This design from a team at Purdue University took first place in the 9th International Bicycle Design Competition. Called Shift, it's meant to help toddlers get their bearings and keep their balance when learning how to pedal on their own.
Credit: Purdue University
The two rear wheels are angled outward to provide a wide stance at low speeds. At the speed increases, the wheels angle to provide a narrower stance.
At the highest speeds, the read wheels angle inward enough that where they touch the ground, they're close enough to present a track width close to that of a normal bike.
When slowing down, the rear wheels splay outward again, naturally, and keep the bike upright automatically.
While this much seemed obvious from the pictures, maybe an animation would have helped their presentation.
Intuitive, I can't believe no one thought of this before.
Where can I buy one for my nephew?!
Amy
Thank You! Tom