Self-propelled recreational vehicle

Abstract

A self-propelled vehicle, primarily for children, comprising rigid frame having elongated seat and leg rest, and backrest integrally formed with and making an internal angle with the seat rest which may be slightly greater than 90 degrees. Beneath the seat adjacent apex of the angle, the frame is mounted on supporting means journalled on an axle which connects a pair of enlarged drive wheels. In normal operating position, the leg rest is supported above the ground by a first caster-like wheel. A similar second caster-like wheel is mounted to an externally projecting support near upper end of the backrest, which in normal operating position is held off the ground. The vehicle is propelled forward in a linear direction by operating the drive wheels either by a system of foot pedals or hand cranks. In another modification, in which the position of the seat is lowered, the drive wheels are rotated manually by knobs near the periphery. When the rider applies pressure against the upper portion of backrest, the entire frame, including seat and backrest, rotates backwards through a small arc centered on the axle, causing the first caster-like wheel to be lifted off of the ground, and second caster-like wheel to contact and rest on the ground, so that rider is resting on his back, and legs supported by the front end of the vehicle in slightly raised position, in which position he can still cause the vehicle to move forward in linear fashion.