I'm sure you all are correct. Engineers have only been working on these since 1923 but in 10 minutes today you and Sillls have revolutionized the whole thing. No one had ever thought of putting in a way to power the top rotor before. You all can patent your new invention and become rich beyond your wildest dreams.
Hell, I suggest forgoing the pedals entirely. Just make the engine drive the rotor. I mean that would be even easier. May want to look into a vertical rotor somewhere to counteract the torque, though. Anyway, I'm sure you all will figure it out.