A steering apparatus for altering steering direction of an exercise bicycle utilizing
an interactive computer or television video game simulation which consists of a
steering mechanism primary frame (22) that includes a steering tube (24)
and a steering plate (26). The steering tube is disposed within an exercise
bicycle frame head. A steer frame (58) is rotatably mounted within the primary
frame and utilizes a pair of springs (60) that are suspended between the
primary frame and the steer frame. Changing steering direction by rotation of the
handlebar (70) attached to the steer frame creates progressively linear
resistance to the handlebar movement. The steer frame returns to a centered position
when unrestrained, duplicating the feel and impression of riding a bicycle. A potentiometer
(32) interfaces with the rotating steer frame providing variable electrical
resistance relative to the directional movement of the steer frame to the primary
frame. An electrical signal is transmitted from an interactive computer or television
video game to the potentiometer which interprets the actual steering position of
the exercise bicycle.
