System for controlling the ground speed and direction of travel of an off-road vehicle

An improved system for controlling the ground speed and direction of an off-road vehicle having systems for establishing and returning a variable speed transmission to the neutral position, an improved pedal system interconnected to the neutral location and return system for driving the vehicle in either the forward or the reverse direction. The pedal system includes a forward and a reverse pedal which are positioned on the vehicle so that an operator moves the toe of his foot in the direction that he wants the vehicle to move. The forward pedal is positioned closer to the front of the vehicle than the reverse pedal. An additional aspect of one embodiment of the present invention includes an interconnection cam means for operatively connecting the pedal system, the brake system and the neutral location and return system so that upon actuation of the brake system, the interlock system is operable to return the transmission to neutral and with the park brake engaged, allow an operator to dismount the vehicle with the engine running.