Abstract: A motorcycle low-profile positioning creeper allows a medium to large motorcycle to be easily mounted on the positioning creeper and easily moved to any desired position on a horizontal surface such as a showroom floor or storage area. The positioning creeper comprises a low slung H-frame body and four rotatable wheels. The low slung H-frame body is a plate and comprises four corners and four protrusions. The four protrusions protrude upward and outward respectively from the corners and are separated from adjacent longitudinal protrusions a distance greater than a motorcycle tire width. The four rotatable wheels are mounted respectively under the four protrusions.

Abstract: This invention provides a stabilizing system and method for two-wheeled vehicles (typically small, human-powered bicycles) that affords the rider no restriction on the full range of movements (banks, leans, etc.) common to bicycles, but that provides greater stability during turns and other maneuvers so that an unintentional bank or tilt (potentially causing a fall) is less likely, even at relatively slow speeds and startup. A rotating mass of predetermined mass-value and radial mass-distribution is provided coaxially with the front axle. The mass is supported on bearings so as to freewheel with respect to the rotation of the front wheel. As such it can be induced to spin significantly faster than the front wheel thereby generating a gyroscopic effect at the front wheel about the axle. This gyroscopic effect influences the steering of the wheel by the rider. Due to precession, the wheel tends to follow any excessive bank by the bicycle, ensuring that the rider can “steer-out-of” an unintended tilt or bank.

Abstract: A powered retractable motorcycle stand is disclosed having a stationary upper assembly mounted to a motorcycle and a moving lower assembly for ground contact. The stationary assembly includes a horizontal driven shaft coupled to an electric motor coupled. Gear reduction means transfers torque from the horizontal shaft to a vertical screw shaft that extends to a ground contact position and retracts into a protective housing. The vertical screw shaft is pinned so that it does not rotate and is restricted to linear movement. A safety device to prevent operation of the motorcycle while the stand is engaged is included. Motorcycle anti-theft means are also included.

Abstract: A collapsible stand for bicycle includes a body having a first end, a second end, and a chamber which can receive a crank of a bicycle. A positioning device is movable in the chamber and selectively lockable at the first and the second end of the body. Two supporting legs, each supporting leg includes a first end being pivotally connected with the positioning device and a second end adapted to abut against a supporting surface, wherein the supporting legs are received in the body when the positioning device is at first end of the body, wherein the supporting legs are exposed from the body when the positioning device is at second end of the body.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are disclosed for passive stabilization of a wheeled object by employing secondary wheels rotating about secondary axes offset from a common axis of a primary set of wheels, where the secondary wheels are positioned such that tilting of the object during rolling causes one of the secondary wheels to contact the surface and counteract tilting tendencies. The offset of the secondary axes can include angular, vertical, and/or horizontal components.

Abstract: A bicycle training aid has dynamically deployable balancing mechanisms that are used when teaching a child to ride a bicycle. The balancing mechanisms can be in the form of deployable training wheels that are actuated when the child becomes unstable on the bicycle. One mechanism for deploying the balancing mechanisms is a remote control, held by an adult supervisor, who can remotely deploy the balancing mechanisms when the adult observes that the child may be losing his or her balance. Alternatively, a pressure sensor may be used to sense when the child's foot comes off a pedal.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a motorcycle anti-tipover device that has telescoping support arms that extend to the ground. The support arms are automatically extending when the motorcycle is stationary or moving at low speeds to prevent the motorcycle from tipping over. The telescoping support arms may also serve as a traditional kickstand, or may be used to lift the motorcycle during servicing. Alternatively, an airbag may be deployed underneath the motorcycle to prevent the motorcycle from tipping over.

Abstract: This invention is a bicycle trainer, which is attached to the back wheel as well as the bolt of the bike seat of a bicycle that is being operated by a child. This will allow a parent to travel safely behind a bicycle and teach his or her child how to balance on a bicycle so that he or she may ride safely while at the same time minimizing injuries due to falls.

Abstract: A unicycle includes an n-shaped fork and a wheel rotatably mounted between two lower ends of the fork via a drive axle. The drive axle has two opposite ends each having a crank mounted thereon. A pedal mounted on a free end of each crank. A seat post is longitudinally and securely mounted on an upper end of the fork. A seat is attached to a free end of the seat post. A curved sleeve is connected to the seat post and concentrically corresponds with the wheel. A connecting post is telescopically received in the curved sleeve. The connecting post has a free end with two opposite sides each having an L-shaped linkage mounted thereon. Two auxiliary wheels each is rotatably mounted on a free end of each linkage.

Abstract: A stand for a two wheeled vehicle having a hollow axle comprising, the stand having a telescoping support assembly having a foot at a first end thereof, the telescoping support assembly being extendable between an unextended position and an extended position and being releasably lockable in the extended position, a latch for releasably maintaining the telescoping support assembly in the extended position, a first member being disposable at first and second angular positions relative to a second end of the telescoping support assembly, the first angular position being coaxial with the telescoping support assembly and the second angular position being a predetermined angle with respect to the telescoping support assembly, the first member being releasably lockable in the second angular position. The stand is configured to fit and be retained within a hollow axle for storage, and to be deployed to provide a side stand using the hollow axle for reference to the two wheeled vehicle.

Abstract: A kickstand puck were it's thickness matches the gap between the frame and isolation pad of a motorcycle floorboard. The two end shapes are formed to match the inside form of the outboard side of a floorboard frame. A groove down the center of one side of the puck is at a width and depth to match the full form of the inboard side of a floorboard frame.

Abstract: A height adjustable motorcycle training wheel apparatus including a base plate that is detachably attachable to the underside of a motorcycle engine case or frame. A detachably attachable axle is attached to the base plate and a pair of auxiliary wheels are rotatably maintained thereon. The axle includes a series of bends that create a secondary axle axis that is parallel to and offset from the primary axle axis. The distance between the auxiliary wheels and the riding surface may be adjusted by detaching the axle from the base plate, rotating the axle to the desired position, and reattaching the axle to the base plate.

Abstract: A method and apparatus and for stabilizing a motorcycle or similar two wheeled, single tread vehicle during turning maneuvers incorporating at least one support member connected laterally and extending outwards from a side of the motorcycle frame. The distal end of each support member comprises a type of contact point for providing contact with the road surface. The length and angle from the motorcycle of each support member may be adjustable in order to control the lean angle of the motorcycle for more safe and confident turning maneuvers at various speeds and corner radii. In addition, the support members are non-cumbersome allowing normal operation of a motorcycle, and provide safety features that reduce both the possibility of having an accident and the seriousness of certain “unavoidable” crashes.

Abstract: A motorcycle including a frame, an engine mounted to the frame, and a stand movable between an extended position in which the stand supports the motorcycle and a retracted position. The motorcycle includes a sensor operable to generate a stand signal indicative of at least one of the extended and retracted positions of the side stand and a controller electrically coupled to the sensor to receive the stand signal. The controller is programmed for preventing operation of the engine based on the stand signal during a first operating condition of the motorcycle and is further programmed to allow running of the engine during a second operating condition of the motorcycle, regardless of the stand signal.

Abstract: A motorcycle transport stand has cycle support arms that move between a load position in which they are spaced apart a greater distance to receive the rear wheel of a motorcycle and a secured position in which they are spaced apart a lesser distance to prevent excessive lateral movement of the motorcycle rear wheel.

Abstract: An improved portable bicycle stand comprised of an elongated rigid member with a stand head and stand foot. The head is shaped so as to positively engage a bicycle frame above its center of gravity. The foot is shaped so as to positively engage a ground surface. The elongated rigid member is formed from a plurality of interlocking tubular segments, which are collapsible for portability.

Abstract: A three-wheeled stroller has a kickstand movable between a retracted position and a deployed position. When deployed, the kickstand has a pair of downwardly extending legs on either side of the front wheel to help prevent a tipping condition when an occupant enters or exits the stroller. Either a foot-operated actuator or a hand-operated actuator may be used to remotely operate the kickstand. In the case of a foot-operated actuator, stepping on a foot-operated brake bar can both operate the kickstand and immobilize one or more rear wheels to brake the stroller.

Abstract: A training wheel assembly for standard bicycles comprises training wheels connected by resilient legs to a dynamic compression fitting. The wheels project generally rearwardly and outwardly apart from the bicycle rear. Adjustable mounting brackets enable wheel height to be varied. The dynamic compression fitting comprises an adjustable flange section mounted to the bicycle frame within the standard trapezoidal void to the rear of the crank sleeve. A pair of yoke segments can be slidably adjusted to accommodate varying dimensions. An intermediate flexing section resiliently coupled beneath the flange section receives ends of the legs and establishes an up and down pivot. A damper section connected beneath the intermediate section comprises a rigid, tubular sleeve that slidably receives a tubular cap. A resilient grommet coaxially confined between the sleeve and the cap is compressed by an elongated through bolt coaxially penetrating the compression fitting. The bolt establishes a radial pivot.

Abstract: A motorcycle includes at least a first auxiliary member mounted on a body of the motorcycle for contacting a road and providing assistance to the motorcycle body to support itself, when necessary, and a second auxiliary member mounted on the motorcycle body, wherein the second auxiliary member is inflatable, in order to contact the road to support the motorcycle body, in addition to the first auxiliary member.

Abstract: An air propulsion device for laterally stabilizing a motorcycle in an upright position when stopped. The device includes a substantially rectangular shaped plate having a top, bottom, first and second opposing sides. A pair of brackets are mounted to the first and second sides of the plate for attaching the device to the motorcycle. An air-flow generator unit is integrally attached to the top of the plate for generating and controlling pneumatic pressure within the air propulsion device, and has a first and second hose attached thereto. A skirting is integrally attached to the bottom of the plate for inflating and deflating.

Abstract: A system is provided that permits access to one or more components of the power train of a straddle type vehicle (or another internal component or components) without requiring such component to protrude from the body cover of the vehicle. The system can comprise a foot area that includes a foot platform for placing one's feet, an opening positioned above at least the component of the power train, and a cover for permitting the opening to be opened and closed. This system, for example, allows a user to access the oil filler port of the engine via the opening in the foot area in order to add oil to the engine of the vehicle. The system can also include a foot platform comprising a first level and a second level where the second level is located at a higher elevation relative to the first level.

Abstract: An embodiment of the EZ-Up Ride Off Vertical Motorcycle Center Stand is comprised of a frame bracket assembly and a H-bracket assembly. To operate the embodiment, the user pushes downward on the lever while still on the motorcycle and the stand rotates underneath the motorcycle and imposes a force upward on the rear end of the motorcycle sufficient to hold the motorcycle up in the vertical position. This motion transfers enough weight to the center stand to stabilize the motorcycle without the motorcycle tipping over. Because this is accomplished with the rear wheel still on the ground there is sufficient traction for the motorcycle to drive off of the center stand with one or two passengers by utilizing the power of the motor. Also by locking the stand in the parked, upright position, theft is much more difficult as the bike cannot be simply rolled away.

Abstract: An apparatus for attaching to a bicycle, the apparatus comprising a support frame including a rearward portion and a pair of spaced members extending forwardly for receiving the rear wheel and for attachment to the rear wheel axle of the bicycle. A pair of angled brace members are each attached at one end to the support frame and extend forwardly and upwardly for attachment to the bicycle frame. A rear member is attached at one end to the support frame. An elongated platform is rigidly attached to the rearward end of the rear member such that the platform extends transversely of the longitudinal axis of the bicycle frame. A wheel assembly is attached to the platform. The wheel assembly is out of engagement with a surface upon which the bicycle is located when the front and rear wheels are in contact with the surface. The wheel assembly engages the surface at a point rearward of the bicycle upon rearward rotation of the bicycle by raising the front wheel of the bicycle from the surface.

Abstract: A bicycle training aid has dynamically deployable balancing mechanisms that are used when teaching a child to ride a bicycle. The balancing mechanisms can be in the form of deployable training wheels that are actuated when the child becomes unstable on the bicycle. One mechanism for deploying the balancing mechanisms is a remote control, held by an adult supervisor, who can remotely deploy the balancing mechanisms when the adult observes that the child may be losing his or her balance. Alternatively, a pressure sensor may be used to sense when the child's foot comes off a pedal.

Abstract: A stand for supporting a motorcycle and the like at a convenient height so that the space between the wheels under the seat carriage are accessible for repair and servicing of otherwise hard to reach parts, having a cradle like support that supports the undercarriage. The stand includes a pair of upper arms fixedly spaced apart from each other at an angle that prevents the motorcycle from rolling off the stand and a pair of lower arms that can serve as a base for a work tray. The upper and lower arms are joined to vertical arms that allow unrestricted access to each side of the undercarriage. In addition, an optional side plate attachment may be affixed to the vertical arms for rider or motorcycle information and/or advertisement. Optional wheels may be used on the bottom of the rack to move it from place to place.

Abstract: This invention provides a stabilizing system and method for two-wheeled vehicles (typically small, human-powered bicycles) that affords the rider no restriction on the full range of movements (banks, leans, etc.) common to bicycles, but that provides greater stability during turns and other maneuvers so that an unintentional bank or tilt (potentially causing a fall) is less likely, even at relatively slow speeds and startup. A rotating mass of predetermined mass-value and radial mass-distribution is provided coaxially with the front axle. The mass is supported on bearings so as to freewheel with respect to the rotation of the front wheel. As such it can be induced to spin significantly faster than the front wheel thereby generating a gyroscopic effect at the front wheel about the axle. This gyroscopic effect influences the steering of the wheel by the rider. Due to precession, the wheel tends to follow any excessive bank by the bicycle, ensuring that the rider can “steer-out-of” an unintended tilt or bank.

Abstract: A stabilizing device with an tubular housing is disclosed. The tubular housing may be manufactured to provide the torsion assembly an ability to rotate from a first position to a second position without substantially changing the angle of the stabilizing wheels and thus allows a motorcycle to turn through turns at low or high speeds without tipping over. The tubular housing further contains an elastic receiver the absorbs the rotational force of the torsion assembly and upon removal of the gravitational force of the motorcycle, the elastic receiver provides a retracting force on the torsion assembly to return the orientation of the torsion assembly to the original first position.

Abstract: A tricycle includes a mainframe with front and rear sections. The front section may include a steering assembly with a rotatable wheel. The rear section may provide support for two spaced wheels and may be configured to provide a substantially unencumbered open area between the spaced wheels. The tricycle features a guide handle removeably connected to the tricycle and a locking mechanism configured to lock the steering assembly in a predetermined stationary position.

Abstract: A motorcycle foot peg having a body portion adapted to bear the weight of a rider. The body portion will fold up about the mounting shaft, which is connected to the frame of the motorcycle by way of cradle mount brackets that sandwich the mounting shaft between engine and brackets. The mounting shaft support tabs with holes that correspond to the engine mounting threaded holes. The cradle mount brackets have corresponding holes to align with engine and mounting shaft tabs. The cradle mount brackets, mounting shaft and engine, will support the rider's weight on the foot peg load.

Abstract: A support for use with a two wheeled vehicle, such as a motorcycle, having a kickstand arm adapted to support the vehicle in a parked condition with the kickstand arm at ground level. The support has a much larger area than that of the free end of the kickstand, thereby avoiding embedding of the free end of the kickstand in the ground or pavement on which the motorcycle is parked. An adjustable length lanyard couples the support member to a selected part of the motorcycle, thereby facilitating retrieval of the support when its use no longer is necessary.

Abstract: A control linkage system for permitting a user to control functions of a motorcycle from different foot positions. The control linkage system includes a shifting assembly being designed for being operationally coupled to a transmission of the motorcycle for permitting the user to actuate the shifting assembly to shift the transmission of the motorcycle to change gears. The shifting assembly is designed for permitting the user to position a foot of the user in a variety of positions A braking assembly is designed for being operationally coupled to a rear brake system of the motorcycle whereby the braking assembly is positioned on an opposite side of the motorcycle from the shifting assembly for permitting the user to actuate a rear brake of the motorcycle to slow the motorcycle. The braking assembly is designed for permitting a foot of the user to be positioned in a variety of positions.

Abstract: A stand device for a motorcycle includes an interlocking mechanism having a coil-formed stand spring connected to a stand at one end thereof. A spring support member has a spring support portion connected with the other end of the stand spring and is interlocked and connected to an operating element so that the position of the spring support portion can be changed according to a manual operation of an operating element. The position of the spring support portion determined according to the operation of the operating element toward the erect position side is so set that the stand spring is put in the state of urging the stand toward the erect position side.

Abstract: A toolless folding bicycle for facilitating storing and transporting a bicycle when not in use is provided. The toolless folding bicycle includes a bicycle assembly being designed for being ridden by a user across a support surface. The bicycle assembly comprises a frame member, a drive assembly and a steering assembly. The drive assembly is operationally coupled to the frame member whereby the drive assembly engages the support surface. The drive assembly is designed for being actuated by the user whereby the drive assembly propels the frame member across the support surface when the drive assembly is actuated by the user. The frame member is designed for supporting the user when the user is seated on the frame member. The drive assembly is operationally coupled to the frame member for steering the frame member across the support surface when the drive assembly propels the frame member.

Abstract: A flexible training wheel assembly fitted on each side of the rear wheel (10) of a bicycle, each training wheel assembly comprising: an upper bracket (1) removeably attached to the bicycle axle (11), a visco-elastic connector (2) attached to the upper bracket (1), and a lower arm (3) attached to the visco-elastic connector (2) at one end and to a training wheel (6) at the other end.

Abstract: A virtual reality bicycle-training simulation platform is disclosed to include a rotary steering unit and rear wheel rack that support the front and rear wheels of a bicycle and are linked to a multimedia system for outputting a signal to the multimedia system indicative of the biasing of the front wheel of the bicycle and controllable by the multimedia system to impart a damping resistance to the rear wheel of the bicycle.

Abstract: A push handle for a child's vehicle has an elongated body with at least two elongated tubes of different diameters configured in a telescoping relation where the tube(s) of smaller diameters are slidable within the tube(s) of larger diameters between an extended state and a retracted state. The tubes include a top tube with a top end and a bottom tube. The bottom tube is fixed to the child's vehicle. A grip is mounted on the top end of the top tube for gripping by a user's hand. A locking mechanism is disposed within the body for locking the tubes in either the extended state or the retracted state. A release device is disposed on the body and activated for remotely unlocking the locking mechanism so that the body may be moved between the extended and retracted states.

Abstract: A motorcycle jack having a “C” channel beam, the “C” channel beam having a web and having left and right flanges, the web having an upper end, the left flange having a first pin receiving aperture therethrough, the right flange having a second pin receiving aperture therethrough; a lift arm having a third pin receiving aperture therethrough and having an upper end; a pivot pin extending through the first, second, and third pin receiving apertures, the lift arm being pivotable between first and second positions, the lift arm being housed between the “C” channel beam's left and right flanges while in the first position, the lift arm contacting the “C” channel beam's web's upper end while in the second position; and a motorcycle hub engaging bar pivoting attached to the upper end of the lift arm.

Abstract: A two-wheeled vehicle uprighting device having a support bar with a stabilizing base on one end and a ratcheting mechanism on another end, a cable sling adapted for attachment to a lower portion of the two-wheeled vehicle, and a flexible lifting member with a first end adapted for attachment to the cable sling and a second end for engaging relationship about a spindle of said ratchet mechanism.

Abstract: A safety handles assembly is provided attachable to a motorcycle which provides a place for hands of a rear passenger to hold directly onto the motorcycle without requiring that the rear passenger hold onto the driver of the motorcycle. The assembly preferably includes a main strap girding a seat or other structure on the motorcycle. A pair of handles are coupled to the main strap and extend upwardly and rearwardly toward the rear passenger. The handles are preferably flexible and include hand loops at ends of the handles opposite the main strap. The hand loops can be engaged by hands of the rear passenger so that the rear passenger is holding onto the motorcycle through the assembly. The assembly is preferably positioned with the main strap forward of the driver and with the handles extending upwardly and rearwardly over the legs of the driver and around opposite sides of the waist of the driver.

Abstract: A tow bar having a first connection mechanism with a forward projection for connecting to a conventional receiver hitch of a towing vehicle, a second connection mechanism for connecting to a towed vehicle, and a third connection mechanism having a ball member rotatively captured with a socket member and a pair of towbar arms pivotally-connected to an exposed portion of the ball member for connecting the first connection mechanism to the second connection mechanism. The tow bar also includes a securing mechanism for locking the tow bar in a stowed configuration on the rear of the towing vehicle.

Abstract: An adjustable kickstand is constructed from a fixed kickstand body (110) and an extendable leg (150). The extendable leg (150) is effectively lengthened by the use of at least one spacing element (120a–120e). When at the proper length, the kickstand is mounted to a vehicle so as to prop the vehicle up at a predetermined angle, while providing sufficient force on a support foot (152) on a distal end of extendable leg (150) to prevent slippage on a parking surface.

Abstract: A collapsible stand for a bicycle includes a hooking element for hooking a down tube of the bicycle. An upper palming element is pivotally connected with the hooking element for palming a bottom bracket of the bicycle. A lower palming element is pivotally connected with the upper palming element for palming the bottom bracket. A telescopic device is connected with the lower palming element. Two legs are pivotally connected with the telescopic device for cooperating with the front wheel in order to form a three-point supporting situation.

Abstract: In a vehicle body-protecting device for a two-wheeled motor vehicle, in which a pair of left and right guard members are mounted to a vehicle body frame assembly to overhang laterally outwards, so that when the two-wheeled motor vehicle is turned sideways, said guard members are allowed to be grounded, whereby the grounding of an outer surface of a vehicle body is diminished, each of the guard members is formed by connecting a ground element which is grounded upon the turning-sideways of the two-wheeled motor vehicle to a mounting base secured to the vehicle body frame assembly through an elastic element for swinging movement. Thus, it is possible to eliminate the need for the special strengthening of the vehicle body frame assembly in such a manner that a shock due to the turning-sideways of the two-wheeled motor vehicle can be received on the vehicle body frame assembly, while being buffered.

Abstract: A tricycle, including at least one frame, at least one front wheel, which is disposed in the front region of the frame, when viewed with respect to the preferred travel direction of the tricycle, and is steerable via a steering handle, and at least two rear wheels which are disposed in the rear region of the frame when viewed with respect to the preferred travel direction, wherein pivotal means are provided, which permit the rear wheels to be pivotable.

Abstract: A single-piece side wheel attachment member for removably attaching an auxiliary side wheel to a bicycle is provided. The attachment member has a single-piece molded structure, including an upper vertical portion and a lower substantially horizontal spindle portion connected through a C-shaped compliant structure for allowing the spindle portion to move vertically when subjected to force. In its natural unbiased condition, the vertical and horizontal portions of the member extend generally perpendicular to one another. The upper vertical portion includes a projection and at least one through-hole for insertion on the rear wheel axle of the bicycle. The horizontal spindle portion is rotatably engaged by the auxiliary side wheel, therefore acting as its axle. Both ends of the attachment member can angularly move relative to one another due to the C-shaped compliant structure.

Abstract: A kick stand assembly for a baby stroller includes a first link and a second link respectively connected to a rear post of the baby stroller and a kick stand has one end pivotably connected to the first link and the second link is pivotably connected to a mediate portion of the kick stand. When the stroller is folded, the kick stand is stretched outward by pivoting the first and second links, and the other end of the kick stand contacts the ground. The folded stroller is then supported on the kick stand.

Abstract: A two-wheeled vehicle uprighting device having a support bar with a stabilizing base on one end and a ratcheting mechanism on another end, and a lifting strap with a first end adapted for attachment to a lower portion of the two-wheeled vehicle and a second end for engaging relationship about a spindle of said ratchet mechanism.

Abstract: The auxiliary wheel attachment for a bicycle comprises flat metal strip material forming a frame that is rigid and strong enough to support the weight of an adult rider. The use of flat strip material allows the auxiliary wheel attachment to be fabricated using conventional metal cutting and bending techniques.

Abstract: A stabilization assembly (10) and a methodology for reducing lateral movement of a conveyance. Particularly, the assembly (10) comprises two opposing wheel-to-frame connector portions (36, 40) which are coupled to a conveyance (100), a first pair of wheels (12) which are each coupled to a respective one of the wheel-to-frame connector portions (36, 40) at a first width, a pair of generally S-shaped wheel-to-wheel connector portions (28, 32) which are each removably coupled to a respective one of the wheel-to-frame connector portions (36, 40), and a second pair of wheels (14) which are each coupled to a respective one of the wheel-to-wheel connector portions (28, 32) at a second width which is larger than the first width.

Abstract: A spring stand for motorcycles for making a return spring invisible from the outside to provide a neat appearance. A side stand is installed on a side lower section of a motorcycle body through a stand bracket. The side stand is formed on a pipe-shape in which a return spring and an engaging member which is biased in the projecting direction by the return spring are provided. A roller provided at the top section of the engaging member is caused to mount a mounting section provided on a stand bracket and to selectively engage a second engaging recession or a stand switch.