Reconfigurable wheeled vehicle

#Generally, the present invention relates to a children's ride-on vehicle convertible from a training configuration to a more experienced rider configuration. More specifically, the present invention relates to a ride-on vehicle that is adapted to evolve between a tricycle configuration and a bicycle configuration. Tricycles exist for use by young children. For older children, bicycles, optionally fitted with stabilizing side wheels (a.k.a. “training wheels”) also exist. The present invention provides a solution to the new problem of adaptability and interchangeability of cycles, notably cycles for use by children.

#As the motor skills of children develop, parents who purchased a tricycle are obliged to then fairly quickly purchase a bicycle fitted with removable stabilizing training wheels. Apart from the problem of cost, a learning problem may arise due to the physical change between a tricycle and a different bicycle product. The apparatus of the instant invention comprises an attachment which may be manufactured in at least two forms and utilized to convert a tricycle into a bicycle for use by a child in converting from a standard tricycle to a bicycle, the converted tricycle of the instant invention being designed for use by a child during the transition period between his riding a tricycle and his riding a conventional bicycle.

#Thus, the present invention not only provides a two-wheeled ride-on vehicle for use by a small child in learning to ride a conventional bicycle, but does so in a conventional tricycle-type ride-on vehicle with a frame and feel with which the child is basically familiar and accustomed to. Also, a tricycle converted in accordance with the present invention produces an extremely low bicycle-type ride-on vehicle which may be readily handled by a small child with assurance that he will not fall from the greater height at which he would be riding if he was riding even a small bicycle of conventional design. A parent may convert his child's tricycle into a bicycle with a nominal effort and ultimately delay the greater expenditure involved in the purchase of a conventional bicycle until such time as the child has mastered riding the converted tricycle, at which time the child may easily make the transition to a conventional bicycle.

#FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a children's ride-on vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, with the children's ride-on vehicle configured in a first, stabilized riding position.

#FIG. 2 illustrates a front view of the children's ride-on vehicle of FIG. 1.

#FIG. 3 illustrates a rear perspective view of the children's ride-on vehicle of FIG. 1.

#Like reference numerals have been used to identify like elements throughout this disclosure.

#In accordance with the present invention, a children's ride-on vehicle is disclosed. The children's ride-on vehicle of the present invention is convertible from a training configuration to a more experienced rider configuration.

#FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a children's ride-on vehicle 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In the view shown, the children's ride-on vehicle 100 is configured in a first, stabilized riding position. In the first, stabilized riding position, the rear wheels 150A, 150B of the ride-on vehicle 100 are spaced apart on the rear axle in a tricycle configuration. The children's ride-on vehicle 100 of the present invention includes a seat 110, a steering assembly 120, frame members 130A, 130B, a front wheel 140, rear wheels 150A, 150B, a crankcase 160, and a crank/pedal assembly 170.