| 摘要 |
<p>An operator powered vehicle (200) configured to be ridden by an operator in an upright or forced weight position wherein muscle force provided to pedals (40A, 40B) is augmented by the weight of the operator (30) and by an upward force provided by the operator's arms on the handle bars (31A, 31B). Lever-type pedal arms (38A, 38B) having an up and down motion are employed and the pedal arms (38A, 38B) are coupled to the rear wheel (46) by one or two flexible drive cables (42). The cables (42) are wrapped about the rear wheel hub (70) in unsecured relation thereto so that the bicycle (200) may be moved backwardly without damage to the drive cable or to the wheel (46). The ends of the cables are tensioned to prevent the cables (42) from becoming unwrapped from the rear wheel hub (70). Means (43) are provided to permit disassembly of the steering (220) assembly and the front wheel (36) from the frame (32) to provide for ease of carrying and storage of the vehicle (200) when it is not being used. The mechanical advantage in certain embodiments decreases with pedal travel to effectively match the strength of the rider (30) as a function of leg extension.</p> |
