Saddle-riding type vehicle

Abstract

To make it possible to suppress forward reflection of light of a tail lamp from a rear member.SOLUTION: A saddle-riding type vehicle 10 comprises a tail lamp 30, a rear member 40 that is positioned along a cross direction behind the tail lamp 30, and a light shielding member 50 which is interposed between the tail lamp 30 and the rear member 40. The light shielding member 50 is provided at a position different from the rear member 40, and shields light directed toward the rear member 40 from the tail lamp 30.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This disclosure relates to saddle-type vehicles. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a saddle-type vehicle equipped with a tail lamp. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-68073 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In some cases, a component such as a signal lamp may be located behind the tail lamp in the longitudinal direction. Even in such cases, it is desirable to be able to prevent the tail lamp light from being reflected forward from the rear component.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to suppress the light of a tail lamp from being reflected forward from a rear member. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above problem, a saddle-type vehicle includes a tail lamp, a rear member located rearward of the tail lamp in the fore-and-aft direction, and a light-blocking member interposed between the tail lamp and the rear member, the light-blocking member being provided at a position different from the rear member and blocking light directed from the tail lamp toward the rear member. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to this straddle-type vehicle, it is possible to prevent the light of the tail lamp from being reflected forward from the rear member. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a side view showing a motorcycle according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the rear of the motorcycle. [Figure 3] FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing the rear of the motorcycle. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a side view showing the rear of the motorcycle. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing how the light blocking member is attached to the motorcycle. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing a light blocking member and its mounting counterpart. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a front side view of the motorcycle. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a diagram defining the range in front of the motorcycle. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] A saddle-ride type vehicle according to an embodiment will be described below. A saddle-ride type vehicle is a vehicle that is driven by a driver straddling a seat. For example, a saddle-ride type vehicle may be a motorcycle, a three-wheeled motor vehicle, an ATV (All Terrain Vehicle), or the like. In the following embodiment, an example will be described in which the saddle-ride type vehicle is a motorcycle.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a side view showing a motorcycle 10 according to an embodiment. In the following description, when referring to up / down, front / rear, and left / right, each direction is defined as follows: First, the side on which the front wheel 14 and rear wheel 16 of the motorcycle 10 come into contact with the road surface is the bottom, and the opposite side is the top. Furthermore, the traveling direction of the motorcycle 10 when traveling is the front, and the opposite side is the rear. Furthermore, when a user is riding on the motorcycle 10 as a rider, the left and right sides of the motorcycle 10 are based on the user. When referring to the width direction, this refers to the left and right vehicle width direction.

[0011] The motorcycle 10 includes a body frame 12, a front wheel 14, a rear wheel 16, a power unit 18, a seat 20, and a handlebar 22.

[0012] The body frame 12 is a skeletal part that supports each part of the motorcycle 10. A front wheel 14 is provided at the front side of the body frame 12. A rear wheel 16 is provided at the rear side of the body frame 12. The rear wheel 16 is supported, for example, by a swing arm 17 that extends rearward from the rear of the body frame 12. The front wheel 14 and the rear wheel 16 are supported rotatably about their respective wheel axes. The rear wheel 16 is driven to rotate by a power unit 18. The power unit 18 includes a drive source that generates power. The drive source is supported on the body frame 12 between the front wheel 14 and the rear wheel 16 in the fore-and-aft direction. The drive source may be an engine or an electric motor. The motorcycle 10 may also include a storage unit 19 that stores fuel or electricity for driving the drive source. The storage unit may be a fuel tank that stores fuel or a battery that stores electricity. The power unit 18 may include a transmission mechanism that transmits power from the drive source to the rear wheel 16. The transmission mechanism may be configured to include gears and a chain, or may be configured to include a circular belt such as a toothed belt. The power transmission mechanism may also be configured to include a shaft drive mechanism equipped with a drive shaft and a bevel gear, etc.

[0013] A seat 20 is provided above the middle portion of the body frame 12 in the fore-and-aft direction. A rider sits astride the seat 20. The motorcycle 10 is provided with a tandem seat 21 behind the seat 20. Here, the rear end of the tandem seat 21 is located above the wheel axle of the rear wheel 16. The tandem seat 21 is supported, for example, by a seat frame 13 (see FIG. 4) of the body frame 12. The seat frame 13 is located below the tandem seat 21. The tandem seat 21 may be omitted. If the tandem seat 21 is omitted, a cover that covers the upper part of the body frame 12 may be provided behind the seat 20.

[0014] A handlebar 22 is provided at the front of the body frame 12. A rider sitting astride the seat 20 can operate the handlebar 22 while facing forward. Operating the handlebar 22 changes the direction of the front wheel 14. Here, a head pipe 23 is provided at the front of the body frame 12. A steering shaft 24 is rotatably inserted through the head pipe 23. A front fork 25 is supported below the steering shaft 24. The front wheel 14 is supported at the lower end of the front fork 25 so as to be rotatable about the wheel axis. The handlebar 22, steering shaft 24, front fork 25, and front wheel 14 are supported so as to rotate integrally about a steering rotation axis (here, the axis of the head pipe 23). When the handlebar 22 is operated, the steering shaft 24 and front fork 25 rotate about the axis of the head pipe 23. With this rotation, the front wheel 14 also rotates about the axis of the head pipe 23, changing the direction of the front wheel 14.

[0015] The motorcycle 10 may be provided with covers that cover the body frame 12. The covers are sometimes called cowls or the like. Examples of covers include a front cowl 26, a side cowl 27, and a tail cowl 28. The front cowl 26 is a cover that covers the front portion of the body frame 12. The side cowl 27 is a cover that covers both the left and right sides of the body frame 12 at a midpoint in the fore-and-aft direction of the body frame 12. The tail cowl 28 is a cover that covers the rear portion of the body frame 12. In this example, the tail cowl 28 is located below the tandem seat 21.

[0016] Each cover is integrally molded using a resin such as PP (polypropylene). Each cover may have a structure in which a plurality of flat members are laminated. Each cover may be divided. What is described as a plurality of covers may be configured as a single cover.

[0017] The motorcycle 10 includes a tail lamp 30, a rear member 40, and a light blocking member 50. The tail lamp 30, the rear member 40, and the light blocking member 50 are located at the rear of the motorcycle 10.

[0018] The tail lamp 30 is supported on the vehicle body. For example, the tail lamp 30 may be directly supported on the body frame 12. Alternatively, for example, the tail lamp 30 may be indirectly supported on the body frame 12 via a bracket or the like. Here, the tail lamp 30 is located below the rear portion of the tandem seat 21. The tail lamp 30 is, for example, a red light. The tail lamp 30 is a lamp for informing the rear of the vehicle of the presence, behavior, etc. of the vehicle. The tail lamp 30 has at least a first function of being constantly lit when riding at night, and a second function of being lit in conjunction with braking. The first and second functions may be realized by a common lamp. The first and second functions may be realized by different lamps. Here, the tail cowl 28 has an opening 28h. Through the opening 28h, the transparent surface 33a of the tail lamp 30 is exposed rearward.

[0019] The rear member 40 is located rearward of the tail lamp 30. Here, the rear member 40 is located rearward and below the tail lamp 30. The front surface of the rear member 40 is a reflective surface 42c that can reflect light from the tail lamp 30 forward.

[0020] The light-blocking member 50 is interposed between the tail lamp 30 and the rear member 40. The light-blocking member 50 is provided at a position different from the rear member 40, and blocks light traveling from the tail lamp 30 toward the rear member 40. The light-blocking member 50 blocks light emitted from the tail lamp 30 that travels toward the reflective surface 42c of the rear member 40.

[0021] The motorcycle 10 is equipped with a flap 60. The flap 60 supports the light-shielding member 50 and the rear member 40. The flap 60 is a stay that supports various components. The flap 60 protrudes rearward from a position on the rear of the vehicle body below the tail lamp 30. The flap 60 protrudes rearward beyond the rear end of the tandem seat 21. The rear end of the flap 60 extends to a position approximately equal to the rear end of the rear wheel 16. The flap 60 also serves as a rear fender for protecting against mud.

[0022] The rear structure of the motorcycle 10 will be described with further reference to Figs. 2 to 7. Fig. 2 is a perspective view showing the rear of the motorcycle 10. Fig. 3 is a rear view showing the motorcycle 10. Fig. 4 is a plan view showing the rear of the motorcycle 10. In Fig. 4, the left side of the center line shows a view including the tail cowl 28 and tandem seat 21, while the right side of the center line shows a view in which the tail cowl 28 and tandem seat 21 are omitted. Fig. 5 is a side view showing the rear of the motorcycle 10. Fig. 6 is a perspective view showing how the light-shielding member 50 is attached to the motorcycle 10. Fig. 7 is an exploded perspective view showing the light-shielding member 50 and its attachment.

[0023] The tail lamp 30 includes a light source 31, a housing main body 32, and an outer cover 33. The light source 31 may be a halogen lamp or a light-emitting diode (LED). The housing main body 32 holds the light source 31. The housing main body 32 has an opening. The outer cover 33 closes the opening. The housing main body 32 and the outer cover 33 are combined to form a housing that accommodates the light source 31. The housing main body 32 is formed of an opaque material that does not transmit light, such as resin. The outer cover 33 has a transmitting surface 33a. The transmitting surface 33a is formed of a transparent material that transmits light, such as resin or glass. The transmitting surface 33a may have a lens function. A lens may be provided inside the outer cover 33. The transmitting surface 33a of the tail lamp 30 is typically formed of a red transparent material. Light emitted from the light source 31 passes through the transmitting surface 33a and travels rearward.

[0024] The light source 31 is accommodated in the housing main body 32 and fixed at a fixed position. If the light source 31 is an LED, the LED may be accommodated alone in the housing main body 32, or the LED may be mounted on a board and accommodated in the housing main body 32. If the LED is mounted on a board, a drive circuit for the LED may be mounted on the board. In this case, the light source 31 is supported on the front side of the transmitting surface 33a, and light emitted backward from the light source 31 is directly directed toward the transmitting surface 33a. The light source 31 and a reflector may be provided so that the light from the light source 31 is indirectly directed toward the transmitting surface 33a via a reflector or the like. For example, the light source 31 may emit light downward, and the reflector may reflect the light backward toward the transmitting surface 33a.

[0025] Here, the tail lamp 30 includes, as light sources 31, a first lamp 31A located in the center along the vehicle width direction and a pair of second lamps 31B located on either side of the first lamp 31A along the vehicle width direction. The first lamp 31A is a lamp that is always lit at least when riding at night. The first lamp 31A is a lamp that is lit when riding at night and when visibility is poor, such as in bad weather. The first lamp 31A may be turned on and off by an operation of the rider. The first lamp 31A may be configured to be automatically lit at all times, including during the day, when the motorcycle 10 is driven. The second lamp 31B is a lamp that is lit in conjunction with braking. The second lamp 31B is also called a stop lamp or a brake lamp.

[0026] However, the tail lamp 30 does not necessarily have to include both the first lamp 31A and the second lamp 31B. For example, the tail lamp may be configured to include an integrated lamp having the functions of both the first lamp 31A and the second lamp 31B. The integrated lamp may be configured so that its luminous intensity when functioning as the second lamp 31B is higher than its luminous intensity when functioning as the first lamp 31A. The integrated lamp may be provided, for example, at each position of the pair of second lamps 31B.

[0027] The housing main body 32 has a first housing portion 32A that supports the first lamp 31A and a second housing portion 32B that supports the second lamp 31B. The first housing portion 32A and the second housing portion 32B are provided at positions corresponding to the first lamp 31A and the second lamp 31B. The first housing portion 32A is located at the center in the width direction, and the second housing portion 32B is located outward in the width direction from the first housing portion 32A. Here, the housing main body 32 is integrally molded into a shape that includes the first housing portion 32A and the pair of second housing portions 32B. The housing main body 32 may be divided so that the first housing portion 32A and the pair of second housing portions 32B are separate members.

[0028] The first housing part 32A is located below the seat frame 13. The first housing part 32A is located so as to overlap the seat frame 13 in a plan view. For example, the first housing part 32A may be provided with a portion for fixing to the seat frame 13. The second housing part 32B is located outboard of the seat frame 13 in the width direction. The lower part of the second housing part 32B is continuous with the first housing part 32A. The upper part of the second housing part 32B is located at the same height as the seat frame 13.

[0029] The tail lamp 30 is connected to a battery or the like by a wiring W. The tail lamp 30 is provided with a connector 34 to which the wiring W on the battery side is connected. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the connector 34 is provided in the housing main body 32. The tail lamp 30 may include a wiring extending from a light source, and the wiring may be connected to the wiring W on the battery side.

[0030] The portion of the tail lamp 30 other than the transmitting surface 33a is covered from the outside by the tail cowl 28, the tandem seat 21, etc. Therefore, the portion of the tail lamp 30 other than the transmitting surface 33a is hidden from the outside of the vehicle.

[0031] The transmitting surface 33a of the tail lamp 30 has a first transmitting surface 33b located at the center in the width direction and a pair of second transmitting surfaces 33c located on both sides of the first transmitting surface 33b in the width direction. The first transmitting surface 33b is the transmitting surface 33a for the first lamp 31A. The second transmitting surface 33c is the transmitting surface 33a for the second lamp 31B. In this example, the first transmitting surface 33b and the second transmitting surface 33c are provided on a single outer cover 33. The outer cover 33 is integrally molded to include the first transmitting surface 33b and the second transmitting surface 33c. As shown in FIG. 3 , the transmitting surface 33a of the tail lamp 30 has a W-shape when viewed from the rear of the vehicle. The outer cover 33 may be a first outer cover including the first transmitting surface 33b and a second outer cover including the second transmitting surface 33c, which are provided as separate components.

[0032] As shown in Fig. 4, the first transmitting surface 33b extends forward from the center in the width direction toward the outside. The first transmitting surface 33b has a U-shape in a plan view. As shown in Fig. 2, the upper edge of the first transmitting surface 33b extends downward from the center in the width direction toward the outside, and then extends upward toward the connecting portion with the second transmitting surface 33c. The lower edge of the first transmitting surface 33b extends downward from the center in the width direction toward the outside.

[0033] As shown in Fig. 3, the upper edge of the second transmitting surface 33c is located higher than the upper edge of the widthwise central portion of the first transmitting surface 33b. The lower edge of the second transmitting surface 33c is located lower than the lower edge of the widthwise central portion of the first transmitting surface 33b. As shown in Fig. 4, the rear edge of the second transmitting surface 33c protrudes rearward beyond the connection portion with the first transmitting surface 33b. The transmitting surface 33a of the tail lamp 30 has an M-shape in a plan view of the vehicle.

[0034] The periphery of the opening 28h of the tail cowl 28 is located around the light-transmitting surface 33a of the tail lamp 30. Here, the tail cowl 28 is divided into multiple covers. As shown in FIG. 2, the tail cowl 28 includes a rear upper cover portion 28a, a side inner cover portion 28c, a rear lower cover portion 28b, and a side outer cover portion 28d. The rear upper cover portion 28a is located below the rear portion of the tandem seat 21. The side inner cover portion 28c is located on the front side of the rear cover portion. The rear lower cover portion 28b is located below the rear upper cover portion 28a and the side inner cover portion 28c. The side outer cover portion 28d is located outside the side inner cover portion 28c and the rear lower cover portion 28b.

[0035] There is one each of a rear upper cover portion 28a and a rear lower cover portion 28b. The one rear upper cover portion 28a and the one rear lower cover portion 28b cover the seat frame 13 from the rear and both the left and right sides. There is a pair each of a side inner cover portion 28c and a side outer cover portion 28d. The pair of side inner cover portions 28c cover the seat frame 13 from both the left and right sides. The pair of side outer cover portions 28d cover the rear lower cover portion 28b and the side inner cover portion 28c from both the left and right sides forward of the transmission surface 33a.

[0036] Here, the portion surrounded by the rear upper cover portion 28a, the rear lower cover portion 28b, and the pair of side inner cover portions 28c is the opening 28h of the tail cowl 28. The rear lower cover portion 28b has the lower edge and lower side edges of the periphery of the opening 28h. The rear upper cover portion 28a has the widthwise middle portion of the upper edge of the periphery of the opening 28h. The pair of side inner cover portions 28c have both widthwise ends of the upper edge and upper side edges of the periphery of the opening 28h.

[0037] Here, an example will be described in which the rear member 40 is a signal lamp 40. The signal lamp 40 is a lamp that indicates the turning direction of the vehicle to a vehicle behind. The signal lamp 40 is also called a blinker. The rear member 40 may be a member other than the signal lamp 40. For example, the rear member 40 may be a radar or a camera. Also, for example, the rear member 40 may be part of a flap 60.

[0038] The signal lamps 40 are provided in pairs so as to be located respectively behind the pair of second lamps 31B in the front-rear direction. The signal lamps 40 are attached to the flap 60.

[0039] The signal lamp 40 includes a light source 41, a housing main body 42, and an outer cover 43. The light source 41 may be a halogen lamp or an LED. The housing main body 42 holds the light source 41. The housing main body 42 has an opening. The outer cover 43 closes the opening. The housing main body 42 and the outer cover 43 together form a housing that accommodates the light source 41. The housing main body 42 is formed of an opaque material that does not transmit light, such as resin. The transparent surface of the outer cover 43 is formed of a transparent material that transmits light, such as resin or glass. The transparent surface of the outer cover 43 may have a lens function. A lens may be provided inside the outer cover 43. Light emitted from the light source 41 passes through the transparent surface of the outer cover 43 and travels rearward.

[0040] The housing main body 42 has a cylindrical portion 42a and a box-shaped portion 42b. The cylindrical portion 42a is a portion formed in a cylindrical shape. The box-shaped portion 42b is connected to one end of the cylindrical portion 42a. The box-shaped portion 42b is also a portion formed in a box shape. The box-shaped portion 42b is formed in a shape such that the storage space becomes smaller as it protrudes from the cylindrical portion 42a. The other end of the cylindrical portion 42a is attached to the flap 60. Here, the housing main body 42 is attached to the flap 60 in an orientation in which the cylindrical portion 42a is located toward the center in the width direction and the box-shaped portion 42b is located toward the outside in the width direction. The axis of the cylindrical portion 42a extends in the vehicle width direction. The box-shaped portion 42b opens rearward. The outer cover 43 is attached to this opening.

[0041] The light source 41 is accommodated in the housing main body 42 and fixed at a fixed position. If the light source 41 is an LED, the LED may be accommodated alone in the housing main body 42, or the LED may be mounted on a board and accommodated in the housing main body 42. If the LED is mounted on the board, a drive circuit for the LED may be mounted on the board. In this example, the light source 41 is supported on the front side of the outer cover 43. The light source 41 and a reflector may be provided so that light from the light source 41 is directed indirectly toward the outer cover 43 via a reflector or the like.

[0042] The outer cover 43 is fixed to the housing main body 42. The rear surface of the outer cover 43, which extends in the vertical and vehicle width directions, is a transmission surface through which light from the light source 41 is emitted. For example, the transmission surface has a shape that is longer in the vehicle width direction than in the vertical direction.

[0043] The front surface of the housing main body 42 is a reflective surface 42c that can reflect light from the tail lamp 30 forward. The shape of the reflective surface 42c is not particularly limited and can be set as appropriate. As shown in FIG. 4, a base end portion of the reflective surface 42c provided on the cylindrical portion 42a is a parallel surface that is parallel to the vehicle width direction in a plan view. Furthermore, a tip end portion of the reflective surface 42c provided on the box-shaped portion 42b is an inclined surface 42d that is inclined with respect to the vehicle width direction in a plan view. The inclined surface 42d extends rearward as it approaches the tip end in the vehicle width direction. The boundary between the parallel surface and the inclined surface 42d is located at the middle of the outer cover 43 in the vehicle width direction. The inclined surface 42d is located on the opposite side of the outer cover 43 from the portion located on the tip end in the vehicle width direction.

[0044] The signal lamp 40 is connected to a battery or the like by a wiring not shown. For example, the wiring extends from the rear of the vehicle body along the flap 60 and is connected to the signal lamp 40. The wiring may be divided into multiple sections along the way. For example, the wiring may be divided into a section that extends along the vehicle body frame 12 and a section that extends along the flap 60. The multiple sections may be connected by connectors, for example, provided at the ends of the wiring.

[0045] The light blocking members 50 are provided in the front-rear direction between the pair of second lamps 31B and the pair of signal lamps 40. The light blocking members 50 are integrally molded from resin using a mold. The light blocking members 50 have a first plate portion 51, a second plate portion 52, and an attachment plate portion 53.

[0046] The first plate portion 51 extends outward from the outer end portion in the vehicle width direction of the flap 60. The first plate portion 51 extends generally horizontally. The second plate portion 52 rises upward from the outer end portion in the vehicle width direction of the first plate portion 51.

[0047] The main surface 52a of the second plate portion 52 facing inward in the vehicle width direction extends toward the center along the vehicle width direction as it goes rearward in the front-rear direction. Here, the outer edge portion of the first plate portion 51 on the outer side in the vehicle width direction extends toward the center along the vehicle width direction as it goes rearward in the front-rear direction.

[0048] Here, the front and rear edges of the second plate portion 52 extend rearward from the lower end on the first plate portion 51 side toward the upper end. The upper end of the front edge of the second plate portion 52 is located higher than the upper end of the rear edge. The upper edge of the second plate portion 52 slopes downward from the front edge toward the rear edge.

[0049] In the vehicle width direction, the side edges of the light-blocking member 50 are located closer to the center than the side edges of the signal lamp 40. As shown in Fig. 4, the side edges of the light-blocking member 50 are located on the base end side of the inclined surface 42d of the signal lamp 40. The tip end portion of the inclined surface 42d of the signal lamp 40 protrudes outward in the vehicle width direction beyond the light-blocking member 50. The rear edge of the first plate portion 51 of the light-blocking member 50 is located more inward in the width direction than the inclined surface 42d of the reflecting surface 42c.

[0050] 3, in front of the light-blocking member 50 and the signal lamp 40, there are vehicle components (for example, the storage section 19 and the side cowl 27) that protrude outward in the vehicle width direction beyond the light-blocking member 50 and the signal lamp 40. In addition, the driver seated in the seat 20 also protrudes outward in the vehicle width direction beyond the light-blocking member 50 and the signal lamp 40, in front of the light-blocking member 50 and the signal lamp 40.

[0051] The mounting plate portion 53 is attached to the flap 60. The mounting plate portion 53 extends inward and downward from the inner end portion of the first plate portion 51 in the vehicle width direction. The mounting plate portion 53 overlaps the flap 60 downward. The first plate portion 51 protrudes outward in the vehicle width direction beyond the flap 60. The mounting plate portion 53 and the flap 60 are fastened together in the up-down direction by a fastening member 70. As shown in FIG. 7 , a through hole 54 and a protrusion 55 are formed in the mounting plate portion 53. The through hole 54 is a hole through which the fastening member 70 passes. The through hole 54 penetrates the upper and lower surfaces of the mounting plate portion 53. The protrusion 55 is a portion for positioning the light-blocking member 50 on the flap 60. The protrusion 55 protrudes upward from the upper surface of the mounting plate portion 53.

[0052] 6, the first plate portion 51 and the mounting plate portion 53 are provided with a plurality of ribs 56. The plurality of ribs 56 protrude downward from the lower surface of the first plate portion 51 and the lower surface of the mounting plate portion 53. This increases the strength of the light blocking member 50.

[0053] Here, the light-shielding member 50 located between the second lamp 31B and the signal lamp 40 on one side along the vehicle width direction, and the light-shielding member 50 located between the second lamp 31B and the signal lamp 40 on the other side along the vehicle width direction, are provided separately from each other. This allows each light-shielding member 50 to be made smaller. Instead of two light-shielding members 50, one light-shielding member 50 may be provided. The one light-shielding member 50 may be formed in a shape that includes two light-shielding portions corresponding to the two light-shielding members 50 and a connecting portion that connects the two light-shielding portions.

[0054] 3, the signal lamp 40 is positioned below the tail lamp 30 in the vertical direction. The light blocking member 50 is positioned between the tail lamp 30 and the signal lamp 40 in the vertical direction. The second plate portion 52 is positioned between the tail lamp 30 and the signal lamp 40. The light blocking member 50 is provided so as not to overlap with the transmission surface 33a of the tail lamp 30 in a rear view of the vehicle. Here, the upper edge of the light blocking member 50 (here, the upper edge of the second plate portion 52) is positioned above the lower edge of the transmission surface 33a, but the upper edge of the light blocking member 50 is positioned outward in the vehicle width direction than the lower edge of the transmission surface 33a.

[0055] The flap 60 includes a flap main body 61, a light blocking member mounting portion 62, and a signal lamp mounting portion 63. The flap main body 61 extends in the front-to-rear direction. The front end of the flap main body 61 is connected to a position lower than the portion of the body frame 12 that supports the tail lamp 30. For example, an opening for connecting the flap main body 61 to the body frame 12 is formed in the rear lower cover portion 28b. The light blocking member mounting portion 62 and the signal lamp mounting portion 63 protrude in the vehicle width direction from a central portion of the flap main body 61 in the front-to-rear direction. In addition to a license lamp 80 and a reflector 81, a license plate (not shown) and the like are attached to the rear end of the flap main body 61.

[0056] The light-shielding member 50 is a separate member from the flap 60, and is attached to a light-shielding member attachment portion 62 of the flap 60. As shown in FIG. 6, the light-shielding member attachment portion 62 has an attachment hole 62h that opens downward. For example, the light-shielding member 50 is fastened to the attachment hole 62h by a fastening member 70. In FIG. 6, the light-shielding member 50 on the left side of the vehicle is shown attached to the light-shielding member attachment portion 62. In FIG. 6, the light-shielding member 50 on the right side of the vehicle is shown attached to the light-shielding member attachment portion 62.

[0057] 7, the flap 60 is made up of a plurality of members. The flap 60 is divided into upper and lower halves, and includes an upper flap portion 64 and a lower flap portion 65.

[0058] A boss 64A for fastening the fastening member 70 is provided on the underside of the upper flap portion 64. An attachment hole 62h is formed in the boss 64A. The attachment hole 62h is a bottomed hole that opens downward. No opening for the attachment hole 62h is formed on the top surface of the upper flap portion 64.

[0059] A through hole 65A is formed in the lower flap portion 65. A fastening member 70 is fastened to the boss 64A through the through hole 65A. The lower flap portion 65 also has a fitting recess 65B formed therein, into which the protrusion 55 of the light-shielding member 50 fits. Here, the fitting recess 65B in the lower flap portion 65 is a through hole that penetrates the upper and lower surfaces of the lower flap portion 65. The upper opening of the through hole is closed by the upper flap portion 64. Therefore, when the upper flap portion 64 and the lower flap portion 65 are joined together, the fitting recess 65B opens downward. The protrusion 55 is inserted through the lower opening of the fitting recess 65B. The lower flap portion 65 may have a bottomed hole that opens downward as the fitting recess.

[0060] By fastening the fastening member 70 and fitting the protrusion 55 into the fitting recess 65B, the light blocking member 50 is fitted with the light blocking member attachment portion 62 at multiple points, thereby preventing the light blocking member 50 from rotating around the axis of the fastening member 70 relative to the light blocking member attachment portion 62.

[0061] A position restriction surface 65C is formed on the underside of the lower flap portion 65. The position restriction surface 65C is formed on the opposite side of the through-hole 65A from the fitting recess 65B. The position restriction surface 65C extends downward from the underside of the lower flap portion 65 and faces outward in the vehicle width direction. By abutting the tip surface of the mounting plate portion 53 of the light blocking member 50, which faces inward in the vehicle width direction, against the position restriction surface 65C, the light blocking member 50 can be positioned on the light blocking member mounting portion 62 before fastening. This makes it easy to fasten the fastening member 70 even if the fastening position of the fastening member 70 is in a position on the underside of the flap 60 that is difficult to see.

[0062] Furthermore, here, the height of the upper surface of the mounting plate portion 53 of the light blocking member 50 is lower than the height of the upper surface of the first plate portion 51. For this reason, a step is created in the vertical direction between the mounting plate portion 53 and the first plate portion 51. The surface of the stepped portion facing inward in the vehicle width direction abuts against the tip surface of the light blocking member mounting portion 62, thereby allowing the light blocking member 50 to be positioned on the light blocking member mounting portion 62 before being fastened.

[0063] The upper surface of the upper flap portion 64 and the upper surface of the first plate portion 51 may be at the same height. The front, top, and rear surfaces of the upper flap portion 64 and the front, top, and rear surfaces of the first plate portion 51 may be smoothly continuous with each other.

[0064] The flap 60 may be formed, for example, in a shape having an internal space. For example, one of the upper flap portion 64 and the lower flap portion 65 may be formed in a gutter shape that opens upward or downward, and the other may be formed in a cover shape that closes the opening. Wiring for the signal lamp 40 and wiring for the license lamp 80 may be passed through the internal space. Furthermore, the lamps 40, 80 may be fastened to the flap 60 through the internal space.

[0065] A portion of the light emitted from the tail lamp 30 is directed toward the rear of the motorcycle 10 and serves as light that functions as the tail lamp 30. Another portion of the light emitted from the tail lamp 30 is reflected by components of the motorcycle 10 that are located behind the tail lamp 30. This reflected light will be considered below. As an example of the reflected light, the reflected light indicated by the arrows A1 and A2 in Figures 4 and 5 is considered. Hereinafter, the light indicated by the arrows A1 and A2 will be referred to as light A1 and A2, respectively.

[0066] Light A1 is light that travels from the second lamp 31B toward the inclined surface 42d. If the light-blocking member 50 were not provided and the light A1 were reflected by the inclined surface 42d, the light A1 reflected by the inclined surface 42d would travel outward in the vehicle width direction as it traveled forward. Therefore, vehicle components or occupants further forward than the inclined surface 42d would be less likely to block the reflected light, making it easier to see the reflected light in front of the vehicle.

[0067] Here, the light A1 is blocked by the light blocking member 50 and is prevented from hitting the inclined surface 42d. Furthermore, the main surface 52a of the light blocking member 50 is provided so that even if the light A1 is reflected by the light blocking member 50 and travels forward, it will be blocked by a vehicle component or an occupant positioned in front of the light blocking member 50. As a result, the light A1 reflected by the light blocking member 50 is difficult to see from the front of the vehicle.

[0068] Light A2 is light emitted from the second lamp 31B and directed toward a parallel plane of the reflecting surface 42c that is located on the inner side of the inclined surface 42d in the vehicle width direction. Even if the light A2 is reflected by the parallel plane, the reflected light is blocked by a vehicle component or an occupant located in front of the parallel plane.

[0069] Light other than light A1 and A2 that generates reflected light may be light directed toward the first plate portion 51 of the light-blocking member 50. The reflected light that is produced when light directed toward the first plate portion 51 of the light-blocking member 50 is reflected by the first plate portion 51 is also blocked by a vehicle component or an occupant located in front of the first plate portion 51, similar to the reflected light of light A2.

[0070] Furthermore, light other than light A1 and A2 that generates reflected light may be light that passes outside the light-shielding member 50 in the vehicle width direction and travels toward the inclined surface 42d. However, this light is reflected at the tip end of the inclined surface 42d and travels further outward in the vehicle width direction than light A1 reflected from the inclined surface 42d. For this reason, the reflected light of this light is difficult to see in front of the vehicle near the center in the vehicle width direction. Furthermore, because this light travels further outward in the vehicle width direction than light A1 and A2, the luminous intensity of this light is lower than the luminous intensity of light A1 and light A2, and from this perspective as well, the reflected light of this light is difficult to see in front of the vehicle.

[0071] Furthermore, light other than light A1 and A2 that may generate reflected light is light traveling from the first lamp 31A toward the flap 60. The reflected light that is generated when light traveling from the first lamp 31A toward the flap 60 is reflected by the flap 60 is also blocked by a vehicle component or an occupant located in front of the first plate portion 51, similar to the reflected light of light A2.

[0072] Here, the first lamp 31A is located further rearward than the second lamp 31B. The first lamp 31A is located at approximately the same position as the light-blocking member 50 in the longitudinal direction. Therefore, the light of the first lamp 31A is less likely to be reflected by the light-blocking member 50. Furthermore, the first lamp 31A is located slightly forward of the signal lamp 40 in the longitudinal direction. Furthermore, the first lamp 31A is located more inward than the signal lamp 40 in the vehicle width direction, and is separated from the signal lamp 40. Therefore, the light of the first lamp 31A is less likely to be reflected by the signal lamp 40.

[0073] Fig. 8 is a view of the motorcycle 10 as seen from the front side. Fig. 8 is a view of the motorcycle 10 as seen from the front of the vehicle, from outside the center in the vehicle width direction.

[0074] At the viewpoint position in FIG. 8, the signal lamps 40 are visible, but the light-blocking member 50 is hidden by the vehicle body and cannot be seen. Even at a position closer to the center in the vehicle width direction than the viewpoint position in FIG. 8, the light-blocking member 50 is hidden by the vehicle body and cannot be seen. As one moves closer to the center in the vehicle width direction than the viewpoint position in FIG. 8, the signal lamps 40 gradually become invisible, and at a first position P1, the signal lamps 40, like the light-blocking member 50, are hidden by the vehicle body and cannot be seen. The first position P1 is a boundary position where the signal lamps 40 are visible or not. The signal lamps 40 are also visible at a position further outward in the vehicle width direction than the viewpoint position in FIG. 8. When one moves further outward in the vehicle width direction than the viewpoint position in FIG. 8, the light-blocking member 50 also becomes visible at a second position P2. The second position P2 is a boundary position where the light-blocking member 50 is visible or not.

[0075] 9 is a diagram defining the range in front of the motorcycle 10. In FIG. 9, the front portion of the motorcycle 10 is simplified.

[0076] 9, a first range R1 extends from the center of the vehicle width direction to a first position P1 along the vehicle width direction in the front of the vehicle. A second range R2 extends from the first position P1 in the vehicle width direction to a second position P2 located further outward from the first position P1. A third range R3 extends from the second position P2 in the vehicle width direction to the outside.

[0077] The first range R1 is a range in which the signal lamp 40 and the light blocking member 50 are not visible. Therefore, the first range R1 is basically a range in which the reflected light of the tail lamp 30 is not visible.

[0078] The second range R2 is a range in which the signal lamp 40 is visible but the light-blocking member 50 is not. Therefore, the second range R2 is a range in which the reflected light of the tail lamp 30 is suppressed. Specifically, because the light-blocking member 50 is not visible, the reflected light of the tail lamp 30 by the light-blocking member 50 is basically not visible. Furthermore, although the leading edge of the signal lamp 40 in the vehicle width direction is visible, the light-blocking member 50 does not reflect light from the tail lamp 30 in this area, or even if it does, the reflected light is sufficiently weak. As a result, the reflected light of the tail lamp 30 is difficult to see from the second range R2, making it easier to comply with regulations regarding the reflected light of the tail lamp 30.

[0079] The third range R3 is a range in which the signal lamps 40 and the light-blocking member 50 are visible. Therefore, the third range R3 is a range in which the light of the tail lamps 30 reflected by the light-blocking member 50 can be seen. However, because the third range R3 is located sufficiently far from the center of the vehicle in the vehicle width direction, the reflected light of the tail lamps 30 is unlikely to be a problem in the third range R3.

[0080] Here, it can be said that the signal lamp 40 and the light blocking member 50 are provided so as to have a first position P1, a second position P2, a first range R1, a second range R2, and a third range R3.

[0081] <Effects, etc.> According to the motorcycle 10 configured as described above, the light blocking member 50 blocks the light traveling from the tail lamp 30 to the signal lamp 40, thereby preventing the light of the tail lamp 30 from being reflected forward from the signal lamp 40.

[0082] Furthermore, the motorcycle 10 is provided with a light-shielding member mounting portion 62, and the light-shielding member 50 is a member separated from the light-shielding member mounting portion 62. This allows the light-shielding member 50 to be either attached to the light-shielding member mounting portion 62 or not, as required.

[0083] Here, regulations regarding forward reflected light from the tail lamp 30 may differ depending on the country or region, such as regulations based on laws and regulations. The signal lamp 40 and the light-blocking member 50 are provided so that the first range R1, the second range R2, and the third range R3 comply with the regulations of the country or region. Furthermore, the vehicle may be in a state where the light-blocking member 50 is not attached, as long as the regulations are met without the light-blocking member 50.

[0084] Furthermore, a mounting hole 62h that opens downward is formed in the light blocking member mounting portion 62. This makes the mounting hole 62h less noticeable when the light blocking member 50 is not attached to the light blocking member mounting portion 62.

[0085] Here, the fastening member 70 fastens together the multiple components of the divided flap 60 (the upper flap portion 64 and the lower flap portion 65) and the light-shielding member 50. Even if the light-shielding member 50 is not provided in the vehicle because it is not required, the fastening member 70 may be fastened to the mounting hole 62h as the fastening member 70 for fastening together the multiple components of the divided flap 60.

[0086] Further, the light-blocking members 50 are provided between the pair of second lamps 31B and the pair of signal lamps 40 along the front-rear direction. Here, since the first lamp 31A is located at the center along the vehicle width direction, even if the light of the first lamp 31A is reflected by a rear component, the forward-directed light of the reflected light is likely to be blocked by the vehicle body, an occupant, or the like. In contrast, since the second lamp 31B is located to the side of the first lamp 31A, even if the light of the second lamp 31B is reflected by the rear signal lamp 40, the forward-directed light of the reflected light is unlikely to be blocked by the vehicle body, an occupant, or the like. Even in this case, the provision of the light-blocking member 50 can prevent the light of the second lamp 31B from being reflected by the signal lamp 40.

[0087] Furthermore, the main surface 52a of the light-blocking member 50 facing the tail lamp 30 extends toward the center along the vehicle width direction as it goes rearward along the front-to-rear direction. This allows the light-blocking member 50 to reflect the light of the tail lamp 30 toward the center in the vehicle width direction, and the light reflected by the light-blocking member 50 that is directed forward is easily blocked by the vehicle body or an occupant, etc.

[0088] Furthermore, the light-shielding member 50 located between the second lamp 31B and the signal lamp 40 on one side along the vehicle width direction, and the light-shielding member 50 located between the second lamp 31B and the signal lamp 40 on the other side along the vehicle width direction, are provided separately from each other. This allows the light-shielding member 50 to be made smaller than when the light-shielding member 50 on one side and the light-shielding member 50 on the other side are integrated.

[0089] Furthermore, the first lamp 31A is a lamp that is always on at least when driving at night, and the second lamp 31B is a lamp that is turned on in conjunction with braking. The luminous intensity of the second lamp 31B that is turned on in conjunction with braking is usually greater than the luminous intensity of the first lamp 31A that is always on when driving at night. Even in this case, the light-blocking member 50 can prevent the light of the second lamp 31B, which has a greater luminous intensity, from being reflected forward.

[0090] Furthermore, in the vehicle width direction, the side edges of the light-blocking member 50 are located closer to the center than the side edges of the signal lamps 40. This makes it difficult to see the light-blocking member 50 when observing the motorcycle 10 from diagonally forward of the vehicle. This makes it difficult to see the light reflected by the light-blocking member 50 from the tail lamps 30 from diagonally forward of the vehicle.

[0091] Furthermore, in the vertical direction, the signal lamps 40 are positioned lower than the tail lamps 30, and the light-blocking members 50 are positioned between the tail lamps 30 and the signal lamps 40. This prevents the signal lamps 40 and the light-blocking members 50 from covering the rear of the tail lamps 30. This prevents deterioration in visibility of the tail lamps 30 from behind the motorcycle 10.

[0092] Furthermore, the signal lamp 40 and the light blocking member 50 are supported by the flap 60. This facilitates increasing the degree of freedom in the positioning of the signal lamp 40 and the light blocking member 50, as well as the design. However, the light blocking member 50 does not have to be supported by the flap 60. For example, the light blocking member 50 may be supported by the body frame 12 so as to protrude rearward from the body frame 12.

[0093] <Modification> The configurations described in the above embodiment and modifications can be combined as appropriate as long as they are not mutually inconsistent.

[0094] The present specification and drawings disclose the following aspects.

[0095] A saddle-type vehicle according to a first aspect includes a tail lamp, a rear member located rearward of the tail lamp in the longitudinal direction, and a light-shielding member interposed between the tail lamp and the rear member, wherein the light-shielding member is provided at a position different from the rear member and blocks light directed from the tail lamp toward the rear member.

[0096] According to the first aspect, the light blocking member can block light from the tail lamp toward the rear member, thereby suppressing the light from the tail lamp from being reflected forward from the rear member.

[0097] A second aspect is a saddle-type vehicle according to the first aspect, which is provided with a light-blocking member mounting portion to which the light-blocking member is attached, and the light-blocking member is a member provided separately from the light-blocking member mounting portion.

[0098] This allows the light blocking member to be attached or detached to the light blocking member attachment portion as required.

[0099] A third aspect is the saddle-ride type vehicle according to the second aspect, wherein the light blocking member mounting portion has a mounting hole that opens downward.

[0100] This makes the mounting hole less noticeable when the light blocking member is not attached to the light blocking member mounting portion.

[0101] A fourth aspect is a saddle-type vehicle according to any one of the first to third aspects, wherein the tail lamp includes a first lamp located in the center along the vehicle width direction and a pair of second lamps located on either side of the first lamp along the vehicle width direction, the rear members are provided in pairs so as to be located behind each of the pair of second lamps along the fore-and-aft direction, and the light-shielding members are respectively provided between the pair of second lamps and the pair of rear members along the fore-and-aft direction.

[0102] Because the first lamp is located at the center along the vehicle width direction, even if the light of the first lamp is reflected by a rear component, the forward-facing part of the reflected light is likely to be blocked by the vehicle body, an occupant, etc. In contrast, because the second lamp is located to the side of the first lamp, when the light of the second lamp is reflected by a rear component behind the first lamp, the forward-facing part of the reflected light is unlikely to be blocked by the vehicle body, an occupant, etc. Even in this case, by providing a light-blocking member, it is possible to prevent the light of the second lamp from being reflected by the rear component by the light-blocking member.

[0103] A fifth aspect is a saddle-type vehicle according to the fourth aspect, wherein the main surface of the light-shielding member facing the tail lamp extends toward the center along the vehicle width direction as it moves rearward along the fore-and-aft direction.

[0104] This allows the light blocking member to reflect the light of the tail lamp toward the center of the vehicle width, and the light reflected by the light blocking member that is directed forward is more likely to be blocked by the vehicle body or an occupant, etc.

[0105] A sixth aspect is a saddle-type vehicle according to the fourth or fifth aspect, in which the light-blocking member located between the second lamp and the rear member on one side along the vehicle width direction and the light-blocking member located between the second lamp and the rear member on the other side along the vehicle width direction are provided separately from each other.

[0106] This allows the light blocking member to be made smaller than when the light blocking member on one side and the light blocking member on the other side are integrated.

[0107] A seventh aspect is a saddle-type vehicle according to any one of the fourth to sixth aspects, wherein the first lamp is a lamp that is constantly lit at least when traveling at night, and the second lamp is a lamp that is lit in conjunction with braking.

[0108] The brightness of the second lamp, which is linked to the brakes, is usually greater than the brightness of the first lamp, which is always on when driving at night. Even in this case, the light blocking member can prevent the light of the second lamp, which has a higher brightness, from being reflected forward.

[0109] An eighth aspect is a saddle-type vehicle according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, wherein in the vehicle width direction, the side edge of the light-shielding member is positioned closer to the center than the side edge of the rear member.

[0110] In this case, the light blocking member is difficult to see when observing the vehicle from diagonally ahead, making it difficult to see light reflected by the light blocking member from the tail lamps from the front of the vehicle.

[0111] A ninth aspect is a saddle-type vehicle according to any one of the first to eighth aspects, wherein the rear member is positioned below the tail lamp in the vertical direction, and the light-shielding member is positioned between the tail lamp and the rear member.

[0112] This prevents the rear member and the light blocking member from covering the rear of the tail lamp.

[0113] A tenth aspect is a saddle-type vehicle according to any one of the first to ninth aspects, comprising a body supporting the tail lamp and a flap extending rearward from a portion of the body lower than the portion supporting the tail lamp, the rear member and the light-shielding member being supported by the flap.

[0114] This makes it easier to increase the degree of freedom or design of the positions of the rear member and the light blocking member.

[0115] The above description is illustrative in all respects and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. It is understood that numerous variations not illustrated can be envisioned without departing from the scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0116] 10 Motorcycles (saddle-type vehicles) 12 Body frame 30 Tail lamp 31A 1st lamp 31B 2nd Ramp 32 Housing body 33 Outer cover 33a Transparent surface 40 Signal lamp (rear component) 42c reflective surface 42d sloped surface 50 Light blocking material 52a Main surface 60 Flap 62 Light blocking member mounting portion 62h Mounting hole

Claims

1. Tail lamps and a rear member located rearward of the tail lamp in the front-rear direction; a light blocking member interposed between the tail lamp and the rear member; Equipped with The light blocking member is provided at a position different from the rear member and blocks light from the tail lamp toward the rear member.

2. 2. The saddle-type vehicle according to claim 1, a light-shielding member mounting portion to which the light-shielding member is mounted, A saddle-type vehicle, wherein the light-shielding member is a member provided separately from the light-shielding member attachment portion.

3. 3. The saddle-type vehicle according to claim 2, In a saddle-type vehicle, the light blocking member attachment portion has an attachment hole that opens downward.

4. 4. A saddle-type vehicle according to claim 1, The tail lamp includes a first lamp located at a center along a vehicle width direction, and a pair of second lamps located on both sides of the first lamp along the vehicle width direction, a pair of rear members are provided so as to be located rearward of the pair of second lamps in the front-rear direction, The light blocking members are provided between the pair of second lamps and the pair of rear members along the front-rear direction.

5. 5. The saddle-type vehicle according to claim 4, A saddle-type vehicle, wherein a main surface of the light-blocking member facing the tail lamp extends rearward along the front-rear direction and toward a center along the vehicle width direction.

6. 5. The saddle-type vehicle according to claim 4, A saddle-type vehicle, wherein the light-blocking member located between the second lamp and the rear member on one side along the vehicle width direction and the light-blocking member located between the second lamp and the rear member on the other side along the vehicle width direction are provided separately from each other.

7. 5. The saddle-type vehicle according to claim 4, the first lamp is a lamp that is always lit at least during nighttime driving, In a saddle-type vehicle, the second lamp is a lamp that is lit in conjunction with braking.

8. 4. A saddle-type vehicle according to claim 1, In a saddle-type vehicle, a side edge of the light blocking member is located closer to the center than a side edge of the rear member in a vehicle width direction.

9. 4. A saddle-type vehicle according to claim 1, A saddle-type vehicle, wherein the rear member is positioned below the tail lamp in the up-down direction, and the light-blocking member is positioned between the tail lamp and the rear member.

10. 4. A saddle-type vehicle according to claim 1, a vehicle body supporting the tail lamp; a flap extending rearward from a position lower than a portion of the vehicle body that supports the tail lamp; Equipped with In a saddle-type vehicle, the rear member and the light-shielding member are supported by the flap.

Images