Patent Publication Number: US-11654994-B2

Title: Convertible motorized running cycle

Description:
RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. Utility patent application Ser. No. 15/949,026 filed Aug. 9, 2018, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,730,584, which is a Continuation-in-Part of U.S. Utility patent application Ser. No. 14/850,738 filed Sep. 10, 2015 and entitled “Convertible Motorized Running Cycle”, which is related and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/048,834 filed Sep. 11, 2014 and entitled “Motorized Running Cycle”, each of which is assigned to the same assignee with the same inventors, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     This invention relates generally to devices used to train children to properly learn how to balance and control a two wheeled vehicle such as a bicycle or a motorcycle. Secondarily, the invention relates to devices for training children how to use a throttle and brake to control a motor driven vehicle such as a small motorcycle. The invention allows for the growth of the child&#39;s skills from initial balance, to the more complex task of combining balance, throttle control, and braking, enabled by a lightweight form, low seat height and narrow foot platform. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     This section describes the background art of the disclosed embodiments of the present invention. There is no intention, either express or implied, that the background art discussed in this section legally constitutes prior art. 
     There have been a number of recent advancements in the techniques and devices to use to teach children how to ride a bicycle. One example has been the use of a balance bike, also called a running bike, similar to that referenced in U.S. Patent Publication No. US2010/0052287 to Mcfarland (“McFarland”). The McFarland vehicle is primarily a bicycle with a low seat height, but does not include pedals or cranks to propel the vehicle. This arrangement allows for a child to use the child&#39;s feet and legs to propel and balance the bike by walking or running, until the skill level of the user increases and the child can push and coast the bike. 
     Further reference may be made to the following patents; U.S. Pat. No. 8,414,007; U.S. Patent Publication No. US2014/0077470; and U.S. Pat. No. 8,794,654. 
     While this concept has been great at teaching very young children how to balance, the youngest age groups still lack the ability, strength and dexterity to advance to riding a standard bicycle with pedals and cranks. Thus, actually pedaling the bicycle becomes the next skill that needs to be conquered. During this transition from running bike to bicycle, often parents must simply wait for the child&#39;s motor skills to develop to the point where the child can keep their feet on the pedals while pedaling in a circular motion. 
     In addition to learning the basic skill of balancing on two wheels, for motorcycle riding, a child must learn the basic throttle control system through the use of twisting the throttle on the handlebar. This technique is difficult to teach, and somewhat dangerous if there is not constant adult supervision. There have been previous attempts to aid children by putting training wheels on small motorcycles, which can allow training of some balancing skills to be separated from throttle control skills. While this technique may reduce anxiety and allow earlier development, training wheels still fail to provide a completely realistic training tool for learning balance and throttle control. Further, the weight and size of the bike are concerns for smaller and younger children. Another potential problem occurs when a motorcycle may be ridden too fast before the child has a chance to acquire the skills needed to modulate the throttle, thus becoming more dangerous than necessary. 
     Another problem arises when attempting to provide a vehicle that has a low enough seat height so that a small child can straddle the vehicle or sit on the seat and still keep both feet on the ground. For bicycles, this problem arises because of the space required to provide the pedals and gears, while for motorcycles, the problem relates to providing a relatively large engine and other components. As a result, for both bicycles and motorcycles, the seat height must be raised to accommodate these components, thus resulting in seat heights that are too high for a child to keep both feet on the ground. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       In order to better understand the invention and to see how the same may be carried out in practice, non-limiting preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: 
         FIG.  1    shows a perspective view of a convertible running bike in a non-motorized configuration, which is constructed according to an embodiment: 
         FIG.  2    is a top view of the convertible running bike (non-motorized configuration) of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  3    is a side view of the convertible running bike (non-motorized configuration) of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  4    is another side view of the convertible running bike (non-motorized configuration) of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  5    is an exploded, perspective view of the convertible running bike (non-motorized configuration) of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  6    shows a perspective view of the convertible running bike of  FIG.  1    in a motorized configuration; 
         FIG.  7    is a top view of the convertible running bike (motorized configuration) of  FIG.  6   ; 
         FIG.  8    is a side view of the convertible running bike (motorized configuration) of  FIG.  6   ; 
         FIG.  9    is another side view of the convertible running bike (motorized configuration) of  FIG.  6   ; 
         FIG.  10    is an exploded perspective view of the convertible running bike (motorized configuration) of  FIG.  6   ; 
         FIG.  11    shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a mainframe assembly of the convertible running bike of  FIGS.  1  and  6   ; 
         FIG.  12    shows a perspective pictorial view of various components that are installed on the convertible running bike (non-motorized configuration) of  FIG.  1    to the convertible running bike (motorized configuration) of  FIG.  6   ; 
         FIG.  13    shows a block diagram of electrical components for the convertible running bike (motorized configuration) of  FIG.  6   ; 
         FIG.  14    shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a mainframe assembly of the convertible running bike; 
         FIG.  15    shows an exploded perspective view of the various mainframe assembly components of  FIG.  14   ; 
         FIG.  16    shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a mainframe assembly of the convertible running bike; 
         FIG.  17    shows an exploded perspective view of the various mainframe assembly components of  FIG.  16   ; 
         FIG.  18    is a side view of a convertible running bike (motorized configuration) including the mainframe assembly of  FIGS.  14  and  15   , and an electronic control/battery mount assembly according to an embodiment; 
         FIG.  19    is a close-up partial side view of a section of the convertible running bike (motorized configuration) of  FIG.  18   : 
         FIG.  20    is a top view of the electronic control/battery mount assembly of  FIGS.  14  and  15    according to an embodiment; 
         FIG.  21    is a bottom view of the electronic control/battery mount assembly of  FIGS.  14  and  15    according to an embodiment; 
         FIG.  22    is an exploded view of the electronic control/battery mount assembly of  FIGS.  14  and  15    according to an embodiment; 
         FIG.  23 ( a )  and  FIG.  23 ( b )  show perspective views of another convertible running bike in a motorized configuration including a sound system, which is constructed according to an embodiment; 
         FIG.  24    is a front view of the convertible running bike of  FIG.  23   ; 
         FIG.  25    is a side view of the convertible running bike of  FIG.  23   ; 
         FIG.  26 ( a )  and  FIG.  26 ( b )  show perspective views of the convertible running bike of  FIG.  23    including a clutch, which is constructed according to an embodiment; 
         FIG.  27 ( a )  and  FIG.  27 ( b )  shows perspective views of the convertible running bike of  FIG.  23    including a footrest, which is constructed according to an embodiment; 
         FIG.  28    is a side view of the convertible running bike of  FIG.  27   ; and 
         FIG.  29    is a top view of the convertible running bike of  FIG.  27   . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Certain embodiments of the present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, embodiments of the invention are shown. Indeed, these embodiments of the invention may be in many different forms and thus the invention should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided as illustrative examples only so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. 
     It will be readily understood that the components of the embodiments as generally described and illustrated in the drawings herein, could be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. Thus, the following more detailed description of the certain ones of the embodiments of the system, components and method of the present invention, as represented in the drawings, is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, as claimed, but is merely representative of the embodiment of the invention. 
     Therefore, the present invention provides a convertible running bike with a small, electronically controlled motor in order to solve training problems found in conventional solutions. As with the logic of a simple running bike, the convertible running bike allows a child to learn to use their feet and legs to balance, propel and stop before having to learn to drive the feet in a circular pedaling motion, without being able to easily touch the ground while sitting on the seat. Further, the motorized running bike of the present invention provides a controlled way for a child to propel the bike using their hand on a throttle in a similar manner used with motorcycles. The learning process for the convertible running bike may be controlled and adapted to each child&#39;s ability by an adult. This process can be further controlled by features included in the electronic capability such as maximum rates of speed. Because a child will remain interested with these new functions, the child can enjoy the motorized running bike without becoming frustrated with the complex task of driving their legs in a circular motion before they are physically capable. 
     The convertible motorized running bike of the present invention is designed to be both a toy, and also a training device for both a bicycle and motorcycle. The invention has a frame that acts in a similar function to one of today&#39;s current balance bikes, with no crank set or pedals, and has a slender profile that aids with walking/balancing leg movements. In this configuration, the frame is lightweight so that a young child can have confidence in handling, controlling and lifting the bike. 
     Once a child has mastered the basics and is able to coast, turn, and slow down for obstacles, the frame may be fitted with a motorized propulsion system. The frame is adapted to support the addition of the motorized system components, so that the motorized version of the present invention may be controlled in manners similar to an ATV or motorcycle. The motor may be easily attached to the frame in a prefabricated motor location, and a chain may then be installed to provide propulsion to the rear wheel. The motorized version may be controlled with either a thumb throttle or twist throttle. In various embodiments, the motor is an electrical type motor that may be modulated and controlled via the throttle by the rider. In other embodiments, the motor speed and bike acceleration may be preset by an adult through a smart device application, a wireless transmitter, or a directly connected cable, mechanism or programmable key to provide an extra level of safety for the child until they acquire the appropriate skill level to control the vehicle. 
     As a result, a child will be able to more easily learn the mechanics and skills of motorcycle riding on a lightweight vehicle, instead of heavier and more powerful vehicle, such as a gas powered motorcycle. By having the ability to continue learning motorcycle riding skills after learning balance skills, a child can maintain fun and interest during the time period before they begin to develop the leg skill to pedal a normal bicycle. In addition, a child can gain a tremendous amount of throttle control skill and vehicle awareness before they begin to ride a heavier and faster motorcycle. 
     In other embodiments, the convertible running bike may have the motorized components installed and in place, but not used, thus allowing a child to learn to balance the slightly heavier bike before activating the motorized system to provide propulsion to the bike. 
     A convertible running bike capable of selectively converting from a non-motorized configuration to a motorized configuration may include a front fork rotatably engaged with a front wheel, a handle bar rotatably engaged with the front fork for steering the bike, a frame and a seat connected to the frame. The frame may include a down tube portion connected to the front fork, a rear fork rotatably engaged with a rear wheel, a drivetrain receiving region for selectively receiving a drivetrain assembly, and a battery mount for selectively receiving a battery. 
     The convertible running bike may also include a drivetrain assembly disposed within the drivetrain receiving region and having a first sprocket, an electronic controller disposed within an electronic control housing receiving region and coupled to the drivetrain assembly, a battery disposed within the battery mount, a throttle sensor coupled to the electronic controller, a second sprocket connected to the rear wheel, a chain connected to the first sprocket and the second sprocket. In response to an input to the throttle sensor, the electronic controller causes the drivetrain assembly to rotate the first sprocket, the first sprocket driving the chain, and the chain rotating the second sprocket and the rear wheel and the convertible running bike operates in the motorized configuration. 
     In an embodiment, the bike may include a footrest. The drivetrain assembly may include a brush motor or a brushless motor. The frame may include a left portion and a right portion. 
     In another embodiment, a running bike capable of selectively converting from a non-motorized configuration to a motorized configuration may include a front fork rotatably engaged with a front wheel, a handle bar rotatably engaged with the front fork for steering the bike, a frame and a seat connected to the frame. The frame may include a down tube portion connected to the front fork, a rear fork rotatably engaged with a rear wheel, a drivetrain receiving region for selectively receiving a drivetrain assembly, a battery mount for selectively receiving a battery, such that the convertible running bike operates in the non-motorized configuration. In an embodiment, the bike may include a footrest. The frame may include a left portion and a right portion. 
     In a further embodiment, a method of selectively converting a convertible running bike from a non-motorized configuration to a motorized configuration where the convertible running bike includes a front fork rotatably engaged with a front wheel, a handle bar rotatably engaged with the front fork for steering the bike, a frame including a down tube portion connected to the front fork, a rear fork rotatably engaged with a rear wheel, a drivetrain receiving region for selectively receiving a drivetrain assembly, a battery mount for selectively receiving a battery; and a seat connected to the frame. The method may include disposing a drivetrain assembly having a first sprocket within the drivetrain receiving region, disposing an electronic controller within an electronic control housing receiving region and coupling to the drivetrain assembly, disposing a battery within the battery mount, coupling a throttle sensor to the electronic controller, connecting a second sprocket to the rear wheel, connecting a chain to the first sprocket and the second sprocket. In response to an input to the throttle sensor, the electronic controller causes the drivetrain assembly to rotate the first sprocket, the first sprocket driving the chain, and the chain rotating the second sprocket and the rear wheel, and the convertible running bike operates in the motorized configuration. 
     A convertible running bike without pedals for riding by a child capable of selectively converting from a non-motorized configuration to a motorized configuration may include a front fork rotatably engaged with a front wheel, a handle bar rotatably engaged with the front fork for steering the bike, a frame, a footrest and a seat connected to the frame. The frame may include a down tube portion connected to the front fork, a rear fork rotatably engaged with a rear wheel, a drivetrain receiving region for selectively receiving a longitudinal drivetrain assembly, an electronic control housing for selectively receiving an electronic control assembly, and a battery mount for selectively receiving a battery. The bike may also include a footrest for causing the child&#39;s feet or legs to be pushed outwardly away from the running bike. 
     In an embodiment, the convertible running bike may also include a drivetrain assembly disposed within the drivetrain receiving region and having a first sprocket, an electronic controller disposed within an electronic control housing receiving region and coupled to the drivetrain assembly, a battery disposed within the battery mount, a throttle sensor coupled to the electronic controller, a second sprocket connected to the rear wheel, a chain connected to the first sprocket and the second sprocket. In response to an input to the throttle sensor, the electronic controller causes the drivetrain assembly to rotate the first sprocket, the first sprocket driving the chain, and the chain rotating the second sprocket and the rear wheel and the convertible running bike operates in the motorized configuration. 
     In an embodiment, the footrest may include an angled front portion for causing the child&#39;s feet or legs to be pushed outwardly away from the running bike. The footrest may further include an angled rear portion for causing the child&#39;s feet or legs to be pushed outwardly away from the running bike. 
     In an embodiment, the bike may include a sound system. In various embodiments, the sound system may be attached to a number plate or disposed within the battery. In another embodiment, the bike further includes a left side panel and a right side panel attached to the frame, and the sound system is disposed within the left and right side panels. 
     In an embodiment, the bike may include a clutch attached to the handlebar such that the operation of the clutch by the rider creates sounds that mimic a motorcycle or other vehicle, or creates other sounds. 
     In an embodiment, the handlebar further includes a diameter which may comprise various sizes based on the size of a rider&#39;s hands. 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  1 - 5    of the drawings, a convertible running bike  1  may be constructed according to a non-motorized embodiment and includes a mainframe assembly  84  having a steering tube  2  connected to a down tube  4 . The down tube  4  is connected to a mainframe right portion  9  and a mainframe left portion  5 . The mainframe right portion  9  is connected to a rear fork right  3  and the mainframe left portion  5  is connected to rear fork left  6 . A rear wheel  11  is rotatably connected to the rear fork left  6  and rear fork right  3  by conventional bicycle axle hardware such as nuts, bolts and bearings that will not be described in detail. A conventional brake, such as disc brake  95 , may be attached to the rear wheel  11 . Other brake mechanisms may be employed such as a drum brake. Similarly, a front wheel  12  is connected to a font fork assembly  14 , which passes through a steering tube  2  and connects to the handlebars  15  having a left grip  18  and a right grip  19 . A seat  20  is connected to the mainframe left portion  5  and the mainframe right portion  9  through an adjustable seat tube  10 . The seat  20  is adjustable for children of different ages and heights. The seat height is adjustable to account for both comfort considerations for the child, but also to provide an optimum height where the child may be able to straddle the bike, either sitting in the seat or standing, and still keep both feet on the ground. In an embodiment, the steering tube  2 , the handlebars  15 , the grips  18  and  19 , the seat  20  and the adjustable seat tube may comprise conventional bicycle components, thus providing a more inexpensive manufacturing process. 
       FIG.  2    illustrates the slim nature of the convertible running bike (non-motorized configuration), which is designed to allow for a young child to straddle the running bike and perform an easy running motion of the legs. The orientation of the grips  18  and  19 , and in embodiments of the convertible running bike (motorized configuration), either grip  18  and  19  may function as a throttle input from the child rider. As shown in  FIG.  6   , the right grip  19  to may be integrated with a throttle sensor  45 . In an embodiment for the convertible running bike (motorized configuration), the throttle sensor  45  may be set in a mode where a child could twist the throttle around its longitudinal circumference in order to adjust the amount of power provided to an electric motor, or other type of propulsion system. In another embodiment for the convertible running bike (non-motorized configuration), the throttle sensor  45  may be locked in a stationary mode to provide a stationary grip when not being used to modulate the electric motor. 
     Also shown is footrest  46  attached to a plate  150  disposed on the bottom of the mainframe left portion  5  and the mainframe right portion  9  to provide a location for a child to rest their feet during coasting or propulsion. Further, the footrest  46  is shaped narrow enough with gentle angles to provide non-traumatic surfaces to the legs while the child balances and runs with the bike. More specifically, the footrest  46  includes an angled front portion  80  and an angled rear portion  81  that provide a gentle slope such that if a child is straddling the convertible running bike  1  and is standing either directly in front of or behind the footrest  46 , if the bike moves in the direction of child&#39;s feet, the angled front portion  80  or the angled rear portion  81  cause the child&#39;s feet and/or legs to be pushed outwardly away from the bike. Therefore, unlike a conventional bicycle with pedals or motorcycle with footpegs, the footrest  46  will not tend to strike and potentially injure the child&#39;s feet and/or legs. 
       FIG.  5    shows the convertible running bike (non-motorized configuration) with an exploded view of the interior space of the mainframe assembly  84  provided by the rear fork left  6 , the rear fork right  3 , the mainframe left portion  5 , the mainframe right portion  9  and the down tube  4 . In an embodiment, an electronic control housing receiving region  49  defines an area designed to receive, selectively attach and protect electrical components for the convertible running bike (motorized configuration), such as the electronic control assembly  41  shown in  FIG.  10   . In an embodiment, a drivetrain receiving region  50  defines an area to receive, selectively attach and protect a drivetrain assembly  36 , such as shown in  FIGS.  10  and  12   . The drivetrain assembly  36  consists of an electrical motor and transmission  102  that is controlled by the electrical control system  41  illustrated in  FIG.  12   . In an embodiment, the electrical motor  102  may be a brush motor or a brushless motor, or other motor of similar function. In an embodiment, an external battery mount  27  is connected to the down tube  4  and is designed to selectively receive a battery  25 . Also shown is an internal battery receiving region  51  for receiving a battery inside the mainframe assembly  84  in another embodiment. 
       FIGS.  6 - 10    and  FIG.  12    illustrate the components of the electrical drive system of the convertible running bike (motorized configuration). In a motorized configuration, the convertible running bike can perform in a similar manner and maintain all the functions of a running bike as when the convertible running bike is in non-motorized configuration, whether or not the propulsion is engaged. In various embodiments, some or all of the components described may be included by a user for use as a running bike, but not including other components, such as not including the battery  25 , for example. In an embodiment, a shut-off switch may be provided to allow the running bike with some or all of the drivetrain components to operate as a running bike in a freewheel status. 
     A freewheel sprocket  44  is rotatably attached in a conventional technique to the rear wheel  11 . In an embodiment, the freewheel sprocket  44  may comprise a BMX freewheel sprocket. For the convertible running bike  1  in the motorized configuration, a chain  21  is selectively connected between the sprocket  44  and a sprocket  100  disposed on the drivetrain assembly  36 . The purpose of the chain  21  is to transfer force from the sprocket  100  to the sprocket  44 , which in turn forces the rear wheel  11  to rotate and move the bike  1 . Because of the gear reduction of the motor and transmission  102 , combined with the freewheel sprocket  44 , rearward motion is limited. In an embodiment, the sprocket  44  and the sprocket  100  may comprise conventional parts, such as bicycle sprockets. Further, the drivetrain assembly  36  is not limited to a chain drive system, but may also comprise a belt drive, shaft drive or other drive mechanism. 
       FIGS.  6 - 10    illustrate the convertible running bike  1  in a motorized configuration.  FIG.  10    shows the internal placement of the electrical and mechanical drive system of the bike in the motorized configuration. In an embodiment, an electronic control assembly  41  is selectively and electronically coupled on top of and adjacent to the drivetrain assembly  36 . In an embodiment, the battery  25  may be selectively engaged with the battery mount  27  on the exterior of the mainframe assembly  84  and electrically coupled to electronic control assembly  41 . The electronic control assembly  41 , the drivetrain assembly  36 , the battery mount  27  and the external battery  25  may be connected to the mainframe assembly  84  and/or each other using conventional attachment devices, such as nut and bolt assemblies, so that these components may be easily installed or uninstalled by an adult by using conventional household tools. 
       FIG.  11    shows a close-up perspective view of an embodiment of a frame assembly  84  of the convertible running bike  1  as shown in  FIGS.  1 - 10   . The frame assembly  84  provides a compact protective shield for the various electrical and mechanical components that may be installed within the assembly  84 . 
       FIG.  12    provides an exploded view of the various components that may be installed in order to convert the convertible running bike  1  from a non-motorized configuration to a motorized configuration. In an embodiment, electric cable  90  selectively couples the throttle sensor  45  with the electronic the electronic control assembly  41 ; electric cables  92  and  94  selectively couple the battery  25  through the external battery mount  27  to the electronic control assembly  41 ; and electric cables  96  and  98  selectively couple the drivetrain  36  to the electronic control assembly  41 . In an embodiment, the throttle sensor  45  is coupled to the electronic control assembly  41 , which in an embodiment comprises a central processing unit/receiver (CPU)  104  coupled to an electronic speed control (ESC)  106 . Also shown is the chain  21  selectively connected between the sprocket  100  and the sprocket  44 . 
       FIG.  14    and  FIG.  15    show an exploded view and a perspective view respectively of another embodiment of a mainframe assembly  110  of the convertible running bike. While this embodiment is similar to the mainframe assembly  84 , the mainframe portions and rear forks have been combined into a mainframe/rear fork left portion  112  and a mainframe/rear fork right portion  114  in order to provide a more efficient mainframe and ease of manufacturing. The mainframe assembly  110  further comprises a steering tube  116  connected to a down tube  118 , which is connected to the mainframe/rear fork left portion  112  and the mainframe/rear fork right portion  114 . Steering tube  116  and down tube  118  are substantially similar to steering tube  2  and downtube  4  discussed above. In an embodiment, plate  120  and seat tube  122  are attached to drivetrain assembly mount  124 . The plate  120  is used to attach a footrest similar to footrest  46 , the seat tube  122  is used to attach a seat similar to seat  20  and the drivetrain assembly mount  124  is used to attach a drivetrain assembly similar to drivetrain assembly  36 . 
       FIG.  16    and  FIG.  17    show a perspective view and an exploded perspective view respectively of another embodiment of a mainframe assembly  160  of the convertible running bike. While this embodiment is similar to the mainframe assemblies  84  and  110 , the mainframe portions, the rear forks and the down tube have been combined into a mainframe/rear fork/down tube left portion  162  and a mainframe/rear fork/down tube right portion  164  in order to provide a more efficient mainframe and ease of manufacturing. The mainframe assembly  160  further comprises a steering tube  166  connected to the mainframe/rear fork/down tube left portion  162  and the mainframe/rear fork/down tube right portion  164 . Steering tube  166  is substantially similar to steering tube  2  discussed above. In an embodiment, plate  172  and seat tube  170  are attached to drivetrain assembly mount components  168  and  169  respectively. The plate  172  is used to attach a footrest similar to footrest  46 , the seat tube  170  is used to attach a seat similar to seat  20  and the drivetrain assembly mount components  168  and  169  are used to attach a drivetrain assembly similar to drivetrain assembly  36 . 
     As illustrated in the schematic diagram in  FIG.  13   , the throttle sensor  45  is coupled to the electronic control assembly  41 , which in an embodiment comprises the central processing unit/receiver (CPU)  104  coupled to the electronic speed control (ESC)  106 . In an embodiment, the CPU  104  receives a signal from the throttle sensor  45  based on an input from a rider. The signal is then transmitted to the ESC  106  which controls the delivery of power from the battery  25  provided to the motor  102 . In an embodiment, the ESC  106  includes a microcontroller device. 
       FIGS.  18 - 22    illustrate a convertible running bike (motorized configuration) including the mainframe assembly  110  of  FIGS.  14  and  15   , and a combined electronic control/battery mount assembly  180  according to an embodiment. The electronic control/battery mount assembly  180  comprises substantially similar components as the electronic control assembly  41  and the external battery mount  27  as discussed above. In an embodiment, a drivetrain assembly  186  is selectively connected to the drivetrain assembly mount  124  and to the electronic control/battery mount assembly  180  via cable  192 . Battery  182  is selectively coupled to the electronic control/battery mount assembly  180 . 
     In the close-up and exploded views of  FIGS.  18 - 22   , the electronic control/battery mount assembly  180  comprises a combined central processing unit/receiver/electronic speed control (CPU/ESC)  183  that performs in a substantially similar fashion to the central processing unit/receiver (CPU)  104  and the electronic speed control (ESC)  106  discussed above. The CPU/ESC  183  is electronically coupled to the battery  182  via cables  188  and  190 . The electronic control/battery mount assembly  180  is attached to the down tube  118  with fastener(s) such as fastening components  186 . 
     In an embodiment of the convertible running bike  1  in the motorized configuration,  FIG.  13    also includes an optional external direct connect or wireless device  108  that may be used to connect, wired or wirelessly, to an external smart device or computer to allow programming and/or real-time external control of the propulsion system. In this embodiment, the external direct connect or wireless device  108  allows an adult to set the convertible running bike  1  to be safely powered at a speed that is less than the ability of the child. In an embodiment, this speed control function may also be accomplished through direct control on the convertible running bike  1  through methods such as providing a screw setting or knob (not shown) on the bike  1 . The CPU  104  may connect to an external wireless transmitter/receiver that can communicate with the CPU  104  via Bluetooth, RF or other wireless protocols. In addition, the convertible running bike  1  may include a function that allows a supervising adult to provide a power limit or cut-off for the bike  1  if it travels out of a specified range, or if the adult feels the child needs to be stopped or slowed down. 
     In an embodiment, the CPU  104  may include a GPS navigation device (shown in  FIG.  26    as  223 ). The GPS device allows the remote tracking of the bike  1  by a supervising adult via a wireless connection such as Bluetooth, RF, Wi-Fi or other wireless protocols. The GPS device may be used to track location of the bike  1  (or bike  201  in  FIG.  26   ) in various environments such as on a track. When a rider is going around the track, the GPS may send location and speed data though the wireless connection. This data may be used to provide monitoring of race speeds by registering race track lap times or calculating position of racers on the track. 
     In an embodiment, an application (app) for a smart device such as a phone or tablet may be downloaded by a supervising adult to receive data transmitted from the bike  1  such as location and speed data based on GPS device readings. In another embodiment, the CPU  104  may transmit reliability data concerning the usage and status of the drivetrain assembly  186  or other components for monitoring of service requirements for the bike  1 . The reliability status data may be transmitted at preset programmed intervals or on command from instructions from a supervising adult or service personnel. 
     Embodiments are shown below of the methods of converting the convertible running bike  1  from a non-motorized configuration into a motorized configuration. All of the steps below may be accomplished using conventional tools located in homes. 
     Conversion Method for Internal Electronic Control Assembly/External Battery Mount 
     1. Remove rear wheel  11  via standard bicycle procedures. 
     2. Remove fastener(s) [three bolts in an embodiment] holding the external battery mount  27 . 
     3. Install freewheel sprocket  44  onto rear wheel  11  per conventional bicycle procedures. 
     4. Position the drivetrain assembly  36  into the drivetrain receiving region  50  in the mainframe assembly  84 . Install the fastener(s) [four bolts in an embodiment] to affix the drivetrain assembly  36  to the drivetrain receiving region  50  in the mainframe assembly  84 . 
     5. Connect the electric cables  96  and  98  from the drivetrain assembly  36  to the electronic control assembly  41  through the mainframe assembly  84  while the speed electronic control assembly  41  is positioned aft of its final position in the drivetrain receiving region  50 . 
     6. Remove the right side grip  19  from the handlebar  15  and install the throttle sensor  45  securely to the handlebar  15 . 
     7. Connect the electric cable  90  from the throttle sensor  45  through the downtube  4  via normal bicycle cable routing techniques and connect the electric cable  90  to the electronic control assembly  41 . 
     8. Connect the electric cables  92  and  94  from the battery mount  27  through the downtube  4  to the electronic control assembly  41 . 
     9. Reposition the battery mount  27  back onto the downtube  4  and reinstall the fastener(s). 
     10. Position the electronic control assembly  41  into position in the electronic control housing receiving region  49  in the mainframe assembly  84  and secure with fastener(s). 
     11. Position the rear wheel  11  with attached freewheel sprocket  44  onto the rear fork right  3  and the rear fork left  6  and install the chain  21  per conventional bicycle procedures. 
     12. Position the battery  25  onto the battery mount  27  and the convertible running bike is now operational in a motorized configuration. 
     Conversion Method for External Electronic Control/Battery Mount Assembly 
     1. Remove rear wheel  11  via standard bicycle procedures. 
     2. Remove fastener(s) [three bolts in an embodiment] holding the external battery mount  180 . 
     3. Install freewheel sprocket  44  onto rear wheel  11  per conventional bicycle procedures. 
     4. Position the drivetrain assembly  186  into the drivetrain receiving region in the mainframe assembly  110 . Install the fastener(s) [four bolts in an embodiment] to affix the drivetrain assembly  186  to the drivetrain receiving region in the mainframe assembly  110 . 
     5. Connect the electric cable  192  from the drivetrain assembly  186  to the electronic control/battery mount assembly  180  through the mainframe assembly  110  while the electronic control/battery mount assembly  180  is positioned forward of the downtube  118 . 
     6. Remove the right side grip  19  from the handlebar  15  and install the throttle sensor  45  securely to the handlebar  15 . 
     7. Connect the electric cable  90  from the throttle sensor  45  through the downtube  4  via normal bicycle cable routing techniques and connect the electric cable  90  to the electronic control/battery mount assembly  180 . 
     8. Reposition the electronic control/battery mount assembly  180  back onto the downtube  118  and reinstall the fastener(s). 
     9. Position the rear wheel  11  with attached freewheel sprocket  44  onto the mainframe/rear fork right portion and the mainframe/rear fork left portion and install the chain  21  per conventional bicycle procedures. 
     10. Position the battery  182  onto the electronic control/battery mount assembly  180  and the convertible running bike is now operational in a motorized configuration. 
     Typically, electric cycles utilize a simpler direct motor connection without a large gear reduction. However, in embodiments of the present invention, the motor and transmission  102  employs a small, high rpm motor with a large planetary gear reduction and a 90 degree angle drive output, which allows for a lighter, more compact drivetrain. Additionally, combined with freewheel sprocket  44 , this allows for conservation of energy, because the motor and transmission does not have to turn while coasting. This embodiment also limits rearward motion or rollback when a child stops on an upward incline. The small diameter and orientation of the motor and transmission  102  allows its placement in the frame assembly to provide a centralized center of gravity, as well as a narrow profile that provides additional clearance for children&#39;s legs for use as a running cycle. 
     In an embodiment, the CPU  104  may be programmed to sense the amp draw and determine whether the rider has “pushed” the bike to start the forward movement. This program feature provides an additional feature to require a rider to push the bike to start rolling, which would reduce the initial amp draw on the motor, and so the CPU  104  can sense that the rider started pushing the bike from zero. This feature may reduce concerns about a child grabbing and twisting the throttle, and possibly advancing forward with only one hand on the handlebars in an unsafe manner. 
     The CPU  104  may also have a sensor to determine orientation and acceleration of the running cycle. This can be utilized to limit or modify motor activity, as well as provide safety shutoff&#39;s if conditions warrant. 
     In an embodiment, the battery mount system  180  may interface with the battery  182  in a mechanical or electrical manner in order to select preset motor performance. 
       FIGS.  23 - 25    illustrate another convertible running bike in a motorized configuration  201  including a sound system  210  according to an embodiment. The sound system  210  may comprise a speaker, or a sound exciter or inducer. The speaker may include a battery. The sound system  210  may provide sounds to a rider that could relate to entertainment or safety concerns. For example, the sound system may broadcast sounds that mimic a particular brand of motorcycle or other types of vehicle. The sounds may be variable in pitch or volume based on the speed of a bike  201 . In an embodiment, sounds may be downloaded by a rider or an adult supervisor through the app and transmitted to the bike  201 . 
       FIGS.  23 ( a ) and  23 ( b )  show an example of a sound system  210  as mounted on a number plate  212 . The number plate  212  may be mounted on a handlebar  207  having a left grip  203  and a right grip  205 . The number plate  212  may display a number for the bike  201  that is used to identify the rider in a race environment for example. The sound system  210  may be mounted on a portion of the number plate  212  that is facing the rider for better sound transmission to the rider. In other embodiments, the speaker may be attached in substantially any location on the bike  201 , while the sound exciter or inducer may be located on any surface on the bike  201  that is substantially semi-flat. 
       FIG.  25    shows other locations for mounting the sound system  210  including inside a battery  215  which is substantially similar to battery  25 . In this embodiment, the sound system may be powered by the battery  215 . The sound system  210  may also be mounted inside a side panel  218 . Additional locations are possible for mounting the sound system  210  on the bike  201  such that the sound is transmitted to a rider. 
       FIG.  26 ( a )  and  FIG.  26 ( b )  illustrate another convertible running bike in a motorized configuration  201  including a clutch  220  according to an embodiment. The clutch  220  may be attached a handlebar  204  and adjacent to a left grip  203 . In another embodiment, the clutch  220  could be mounted on the handlebar  204  and adjacent to a right grip  205 . In operation in one embodiment, when a rider grasps and pulls the clutch  220  towards the left grip  203 , power may be proportionally reduced electronically to the drivetrain to mimic a response of using a clutch on a motorcycle. Similarly, as the rider releases the clutch  220 , power may be proportionally increased electronically to the drivetrain. 
     While the rider is pulling the clutch  220 , a sound may be transmitted through a sound system  210  that mimics a motor revving at proportionally increasing volume such as on a motorcycle. While the rider is releasing the clutch  220 , a sound may be transmitted through the sound system  210  that mimics a motor revving at proportionally decreasing volume such as on a motorcycle. When the rider is not engaging the clutch  220 , a sound may be transmitted through the sound system  210  that mimics a motorcycle motor that is idling. In another example, the transmitted sounds may mimic sounds from a motorcycle that is involved in an actual racing start. In this embodiment, the rider may first engage the clutch  220  at approximately 50% level for example which causes the sound system  210  to correspondingly produces a simulated revving engine sound. Then, the rider may quickly release the clutch  220  and the sound system  210  correspondingly produces a high acceleration racing start sound. In other embodiments, this arrangement and operation of the clutch  220  and the sound system  210  may be employed on standard motorcycles. 
       FIG.  26    also shows a GPS device  223  as described above which allows the remote tracking of the bike  1  by a supervising adult via a wireless connection such as Bluetooth, RF Wi-Fi or other wireless protocols. 
       FIGS.  27 - 29    illustrate another convertible running bike in a motorized configuration  201  including a footrest  226  according to an embodiment. The footrest  226  may include a front left angled portion  230  and a front right angled portion  228  and may be connected to a mainframe assembly  227  of the bike  201  with fasteners  229  and  231 . Similar to the footrest  46 , the font angled portions  230  and  228  of the footrest  226  provide a gentle slope such that is a child rider is straddling the bike  201  and is standing directly in front of the footrest  226 , if the bike  201  moves in the direction of the child&#39;s feet, the front angled portions  230  and  228  cause the child&#39;s feet and/or legs to be pushed outwardly away from the bike. 
     Similarly, the footrest  226  may include a rear left angled portion  235  and a rear right angled portion  232 . The rear angled portions  235  and  232  of the footrest  226  provide a gentle slope such that is a child rider is straddling the bike  201  and is standing directly in back of the footrest  226 , if the bike  201  moves in the direction of the child&#39;s feet, the rear angled portions  235  and  232  cause the child&#39;s feet and/or legs to be pushed outwardly away from the bike. 
     In an embodiment, the handlebar  204 , the left grip  203  and the right grip  205  may be scaled in various sizes to accommodate a rider&#39;s hands which are generally smaller in size and also vary. For example, the diameter of the handlebar  204  may include a diameter of approximately ⅞, 1, 1.25, 1.5 and 1.75 inches. Grips  203  and  205  of corresponding sizes are used along with the handlebar  204 . 
     In various embodiments, the present invention can apply to other motorized transportation devices such as wheelchairs or strollers. 
     Although the invention has been described with reference to the above examples, it will be understood that many modifications and variations are contemplated within the true spirit and scope of the embodiments of the invention as disclosed herein. Many modifications and other embodiments of the invention set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which the invention pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the invention shall not be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended and contemplated to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.