This invention provides a stabilizing system and method for two-wheeled
vehicles (typically small, human-powered bicycles) that affords the rider
no restriction on the full range of movements (banks, leans, etc.) common
to bicycles, but that provides greater stability during turns and other
maneuvers so that an unintentional bank or tilt (potentially causing a
fall) is less likely, even at relatively slow speeds and startup. A
rotating mass of predetermined mass-value and radial mass-distribution is
provided coaxially with the front axle. The mass is supported on bearings
so as to freewheel with respect to the rotation of the front wheel. As
such it can be induced to spin significantly faster than the front wheel
thereby generating a gyroscopic effect at the front wheel about the axle.
This gyroscopic effect influences the steering of the wheel by the rider.
Due to precession, the wheel tends to follow any excessive bank by the
bicycle, ensuring that the rider can "steer-out-of" an unintended tilt or
bank. Likewise, the gyroscopic effect limits the rider's ability to
execute excessive steering, thereby preventing jackknife movements.