spindle assembly. A threaded shank extending from the casing is threadably fixated with the suspension arm, such that the spindle assembly may be moved with respect to the casing and the suspension arm.

Abstract: A vehicle control system comprising a first set of handlebar grips including a first grip mounted on a first side of the vehicle and a second grip mounted on a second side of the vehicle and a second set of handlebar grips mounted on the vehicle including a third grip mounted on the first side of the vehicle and a fourth grip mounted on the second side of the vehicle, the first and third grips being mounted in at least one position thereof in parallel, coplanar relation and the second and fourth grips being mounted in at least one position thereof in parallel, coplanar relation. In a specific embodiment, the invention further includes a first set of controls mounted on the first set of handlebars and a second set of controls mounted on the second set of handlebars. The first set of controls may be identical to the second set of controls. The second set of controls is coupled to or through the first set of handlebar controls.

Abstract: A bicycle driving device: a first socket coupled to a frame; a first crankshaft rotatably coupled to the inside of the first socket; a first left crank arm coupled to the left side of the first crankshaft; a first right crank arm coupled to the right side of the first crankshaft; a second socket coupled to the frame at a location spaced from the first socket; a second crankshaft rotatably coupled to the inside of the second socket; a second left crank arm coupled to the left side of the second crankshaft; a second right crank arm coupled to the right side of the second crankshaft; a left pedal arm pivotally coupled to an end portion of the first left crank arm and to an end portion of the second left crank arm, the left pedal arm having a left pedal coupling portion positioned on an end thereof to be closer to the front than the end portion of the first left crank arm; a left pedal rotatably coupled to the left pedal coupling portion; a right pedal arm pivotally coupled to an end portion of the first right cr

Abstract: System, methods, and other embodiments described herein relate to a low-profile vehicle. In one embodiment, the low-profile vehicle includes a vehicle body having a profile that is substantially continuous around an outer perimeter of the vehicle. The profile is comprised of a fin extending outward from a lower edge of the vehicle body and meeting a ramp of the vehicle body at a concave curve. The ramp continues from the concave curve into a convex curve where the ramp transitions into a top surface of the vehicle body. The profile has an exaggerated s-shape. The low-profile vehicle includes a hatch disposed within the top surface. The vehicle includes a passenger compartment disposed within the vehicle body and accessible through the hatch. The passenger compartment is shaped to provide for a passenger to occupy the vehicle in a substantially lying down position.

Abstract: Modular human powered recumbent vehicle has a variable configuration and size. It comprises a group of standardized modules—fast attachable parts connected together by set of cross tubes (4) of variable length. It has three basic modules: middle (1), left (2) and right (3); each module has several modifications. One or more additional modules, like child seat (17), shopping basket (18), additional pedal (15) or electric (16) drive, also can be attached for performing a specific task. Vehicle can be transformed to a powered or unpowered trailer of variable configuration. It can be folded for storage and disassembled for transportation.

Abstract: A feedback system and indicator for aerodynamic positioning while bicycling comprising one or more sensors located on the bicycle in positions that indicate when rider is in an aerodynamic position that activates and or otherwise records data associated with aerodynamic positioning while riding.

Abstract: A tandem bicycle is provided that have a shortened wheel base between the front and rear wheels that allows a rider to ride comfortably alone from either the front or rear seats, or with a passenger in the front seat. The frame length of the inventive tandem bicycle is comparable to a standard single seat bicycle. The reduced proximity between riders, and the ability to steer for both the front or rear seats on the inventive tandem bicycle improves the level of participation and interaction between the riders. The wheelbase is reduced by bringing the front wheel closer to the front seat position. A reduced diameter front wheel is provided to accommodate rotational clearance of the front pedals thereby allowing two riders to ride on bicycle frame with a length common to single rider bicycle.

Abstract: An adapter for interconnecting two bicycles in a side-by-side configuration, wherein the adapter comprises a plurality of articulating joints to permit the joined bicycles to articulate or tilt in coordination while being ridden. The present invention further includes various tilting mechanisms and braking systems to achieve and maintain desired tilted positions of the joined or interconnected bicycles.

Abstract: A bicycle tow hitch comprises an apparatus to enable a master bicycle to tow a slave bicycle behind it. The apparatus comprises a plurality of tubular members which make up a master unit and a slave unit being joined using a plurality of bolts. The slave unit is installed onto the front wheel of the slave bicycle and prevents the front wheel of the slave bicycle from rotating. The master unit is installed onto the rear portion of the master bicycle and supports the slave unit in a way that suspends the front wheel of the slave bicycle above the ground while leaving the rear wheel of the slave bicycle in contact with the ground.

Abstract: Various embodiments of a multi-person tricycle are disclosed. In at least one embodiment, the multi-person tricycle includes two front drive wheel assemblies, each having an independent drive train assembly, and includes a rear wheel assembly operably connected to a steering mechanism which may be simultaneously or independently operated by one or more riders. In at least one embodiment, the multi-person tricycle includes a lockable/unlockable pedal connection assembly which: (i) provides the ability for any single rider to simultaneously power two or more independent drive trains; and which (ii) provides the ability for two (or more) simultaneous riders to separately and independently power their respective drive trains by means of a dynamically adjustable coupling/decoupling mechanism.

Abstract: A multi-rider or occupant human powered vehicle permits at least one rider or occupant to contribute to powering the vehicle while being seated in a direction opposite to the direction of travel of the vehicle. By way of example, tandem bicycles are provided accommodating rearward-facing aft cyclists or rearward-facing fore cyclists. Other vehicles, such as tricycles, four-wheeled carts, and human powered watercraft, such as paddle boats, are also contemplated by the present invention. In one embodiment, a tandem bicycle with a rearward-facing occupant contributing to powering the vehicle via a single drive chain, belt, or shaft is disclosed.

Abstract: Various embodiments of a multi-person tricycle are disclosed. In at least one embodiment, the multi-person tricycle includes two front drive wheel assemblies, each having an independent drive train assembly, and includes a rear wheel assembly operably connected to a steering mechanism which may be simultaneously or independently operated by one or more riders. In at least one embodiment, the multi-person tricycle may be configured or designed to enable two front riders to sit side-by-side, and further may be configured or designed to enable each rider to independently exert and/or vary his or her own pedaling force and/or pedaling cadence without substantially affecting steering of the vehicle.

Abstract: A solar-powered vehicle with regenerative and mechanical braking includes a chassis or frame, a seat mounted to the frame, a rear axle rotatably supported on the frame, spaced apart left and right rear wheels mounted on the rear axle, and at least one front wheel mounted on the frame. The vehicle includes a selectively engageable regenerative braking system and a selectively engageable mechanical braking system. A lever for engaging the braking systems has three positions, wherein at a first position a reed switch on the lever engages a magnetic source, disabling the regenerative braking system. At a second position, the reed switch disengages the magnetic source, enabling the regenerative braking system. At a third position of the lever, the mechanical braking system is engaged.

Abstract: A solar-powered vehicle with regenerative and mechanical braking includes a chassis or frame, a seat mounted to the frame, a rear axle rotatably supported on the frame, spaced apart left and right rear wheels mounted on the rear axle, and at least one front wheel mounted on the frame. The vehicle includes a selectively engageable regenerative braking system and a selectively engageable mechanical braking system. A lever for engaging the braking systems has three positions, wherein at a first position a reed switch on the lever engages a magnetic source, disabling the regenerative braking system. At a second position, the reed switch disengages the magnetic source, enabling the regenerative braking system. At a third position of the lever, the mechanical braking system is engaged.

Abstract: A combination buddy bicycle includes a front bike frame, two transverse frames, two front wheel brackets, two steering control bar, front and rear transmission shafts, 1st˜4th pedal assemblies, a middle bike frame, a rear wheel transmission shaft, a rear bike frame, two rear transverse frames, and two rear wheel brackets. The rear bike frame can be directly connected to the front bike frame after removal of the middle bike frame, enabling the bicycle to be ridden by two persons side by side. When the steering control bars are biased, the connected front wheel brackets and front wheels are synchronously biased, assuring high stability.

Abstract: Apparatus for towing bicycles, comprising a towing arm, a connector, adapted to fix the towing arm to a towing vehicle, a joint for interconnection between the towing arm and the connector, which defines a first oscillation axis and a second oscillation axis, the first oscillation axis being parallel to the resting surface of the towing bicycle to which the connector is coupled during use, a fork for connection of the towing arm to the hub of the front wheel of the bicycle to be towed, the fork being locked to the towing arm during use, a strut pivoted on the towing arm, and a coupling assembly which is adapted for connection of the strut to the bicycle to be towed. The first oscillation axis is transverse to the anteroposterior direction of the towing bicycle and the second oscillation axis is perpendicular to the resting surface.

Abstract: Various embodiments of a multi-person tricycle are disclosed. In at least one embodiment, the multi-person tricycle includes two front drive wheel assemblies, each having an independent drive train assembly, and includes a rear wheel assembly operably connected to a steering mechanism which may be simultaneously or independently operated by one or more riders. In at least one embodiment, the multi-person tricycle may be configured or designed to enable two front riders to sit side-by-side, and further may be configured or designed to enable each rider to independently exert and/or vary his or her own pedaling force and/or pedaling cadence without substantially affecting steering of the vehicle.

Abstract: Various embodiments of a multi-person tricycle are disclosed. In at least one embodiment, the multi-person tricycle includes two front drive wheel assemblies, each having an independent drive train assembly, and includes a rear wheel assembly operably connected to a steering mechanism which may be simultaneously or independently operated by one or more riders. In at least one embodiment, the multi-person tricycle may be configured or designed to enable two front riders to sit side-by-side, and further may be configured or designed to enable each rider to independently exert and/or vary his or her own pedaling force and/or pedaling cadence without substantially affecting steering of the vehicle.

Abstract: A system for conversion of an animal muscle power to a mechanical or electrical energy, for use in transportation of people, goods and for other purposes is disclosed. The system for conversion of an animal muscle power to a mechanical or electrical energy includes a chassis to accommodate at least one of an animal at a predetermined position, at least one first crank.

Abstract: A multi-mode tandem bicycle includes a frame, a steering wheel, a directional wheel, a first pedaling member, a second pedaling member, a first seat, a second seat, a first transmission unit, and a second transmission unit. By pivoting at least one of the first seat and the second seat on the frame, direction of the first seat or the second seat can be changed and fixed on the aforementioned frame, and at least one of the first seat and the second seat is pointed toward and connected with the steering wheel, thereby resulting in a variety of riding modes.

Abstract: Various embodiments of a multi-person tricycle are disclosed. In at least one embodiment, the multi-person tricycle includes two front drive wheel assemblies, each having an independent drive train assembly, and includes a rear wheel assembly operably connected to a steering mechanism which may be simultaneously or independently operated by one or more riders. Steering is controlled by either rider via a single steering mechanism. In at least one embodiment, the multi-person tricycle may be configured or designed to enable two front riders to sit side-by-side, and further may be configured or designed to enable each rider to independently exert and/or vary his or her own pedaling force and/or pedaling cadence without substantially affecting steering of the vehicle. In at least one embodiment, the entire tricycle apparatus may be constructed or assembled using components of two ordinary bicycles and a few other commonly available parts.

Abstract: In the specification and drawing a new brake system and a two-wheeled vehicle using the same are described. The new brake system includes a first brake to apply a first brake force on a first wheel of a vehicle and transfers the first brake force to physically actuate a second brake to brake a second wheel of the vehicle. A new-designed cantilever brake is disclosed to transfer the first brake force to actuate the second brake.

Abstract: A multi-mode tandem bicycle includes a frame, a steering wheel, a directional wheel, a first pedaling member, a second pedaling member, a first seat, a second seat, a first transmission unit, and a second transmission unit. By pivoting at least one of the first seat and the second seat on the frame, direction of the first seat or the second seat can be changed and fixed on the aforementioned frame, and at least one of the first seat and the second seat is pointed toward and connected with the steering wheel, thereby resulting in a variety of riding modes.

Abstract: A multi-person velocipede is provided with a pair of interconnected frame members. A pair of rotatable forward wheels are rigidly coupled to the forward portion of the frames, and a pair of rotatable rearward wheels are pivotably coupled to the rearward portion of the frames. Sets of pedals operatively engage the forward wheels to provide power, braking and turning operations to the velocipede.

Abstract: A vehicle such as a bicycle or tricycle having a front steering assembly and a remote, rear steering assembly. The front steering assembly has a steering sleeve with a rotatable front shaft within the sleeve that is connected to the front wheel. The rear steering assembly has a rear shaft rotatably mounted in a steering sleeve and both of the shafts has a steering device such as handlebars accessible to users. The shafts are coupled together to rotate in tandem by means of a substantially flexible coupling, such as a chain operatively connected between sprockets mounted to each of the shafts. Turning either of the handlebars thus turns the front wheel to steer the vehicle.

Abstract: A human powered golf cart with an auxiliary power source. There are several embodiments of the invention to accommodate one and two users with both a tricycle chassis, a quadracycle chassis and a bicycle chassis and bodies. A horizontal platform is attached to the back axle of the tricycle chassis and body and a single wheel cart is attached to a bicycle chassis and body. An auxiliary power source in the form of an electric battery and a chain driven electric motor is provided to supplement any power provided by the user(s).

Abstract: A ergonomic tandem bicycle suitable for riders with some limited physical capabilities. The ergonomic tandem bicycle includes an elongated frame with an angled steering column attached to the front portion that positions the front wheel substantially in front of the frame, and the handlebars towards the rear. A transmission assembly includes the necessary pedal sprockets, along with idler sprockets that maintain continuous contact between the sprockets and the long drive chain required with this type of design. The seat is positioned in such a manner so as to allow the riders to sit in a near vertical position.

Abstract: A tandem adapter frame that attaches to the back of a single-rider bicycle, transforming the bicycle into a tandem bicycle. The rear wheel of the single-rider bicycle is removed from the bicycle and installed on the back end of the adapter frame. The adapter frame is attached to the single-rider bicycle at the seat post and the rear dropouts, resulting in a rigid 3-point connection. This transforms the single-rider bicycle into a rigid frame, two wheel, tandem bicycle with a rider in front and a rider in back. Both riders have pedals. An adapter axle assembly with sprockets on the lower front of the adapter frame serves two functions. It easily attaches between the rear dropouts of the single-rider bicycle using a standard axle and quick-release, and it transmits drive power to the rear crank without modifying the drive chain of the single-rider bicycle.

Abstract: Tricycle and intermediate frame for tricycle. The tricycle includes a rear axle, rear wheels coupled to free ends of the rear axle, a rear seat, and a rear frame coupled to the rear axle and to the rear seat. A front frame includes a fork tube, and the front frame and the rear frame are detachably connectable to each other. The tricycle also includes a handlebar, and a fork coupled to the handle bar. The fork is rotatably coupled to the fork tube. A front wheel includes pedal cranks and is rotatably coupled to the fork. A second seat and a holding element are also included. The intermediate frame is arranged to support the second seat and the holding element, and is detachably coupled between the front frame and the rear frame.

Abstract: A bicycle sidecar includes a frame. A protective skin covers the frame. A wheel is connected to the frame. A connector system is used to attach the frame to a bicycle. A seat is and a grab bar are connected to the frame. A pedal assembly is mounted to the frame. A transmission system is connected to the pedal assembly. A pedal adapter assembly connects the transmission system to the bicycle.

Abstract: A recumbent vehicle including parallel paired recumbent bicycles operatively and reversibly joined by a bracing assembly having less than four brace members, is provided. The parallel paired recumbent bicycles are easily separable, without the need for tools, for individual riding. A conversion kit for reversibly uniting a pair of recumbent bicycles so as to form a recumbent quad is similarly provided. The kit generally includes a bracing assembly including a pair of braces, and brackets adapted to reversibly receive portions of the braces therein. One of the brackets is a front bracket with another of the brackets being a rear bracket. The front bracket is supported by a front triangle of a diamond frame of the recumbent bicycle, with the rear bracket being supported by a rear triangle of the diamond frame.

Abstract: A tandem adapter frame that attaches to the back of a single-rider bicycle, transforming the bicycle into a tandem bicycle. The rear wheel of the single-rider bicycle is removed from the bicycle and installed on the back end of the adapter frame. The adapter frame is attached to the single-rider bicycle at the seat post and the rear dropouts, resulting in a rigid 3-point connection. This transforms the single-rider bicycle into a rigid frame, two wheel, tandem bicycle with a rider in front and a rider in back. Both riders have pedals. An adapter axle assembly with sprockets on the lower front of the adapter frame serves two functions. It easily attaches between the rear dropouts of the single-rider bicycle using a standard axle and quick-release, and it transmits drive power to the rear crank without modifying the drive chain of the single-rider bicycle.

Abstract: A unidirectional rotating assembly, a bicycle powering mechanism, and a bicycle using the same are disclosed. The unidirectional rotating assembly allows a chainring to rotate while the crank and axle remains still. The bicycling powering mechanism combines the unidirectional rotating assembly with a powering device. The powering device is coupled to the unidirectional rotating assembly through a drive ring. This allows the powering device to drive the unidirectional assembly, thereby driving the chainring. When the bicycling power mechanism is part of a bike, the chainring is connected to the rear wheel of the bike through a chain and rear sprockets. Because of this, the bicycling powering mechanism can propel the bike while the cranks are stationary. Additionally, a person using a bike having this configuration is still able to shift gears. Thus, the bicycling power mechanism need not be designed with gearing.

Abstract: A recumbent vehicle including parallelally paired recumbent bicycles operatively and reversibly joined by a bracing assembly having less than four brace members, is provided. The parallelally paired recumbent bicycles are easily separable, without the need for tools, for individual riding. A conversion kit for reversibly uniting a pair of recumbent bicycles so as to form a recumbent quad is similarly provided. The kit generally includes a bracing assembly including a pair of braces, and brackets adapted to reversibly receive portions of the braces therein. One of the brackets is a front bracket with another of the brackets being a rear bracket. The front bracket is supported by a front triangle of a diamond frame of the recumbent bicycle, with the rear bracket being supported by a rear triangle of the diamond frame.

Abstract: A wheeled vehicle having plural wheels referenced to a frame. The vehicle includes plural seats. Human power applied through handles and the seats converts and balances a first oscillatory motion along a first axis into rotational motion, while simultaneously converting oscillatory motion along a second axis into motion about an axis connected to a reference frame. The first oscillatory motion is output for useful work. The second oscillatory motion is used for vehicle control. The vehicle may be used in a stationary state as both a teamwork and physical-conditioning device and to generate power for useful work while the vehicle is stationary. Alternately, the power generated by the occupants may couple through a transmission to rotational motion to drive wheels, and thus to propel the vehicle. Precise steering control is provided for when the vehicle is being propelled.

Abstract: A motive vehicle comprises a frame, a front wheel, two rear wheels, a seat, a handle, a headset, and a pedal device. A front sprocket is coupled to the pedal device and a rear sprocket is connected to a differential. The motive vehicle is powered by human pedaling. The differential communicates with the rear wheels to allow the vehicle to turn on a zero turn radius. The wheels are attached to the frame with an attachment apparatus that allows for easy detachability. The seat is also detachable and adjustable. Brake cams are attached to the frame, and engage the rear wheels when the bike is pedaled backwards. An alternative embodiment comprises a multiple operator motive vehicle, wherein a rear vehicle with two wheels is coupled to a front vehicle having three wheels. Further, another two-wheeled follower unit may be coupled to the first rear vehicle for a greater number of riders. Additional attachments may also be made.

Abstract: A recumbent cycling apparatus is provided that includes a frame structure, wheels rotatably attached to supporting the frame structure, and a central frame element configured to absorb and reduce the forces transmitted through the frame structure to a user. The frame structure has a front frame section and a back frame section that are substantially parallel to the ground. The central frame element is a curved elongated member composed of chromoly steel that is attached to the front frame section and the back frame section and extends therebetween. The central frame element is configured to allow the front frame section and the back frame section to move substantially independently in response forces exerted on the wheels. The central frame element is disposed in a substantially vertical plane above the back frame section and the front frame section and is substantially perpendicular thereto. A pair of recumbent seats are mounted on the back frame section in a side-by-side relationship.

Abstract: A coupling device for coupling an adult bicycle to a child's bicycle. The coupling device includes a linking bar having a generally flattened "S"-shaped configuration such that the front wheel of the child's bicycle is in a spaced relationship relative to the ground surface when the child's bicycle is being towed by the adult's bicycle. The linking bar can be readily attached to both the adult's bicycle and the child's bicycle by respective attachment components. A releasable locking structure is provided for stabilizing the handle bar of the child's bicycle thus allowing a child to grasp onto the a handle bar for stability while being pulled by the adult's bicycle.

Abstract: An assembly for supplying inflation fluid to an inflatable vehicle occupant restraint is provided which includes at least a first gas-supplying cartridge and a diffuser element having a base and a cap. The base forms at least first and second gas-supplying cartridge accepting sections. The first gas-supplying cartridge accepting section is adapted to accept the first gas-supplying cartridge in first inflation medium communicating relationship. The cap includes a plurality of outlet openings wherethrough inflation fluid can be emitted into fluid communication with the inflatable vehicle occupant restraint.

Abstract: A three-person bicycle (20) having two of the riding positions situated between a front wheel (22) and a rear wheel (26), and the third riding position situated behind the rear wheel (26). Bicycle (20) includes a front first seat (34), a middle second seat (36), and a third rear seat (38) connected to a frame (32). Front seat (34) and second seat (36) are located on frame (32) between front axle (24) and rear axle (28). Third rear seat (38) is connected to frame (32) behind rear axle (28) and rear wheel (26).

Abstract: A recreational bicycle apparatus includes side-by-side, interconnected bicycles, each of which is independently geared so that each rider can pedal at a different pace. The steering systems of the bicycles are linked so that either driver can steer using conventional handlebars. The position of comfortable, straight backed seats can be adjusted to suit the user. The apparatus is equipped with a positive trim or levelling mechanism for simultaneously changing the cant of both bicycles when riding on an inclined surface such as the sloping side of a roadway near a curb when crossing a hill. The levelling mechanism permits approximately 30.degree. of adjustment, i.e. 15.degree. on either side of level center.

Abstract: A combination exercise and land travel device includes a forwardly facing pedalling station from which a first operator propels the device and a steering control at the pedalling station. The device further includes a rowing station usable by a second operator to provide further propulsion for the device in addition to that provided at the pedalling station.

Abstract: A foldable bicycle designed so when the bicycle is folded, the front and rear frames bypass each other (non-overlapping) to permit a complete folding position and using a fold on or near the seat tube, and to maintain a rigid open riding position with simple standard fold restraining devices.

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 coupler for coupling two standard bicycles together to form a tandem tricycle. The coupler includes a clamp for clamping the coupler to one of the tines of the seat stays of the leading bicycle and further includes a quick release clamp for releasably gripping one of the tines of the front fork of the trailing bicycle. The quick release clamp is rotatable about a transverse axis relative to the clamp, so the trailing bicycle is likewise rotatable about a transverse axis relative to the leading bicycle. This permits the trailing bicycle to pitch independently of the leading bicycle, thereby allowing the two bicycles to smoothly traverse uneven terrain.

Abstract: A coupling device for coupling a second bicycle to a first bicycle, both the bicycles having front and rear wheels mounted on corresponding axles, both the bicycles also having a bicycle frame, each of the bicycle frames including a seat post, a handle bar, a forked yoke, a pair of rear axle supporting plates and a head tube. The coupling device includes a linking bar, a first bicycle attachment component for pivotally attaching the linking bar to the first bicycle; a second bicycle attachment component for pivotally attaching the linking bar to the second bicycle. One of the main features of the device is a wheel supporting component for releasably supporting the front wheel of the second bicycle. Another main feature of the device is a stabilizing component for stabilizing the handlebar of the second bicycle when the linking bar is attached to the second bicycle and for supporting linking bar when the latter is not attached to the second bicycle.

Abstract: A separable tandem bicycle includes a front bicycle frame, a rear bicycle frame, and a connecting member which interconnects a front seat tube of the front bicycle frame and a down tube of the rear bicycle frame. The connecting member is detachable from the front seat tube and is foldable over the down tube. A handle bar is detachably mounted to the connecting member. Due to the separable and foldable construction, the tandem bicycle can be put in a package with a reduced size and can be easily stored or transported conveniently.

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 drive train for a tandem bicycle, in which the riders are positioned one behind the other, comprising a transverse intermediate shaft mounted on the bottom tube of a tandem bicycle between the two standard bottom brackets for the respective riders. Chains driven by the respective riders drive separate sprockets, each having an independent free-wheel driving connections to the intermediate shaft and being smaller than the respective chainring which drives it. The intermediate shaft has one or more relatively small chain rings to drive the rear sprockets of the bicycle. The driven rings of the intermediate shaft are smaller than the respective crossover chainrings so that the intermediate shaft is driven at a higher speed than the respective pedal cadences. So that a given gear ratio variation between largest and smallest drive rings may be achieved with a smaller arithmetic gap between the number of teeth on the drive rings.

Abstract: Apparatus for mounting a housing for an inflatable vehicle occupant restraint module to a vehicle steering wheel armature includes at least two snap-in fasteners for holding the housing in assembled relation with the armature. A resiliently compressible member is interposed intermediate the steering wheel armature and the housing to permit overtravel of the snap-in fasteners relative to the armature during assembly with the housing and to thereafter exert a force upon the housing to maintain a firm engagement of the snap-in fasteners with the housing and with the armature, and thereby maintain engagement between the housing and the armature.