Freewheel clutch for a pedal vehicle and method of transmitting power using a freewheel clutch

A clutch for a pedal vehicle having pedals and a frame wherein the clutch is shiftable in two rotational directions, the clutch comprising:

• a first shaft which can rotate in two opposite directions upon corresponding rotation of pedals in each of the two opposite directions;
• a second shaft comprising an opening for receiving the first shaft, and an internal engaging surface;
• an engagement mechanism comprising an external engaging surface;
• a catch element secured to the first shaft;
• a fixed member comprising an opening for receiving the first shaft and an annular shoulder;
• a holding element for frictionally engaging the annular shoulder of the fixed member;
• and
• a spring element for preventing biasing of the engagement mechanism towards the first shaft,
• wherein rotation of pedals in one direction causes a corresponding rotation of the second shaft, and
• wherein rotation of pedals in an opposite direction causes a corresponding rotation of the second shaft.

A vehicle having a clutch, pedals and a frame wherein the clutch is shiftable in two rotational directions, the clutch comprising:

• a drive shaft which is rotatable in each of two directions upon corresponding rotation of the pedals in each of the two directions;
• a catch element fixedly secured to the drive shaft;
• a driven shaft;
• an engagement mechanism arranged between the drive shaft and the driven shaft;
• a fixed member;
• a holding element frictionally engaging the fixed member;
• and
• a spring element biased to release the engagement mechanism from engagement with the driven shaft,
• wherein the clutch allows the pedal vehicle to be moved in each of the two directions with or without corresponding movement of the pedals.