Rear suspension components for off-road vehicles

Abstract

A vehicle includes: a frame; a front suspension assembly and wheels; a left rear suspension assembly connected to the frame; a right rear suspension assembly connected to the frame; a wheel having a wheel axis and an inner rim radius; a rear gear train; and a motor. Each rear suspension assembly includes: a swing arm; a shock absorber assembly; a steering knuckle, the steering knuckle including a first portion connected to a wheel hub and a second portion extending upward from the first portion; a first link having an outward end connected to the first portion and an inward end connected to the frame; and a second link having an outward end connected to the second portion and an inward end connected to the frame. The outward end of the second link is located at a distance from the corresponding wheel axis that is greater than the inner rim radius.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 085,739, filed on September 30, 2020, entitled “Rear Suspension Assembly for an Off-Road Vehicle,” which is hereby incorporated by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present technology relates to a rear suspension assembly for an off-road vehicle. Background Art

[0004] There are many types of vehicles that are used primarily in off-road conditions. One such type is a side-by-side off-road vehicle. The name "side-by-side" refers to the seating arrangement of the vehicle in which the driver and passenger ride side by side. Some side-by-side off-road vehicles also have a second row of seats to accommodate one or more additional passengers. These vehicles typically have an open cockpit, a roll cage, and a steering wheel.

[0005] To be able to operate in off-road conditions, side-by-side off-road vehicles need to be able to handle bumpy terrain and be able to operate on different surfaces including, but not limited to, sand, dirt, and mud. These conditions represent unique challenges that are not typically encountered when designing road vehicles, such as automobiles.

[0006] One such challenge is that the suspension assembly needs to have a large travel to handle bumpy terrain. However, as the wheel moves up and down with the suspension assembly, strain is induced on the frame at the point where the suspension assembly is connected. If the stress is large and concentrated on a small portion of the frame, the frame may be negatively affected.

[0007] Therefore, a suspension assembly suitable for the operating conditions of a side-by-side off-road vehicle is desired. Summary of the invention

[0008] The purpose of the present technology is to improve at least some of the inconveniences existing in the prior art.

[0009] According to aspects of the present technology, a vehicle having a rear suspension assembly is provided, the rear suspension assembly including a steering knuckle for connecting a rear wheel to a swing arm. The steering knuckle includes a lower portion connected to the wheel and the wheel hub and an upper portion extending generally upward from the lower portion. The steering knuckle and the vehicle frame are pivotally connected together by two links. One link extends from the lower portion of the steering knuckle and is connected to the lower portion of the frame. The other link extends from the top end of the steering knuckle and is connected to the higher portion of the frame. In this way, the connections between the rear suspension assembly and the frame are spaced apart, and the stresses caused by those connections are therefore distributed over a larger area, compared to an arrangement in which two links are connected to the wheel near the wheel hub.

[0010] According to one aspect of the present technology, a vehicle is provided, the vehicle comprising: a frame; a driver's seat connected to the frame; a left front suspension assembly connected to the frame; a left front wheel operatively connected to the left front suspension assembly; a right front suspension assembly connected to the frame; a right front wheel operatively connected to the right front suspension assembly; a left rear suspension assembly connected to the frame, a left rear wheel operatively connected to the left rear suspension assembly, the left rear wheel having a left wheel axis, the left rear wheel comprising a left rear rim having an inner rim radius and a left rear tire mounted to the left rear rim; a right rear suspension assembly connected to the frame; a right rear wheel operatively connected to the right rear suspension assembly, the right rear wheel having a right wheel axis, the right rear wheel comprising a right rear rim having an inner rim radius and a right rear tire mounted to the right rear rim; a rear gear train operatively connected to the left rear wheel and the right rear wheel; and a motor operatively connected to the rear gear train, the motor driving the right rear wheel and the left rear wheel via the rear gear train, the left rear suspension assembly Each of the member and the right rear suspension assembly includes: a swing arm, the swing arm having a front end pivotally connected to the frame; a shock absorber assembly, the shock absorber assembly is pivotally connected to the swing arm at a first end and pivotally connected to the frame at a second end; a steering knuckle pivotally connected to a rear portion of the swing arm, the steering knuckle including: a first portion connected to a wheel hub, the wheel hub being operatively connected to a corresponding one of the right rear wheel and the left rear wheel, and a second portion connected to the first portion and extending generally upward from the first portion; a first link, the first link having a laterally outward end of the first portion pivotally connected to the steering knuckle and a laterally inward end pivotally connected to the frame; and a second link, the second link having a laterally outward end of the second portion pivotally connected to the steering knuckle and a laterally inward end pivotally connected to the frame, the laterally outward end of the second link being at a distance from a corresponding one of the right wheel axis and the left wheel axis that is greater than the inner rim radius.

[0011] In some implementations, the vehicle further includes a third link having a laterally outward end pivotally connected to the swing arm and a laterally inward end pivotally connected to the frame.

[0012] In some implementations, the first link, the second link, and the third link are connected to the frame rearward of the rear gear train.

[0013] In some implementations, the first link and the third link are disposed rearward of the rear gear train.

[0014] In some embodiments, the vehicle also includes an anti-roll bar assembly, the anti-roll bar assembly including: an anti-roll bar; a right link, the right link having a bottom end pivotally connected to a swing arm of a right rear suspension assembly and a top end pivotally connected to a right end of the anti-roll bar; and a left link, the left link having a bottom end pivotally connected to a swing arm of a left rear suspension assembly and a top end pivotally connected to a left end of the anti-roll bar.

[0015] In some embodiments, the anti-roll bar includes a central portion arranged generally horizontally from left to right, a right portion extending generally forward from a right end portion of the central portion, and a left portion extending generally forward from a left end portion of the central portion; and the central portion of the anti-roll bar is pivotally connected to the rear portion of the frame.

[0016] In some implementations, the frame further includes a connecting bracket disposed above the rear gear train and the anti-roll bar; and a laterally inward end of the second link of each of the right suspension assembly and the left suspension assembly is connected to the connecting bracket.

[0017] In some implementations, the right link of the anti-roll bar assembly and the left link of the anti-roll bar assembly are disposed in front of the rear gear train.

[0018] In some implementations, for the right rear suspension assembly, the right link of the anti-roll bar is connected to the swing arm forward of the first end of the shock absorber assembly; and for the left rear suspension assembly, the left link of the anti-roll bar is connected to the swing arm forward of the first end of the shock absorber assembly.

[0019] In some implementations, the frame further includes a connecting bracket disposed higher than the rear gear train; and a lateral inward end of the second link of each of the right suspension assembly and the left suspension assembly is connected to the connecting bracket.

[0020] In some implementations, for each of the left rear suspension assembly and the right rear suspension assembly, the steering knuckle is connected to the swing arm by a first ball joint and a second ball joint.

[0021] In some implementations, the first ball joint is disposed above the wheel axis; and the second ball joint is disposed below the wheel axis.

[0022] In some implementations, for each of the left and right rear suspension assemblies, a top end portion of the second portion of the steering knuckle and a laterally outward end portion of the second link are disposed vertically higher than a corresponding one of the right and left rear wheels.

[0023] In some implementations, for each of the left rear suspension assembly and the right rear suspension assembly, the second portion of the steering knuckle extends vertically along an inner side of a corresponding one of the right rear wheel and the left rear wheel.

[0024] According to another aspect of the present technology, a rear suspension assembly for supporting a wheel of a vehicle is provided. The rear suspension assembly includes: a swing arm having a front end configured to be pivotally connected to a frame of the vehicle; a shock absorber assembly pivotally connected to the swing arm at a first end, the shock absorber assembly being configured to be pivotally connected to the frame at a second end; a steering knuckle pivotally connected to a rear portion of the swing arm, the steering knuckle including a first portion configured to be connected to a wheel hub and a second portion connected to the first portion and extending generally upward from the first portion; a first link having a laterally outward end of the first portion pivotally connected to the steering knuckle and a laterally inward end configured to be pivotally connected to the frame; and a second link having a laterally outward end of the second portion pivotally connected to the steering knuckle and a laterally inward end configured to be pivotally connected to the frame, the laterally outward end of the second link being located at a distance from a wheel axis of the wheel greater than an inner rim radius of the wheel.

[0025] In some implementations, the first portion of the steering knuckle defines a bore therein for receiving a wheel hub; the bore has a bore axis; and the bore axis is aligned with the wheel axis.

[0026] In some implementations, an upper portion of the first portion of the steering knuckle is pivotally connected to the swing arm at a first point; and a lower portion of the first portion of the steering knuckle is pivotally connected to the swing arm at a second point.

[0027] In some implementations, when the laterally outward end of the second link is connected to the second portion, a distance between the aperture axis and the laterally outward end of the second link is greater than half a distance between the first point and the second point.

[0028] In some implementations, the assembly further includes a third link having a laterally outward end pivotally connected to the swing arm and a laterally inward end configured to be pivotally connected to the frame.

[0029] In some implementations, the steering knuckle is connected to the swing arm via two ball joints.

[0030] In some implementations, the steering knuckle is connected to the swing arm via a first ball joint and a second ball joint; the first ball joint is disposed below the wheel axis; and the second ball joint is disposed above the wheel axis.

[0031] In some implementations, the second portion of the steering knuckle extends first upwardly, then inwardly, and then upwardly from the first portion of the steering knuckle.

[0032] In some implementations, a top end portion of the second portion of the steering knuckle forms a bracket; the bracket extends slightly outward from the remainder of the second portion; and the laterally outward end portion of the second link is pivotally connected to the bracket.

[0033] According to another aspect of the present technology, a vehicle is provided, the vehicle comprising a frame; a driver's seat connected to the frame; a left front suspension assembly connected to the frame; a left front wheel operatively connected to the left front suspension assembly; a right front suspension assembly connected to the frame; a right front wheel operatively connected to the right front suspension assembly; a left rear suspension assembly connected to the frame; a left rear wheel operatively connected to the left rear suspension assembly, the left rear wheel having a left wheel axis, the left rear wheel comprising a left rear rim having an inner rim radius and a left rear tire mounted to the left rear rim; a right rear suspension assembly connected to the frame; a right rear wheel operatively connected to the right rear suspension assembly, the right rear wheel having a right wheel axis, the right rear wheel comprising a right rear rim having an inner rim radius and a right rear tire mounted to the right rear rim; a rear gear drive operatively connected to the left rear wheel and the right rear wheel; and a motor operatively connected to the rear drive assembly, the motor being driven via The rear drive assembly drives the right rear wheel and the left rear wheel, and each of the left rear suspension assembly and the right rear suspension assembly includes: a swing arm, the swing arm having a front end pivotally connected to the frame; a shock absorber assembly, the shock absorber assembly is pivotally connected to the swing arm at a first end and pivotally connected to the frame at a second end; a steering knuckle pivotally connected to a rear portion of the swing arm, the steering knuckle includes a first portion at least partially accommodated in a corresponding one of the right rear wheel rim and the left rear wheel rim, and a second portion extending upward from the first portion, the top end of the second portion is vertically higher than the corresponding one of the right rear wheel rim and the left rear wheel rim; and at least one link, the at least one link having a lateral outward end pivotally connected to the steering knuckle and a lateral inward end pivotally connected to the frame, the lateral outward end of the at least one link being at a distance from the corresponding one of the right wheel axis and the left wheel axis that is greater than the inner wheel rim radius.

[0034] For the purposes of this application, terms related to spatial orientation such as forward, rearward, upward, downward, left and right should be understood as a vehicle driver would normally understand when riding in a normal riding position in the vehicle. Unless otherwise specified, when describing or referring to components or subassemblies of the vehicle that are separate from the vehicle, terms related to spatial orientation should be understood as they would be understood when these components or subassemblies are installed in the vehicle.

[0035] The embodiments of the present technology each have at least one of the above-mentioned purposes and / or aspects, but not necessarily all of these purposes and / or aspects. It should be understood that some aspects of the present technology resulting from attempts to achieve the above-mentioned purposes may not meet the purposes and / or may meet other purposes not specifically described herein.

[0036] Additional and / or alternative features, aspects, and advantages of embodiments of the present technology will become apparent from the following description, drawings, and appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] For a better understanding of the present technology and other aspects and features thereof, reference is made to the following description to be used in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0038] Figure 1 It is a top view, front view, and left side view stereoscopic image of the off-road vehicle;

[0039] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A left side view of a vehicle;

[0040] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A front view of a vehicle;

[0041] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A top plan view of the vehicle;

[0042] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 a left rear side perspective view of a rear portion of a vehicle;

[0043] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 a rear view of a rear vehicle portion;

[0044] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 A left side view of the rear vehicle portion;

[0045] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 a top plan view of a rear portion of the vehicle including the engine, rear suspension and rear drive gear;

[0046] Fig. 9 yes Figure 1 a rear view of a rear wheel, a rear suspension assembly and an anti-roll bar assembly of a vehicle;

[0047] Fig.10 It is along Fig. 9 The line 10-10 in Fig. 9 A right side view of a cross section of the components illustrated in FIG.

[0048] Fig.11 yes Fig. 9 A right front side perspective view of a left steering knuckle of a left rear suspension assembly;

[0049] Fig.12 yes Fig.11 A left side view of the left steering knuckle;

[0050] Fig.13 yes Fig.10 A cross-sectional right side view of another implementation of the rear wheel connected to the rear suspension;

[0051] Fig.14 yes Figure 1 a left side view of portions of a vehicle with body panels and power unit components removed and with the suspension components in a full crash position;

[0052] Fig.15 is a rear view of a left suspension assembly according to another non-limiting embodiment of the present technology;

[0053] Fig.16 yes Fig.15 a rear view of the left suspension assembly of the vehicle with the left wheel removed;

[0054] Fig.17 yes Fig.15 A top plan view of a left suspension assembly with the left wheel removed;

[0055] Fig.18 is a top, right front side perspective view of a left suspension assembly according to another non-limiting embodiment of the present technology;

[0056] Fig.19 yes Fig.18 A top view and right front side perspective view of the left suspension assembly, wherein the swing arm has been removed;

[0057] Fig. 20 yes Fig.18 A top plan view of a left suspension assembly;

[0058] Fig.21 is a right front side perspective view of a left suspension assembly according to another non-limiting embodiment of the present technology;

[0059] Fig. 22yes Fig.21 A top view and right front side perspective view of the left suspension assembly, wherein the swing arm has been removed;

[0060] Fig.23 yes Fig.21 A left front side perspective view of a left suspension assembly with the swing arm removed;

[0061] Fig.24 yes Figure 1 a partial cross-sectional view of a portion of a frame, a left rear suspension assembly, and a left wheel of a vehicle of FIG. 1 ; and

[0062] Fig.25 yes Fig.24 Left side view of the frame section, left rear suspension assembly and left wheel.

[0063] It should be noted that unless otherwise indicated, the drawings may not be drawn to scale. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0064] The present technology will be described with respect to a four-wheeled off-road vehicle 10 having two side-by-side seats and a steering wheel. However, it is contemplated that some aspects of the present technology may be applied to other types of vehicles, such as, but not limited to, off-road vehicles having handlebars and a straddle-style seat (i.e., all-terrain vehicles (ATVs)) and off-road vehicles having more or less than four wheels.

[0065] Will refer to Figures 1 to 4 The general features of the off-road vehicle 10 are described below. The vehicle 10 has a frame 12, two front wheels 14 connected to the front of the frame 12 by a front suspension assembly 20, and two rear wheels 18 connected to the frame 12 by a rear suspension assembly 200. The two rear wheels 18 (right rear wheel 18 and front and rear wheels 18) are connected to the rear of the frame 12 by the rear suspension assembly 200. The left rear wheel 18 includes a left rear rim 15 having an inner rim radius 17 and a left rear tire 16 mounted to the left rear rim 15. Similarly, the right rear wheel 18 includes a right rear rim 15 having the same inner rim radius 17 and a right rear tire 16 mounted to the right rear rim 15. Although the rear rim 15 can be formed (e.g., with a tapered thickness) so that different radii can be defined, the inner rim radius 17 is defined herein as the largest possible radius (from the center point to the farthest edge). Each of the left and right rear wheels 18 is connected to a wheel hub 19 that is rotationally connected to a steering knuckle 250 (described below) (see FIG. Figure 5 and Figure 7 ), so that the wheel 18 can rotate around the corresponding left wheel axis and right wheel axis 21 ( Figure 2 ) rotation. The operation and control of the rear wheel 18 and the rear suspension assembly 200 will be described in more detail below.

[0066] The frame 12 defines a central cockpit area 22 in which are disposed a driver's seat 24 and a passenger seat 26. On the rear side of the frame 12, the frame 12 includes a lower rear portion 93 and a connecting bracket 95 to which portions of the rear suspension assembly 200 are connected, as will be described in more detail below.

[0067] In the present implementation, the driver's seat 24 is disposed on the left side of the vehicle 10 and the passenger seat 26 is disposed on the right side of the vehicle 10. However, it is contemplated that the driver's seat 24 may be disposed on the right side of the vehicle 10 and the passenger seat 26 may be disposed on the left side of the vehicle 10. The driver's seat 24 has a seat indexing point (SIP) 97, also referred to as an H-point 97, at Figure 2 as well as Fig.14 The approximate location of the seat reference point is illustrated in FIG. The SIP 97 is determined using the seat reference point device as guided by the surface vehicle standard SAE J1163 MAY2012 (doi.org / 10.4271 / J1163_201205), the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference. In different embodiments, it is contemplated that the exact location of the SIP 97 may vary.

[0068] A steering wheel 28 is provided in front of the driver's seat 24. The steering wheel 28 is used to turn the front wheels 14 to steer the vehicle 10. Various displays and gauges 29 are provided above the steering wheel 28 to provide the driver with information about the operating conditions of the vehicle 10. Examples of the displays and gauges 29 include, but are not limited to, a speedometer, a tachometer, a fuel gauge, a transmission position display, and an oil temperature gauge.

[0069] like Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 8 As can be seen in FIG. 1 , the vehicle 10 includes a motor 30, particularly an internal combustion engine 30, disposed in a rear portion of the vehicle 10 and connected to the frame 12. The engine 30 is connected to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) 32 disposed on a left side portion of the engine 30. The CVT 32 is operatively connected to a transaxle 33 for transmitting torque from the engine 30 to the transaxle 33. The transaxle 33 is operatively connected to the front wheels 14 and the rear wheels 18 to drive the vehicle 10. For the rear wheels 18, the transaxle 33 includes a rear gear train 35 (see FIG. 1 ). Figure 8 , also Figure 5 and Figure 6Schematically shown in ). Depending on the implementation, the rear gear train 35 may include a long gear, a differential, or other known final gear train components. The vehicle 10 includes two shafts 39, also known as half shafts 39, that connect the rear gear train 35 to the rear wheels 18. The left shaft 39 has a laterally outward end connected to the left rear wheel 18 and a laterally inward end connected to the rear gear train 35. The right shaft 39 has a laterally outward end connected to the right rear wheel 18 and a laterally inward end connected to the rear gear train 35. Therefore, the driven output gear of the rear differential 35 is operatively connected to and drives the left and right shafts 39 via a constant velocity (CV) joint (not shown), also known as a constant velocity joint, positioned within the flexible cover 43. It is contemplated that other types of rear gear trains may be implemented.

[0070] Back to Figures 1 to 4 , the body panels of the vehicle 10 will be described. The body panels are connected to the frame 12. The panels help protect the interior components of the vehicle 10 and provide some aesthetic features of the vehicle 10. A front panel 40 is connected to the front of the frame 12. The front panel 40 is disposed in front of the front suspension assembly 20 and laterally between the front wheels 14. The front panel 40 defines two openings, and the headlights 42 of the vehicle 10 are disposed in these two openings. A cover 44 extends rearwardly from the top of the front panel 40 generally horizontally. A front fender 46 is disposed on each side of the vehicle 10 behind the front panel 40. Each front fender 46 is partially disposed above its corresponding front wheel 14 and partially disposed behind its corresponding front wheel. A lower panel 48 extends along the bottom of the frame 12 between the front wheel 14 and the rear wheel 18. As shown Figure 2 As can be seen in the figure, for the left lower panel 48, each lower panel 48 has a front end portion disposed below the bottom portion of its corresponding front fender 46 and extending rearwardly from the front end portion. A generally L-shaped panel 49 is disposed rearwardly of the rear end portion of each lower panel 48. A generally L-shaped rear fender 50 extends upwardly from the rear upper end portion of the L-shaped panel 49 and then extends rearwardly. Each rear fender 50 is partially disposed above its corresponding rear wheel 18 and partially disposed in front of its corresponding rear wheel. The rear fender 50 defines an opening at its rear portion to receive a brake light 64 of the vehicle 10. It is contemplated that the brake light 64 may be replaced by a reflector, or a reflector may be provided in addition to the brake light 64.

[0071] On each side of the vehicle 10, the front fender 46, the lower panel 48, the L-shaped panel 49, and the rear fender 50 define a passage 52 through which the driver (or passenger, depending on the side of the vehicle) can enter or exit the vehicle 10. Each side of the vehicle 10 is provided with a door 54 that selectively closes the upper portion of the corresponding passage 52. Each door 54 is hinged at its rear to the door's corresponding rear fender 50 and an associated portion of the frame 12, and each door is selectively connected at its front to the door's corresponding front fender 46 via a releasable latch (not shown). It is contemplated that each door 54 can be hinged at its front and latched at its rear. As shown in FIG. Figure 2 As best seen in the figure, for the left side of the vehicle 10, when the door 52 is closed, the lower portion of the channel 52 is still open. It is contemplated that the mesh can extend in the lower portion of the channel 52 when the door 54 is closed, or the door 54 can be larger to close the lower portion of the channel 52.

[0072] like Figure 4 As best seen in the figure, the rear fenders 50 define a cargo space 56 behind the seats 24 and 26 and between the rear fenders 50. The cargo space 56 has a floor 58 extending horizontally between the rear fenders 50. The floor 58 has a plurality of openings so that the floor 58 can be used as an attachment base to receive anchors, such as those described in U.S. Patent 8,875,830, issued on November 4, 2014, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, to secure various items in the cargo space 56. It is contemplated that hooks or loops may be provided in place of or in addition to the openings in the floor 58. It is also contemplated that the floor 58 may not be provided with any attachment features. It is contemplated that the floor 58 may be replaced by a cargo box that can be tilted to allow the unloading of its contents. As Figure 4 As best seen in FIG. 6 , the rear panel 62 is disposed laterally behind the floor 58 and between the rear wheels 18 .

[0073] Reference Figures 5 to 10 The vehicle 10 further includes an anti-roll bar assembly 270 disposed in the rear portion of the vehicle 10. The anti-roll bar assembly 270 includes an anti-roll bar 272 having a generally truncated V-shape. The anti-roll bar 272 includes a central portion 273 disposed generally horizontally from left to right and defining an anti-roll bar axis, a right portion 274 extending generally forward and rightward from a right end portion of the central portion 273, and a left portion 275 extending generally forward and leftward from a left end portion of the central portion 273. The central portion 273 is pivotally connected to the lower rear portion 93 of the frame 12.

[0074] The anti-roll bar assembly 270 also includes a left link 276 and a right link 278. The left link 276 has a bottom end pivotally connected to the swing arm 210 of the left suspension assembly 200 and a top end pivotally connected to the left end of the anti-roll bar 272 at the ball joint 271, and the right link 178 has a bottom end pivotally connected to the swing arm 210 of the right suspension assembly 200 and a top end pivotally connected to the right end of the anti-roll bar 272 at the ball joint 269. According to this implementation, the anti-roll bar 172 is disposed rearward of the shock absorber assembly 230. It is contemplated that the anti-roll bar assembly 170 may be shaped or arranged in different ways depending on the particular implementation. As Figure 7 As can be seen schematically in FIG, for the anti-roll bar link 276, the anti-roll bar links 276, 278 are at least partially disposed in front of the rear gear train 35. In particular, the anti-roll bar links 276, 278 are disposed in front of the CV joint that connects the shaft 39 to the rear gear train 35. The swing arm 210 and the shock absorber assembly 230 of the rear suspension assembly 200 are described in more detail below.

[0075] Now refer to Figures 5 to 13 The rear suspension assembly 200 is described in more detail. Since the left and right rear suspension assemblies 200 are mirror images of each other, only the left rear suspension assembly 200 will be described in detail. Components of the right rear suspension assembly 200 that correspond to components of the left rear suspension assembly 200 are indicated by the same reference numerals in the drawings.

[0076] The rear suspension assembly 200 includes a swing arm 210 , a shock absorber assembly 230 , and a knuckle 250 connecting the rear wheel 18 to the swing arm 210 , and three links 282 , 284 , 288 connecting the swing arm 210 and the knuckle 250 to the rear portions 93 , 95 of the frame 12 .

[0077] The swing arm 210 is pivotally connected to the frame 12 at the front end 212. The rear wheel 18 is connected to the rear portion 214 of the swing arm 210, as will be described in more detail below. The rear portion 214 includes two rearwardly extending arms: a top arm 215 extending above the wheel hub 19 and a bottom arm 217 extending below the wheel hub 19. The shaft 39 that drives the wheel 18 via the wheel hub 19 passes vertically between the arm 215 and the arm 217. As will be described in more detail below, each of the top arm 215 and the bottom arm 217 is connected to a steering knuckle 250. The swing arm 210 pivots about the pivot axis 213 at the front end 212, thereby allowing the rear wheel 18 and the rear portion 214 of the swing arm 210 to move generally up and down relative to the frame 12.

[0078] The shock absorber assembly 230 is pivotally connected to the swing arm 210 at a bottom end 232 of the shock absorber assembly 230. The bottom end 232 includes a ball joint 233 for pivoting relative to the swing arm 210. The connection of the bottom end 232 of the shock absorber assembly 230 to the swing arm 210 is slightly rearward and vertically higher than the connection of the bottom end of the left anti-roll bar link 276 to the swing arm 210. The shock absorber assembly 230 extends upward, forward and slightly laterally inward from the ball joint 232. The top end 234 of the shock absorber assembly 230 is pivotally connected to the upper portion of the frame 12, and the top end 234 includes a ball joint, but it is contemplated that different means may be implemented to pivotally connect the shock absorber assembly 230 to the frame 12. The shock absorber assembly 230 includes a coil spring arranged around a hydraulic shock absorber. As this type of shock absorber assemblies are well known, shock absorber assembly 230 will not be described in further detail.

[0079] The rear suspension assembly 200 includes a knuckle 250 for connecting the swing arm 210 to the rear wheel 18. Fig.11 and Fig.12 The steering knuckle 250 includes a connection to the wheel hub 19 (see Figure 7 ) and is generally disposed around the wheel hub. The lower portion 252 defines therein an opening 253 for receiving the wheel hub 19. The opening 253 has an opening axis 251 at its center, and the opening axis 251 is aligned with the wheel axis 21.

[0080] The knuckle 250 also includes an upper portion 254 connected to the lower portion 252 and extending generally upward from the lower portion 252. In particular, the upper portion 254 of the knuckle 250 extends first upward, then inwardly, and then upwardly from the lower portion 252 of the knuckle 250. At the top end of the upper portion 254, the knuckle 250 forms a bracket 257 that extends slightly outwardly from the top of the upper portion 254. The bracket 257 receives one end of the link 284, as will be described in more detail below. As shown by Figure 2 and Fig.14 As highlighted by the line 297 shown in FIG. 2 , the upper portion 254 is vertically higher than the SIP 97 at at least the following positions: in the rest position ( Figure 2 ), also referred to as the rest or display position and the fully compressed position of the suspension assembly 20, 200 ( Fig.14 ), also known as the full collision position.

[0081] The lower portion 252 and the upper portion 254 of the knuckle are integrally formed in the present implementation. It is contemplated that in some implementations, the lower portion 252 and the upper portion 254 may be formed separately and subsequently connected together (eg, by welding).

[0082] The knuckle 250 is pivotally connected to the rear portion 214 of the swing arm 210 at two points, in particular, by two ball joints 262, 264. The upper portion of the lower portion 252 includes a ball joint 262 received in a bracket 263, arranged to be vertically higher than the opening 253 and arranged above the wheel axis 21. The ball joint 262 connects the knuckle 250 to the top arm 215 of the rear portion 214 of the swing arm 210. The lower portion of the lower portion 252 of the knuckle 250 includes a ball joint 264 received in a bracket 265, arranged to be vertically lower than the opening 253 and arranged below the wheel axis 21. The ball joint 264 connects the knuckle 250 to the bottom arm 217 of the rear portion 214 of the swing arm 210. The ball joint 264 is connected to the bottom of the rear portion 214 of the swing arm 210 (see Figure 7 ).

[0083] The rear suspension 200 also includes a link 282 connected between the knuckle 250 and the frame 12. The link 282 has a laterally outward end pivotally connected to the lower portion 252 of the knuckle 250. In particular, the lower portion 252 includes a bracket 255, and the laterally outward end of the link 282 is connected via a ball joint 283 (see also Figure 6 ) is connected to the bracket. The bracket 255 and the lateral outward ball joint 283 of the connecting member 282 are at a distance 299 (see Fig.10 ) are spaced apart. In the illustrated embodiment, distance 299 is extended as much as possible to help reduce the forces on the link 282 and the corresponding ball joint. However, distance 299 is less than rim radius 17 to retain the outboard end ball joint 283 of link 282 within wheel 15. The exact distance 299 and its ratio to rim radius 17 may vary from the illustrated example. The lateral inboard ends of link 282 are pivotally connected to lower rear portion 93 of frame 12.

[0084] The rear suspension 200 further includes a link 284 connected between the knuckle 250 and the frame 12. The link 284 has a laterally outward end pivotally connected to the upper portion 254 of the knuckle 250, in particular to the bracket 257 at the top end of the upper portion 254. The laterally inward end of the link 284 is pivotally connected to the frame 12, in particular to the connecting bracket 95. As shown, the connecting bracket 95 is disposed vertically higher than the rear gear train 35 and the anti-roll bar 272, so that the laterally inward end of the link 284 connected to the connecting bracket 95 is disposed vertically higher than the rear gear train 35, the anti-roll bar 272 and the link 282 and is spaced apart from the rear gear train 35, the anti-roll bar 272 and the link 282. Also note that the upper portion 254 of the knuckle 250 is disposed rearwardly of the joints 269, 271, thereby connecting the members 276, 278 to the anti-roll bar 270. The upper portion 254 is disposed forwardly of the central portion 273, and thereby defines a swing axis. See, e.g. Figure 7 .

[0085] See also Fig.24 , the knuckle 250 pivots about a kingpin axis 201, which is the steering axis of the rear wheel 18. The kingpin axis 201 is defined by a line 201 extending through the connection point of the link 284 and the knuckle 250, and the ball joint 264 connects the knuckle 250 to the swing arm 110. The geometry of the rear suspension 200 has a positive spindle length 203. The spindle length 203 is the distance 203 from the kingpin axis 201 to the wheel center plane 218 when measured horizontally at the wheel axis 21. The spindle length 203 is a positive spindle length 203 when the wheel center plane 218 is outside the kingpin axis 201 at the height of the wheel axis 21.

[0086] The scraping radius 205 is the lateral distance from the kingpin axis 201 to the center of the contact patch of the wheel 18 as represented by plane 218 at the height where both the kingpin axis 201 and the center of the contact patch of the wheel 18 as represented by plane 218 would theoretically contact the road. In the illustrated embodiment, the suspension assembly 200 produces a negative scraping radius 205 because the kingpin axis 201 is outside of the wheel center plane 218.

[0087] Reference Fig.25A track distance 207 or track 207 is defined between the kingpin axis 201 and a vertical line 219 passing through the center of the wheel, the track distance 207 or track 207 being measured longitudinally and at a height at which both the kingpin axis 201 and the vertical line 219 would theoretically contact the road. In the illustrated suspension system 200, the track 207 is a negative track because the kingpin axis 201 contacts the road rearward of the center of the wheel as represented by line 219. The arrangement of each rear suspension assembly 200 having a positive spindle length, a negative scrape radius, and a negative track helps increase the stability of the vehicle 10 when traveling over rough or uneven terrain.

[0088] Due to the form and arrangement of the knuckle 250 (including the upper portion 254 extending upwardly away from the wheel hub 19), the link 284 is connected to the frame 12 at a different portion of the frame 12 that is spaced apart from the point at which the link 282 is connected to the frame 12. Fig.10 As shown in FIG. 2 , the distance 295 from the lateral outward end of the link 284 and the bracket 257 to the wheel axis 21 is greater than the inner rim radius 17. The steering knuckle 250 according to the present implementation is also configured such that the distance 295 between the opening axis 251 / wheel axis 21 and the lateral outward end of the link 284 is greater than half of the distance 265 between the two ball joints 262, 264, as shown in FIG. Fig.11 As shown in the figure.

[0089] If at least Fig. 9 As can be seen in the figure, the top end of the upper portion 254 of the knuckle 250 and the laterally outward end of the connecting member 284 are arranged to be higher in the vertical direction than the top surface of the rear wheel 18. In addition to explaining, the top end of the upper portion 254 of the knuckle 250 and the laterally outward end of the connecting member 284 are arranged to be higher in the vertical direction than the vertical highest point of the rear wheel 18. In the illustrated implementation, the bracket 257 extends over at least a portion of the laterally inner portion of the top surface of the tire 16. However, in some non-limiting implementations, it is contemplated that the top end of the upper portion 254 may not be higher in the vertical direction than the rear wheel. For example, in Fig.13 2 shows a rear suspension 200 having a different rear wheel 99 connected thereto. In this implementation of the rear wheel 99, the upper portion 254 of the knuckle 250 extends vertically along the inside of the rear wheel 99, but does not extend above or beyond the top surface of the wheel 99.

[0090] The rear suspension assembly 200 also includes a link 288 between the swing arm 210 and the frame 12. The laterally outward end of the link 288 is pivotally connected to the rear portion of the swing arm 210, specifically to a bracket 216 defined in the rear portion of the swing arm 210. The laterally inward end of the link 288 is pivotally connected to the lower rear portion 93 of the frame 12, specifically to a point vertically lower than the laterally inward end of the link 282. The links 282, 284, 288 are arranged on the rear side of the frame 12 so that the links 282, 284, 288 are at least partially disposed behind the rear gear train 35. As at least Figure 7 As can be seen in FIG. 1 , the frame portions 93, 95 connected to the lateral inward ends of the links 282, 284, 288 are arranged behind the rear gear train 35. Figure 6 , Figure 8 and Fig. 9 As can also be seen in the drawings, the lateral distance separating the laterally inward ends of links 282 is less than the lateral distance separating the laterally inward ends of links 284, and less than the lateral distance separating the laterally inward ends of links 288. It can also be seen that the distance separating the laterally inward ends of each pair of links 282, 284, 288 is less than the width 235 of the rear gear train 35. As can also be seen in the drawings, the lateral distance separating the laterally outward ends of links 288 is less than the lateral distance separating the laterally outward ends of links 282, and less than the lateral distance separating the laterally outward ends of links 288.

[0091] Reference Figures 15 to 17 , illustrates another non-limiting embodiment of a left rear suspension assembly 300 according to the present technology. The corresponding right rear suspension assembly 300 is a mirror image of the left assembly 300, only the left assembly 300 is shown and described herein. Elements of assembly 300 similar to elements of assembly 200 retain the same reference numerals and will generally not be described again.

[0092] The suspension assembly 300 includes a knuckle 350 for connecting the rear wheel 18 to the swing arm 210. The knuckle 350 includes a protrusion 360 for connecting to a link 382, ​​which is connected between the knuckle 350 and the frame 12 (the link 282 has been removed in this embodiment). The protrusion 360 is generally rod-shaped, extending inwardly from the main knuckle body, but it is contemplated that the specific shape of the protrusion 360 may vary. In the illustrated embodiment, the protrusion 360 is integrally formed with the rest of the knuckle 350. In some embodiments, the protrusion 360 may be formed separately and then rigidly attached to the rest of the knuckle 350 (e.g., by welding or fastening).

[0093] In contrast to the link 288 which extends generally laterally (left to right), the link 382 extends generally longitudinally (front to back) in the vehicle 10. The link 382 extends between the steering knuckle 350 and the frame 12. The link 382 has a rear end which is pivotally connected to the nose 360 ​​of the steering knuckle 350, specifically via a ball joint 383. The front end of the link 382 is pivotally connected to the lower portion of the frame 12 near the front end 212 of the swing arm 210. As shown from at least Fig.17 It can be seen that the protrusion 360 and the ball joint 383 connected to the rear end of the connecting member 382 are arranged behind the shaft 39. The connecting member 382 passes under the shaft 39, as shown in FIG. Fig.15 and Fig.16 Visible in.

[0094] Reference Figures 18 to 20 , illustrates another non-limiting embodiment of a left rear suspension assembly 400 according to the present technology. The corresponding right rear suspension assembly 400 is a mirror image of the left assembly 400, only the left assembly 400 is shown and described herein. Elements of assembly 400 similar to elements of assembly 200 retain the same reference numerals and will generally not be described again.

[0095] The suspension assembly 400 includes a knuckle 450 for connecting the rear wheel 18 to the swing arm 210. The knuckle 450 includes a protrusion 460 for connecting to a link 482, which is connected between the knuckle 450 and the frame 12 (the link 282 has been removed in this embodiment). The protrusion 460 is generally conical in shape, extending inwardly from the main knuckle body, but it is contemplated that the specific shape of the protrusion 460 may vary. In the illustrated embodiment, the protrusion 460 is integrally formed with the rest of the knuckle 450. In some embodiments, the protrusion 460 may be formed separately and then rigidly attached to the rest of the knuckle 450 (e.g., by welding or fastening).

[0096] In contrast to the link 288 which extends generally laterally (left to right), the link 482 extends generally longitudinally (front to back) in the vehicle 10. The link 482 extends between the steering knuckle 450 and the frame 12. The link 482 has a rear end which is pivotally connected to the nose 460 of the steering knuckle 450, specifically via a ball joint 483. The front end of the link 482 is pivotally connected to the lower portion of the frame 12 near the front end 212 of the swing arm 210. As shown from at least Fig.19 It can be seen that the protrusion 460 and the ball joint 483 connecting the rear end of the link 482 are arranged in front of the shaft 39.

[0097] Reference Figure 21 to Figure 23, illustrates another non-limiting embodiment of a left rear suspension assembly 500 according to the present technology. The corresponding right rear suspension assembly 500 is a mirror image of the left assembly 500, only the left assembly 500 is shown and described herein. Elements of the assembly 500 that are similar to elements of the assembly 200 retain the same reference numerals and will generally not be described again.

[0098] The suspension assembly 500 includes a knuckle 550 for connecting the rear wheel 18 to the swing arm 210. The knuckle 550 includes a protrusion 560 for connecting to a link 582, which is connected between the knuckle 550 and the frame 12 (the link 282 has been removed in this embodiment). The protrusion 560 is generally lug-shaped, extending inwardly from the main knuckle body, but it is contemplated that the specific shape of the protrusion 560 may vary. In the illustrated embodiment, the protrusion 560 is integrally formed with the rest of the knuckle 550. In some embodiments, the protrusion 560 may be formed separately and then rigidly attached to the rest of the knuckle 550 (e.g., by welding or fastening).

[0099] The link 582 extends generally laterally (left to right) in the vehicle 10, parallel to the arrangement of the link 288. The link 582 extends between the knuckle 550 and the frame 12 and is connected to a frame bracket 587, which extends upward from the lower portion of the frame 12 slightly in front of the CV joint (illustrated as a cover 43 of the CV joint). The link 582 has an outboard end that is pivotally connected to the protrusion 560 of the knuckle 550, specifically via a ball joint 583. The lateral inboard end of the link 582 is pivotally connected to the bracket 587. As can be seen from the figure, the link 582 and the corresponding protrusion 560 and ball joint 583 are arranged in front of the shaft 39, but the link 288 is arranged behind the shaft 39.

[0100] The vehicle 10 and rear suspension assemblies 200 , 300 , 400 , 500 implemented in accordance with some non-limiting implementations of the present technology may be represented as presented in the following numbered clauses.

[0101] Clause 1. A vehicle (10) comprising: a frame (12); a driver's seat (24) connected to the frame (12); a left front suspension assembly (20) connected to the frame (12); a left front wheel (14) operatively connected to the left front suspension assembly (20); a right front suspension assembly (20) connected to the frame (12); a right front wheel (14) operatively connected to the right front suspension assembly (20); a left rear suspension assembly (200) connected to the frame (12); a left rear wheel (18) operatively connected to the left rear suspension assembly (200), the left rear wheel (18) having a left wheel axis (21), the left rear wheel (18) including a left rear rim (11) having an inner rim radius (17) 5) and a left rear tire (16) mounted to the left rear rim (15); a right rear suspension assembly (200) connected to the frame (12); a right rear wheel (18) operatively connected to the right rear suspension assembly (200), the right rear wheel (18) having a right wheel axis (21), the right rear wheel (18) comprising a right rear rim (15) having an inner rim radius (17) and a right rear tire (16) mounted to the right rear rim (15); a rear gear train (35) operatively connected to the left rear wheel (18) and the right rear wheel (18); and a motor operatively connected to the rear gear train (35), the motor driving the right rear wheel (18) and the left rear wheel (18) via the rear gear train (35), the left rear suspension assembly (200) Each of the right rear suspension assembly (200) and the right rear suspension assembly (200) includes: a swing arm (210), the swing arm having a front end (212) pivotally connected to the frame (12); a shock absorber assembly (230), the shock absorber assembly pivotally connected to the swing arm (210) at a first end (232) and pivotally connected to the frame (12) at a second end (234); a steering knuckle (250) pivotally connected to a rear portion of the swing arm (210), the steering knuckle (250) including: a first portion (252) connected to a wheel hub (19), the wheel hub (19) being operatively connected to a corresponding one of the right rear wheel (18) and the left rear wheel (18), and a first portion (252) connected to a wheel hub (19) a portion (252) and a second portion (254) extending generally upward from the first portion; a first link (282), the first link having a laterally outward end of the first portion (252) pivotally connected to the steering knuckle (250) and a laterally inward end pivotally connected to the frame (12); and a second link (284), the second link having a laterally outward end of the second portion (254) pivotally connected to the steering knuckle (250) and a laterally inward end pivotally connected to the frame (12), the laterally outward end of the second link (284) being located at a distance (295) from a corresponding one of the right wheel axis (21) and the left wheel axis (21) greater than the inner rim radius (17).

[0102] Clause 2. The vehicle (10) of clause 1 further comprising a third link (288) having a laterally outward end pivotally connected to the swing arm (210) and a laterally inward end pivotally connected to the frame (12).

[0103] Clause 3. The vehicle (10) of clause 2, wherein the first link (282), the second link (284), and the third link (288) are connected to the frame (12) rearward of the rear gear train (35).

[0104] Clause 4. The vehicle (10) of clause 2 or 3, wherein the first link (282) and the third link (288) are disposed rearward of the rear gear train (35).

[0105] Clause 5. The vehicle (10) according to any one of clauses 1 to 4 further includes an anti-roll bar assembly (270), the anti-roll bar assembly including: an anti-roll bar (272); a right link (278), the right link having a bottom end pivotally connected to a swing arm (210) of a right rear suspension assembly (200) and a top end pivotally connected to a right end of the anti-roll bar (272); and a left link (276), the left link having a bottom end pivotally connected to a swing arm (210) of a left rear suspension assembly (200) and a top end pivotally connected to a left end of the anti-roll bar (272).

[0106] Clause 6. A vehicle (10) according to Clause 5, wherein the anti-roll bar (272) includes a central portion (273) arranged generally horizontally from left to right, a right portion (274) extending generally forward from the right end of the central portion (273), and a left portion (275) extending generally forward from the left end of the central portion (273); and the central portion (273) of the anti-roll bar (272) is pivotally connected to the rear portion (93) of the frame (12).

[0107] Clause 7. A vehicle (10) according to clause 6, wherein the frame (12) further includes a connecting bracket (95) disposed above the rear gear train (35) and the anti-roll bar (272); and the lateral inward end of the second link (284) of each of the right suspension assembly and the left suspension assembly (200) is connected to the connecting bracket (95).

[0108] Clause 8. The vehicle (10) of any one of clauses 5 to 7, wherein the right link (278) of the anti-roll bar assembly (270) and the left link (276) of the anti-roll bar assembly (270) are disposed forward of the rear gear train (35).

[0109] Clause 9. A vehicle (10) according to any one of clauses 5 to 8, wherein, for the right rear suspension assembly (200), the right link (278) of the anti-roll bar (272) is connected to the swing arm (210) in front of the first end (232) of the shock absorber assembly (230); and for the left rear suspension assembly (200), the left link (276) of the anti-roll bar (272) is connected to the swing arm (210) in front of the first end (232) of the shock absorber assembly (230).

[0110] Clause 10. A vehicle (10) according to any one of clauses 1 to 9, wherein the frame (12) further includes a connecting bracket (95) arranged to be higher than the rear gear train (35); and the lateral inward end of the second link (284) of each of the right suspension assembly and the left suspension assembly (200) is connected to the connecting bracket (95).

[0111] Clause 11. A vehicle (10) according to any one of clauses 1 to 10, wherein, for each of the left rear suspension assembly (200) and the right rear suspension assembly (200), the steering knuckle (250) is connected to the swing arm (210) via a first ball joint (262) and a second ball joint (264).

[0112] Clause 12. The vehicle (10) of clause 11, wherein the first ball joint (262) is disposed above the wheel axis (21); and the second ball joint (264) is disposed below the wheel axis (21).

[0113] Clause 13. A vehicle (10) according to any one of clauses 1 to 12, wherein, for each of the left rear suspension assembly (200) and the right rear suspension assembly (200), the top end portion of the second portion (254) of the steering knuckle (250) and the lateral outward end portion of the second link (284) are arranged to be vertically higher than the corresponding one of the right rear wheel (18) and the left rear wheel (18).

[0114] Clause 14. A vehicle (10) according to any one of clauses 1 to 13, wherein, for each of the left rear suspension assembly (200) and the right rear suspension assembly (200), the second portion (254) of the steering knuckle (250) extends vertically along the inner side of a corresponding one of the right rear wheel (18) and the left rear wheel (18).

[0115] Clause 15. A rear suspension assembly (200) for supporting a wheel (18) of a vehicle (10), the rear suspension assembly (200) comprising: a swing arm (210), the swing arm having a front end (212) configured to be pivotally connected to a frame (12) of the vehicle (10); a shock absorber assembly (230) pivotally connected to the swing arm (210) at a first end (232), the shock absorber assembly (230) being configured to be pivotally connected to the frame (12) at a second end (234); a steering knuckle (250) pivotally connected to a rear portion (214) of the swing arm (210), the steering knuckle (250) comprising a first portion (252) configured to be connected to a wheel hub (19) and a connecting member (254). to the first portion (252) and extending generally upwardly from the first portion; a first link (282), the first link having a laterally outward end of the first portion (252) pivotally connected to the steering knuckle (250) and a laterally inward end configured to be pivotally connected to the frame (12); and a second link (284), the second link having a laterally outward end of the second portion (254) pivotally connected to the steering knuckle (250) and a laterally inward end configured to be pivotally connected to the frame (12), the laterally outward end of the second link (284) being located at a distance (295) from a wheel axis (21) of the wheel (18) that is greater than an inner rim radius (17) of the wheel (18).

[0116] Clause 16. The rear suspension group 200 according to clause 15, wherein the first portion (252) of the steering knuckle (250) defines an opening (253) therein for receiving a wheel hub (19); the opening (253) has an opening axis (251); and the opening axis (251) is aligned with the wheel axis (21).

[0117] Clause 17. The rear suspension assembly 200 of clause 16, wherein an upper portion of the first portion (252) of the steering knuckle (250) is pivotally connected to the swing arm (210) at a first point; and a lower portion of the first portion (252) of the steering knuckle (250) is pivotally connected to the swing arm (210) at a second point.

[0118] Clause 18. A rear suspension assembly (200) according to clause 17, wherein, when the laterally outward end of the second link is connected to the second portion (254), the distance (295) between the opening axis (251) and the laterally outward end of the second link (284) is greater than half the distance (265) between the first point and the second point.

[0119] Clause 19. The rear suspension assembly (200) of any one of clauses 15 to 18, further comprising a third link (288) having a laterally outward end pivotally connected to the swing arm (210) and a laterally inward end configured to be pivotally connected to the frame (12).

[0120] Clause 20. The rear suspension assembly (200) of any one of clauses 15 to 19, wherein the steering knuckle (250) is connected to the swing arm (210) by two ball joints (262, 264).

[0121] Clause 21. A rear suspension assembly (200) according to any one of clauses 15 to 20, wherein the steering knuckle (250) is connected to the swing arm (210) via a first ball joint (262) and a second ball joint (264); the first ball joint (262) is arranged below the wheel axis (21); and the second ball joint (264) is arranged above the wheel axis (21).

[0122] Clause 22. The rear suspension assembly (200) of any one of clauses 15 to 21, wherein the second portion (254) of the steering knuckle (250) extends first upwardly, then inwardly, and then upwardly from the first portion (252) of the steering knuckle (250).

[0123] Clause 23. A rear suspension assembly (200) according to clause 22, wherein the top end of the second portion (254) of the steering knuckle (250) forms a bracket (257); the bracket (257) extends slightly outward from the remainder of the second portion (254); and the lateral outward end of the second link (284) is pivotally connected to the bracket (257).

[0124] Clause 21. A vehicle (10) comprising: a frame (12); a driver's seat (24) connected to the frame (12); a left front suspension assembly (20) connected to the frame (12); a left front wheel (14) operatively connected to the left front suspension assembly (20); a right front suspension assembly (20) connected to the frame (12); a right front wheel (14) operatively connected to the right front suspension assembly (20); a left rear suspension assembly (200) connected to the frame (12); a left rear wheel (18) operatively connected to the left rear suspension assembly (200), the left rear wheel (18) having a left wheel axis (21), the left rear wheel (18) comprising an inner rim A right rear wheel (15) having an inner wheel radius (17) and a left rear tire (16) mounted to the left rear wheel rim (15); a right rear suspension assembly (200) connected to the frame (12); a right rear wheel (18) operatively connected to the right rear suspension assembly (200), the right rear wheel (18) having a right wheel axis (21), the right rear wheel (18) including a right rear wheel rim (15) having an inner wheel radius (17) and a right rear tire (16) mounted to the right rear wheel rim (15); a rear gear drive (35) operatively connected to the left rear wheel (18) and the right rear wheel (18); and a motor (30) operatively connected to the rear drive assembly (35), the motor (30) 0) drives the right rear wheel (18) and the left rear wheel (18) via a rear drive assembly (35), each of the left rear suspension assembly (200) and the right rear suspension assembly (200) comprising: a swing arm (210), the swing arm having a front end (212) pivotally connected to the frame (12); a shock absorber assembly (230), the shock absorber assembly pivotally connected to the swing arm (210) at a first end (232) and pivotally connected to the frame (12) at a second end (234); a steering knuckle (250) pivotally connected to a rear portion (214) of the swing arm (210), the steering knuckle (250) comprising: a right rear wheel rim (214) at least partially received in the right rear wheel rim (214); ... 15) and a left rear wheel rim (15), and a second portion (254) extending upward from the first portion (252), the top end of the second portion (254) being vertically higher than the corresponding one of the right rear wheel rim (15) and the left rear wheel rim (15); and at least one connecting member (284), the connecting member having a lateral outward end pivotally connected to the steering knuckle (250) and a lateral inward end pivotally connected to the frame (12), the lateral outward end of the at least one connecting member (284) having a distance from the corresponding one of the right wheel axis (21) and the left wheel axis (21) greater than the inner rim radius (17). Modifications and improvements of the above-mentioned embodiments of the present technology may be obvious to those skilled in the art. The foregoing description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Therefore, the scope of the present technology is intended to be limited only by the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A vehicle comprising: frame; a driver seat connected to the frame; a left front suspension assembly connected to the frame; a left front wheel operatively connected to the left front suspension assembly; a right front suspension assembly connected to the frame; a right front wheel operatively connected to the right front suspension assembly; a left rear suspension assembly connected to the frame; A left rear wheel, the left rear wheel being operatively connected to the left rear suspension assembly, the left rear wheel having a left wheel axis, the left rear wheel comprising: a left rear wheel rim having an inner wheel rim radius, and a left rear tire, the left rear tire being mounted to the left rear wheel rim; a right rear suspension assembly connected to the frame; a right rear wheel, the right rear wheel being operatively connected to the right rear suspension assembly, the right rear wheel having a right wheel axis, the right rear wheel comprising: a right rear rim having an inner rim radius, and a right rear tire, the right rear tire being mounted to the right rear wheel rim; a rear gear train operatively connected to the left rear wheel and the right rear wheel; a motor operatively connected to the rear gear train, the motor driving the right rear wheel and the left rear wheel via the rear gear train, Each of the left rear suspension assembly and the right rear suspension assembly includes: a swing arm having a front end pivotally connected to the frame; a shock absorber assembly pivotally connected to the swing arm at a first end and pivotally connected to the frame at a second end; A steering knuckle pivotally connected to a rear portion of the swing arm, the steering knuckle comprising: a first portion connected to a wheel hub operatively connected to a corresponding one of the right rear wheel and the left rear wheel, and a second portion connected to the first portion and extending generally upwardly from the first portion; a first link having a laterally outward end pivotally connected to the first portion of the knuckle and a laterally inward end pivotally connected to the frame; and a second link having a laterally outward end pivotally connected to the second portion of the knuckle and a laterally inward end pivotally connected to the frame, the laterally outward end of the second link being located a distance from a corresponding one of the right wheel axis and the left wheel axis greater than the inner rim radius; and An anti-roll bar assembly, the anti-roll bar assembly comprising: An anti-roll bar, the anti-roll bar comprising: a central portion, the central portion being arranged substantially horizontally from left to right, a right portion extending generally forward from a right end portion of the central portion, and a left portion extending generally forward from a left end portion of the central portion; a right link having a bottom end portion pivotally connected to the swing arm of the right rear suspension assembly and a top end portion pivotally connected to the right end portion of the anti-roll bar; and a left link having a bottom end portion pivotally connected to the swing arm of the left rear suspension assembly and a top end portion pivotally connected to the left end portion of the anti-roll bar; wherein: The frame further includes a connecting bracket disposed above the anti-roll bar, and the laterally inward end of the second link of each of the right rear suspension assembly and the left rear suspension assembly is connected to the connecting bracket.

2. The vehicle according to claim 1, further comprising a third link, the third link having: pivotally connected to the laterally outward end of the swing arm; and Pivotally connected to the lateral inward end of the frame.

3. The vehicle according to claim 2, wherein: The first link, the second link, and the third link are connected to the frame rearward of the rear gear train.

4. The vehicle according to claim 2, wherein: The first link and the third link are disposed rearward of the rear gear train.

5. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein: The central portion of the anti-roll bar is pivotally connected to a rear portion of the frame.

6. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein: The right link of the anti-roll bar assembly and the left link of the anti-roll bar assembly are disposed in front of the rear gear train.

7. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein: For the right rear suspension assembly, the right link of the anti-roll bar is connected to the swing arm forward of the first end of the shock absorber assembly; and For the left rear suspension assembly, the left link of the anti-roll bar is connected to the swing arm forward of the first end of the shock absorber assembly.

8. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein: The connecting bracket is disposed higher than the rear gear train.

9. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein: For each of the left rear suspension assembly and the right rear suspension assembly, the steering knuckle is connected to the swing arm via a first ball joint and a second ball joint.

10. The vehicle according to claim 9, wherein: For each of the left rear suspension assembly and the right rear suspension assembly: The first ball joint is disposed higher than a corresponding one of the right wheel axis and the left wheel axis; and The second ball joint is disposed lower than a corresponding one of the right wheel axis and the left wheel axis.

11. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein: For each of the left and right rear suspension assemblies, a top end portion of the second portion of the steering knuckle and the laterally outward end portion of the second link are disposed vertically higher than a corresponding one of the right and left rear wheels.

12. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein: For each of the left and right rear suspension assemblies, the second portion of the steering knuckle extends vertically along an inner side of a corresponding one of the right and left rear wheels.

13. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein: Each of the left rear suspension assembly and the right rear suspension assembly is arranged to form: positive major axis length; Negative scratch radius; and Negative trajectory.

14. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein: For each of the left rear suspension assembly and the right rear suspension assembly, the steering knuckle is connected to the swing arm via a first ball joint and a second ball joint; The connecting bracket is disposed above the rear gear train; and The second link connects the steering knuckle to the connecting bracket.

15. A rear suspension assembly for supporting a wheel of a vehicle according to claim 1, the rear suspension assembly comprising: a swing arm having a front end configured to be pivotally connected to a frame of the vehicle; a shock absorber assembly pivotally connected to the swing arm at a first end, the shock absorber assembly being configured to be pivotally connected to the frame at a second end; A steering knuckle pivotally connected to a rear portion of the swing arm, the steering knuckle comprising: a first portion configured to be coupled to a wheel hub, and a second portion connected to the first portion and extending generally upwardly from the first portion; a first link having a laterally outward end pivotally connected to the first portion of the knuckle and a laterally inward end configured to be pivotally connected to the frame; and A second link having a laterally outward end pivotally connected to the second portion of the steering knuckle and a laterally inward end configured to be pivotally connected to the frame, the laterally outward end of the second link being located at a distance from a wheel axis of the wheel greater than an inner rim radius of the wheel.

16. The rear suspension assembly of claim 15, wherein: the first portion of the steering knuckle defining an opening therein for receiving the wheel hub; The opening has an opening axis; and The opening axis is aligned with the wheel axis.

17. The rear suspension assembly of claim 16, wherein: an upper portion of the first portion of the knuckle is pivotally connected to the swing arm at a first point; and A lower portion of the first portion of the knuckle is pivotally connected to the swing arm at a second point.

18. The rear suspension assembly of claim 17, wherein: When the laterally outward end of the second link is connected to the second portion, a distance between the aperture axis and the laterally outward end of the second link is greater than half a distance between the first point and the second point.

19. The rear suspension assembly of claim 15, further comprising a third link, the third link having: pivotally connected to the laterally outward end of the swing arm; and The device is configured to be pivotally connected to the laterally inward end of the frame.

20. The rear suspension assembly of claim 15, wherein: The steering knuckle is connected to the swing arm via two ball joints.

21. The rear suspension assembly of claim 15, wherein: The steering knuckle is connected to the swing arm via a first ball joint and a second ball joint; The first ball joint is disposed below the wheel axis; and The second ball joint is disposed above the wheel axis.

22. The rear suspension assembly of claim 15, wherein: The second portion of the steering knuckle extends first upwardly, then inwardly, and then upwardly from the first portion of the steering knuckle.

23. The rear suspension assembly of claim 22, wherein: A top end portion of the second portion of the steering knuckle forms a bracket; The bracket extends slightly outwardly from the remainder of the second portion; and The laterally outward end of the second link is pivotally connected to the bracket.

24. The rear suspension assembly of claim 15, wherein: The suspension components are arranged to form: positive major axis length; Negative scratch radius; and Negative trajectory.

25. The rear suspension assembly of claim 15, wherein: The connecting bracket is disposed higher than the rear gear train.

26. The rear suspension assembly of claim 15, wherein: The steering knuckle is connected to the swing arm via a first ball joint and a second ball joint; The connecting bracket is disposed above the rear gear train; and The second link connects the steering knuckle to the connecting bracket.

27. A vehicle comprising: frame; a driver seat connected to the frame; a left front suspension assembly connected to the frame; a left front wheel operatively connected to the left front suspension assembly; a right front suspension assembly connected to the frame; a right front wheel operatively connected to the right front suspension assembly; a left rear suspension assembly connected to the frame; A left rear wheel, the left rear wheel being operatively connected to the left rear suspension assembly, the left rear wheel having a left wheel axis, the left rear wheel comprising: a left rear wheel rim having an inner wheel rim radius, and a left rear tire, the left rear tire being mounted to the left rear wheel rim; a right rear suspension assembly connected to the frame; a right rear wheel, the right rear wheel being operatively connected to the right rear suspension assembly, the right rear wheel having a right wheel axis, the right rear wheel comprising: a right rear rim having an inner rim radius, and a right rear tire, the right rear tire being mounted to the right rear wheel rim; a rear gear drive operatively connected to the left and right rear wheels; a motor operatively connected to the rear gear drive, the motor driving the right rear wheel and the left rear wheel via the rear gear drive, Each of the left rear suspension assembly and the right rear suspension assembly includes: a swing arm having a front end pivotally connected to the frame; a shock absorber assembly pivotally connected to the swing arm at a first end and pivotally connected to the frame at a second end; A steering knuckle pivotally connected to a rear portion of the swing arm, the steering knuckle comprising: a first portion at least partially received in a corresponding one of the right rear rim and the left rear rim, and a second portion extending upward from the first portion, a top end portion of the second portion being vertically higher than a corresponding one of the right rear wheel rim and the left rear wheel rim; and at least one link having a laterally outward end pivotally connected to the steering knuckle and a laterally inward end pivotally connected to the frame, the laterally outward end of the at least one link being at a distance from a corresponding one of the right wheel axis and the left wheel axis greater than the inner wheel rim radius; and An anti-roll bar assembly, the anti-roll bar assembly comprising: An anti-roll bar, the anti-roll bar comprising: a central portion, the central portion being arranged substantially horizontally from left to right, a right portion extending generally forward from a right end portion of the central portion, and a left portion extending generally forward from a left end portion of the central portion; A right link, the right link having a bottom end pivotally connected to the swing arm of the right rear suspension assembly and a top end pivotally connected to the right end of the anti-roll bar; and a left link, the left link having a bottom end pivotally connected to the swing arm of the left rear suspension assembly and a top end pivotally connected to the left end of the anti-roll bar; wherein the frame also includes a connecting bracket arranged above the anti-roll bar, and the lateral inward end of the at least one link of each of the right rear suspension assembly and the left rear suspension assembly is connected to the connecting bracket.

28. The vehicle of claim 27, wherein: The connecting bracket is arranged to be higher than the rear gear driver.

29. The vehicle of claim 27, wherein: For each of the left rear suspension assembly and the right rear suspension assembly, the steering knuckle is connected to the swing arm via a first ball joint and a second ball joint; The connecting bracket is disposed above the rear gear drive; and The at least one link connects the steering knuckle to the connecting bracket.

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