SADDLE-TYPE VEHICLE, KIT FOR SADDLE-TYPE VEHICLE, AND METHOD FOR UPDATING SADDLE-TYPE VEHICLE

Abstract

The invention relates to a saddle-type vehicle (1) comprising: a frame (2); a wheel (5, 6); suspension means (7, 8) for elastically connecting the frame (2) to the wheel (5, 6); the suspension means (7, 8) comprising at least one connecting element (12) interposed between the wheel (5, 6) and the frame (2); the length of the connecting element (12) being associated with the position of a center of mass (G) of the saddle-type vehicle (1); the connecting element (12) being a variable-length connecting element (12) and the saddle-type vehicle (1) comprising control means (30, 31) operative during normal operation to adjust the length of said connecting element (12) and, consequently, the position of the center of mass (G) of said saddle-type vehicle (1) based on the operating condition of said saddle-type vehicle (1). Figure for short: Figure 7

Description

Title of the invention: SADDLE-TYPE VEHICLE, KIT FOR THE SADDLE-TYPE VEHICLE, AND METHOD FOR UPDATING THE SADDLE-TYPE VEHICLE Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a saddle-type vehicle, a kit for the saddle-type vehicle and a method of updating the saddle-type vehicle. TECHNOLOGICAL BACKGROUND

[0002] Saddle-type vehicles are known, comprising a frame, a front wheel and a rear wheel which are operatively connected to the body.

[0003] Saddle-type vehicles are also known, comprising one rear wheel and two front wheels, or one front wheel and two rear wheels, or two front wheels and two rear wheels.

[0004] Furthermore, saddle-type vehicles having two front or rear wheels are also known, which are mounted in such a manner as to be inclined relative to the body.

[0005] Saddle-type vehicles can be configured in various ways, for example as motorcycles, scooters or mopeds.

[0006] Motorcycles basically comprise, in a known manner: - a frame with a front part and a rear part, in a normal direction of progression of the motorcycle; - one front wheel and one rear wheel; - a front suspension, which is designed to suspend the frame elastically relative to the front wheel; and - a rear suspension, which is designed to suspend the frame elastically relative to the rear wheel.

[0007] The rear suspension commonly called "mono-shock cantilever system" is used in racing motorcycles.

[0008] In more detail, this rear suspension solution comprises, in turn, for each side of the rear wheel: - a swing arm fixed to the rear wheel; - a spring-shock absorber assembly articulated on the frame; - a linkage articulated on the frame, to the spring-shock absorber assembly and to a fixed length rod articulated, in turn, to the swing arm.

[0009] Regardless of the embodiment of the front and rear suspensions, the frame is subject to its weight and to the elastic forces exerted by the front and rear suspensions.

[0010] The center of mass of the motorcycle is normally arranged on the frame and its horizontal and vertical positions also depend on the overall horizontal and vertical forces exerted by the front and rear suspension on the frame.

[0011] The position of the center of mass strongly determines the dynamic behavior of the motorcycle, especially during acceleration and deceleration.

[0012] In particular, the position of the center of mass determines the dynamic behavior of the motorcycle under different operating conditions.

[0013] In fact, on the one hand, a more rearward and lower position of the center of mass reduces the tendency to pitch up during rapid acceleration and the tendency to sun out during sudden braking on the front wheel.

[0014] Thus, with particular reference to racing motorcycles, the position of the center of mass constrains the maximum acceleration speed and the maximum speed value before hard braking for a given braking length.

[0015] In this regard, racing motorcycles are normally provided with anti-squat and anti-squat devices which limit the maximum acceleration and maximum braking force, and therefore the racing performance of the motorcycle, when the motorcycle begins to squat or squat.

[0016] On the other hand, a more forward and higher position of the center of mass is preferable in other driving conditions, for example when entering a curve.

[0017] In order to optimize the maximum acceleration speed and the minimum braking length, it has been proposed to adjust the height of the rear part of the frame relative to the ground.

[0018] However, this adjustment is made with the motorcycle resting on the ground and before operating it.

[0019] In this way, the adjustment inevitably penalizes the behavior of the motorcycle in driving conditions other than sudden acceleration or braking.

[0020] There is a need in the industry to increase the maximum acceleration speed without wheeling and to reduce the minimum braking length of the motorcycle, without penalizing the behavior of the motorcycle in other riding conditions. DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] It is an object of the present invention to provide a saddle-type vehicle, making it possible to satisfy at least one of the needs mentioned above in a simple and economical manner.

[0022] This object is achieved by a saddle-type vehicle comprising: a frame, at least one wheel; suspension means for connecting said frame to said at least one wheel in an elastic manner; said suspension means comprising at least one element connecting element interposed between said at least one wheel and said frame; the length of said connecting element being associated with the position of a center of mass of said saddle-type vehicle. Said connecting element is a variable length connecting element and said saddle-type vehicle comprises control means operative, during normal operation of said saddle-type vehicle, for adjusting the length of said connecting element and, consequently, the position of said center of mass of said saddle-type vehicle based on the operating condition of said saddle-type vehicle.According to one embodiment, said control means can be actuated to arrange said center of mass at least in a first position and in a second position; said center of mass being arranged higher and further forward in said first position than in said second position, with reference to a normal forward position of said saddle-type vehicle.

[0023] According to one embodiment, said control means can be actuated to continuously adjust the position of said center of mass in a plurality of consecutive additional positions interposed between said first position and said second position.

[0024] According to one embodiment, said control means are, in use, adjustable to a rest position in which said center of mass is arranged in said first position and movable to an operating position in which said center of mass is arranged in said second position, said vehicle further comprising return means for causing said control means to return from said operating position to said rest position.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the saddle-type vehicle may further comprise a handlebar, and said control means comprise a lever mounted on said handlebar.

[0026] According to one embodiment, said wheel may be a rear wheel, said frame may comprise a rear part, and said suspension means may comprise a rear suspension for elastically suspending said rear part of said frame from said rear wheel, the rear suspension comprising, in turn: - a swing arm secured to said rear wheel; - a shock absorber; and - a linkage articulated on said rear part of said frame and on said shock absorber;

[0027] said connecting element comprising: - a first housing articulated on one of said linkage and said swing arm; and - a first piston movable inside said first housing as a result of the activation of said control means and articulated on the other of said link and said swing arm.

[0028] According to one embodiment, said first housing and said first piston may define a first and a second chamber fluidly isolated from each other within said first housing, and said saddle-type vehicle may further comprise: - a second housing; - a second piston movable within said second housing, operatively connected to said control means and defining a compartment for a first volume of a first fluid; - a first fluid line fluidly connected to said second housing and to said first chamber; - a second fluid line fluidly connected to said second chamber; - a source for housing a second volume of said first fluid or of a second fluid other than said first fluid; and - a valve, which is arranged along said second fluid line and can be arranged in an open configuration in which it fluidly connects said source and said second chamber or in a closed configuration in which it fluidly isolates said source from said second chamber.

[0029] In this embodiment, said control means are operatively connected to said second piston such that the volume of said compartment has a first value when said lever is in said first rest position and a second value, less than said first value, when said control means are in said operating position, and said control means are operatively connected to said valve such that said valve is in the closed configuration when said control means are in said rest position, and said valve is in said open configuration when said control means are in said operating position.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the saddle-type vehicle may comprise elastic means interposed between said second housing and said lever, said elastic means pre-stressing said lever towards said first position.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the control means may comprise a lever angularly rotatable between said first position and said second position, and the saddle-type vehicle may further comprise a second rod interposed between said second piston and said lever and pivotally connected to said second piston, said second piston being slidable along a first axis and said second rod firstly being rotatable about a second axis transverse to said first axis and then being slidable along said first axis, as a result of rotation of said lever from said rest position to said operating position.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the elastic means may comprise a first elastic element interposed between said second piston and said second housing, and a second elastic element interposed between said rod and said second housing.

[0033] According to one embodiment, said first fluid may, in use, be at a first pressure value in said first fluid line when said control means are in said rest position, and may, in use, be at a second pressure value higher than said first pressure value when said control means are, in use, set in said operating position, said source housing, in use, a volume of said second fluid at a third pressure value, which is higher than said first pressure value and lower than said second pressure value.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the saddle-type vehicle may comprise a first reservoir filled, in use, with a third fluid at said third pressure value and immiscible with said second fluid, said first reservoir being in fluid communication with said source so as to ensure that the second fluid is, in use, at said third pressure value within said second fluid line.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the saddle-type vehicle may further comprise a second reservoir fluidly isolated from said first fluid line and fluidly connected to said compartment and to said first chamber, said second reservoir being mounted on said handlebar and being capable of being filled, in use, with said first fluid. The present invention also relates to an upgrade kit for a saddle-type vehicle, comprising: - control means movable between a first and a second position; and - a connecting element comprising, in turn, a first housing and a first piston movable inside said first housing; said first piston and said first housing defining a first and a second chamber fluidly isolated from each other inside said first housing; - a second housing defining a compartment for a first volume of a first fluid; - a second piston movable inside said second housing and operatively connected to said control means; - a first fluid line fluidly connected to said second housing and to said first chamber; - a second fluid line fluidly connected to said second chamber; - a source for housing a second volume of a second fluid identical to or different from said first fluid; and - a valve, which is arranged along said second fluid line and can be arranged in an open configuration in which it fluidly connects said source and said second chamber along said second fluid line or in a closed configuration in which it fluidly isolates said source from said second chamber.

[0036] Said control means are operatively connected to said second piston such that the volume of said compartment has a first value when said control means are in said first position and a second value, less than said first value, when said control means are in said second position.

[0037] Said control means are operatively connected to said valve such that said valve is in the closed configuration when said control means is in said first position, and said valve is in said open configuration when said control means is in said second position.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the kit may further comprise elastic means interposed between said second housing and a control lever of said control means, said elastic means pre-loading said control lever towards said first position,

[0039] According to one embodiment, said control lever can be angularly rotated between said first position and said second position about a first axis, and the kit can further comprise a second rod interposed between said second piston and said control lever and pivotally connected to said second piston, said second piston being slidable along a second axis, and said second rod being firstly rotatable about a third axis transverse to said second axis, as a result of rotation of said control lever from said first position to said second position.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the elastic means may comprise a first elastic element interposed between said second piston and said second housing, and a second elastic element interposed between said rod and said second housing.

[0041] According to one embodiment, said first fluid may, in use, be at a first pressure value in said first fluid line when said control means are in said rest position, and may, in use, be at a second pressure value higher than said first pressure value when said control means are, in use, set in said operating position, said source housing, in use, a volume of said second fluid at a third pressure value, which is higher than said first pressure value and lower than said second pressure value.

[0042] According to one embodiment, the kit may comprise a first reservoir filled, in use, with a third fluid at said third pressure value and immiscible with said second fluid, said first reservoir being in fluid communication with said source so as to ensure that the second fluid is, in use, at said third pressure value inside said second fluid line.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the kit may further comprise a second reservoir fluidly isolated from said first fluid line between said compartment and said first chamber, said second reservoir being mountable on said handlebar and being fillable, in use, with said first fluid.

[0044] The present invention finally relates to a method for updating a saddle-type vehicle comprising, in turn: a frame; at least one wheel; suspension means for elastically connecting said frame to said at least one wheel; said suspension means comprising at least one connecting element interposed between said at least one wheel and said frame; the length of said connecting element being associated with the position of a center of mass of said saddle-type vehicle.

[0045] The method comprises the steps of: i) arranging a first piston in a movably manner within a first housing of said connecting element; ii) connecting a first chamber of said connecting element to a second housing inside which a second piston is slidably mounted; said second housing and said second piston defining a compartment for a first volume of fluid via a first fluid line; iii) connecting a second chamber of said connecting element to a second fluid line; said first and second chambers being fluidically isolated from each other within said first housing and defined by said first piston and said first housing; iv) interposing a valve along said second fluid line between said second chamber and a source housing a volume of a second fluid identical to or different from said first fluid; said valve being movable between: - an open position, in which it fluidly connects said source and the second chamber along said second fluid line; and - a closed position, in which it fluidly isolates said source from said second chamber; (v) operatively connecting a control lever to said second piston and to said valve, said lever being operatively connected to said valve such that said valve is in the closed configuration when said lever is in a first position, and said valve is in said open configuration when said lever is in a second position, and said lever being operatively connected to said second piston such that the volume of said compartment has a first value when said lever is in said first position and a second value, less than said first value, when said lever is in said second position. According to one embodiment, the method may further comprise the steps of: vi) filling a first reservoir with a third fluid at a given pressure value and immiscible with said second fluid; vii) fluidly connecting said first reservoir and said second fluid line, so as to ensure that the second fluid is, in use, at said given pressure value within said second fluid line. According to one embodiment, the method may further comprise the steps of: viii) fluidly interposing a second reservoir along said first fluid line between said compartment and said first chamber; and ix) mounting said tank on a handlebar of said saddle-type vehicle. Brief description of the drawings

[0046] A preferred non-limiting embodiment of the present invention will be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: - [Fig.l] is a side view of a saddle-type vehicle, in particular a racing motorcycle, according to the present invention; - [Fig.2] is a side view of the motorcycle of [Fig.l], with parts removed for clarity; - [Fig.3] is a side view of the motorcycle of [Fig.2], in a first operating configuration; - [Fig.4] is a side view of the motorcycle of [Fig.2], in a second operating configuration; - [Fig.5] is a larger-scale sectional view taken along line VV of [Fig.3] in the first operating configuration; - [Fig.6] is a larger-scale sectional view taken along line VI-VI of [Fig.4]; - [Fig.7] shows early components of the motorcycle of Figures 1 to 6 in enlarged view and with parts removed for clarity; - [Fig.8] is a sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII of [Fig.7]; - [Fig.9] is a sectional view taken along line IX-IX of [Fig.3]; - [Fig. 10] is an enlarged partially schematic view of a hydraulic circuit of the motorcycle of [Fig. 3] in the first operating condition, on a larger scale and with parts removed for the sake of clarity; - [Fig. 11] schematically represents the hydraulic circuit of [Fig. 10] with second components of the motorcycle of [Fig. 3] in the first operating condition; - [Fig. 12] is an enlarged view of the second components of the hydraulic circuit of Figures 10 and 11, with parts removed for clarity; - [Fig. 13] is an enlarged, partially schematic view of the hydraulic circuit of the motorcycle of [Fig. 4] in the second operating condition, on a larger scale and with parts removed for clarity; - [Fig. 14] schematically represents the hydraulic circuit of [Fig. 13] with second components of the motorcycle of [Fig. 3] in the second operating condition; - [Fig. 15] is an enlarged view of the second components of the hydraulic circuit of Figures 13 and 14, with parts removed for clarity; - [Fig. 16] shows third components of the motorcycle of [Fig.l] on an enlarged scale and with parts removed for clarity; and - [Fig. 17] shows the motorcycle of Figures 1 to 4 in both the first and second operating conditions superimposed on each other. Best mode for carrying out the invention

[0047] Referring to Figures 1 to 4, reference numeral 1 indicates a saddle-type vehicle.

[0048] In the embodiment shown, the saddle-type vehicle is a motorcycle, which is hereinafter referred to as 1. Alternatively, the saddle-type vehicle is a scooter.

[0049] In the remainder of this description, expressions such as "front", "rear", "upper" and "lower" are used with reference to a normal direction of travel and a normal operating position of the motorcycle 1 shown in the attached Figures 1 to 4.

[0050] The motorcycle 1 mainly comprises: - a frame 2 with a front part 3 and a rear part 4; - a front wheel 5 and a rear wheel 6; - a front suspension 7 for suspending the front part 3 of the frame 2 relative to the front wheel 5; and - a rear suspension 8 for suspending the rear part 4 of the frame 2 relative to the rear wheel 6.

[0051] The front part 3 defines a handlebar 20.

[0052] In more detail, the rear suspension 8 is of the type commonly known as a “mono-shock cantilever system”.

[0053] The rear suspension 8 comprises, in turn, for each side of the rear wheel 6: - a swing arm 9 fixed to the rear wheel 6; - a spring-shock absorber assembly 10 interposed between the rear part 4 and the relative swing arm 9; - a linkage 11 articulated on the rear part 4 and on the spring-shock absorber unit 10; and - a link 12 articulated on the linkage 11 and on the swing arm 9.

[0054] In more detail, the spring-damper assembly 10 comprises an elastic element 15 and a damping element (not shown).

[0055] In addition, the spring-shock absorber assembly 10 comprises: - a first end 16 articulated on the rear part 4 around an axis A; and - a second end 17, opposite the end 16, articulated on the linkage 11 around an axis B.

[0056] With reference to [Fig.7], each linkage 11 has the shape of a triangular plate and is articulated on the rear part 4 around an axis C and to the connection 12 around an axis D.

[0057] The link 12 has a first end 13 articulated on the linkage 11 around the axis D and a second end 14, opposite the end 13, articulated on the oscillating arm 9 around the axis E.

[0058] Link 12 extends along an axis H.

[0059] The axes A, B, C, D and E are parallel to each other and orthogonal to the linkage plane 11 and to the axis H.

[0060] In the embodiment shown, the axes B, C, D are arranged at respective vertices of the linkage 11.

[0061] In addition, the axes C, D are arranged further forward relative to the axes A, B, E.

[0062] Axis A is arranged at a higher height than axes C, D, B, E.

[0063] Motorcycle 1 has a center of mass G.

[0064] As is apparent from the foregoing of this description, the motorcycle 1 can be selectively adjusted: - in a first configuration (Figures 2 and 3), in which the center of mass G is set in a first position; or - in a second configuration ([Fig.4]), in which the center of mass G is set in a second position.

[0065] As shown in [Fig. 17], the center of mass G is arranged in the first position further forward and above than the center of mass G in the second position.

[0066] In particular, in the first position, the center of mass G is arranged at a height Y1 above ground level and at a horizontal distance XI from a point of the motorcycle 1 fixed relative to the ground, for example the axis of rotation of the wheel 5. In a different manner, in the second position, the center of mass G is arranged at a height Y2 above ground level and at a distance X2 from the fixed point of the motorcycle 1.

[0067] Advantageously, the link 12 is a rod of variable length and the saddle-type vehicle 1 comprises control means 30 operable by the rider during normal operation of the motorcycle 1 to adjust the length of the link 12, and consequently the position of the center of mass G on the basis of the operating condition of the motorcycle 1.

[0068] In more detail, the control means 30 normally maintain the motorcycle 1 in the first configuration and are actuated by the rider to set the motorcycle 1 in the second configuration, when rapid acceleration or sudden braking is necessary.

[0069] The control means 30 are operational to arrange the center of mass G: - in a first position ([Fig.3]) reached when the motorcycle 1 is driven under normal conditions; or - in a second position ([Fig.4]) reached when high acceleration rates or a short braking length are required for the motorcycle 1.

[0070] Control means 30 may also be actuated to arrange the center of mass G in a plurality of consecutive additional intermediate positions (not shown) interposed between said first position and said second position.

[0071] The center of mass G is progressively lowered and further rearwardly arranged, in each of the intermediate positions, moving from the first to the second position.

[0072] In the embodiment shown, the control means 30 comprise a lever 31 mounted on the handlebar 20 and operatively connected to the link 12.

[0073] In particular, the lever 31 is movable between the first rest position and a second operating position.

[0074] In the embodiment shown, the lever 31 can rotate between the first rest position and the second operating position around an axis F orthogonal to the axis H.

[0075] The link 12 has a first minimum length in the respective first position (Figures 10 and 11) and a second maximum length greater than the first length in the second position (Figures 13 and 14).

[0076] In particular, the passage of the link 12 from the first position to the second position (or vice versa) causes the passage of the motorcycle 1 from the first configuration to the second configuration (or vice versa).

[0077] More precisely still, the extension (contraction) of the link 12 parallel to the axis H causes the rotation of the swing arm 9 and of the rear part 4 by means of the linkage 11, thus determining the displacement of the center of mass G from the first (second) position to the second (first) position.

[0078] Link 12 comprises (Figures 5, 6, 10 and 13): - a housing 33 articulated on the linkage 11 around the axis D; and - a piston 34, which is articulated on the swing arm 9 around the axis E and is slidably mounted parallel to the axis H orthogonal to the axes D, E inside the housing 33.

[0079] In more detail, the piston 34 can slide inside the housing 33 between: - a first position closer to the end 16 shown in Figures 5, 10 and 11; and - a second position closer to the end 17 shown in Figures 6, 12 and 15.

[0080] When the piston 34 is set in the first (second) position, the link 12 is set in the first (second) position, the center of mass G is set in the first (second) position, and the motorcycle 1 is set in the first (second) configuration.

[0081] More precisely still, the sliding movement of the piston 34 parallel to the axis H from the respective first position to the respective second position is determined by the movement of the control means 30 from the respective first position to the respective second position.

[0082] In more detail, the housing 33 and the piston 34 define a chamber 35 and a chamber 36 fluidly isolated from each other within the housing 33.

[0083] In the embodiment shown, the chamber 35 is arranged on the side of the linkage 11 and the chamber 36 is arranged on the side of the swing arm 9.

[0084] The motorcycle 1 further comprises (Figures 10 to 15) a hydraulic circuit 40 for moving the piston 34 relative to the housing 33, as a result of the position reached by the lever 31.

[0085] In detail, the hydraulic circuit 40 comprises: - a compartment 42 for a first volume of a first fluid, oil in the embodiment shown, which can be pressurized as a result of the movement of the lever 31 from the first rest position to the second operating position; - a first fluid line 43, which fluidically connects the chamber 35 and the compartment 42; - a compensator 44 defining a compartment 45 for a second fluid, nitrogen in the embodiment shown, at a given pressure value and a compartment 46 for a third fluid, oil in the embodiment shown; and - a second fluid line 47, which fluidically connects the chamber 36 to the compensator 44.

[0086] Preferably, the second fluid is immiscible with the first fluid.

[0087] In addition, the hydraulic circuit 40 comprises a valve 48, which is arranged along the second fluid line 47 between the compensator 44 and the chamber 36 and is operatively connected to the lever 31.

[0088] Valve 48 can be adjusted in: - an open position (Figures 13 to 15), in which it fluidly connects the compartment 46 and the chamber 36; or - a closed position (Figures 10 to 12), in which it fluidically isolates the compartment 46 and the chamber 36 from each other.

[0089] The lever 31 is operatively connected to the valve 48 such that when the lever 31 is in the first rest position (Figures 10 and 11), the valve 48 is in the closed position.

[0090] Furthermore, when the lever 31 is in the second operating position (Figures 13 and 14), the valve 48 is in the open position.

[0091] In particular, when the lever 31 is in the first rest position (Figures 10 to 12): - the third fluid in the fluid line 47 and, consequently, in the chamber 36 is set to a first pressure value; and - the first fluid in the fluid line 43 and, consequently, in the chamber 35 is set to a second pressure value, lower than the first pressure value.

[0092] The first pressure value in the chamber 36 being greater than the second pressure value in the chamber 35, the piston 34 moves towards the first position, thus maintaining the center of mass G in the first position and the motorcycle 1 in the first configuration.

[0093] The first pressure in the fluid line 47 and, consequently, in the chamber 36 is equal to the pressure of the third fluid inside the compensator 44 and the compartment 45.

[0094] Furthermore, when the lever 31 is in the second operating position (Figures 13 to 15), the action of the lever 31 increases the pressure inside the line fluidic 43 from the second pressure value to a third pressure value greater than the first pressure value.

[0095] The third pressure value in the chamber 35 being greater than the first pressure value in the chamber 36, the piston 34 moves to the second position, thus maintaining the center of mass G in the second position and the motorcycle 1 in the second configuration.

[0096] The hydraulic circuit 40 further comprises: - a 50 accommodation; - a piston 51 movable inside the housing 50, delimiting the compartment 42 together with the housing 50, and operatively connected to the lever 31; and - a reservoir 52 in fluid connection with the compartment 42 by means of a perforated bolt 53 projecting laterally from the housing 50 and in fluid connection with the compartment 42 by means of a conduit 100.

[0097] In more detail, the piston 51 can slide inside the housing 50 parallel to an axis I orthogonal to the axes F, H between: - a first position (Figures 10 and 12), in which the compartment 42 has a maximum volume value; and - a second position (Figures 13 and 15), in which the compartment 42 has a volume of minimum value.

[0098] The piston 51 is set in the first position, when the lever 31 is in the first rest position.

[0099] The piston 51 is set in the second position, when the lever 31 is in the second operating position.

[0100] The movement of the piston 51 from the first position to the second position as a result of the actuation of the lever 31 determines the movement of the first fluid towards the chamber 35 and causes the increases in the pressure of the first fluid inside the fluid line 43 from the second pressure value to the third pressure value.

[0101] In particular, the reservoir 52 is outside the fluid line 43 and is fluidically connected to the fluid line 43 by means of the conduit 100, the perforated bolt 53 and the compartment 42.

[0102] In the embodiment shown, the reservoir 52 is arranged on the handlebar 20.

[0103] The hydraulic circuit 40 further comprises a rod 60 extending around an axis J orthogonal to the axis F, articulated on the lever 31 around an axis K offset from the axis F and articulated relative to the piston 51.

[0104] In more detail, the rod 60 comprises, in turn: - an axial end 61 articulated on the lever 31 around the axis K; and - an axial end 62, opposite the end 61, which is housed with play inside an open groove 63 defined by the piston 51 on the opposite axial side of the compartment 42.

[0105] The end 61 has a round shape while the groove 63 comprises a curved section 64, semi-spherical in the embodiment shown, and an open cylindrical section 65.

[0106] When the lever 31 is in the first rest position, the axes I, J are inclined relative to each other, and the end 62 is housed inside the section 65 at a certain distance from the section 64 ([Fig. 12]).

[0107] When the lever 31 is in the second operating position, the axes I, J coincide and the end 62 is housed inside the section 64 ([Fig. 15]).

[0108] The movement of the lever 31 from the first rest position to the second operating position causes the rotation of the end 61 around its own axis K and the subsequent sliding movement of the end 61 inside the groove 63 parallel to the axes I, J.

[0109] The K axis is in the embodiment shown parallel to the F axis and orthogonal to the I, J axis.

[0110] The hydraulic circuit 40 further comprises: - a spring 71 interposed between the piston 51 and the housing 50; and - a spring 72 interposed between the housing 50 and the rod 60.

[0111] The springs 71, 72 are compressed progressively, when the lever 31 passes from the first rest position to the second operating position.

[0112] The springs 71, 72 preload the lever 31 elastically towards the first rest position.

[0113] In the embodiment shown, the springs 71, 72 are helical springs.

[0114] The valve 48 is, in the embodiment shown, a ball valve.

[0115] In summary, the valve 48 comprises (Figures 12 and 15):

[0116] a body 75 crossed by the fluid line 47;

[0117] a rod 76 operatively connected to the lever 31; and - a ball 77 angularly secured to the rod 76, capable of rotating inside the body 75, and comprising a hole 78.

[0118] When the valve 48 is in the open position, the ball 77 is oriented such that the hole 78 is aligned and, therefore, in fluid connection with the fluid line 47.

[0119] Furthermore, when the valve 48 is in the closed position, the ball 77 is arranged such that the hole 78 is fluidically isolated from the fluid line 47.

[0120] The lever 31 comprises an arm 73 and an arm 74 arranged on respective opposite sides with respect to the axis F.

[0121] In more detail, the arm 75 defines a handle for the pilot and the K axis.

[0122] The lever 31 and the hydraulic circuit 40 form a kit 80 for updating a motorcycle 1 with a fixed length lever.

[0123] The operation of the motorcycle 1 is described in the remainder of this description as a normal driving condition of the motorcycle 1.

[0124] In this condition, the lever 31 is in the first rest position (Figures 10 and 12) and is therefore not actuated by the pilot.

[0125] In this condition, the center of mass G is set in the first position and the motorcycle 1 is set in the first configuration ([Fig.3]).

[0126] Referring to Figures 10 to 12, the piston 34 is in the first relative position and the link 12 has the minimum length.

[0127] The valve 48 is set in the closed position, in which it fluidically isolates the compensator 44 and the compartments 45, 46 from the chamber 36 ([Fig. 10]).

[0128] Because the lever 31 is in the first rest position, the axes J, K of the rod 60 and the respective piston 51 are inclined relative to each other. Furthermore, the end 62 of the rod 60 is housed inside the section 65 at a certain distance from the section 64 of the piston 51.

[0129] Furthermore, the springs 71, 72 are extended.

[0130] Thus, the first volume of oil housed in compartment 42 has the maximum value.

[0131] The first oil pressure value inside the fluid line 47 is equal to the pressure value of the nitrogen inside the compensator 44 and is greater than the first pressure value of the oil inside the fluid line 43.

[0132] As a result, the oil inside the chamber 36 is at the first pressure value higher than the second pressure value of the oil inside the chamber 35. The piston 34 is therefore set in the first position.

[0133] When the pilot needs the center of mass G to be set further back and lower - for example because it is necessary to reduce the risk of pitching up under acceleration or sunning under heavy braking, he moves the lever 31 into the second operating position (Figures 13 to 15).

[0134] As a result, the valve 48 is set in the open position (Figures 13 to 15), in which it fluidly connects the compensator 44 and the compartments 45, 46 from the chamber 36.

[0135] Simultaneously, the movement of the lever 31 from the first rest position to the second operating position causes the rotation of the rod 60 around its own axis K until the axes I, J coincide with each other. Then, the end 61 slides inside the groove 63 of the piston 51 parallel to the axis J until the end 61 comes into contact with and is housed inside the section 64 of the rod 60.

[0136] As a result, the first volume of oil housed in the compartment 42 reaches the minimum value and the springs 71, 72 are compressed.

[0137] Thus, the second pressure of the first fluid inside the fluid line 43, and consequently in the chamber 35, is increased by the action of the lever 31 set in the second operating position, from the second pressure value to the third pressure value higher than the first pressure value of the second fluid in the chamber 36.

[0138] In this way, the piston 34 reaches the second position and the link 12 has the maximum length.

[0139] The extension of the link 12 parallel to the axis H causes the rotation of the swing arm 9 and the rear part 4 by means of the linkage 11, thus determining the displacement of the center of mass G from the first position to the second position, which is further back and lower than the first position.

[0140] In this way, the risk of rearing up when accelerating or sunning when braking is reduced. In other words, the maximum acceleration value without rearing up is increased and the braking space is reduced compared to the condition in which the center of mass G is in the first position.

[0141] As soon as the driver releases the lever 31 - for example because the racing conditions do not require sudden acceleration or braking - the pressure inside the fluid line 43 is lowered to the second pressure value while the pressure inside the fluid line 47 is maintained at the first pressure value by the compensator 44.

[0142] Thus, the first pressure value in the chamber 36 is again greater than the second pressure value in the chamber 35. The piston 34 thus returns to the first position and the connection 12 again has the minimum length. The first volume of oil inside the compartment 42 returns to the maximum value. The difference between the maximum value and the minimum value of the first volume of oil is compensated by the reservoir 52.

[0143] As a result, the swing arm 9 and the rear part 4 rotate backwards via the linkage 11, thereby determining the return of the center of mass G from the second position to the first position.

[0144] At this stage, the motorcycle 1 is set again in the first configuration.

[0145] The pilot can also arrange the motorcycle 1 in a plurality of additional intermediate configurations between the first configuration and the second configuration and in which the center of mass G is set in respective intermediate positions between the first position and the second position.

[0146] The kit 80 is used to update a motorcycle with a fixed length rod interposed between the linkage 11 and the swing arm 9 and, therefore, with a fixed position of the center of mass G.

[0147] In more detail, the fixed length rod is removed from the motorcycle and the variable length link 12 is attached to the linkage 11 and the swing arm 9, and the lever 31 is mounted on the handlebar 20.

[0148] In more detail, the housing 33 of the link 12 is articulated on the linkage 11 around the axis D, and the piston 34 is articulated on the oscillating arm 9 around the axis E and is slidably mounted inside the housing 33 parallel to the axis H.

[0149] The chambers 35, 36 are connected to the hydraulic circuit 20 controlled by the lever 31.

[0150] The advantages of the motorcycle 1, the kit 80 and the method for updating the motorcycle 1 according to the present invention will become apparent from the above description.

[0151] In particular, the lever 31 can be operated during normal operation of the motorcycle 1 to adjust the length of the link 12 and, consequently, to adjust the position of the center of mass G based on the operating condition of the motorcycle 1.

[0152] In this way, it is possible for the rider to set the motorcycle 1 in the first configuration under normal racing conditions, for example when entering a curve, and to set the motorcycle 1 in the second configuration in the event of sudden acceleration or braking.

[0153] Due to the lowered and more rearward position of the central mass G, it is possible to reduce the risk of rearing up during acceleration and of sunning during sudden braking.

[0154] Thus, it is possible to increase the acceleration of the motorcycle 1 and reduce the braking length, with obvious advantages in terms of racing performance.

[0155] In addition, the control means 30 are operative to continuously adjust the position of the center of mass G in a plurality of intermediate positions. It is therefore possible to further optimize the dynamic behavior of the motorcycle 1 with respect to racing conditions.

[0156] The compensator 44 ensures that the second fluid flowing in the fluid line 43 is at the first pressure value. In this way, as soon as the lever 31 is released, the piston 34 returns to the first position and the center of mass G returns to the first position.

[0157] The springs 71, 72 elastically preload the lever 31 towards the rest position. In this way, as soon as it is released, the lever 31 returns to the first rest position.

[0158] In addition, the springs 71, 72 ensure the return of the lever 31 to the first rest position in the event of damage to the compensator 44 and / or the hydraulic circuit 40. The springs 71, 72 also ensure the return of the lever 31 to the first rest position, when the pilot sets the lever 31 to one of the additional intermediate positions between the first and second positions.

[0159] The kit 80 allows the reconfiguration of a traditional motorcycle with a fixed length linkage 12, by simply the steps of:

[0160] removing the fixed length rod from the motorcycle; and - attach a variable length link 12 to a fixed linkage 11 and a swing arm 9.

[0161] Finally, it appears that modifications and variants not departing from the scope of protection of the invention can be made concerning the motorcycle 1, the kit 80 and the method for updating the motorcycle 1 described here.

[0162] In particular, the lever 31 could be mounted on a part of the motorcycle 1 other than the handlebar 20.

Claims

1. Claims Saddle-type vehicle (1) comprising: - a frame (2); - at least one wheel (5,6); - suspension means (7, 8) for elastically connecting said frame (2) to said at least one wheel (5, 6); said suspension means (7, 8) comprising at least one connecting element (12) interposed between said at least one wheel (5, 6) and said frame (2); the length of said connecting element (12) being associated with the position of a center of mass (G) of said saddle-type vehicle (1); said connecting element (12) is a variable length connecting element (12) and said saddle-type vehicle (1) comprises control means (30, 31) operative during normal operation of said saddle-type vehicle (1) for adjusting the length of said connecting element (12) and, consequently, the position of said center of mass (G) of said saddle-type vehicle (1) based on the operating condition of said saddle-type vehicle (1); said control means (30, 31) are operative to arrange said center of mass (G) at least in a first position and in a second position; said center of mass (G) being arranged higher and more forward in said first position than in said second position, with reference to a normal progress position of said saddle-type vehicle (1); and said control means (30, 31) are, in use, set in a rest position in which said center of mass (G) is arranged in said first position and are movable into an operating position in which said center of mass (G) is arranged in said second position; said vehicle (1) further comprising return means (44; 71, 72) for causing said control means (30, 31) to return from said operating position to said rest position; and said wheel (5, 6) is a rear wheel (6), in that said frame (2) comprises a rear portion (4), and in that said suspension means (7, 8) comprise a rear suspension (8) for elastically suspending said rear part (4) of said frame (2) to said rear wheel (6); said rear suspension (8) comprising, in turn: a swing arm (9) integral with said rear wheel (6); a shock absorber (10); and - a linkage (11) articulated on said rear part (4) of said frame (2) and on said shock absorber (10); said connecting element (12) comprising: - a first housing (33) articulated on one (11) of said linkage (11) and said swing arm (9); and - a first piston (34) movable inside said first housing (33) as a result of the activation of said control means (30, 31) and articulated on the other (9) of said linkage (11) and of said oscillating arm (9); and said first housing (33) and said first piston (34) define a first and a second chamber (35, 36) fluidly isolated from each other inside said first housing (33); said vehicle (1) further comprising: - a second accommodation (50); - a second piston (51) movable inside said second housing (50), operatively connected to said control means (30, 31) and defining a compartment (42) for a first volume of a first fluid; - a first fluid line (43) fluidly connected to said second housing (50) and to said first chamber (35); - a second fluid line (47) fluidically connected to said second chamber (36); - a source (45, 46) for housing a second volume of said first fluid or of a second fluid other than said first fluid; and - a valve (48), which is arranged along said second fluid line (47) and can be arranged in an open configuration in which it fluidly connects said source (45, 46) and said second chamber (36) or in a closed configuration in which it fluidly isolates said source (45, 46) from said second chamber (36); said control means (30, 31) being operatively connected to said second piston (51) such that the volume of said compartment (42) has a first value when said lever (31) is in said first rest position and a second value, lower than said first value, when said control means (30, 31) are in said operating position; said control means (30, 31) being operatively connected to said valve (48) such that said valve (48) is in the closed configuration when said control means (30, 31) are in said rest position, and said valve (48) is in said open configuration when said control means (30, 31) are in said operating position.

2. A saddle-type vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that said control means (30, 31) are operative to continuously adjust the position of said center of mass (G) in a plurality of consecutive additional positions interposed between said first position and said second position.

3. A saddle-type vehicle according to any preceding claim, characterized in that it comprises a handlebar (20) and in that said control means (30) comprise a lever (31) mounted on said handlebar.

4. A saddle-type vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises elastic means (71, 72) interposed between said second housing (50) and said lever (31); said elastic means (71, 72) pre-stressing said lever (31) towards said first position.

5. A saddle-type vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said control means (30, 31) comprise a lever (31) angularly rotatable between said first position and said second position; said saddle-type vehicle (1) further comprising: - a second rod (60) interposed between said second piston (51) and said lever (31) and pivotally connected to said second piston (51); said second piston (51) being slidable along a first axis (I) and said second rod (60) being first rotatable about a second axis (K) transverse to said first axis (I) and then being slidable along said first axis (I), as a result of rotation of said lever (31) from said rest position to said operating position.

6. Saddle-type vehicle according to claim 5, characterized in that said elastic means (71, 72) comprise: - a first elastic element (71) interposed between said second piston (51) and said second housing (50); and - a second elastic element (72) interposed between said rod (60) and said second housing (50).

7. A saddle-type vehicle according to any preceding claim, characterized in that said first fluid is, in use, at a first pressure value in said first fluid line (43) when said control means (30, 31) are in said rest position, and is, in use, at a second pressure value higher than said first pressure value when said control means (30, 31) are, in use, set in said operating position; said source (45, 46) housing, in use, a volume of said second fluid at a third pressure value, which is higher than said first pressure value and lower than said second pressure value.

8. A saddle-type vehicle according to claim 7, characterized in that it comprises a first reservoir (44) filled, in use, with a third fluid at said third pressure value and immiscible with said second fluid; said first reservoir (44) being in fluid communication with said source (45, 46) so as to ensure that the second fluid is, in use, at said third pressure value within said second fluid line (47).

9. A saddle-type vehicle according to any preceding claim when dependent on claim 3, characterized in that it comprises a second reservoir (52) fluidly isolated from said first fluid line (43) and fluidly connected to said compartment (42) and to said first chamber (35); said second reservoir (52) being mounted on said handlebar (20) and being fillable, in use, with said first fluid.

10. Kit (80) for updating a saddle-type vehicle (1), comprising: - control means (30, 31) movable between a first and a second position; and - a connecting element (12) comprising, in turn, a first housing (33) and a first piston (34) movable inside said

11. first housing (33); said first piston (34) and said first housing (33) defining a first and a second chamber (35, 36) fluidly isolated from each other within said first housing (33); - a second housing (50) defining a compartment (42) for a first volume of a first fluid; - a second piston (51) movable inside said second housing (50) and operatively connected to said control means (30, 31); - a first fluid line (43) fluidly connected to said second housing (50) and to said first chamber (35); - a second fluid line (47) fluidically connected to said second chamber (36); - a source (46) for housing a second volume of a second fluid identical to or different from said first fluid; - a valve (48), which is arranged along said second fluid line (47) and is arrangable in an open configuration in which it fluidly connects said source (46) and said second chamber (36) along said second fluid line (47), or in a closed configuration in which it fluidly isolates said source (46) from said second chamber (36); said control means (30, 31) being operatively connected to said second piston (51) such that the volume of said compartment (42) has a first value when said control means (30) are in said first position and a second value, less than said first value, when said control means (30) are in said second position; said control means (30, 31) being operatively connected to said valve (48) such that: - said valve (48) is in the closed configuration when said control means (30, 31) are in said first position, and - said valve (48) is in said open configuration when said control means (30, 31) are in said second position. Kit according to claim 10, characterized in that it comprises elastic means (71, 72) interposed between said second housing (50) and a control lever (31) of said control means (30, 31); said elastic means (71, 72) preloading said control lever (31) towards said first position.

12. A kit according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that said control lever (31) is angularly rotatable between said first position and said second position about a first axis (F); said kit (80) further comprising: - a second rod (60) interposed between said second piston (51) and said control lever (31) and pivotally connected to said second piston (51); said second piston (51) being slidable along a second axis (I), and said second rod (60) being first rotatable about a third axis (K) transverse to said second axis (I), as a result of rotation of said control lever (30, 31) from said first position to said second position.

13. Kit according to claim 12, characterized in that said elastic means (71, 72) comprise: - a first elastic element (71) interposed between said second piston (51) and said second housing (50); and - a second elastic element (72) interposed between said rod (60) and said second housing (50).

14. A kit according to any one of claims 10 to 13, characterized in that said first fluid is, in use, at a first pressure value in said first fluid line (43) when said control means (30, 31) are in said rest position, and is, in use, at a second pressure value higher than said first pressure value when said control means (30, 31) are, in use, set in said operating position; said source (45, 46) housing, in use, a volume of said second fluid at a third pressure value, which is higher than said first pressure value and lower than said second pressure value.

15. Kit according to claim 14, characterized in that it comprises: - a first reservoir (44) filled, in use, with a third fluid at said third pressure value and immiscible with said second fluid; said first reservoir (44) being in fluid communication with said source (45, 46) so as to ensure that the second fluid, in use, is at said third pressure value inside said second fluid line (47).

16. Kit according to any one of claims 10 to 15, characterized in that it comprises: - a second reservoir (52) fluidly isolated from said first fluid line (43) between said compartment (42) and said first chamber (35); said second reservoir (52) being mountable on said handlebar (20) and being fillable, in use, with said first fluid.

17. A method of updating a saddle-type vehicle (1); said saddle-type vehicle (1) comprising, in turn: a frame (2): - at least one wheel (5, 6); - suspension means (7, 8) for elastically connecting said frame (2) to said at least one wheel (5, 6); said suspension means (7, 8) comprising at least one connecting element (12) interposed between said at least one wheel (5, 6) and said frame (2); the length of said connecting element (12) being associated with the position of a center of mass (G) of said saddle-type vehicle (1); said method comprising the steps of: i) arranging a first piston (34) movably inside a first housing (33) of said connecting element (12); ii) connecting a first chamber (35) of said connecting element (12) to a second housing (50) inside which a second piston (51) is slidably mounted;said second housing (50) and said second piston (51) defining a compartment (42) for a first volume of fluid by means of a first fluid line (43); iii) connecting a second chamber (36) of said connecting element (12) to a second fluid line (47); said first and second chambers (35, 36) being fluidically isolated from each other within said first housing (33) and defined by said first piston (34) and said first housing (33); iv) interposing a valve (48) along said second fluid line (47) between said second chamber (36) and a source (44, 45, 46); housing a volume of a second fluid identical to or different from said first fluid; said valve (48) being movable between: - an open position, in which it fluidically connects said source (44, 45, 46) and the second chamber (36) along said second fluid line (47); and - a closed position, in which it fluidically isolates said source (44, 45, 46) from said second chamber (36); v) operatively connecting a control lever (31) to said second piston (51) and to said valve (48), said lever (31) being operatively connected to said valve (48) such that said valve (48) is in the closed configuration when said lever (31) is in a first position, and said valve (48) is in said open configuration when said lever (31) is in a second position, and said lever (31) being operatively connected to said second piston (51) such that the volume of said compartment (42) has a first value when said lever is in said first position and a second value, less than said first value, when said lever (31) is in said second position.

18. Method according to claim 17, characterized in that it comprises the steps of: vi) filling a first reservoir (44) with a third fluid at a given pressure value and immiscible with said second fluid; vii) fluidly connecting said first reservoir (44) and said second fluid line (47), so as to ensure that the second fluid is, in use, at said given pressure value within said second fluid line (47).

19. Method according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that it comprises the steps of: viii) fluidly interposing a second reservoir (52) along said first fluid line (43) between said compartment (42) and said first chamber (35); and ix) mounting said tank (52) on a handlebar (20) of said saddle-type vehicle (1).

Images