Saddle-type vehicle

Abstract

The present invention aims to provide a saddle-type vehicle that can suppress the decrease in airflow through the radiator while driving, while also suppressing the effects of heat from the radiator's airflow on electrical components located behind the radiator and on the rider. [Solution] The saddle-type vehicle 1 of the present invention comprises a radiator 60 having a radiator core 62, a fan 70, a radiator cover 80, and a front member 50. The radiator cover 80 covers at least a portion of the airflow increase region 63 where the airflow Wa passing through the radiator increases during driving, and has a rear partition wall portion 81 to restrict the inflow of the airflow Wa passing through the radiator into the rear space R2. It is also characterized in that a pressure reduction portion 83 is provided at a position opposite the airflow increase region 63 to release a portion of the airflow Wa passing through the radiator into the rear space R2.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a saddle-type vehicle equipped with a radiator.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in order to maintain the cooling performance of a radiator during parking, a saddle-type vehicle provided with a fan in the radiator has been provided. Further, among saddle-type vehicles provided with a fan in the radiator, there is one provided with a cover that covers the fan in order to control the air passing through the fan. For example, Patent Document 1 below discloses a saddle-type vehicle provided with a wind guide device that directs the exhaust air from the cooling fan downward and reduces the ventilation resistance of the traveling wind during vehicle travel.

[0003] In the wind guide device of Patent Document 1, a plurality of exhaust ports are formed at positions dispersed in the circumferential direction (the rotation direction of the cooling fan) on the wind guide cover that covers the fan. During travel, the traveling wind (air flow) that has passed through the fan flows out from the plurality of exhaust ports and is exhausted from the inside to the outside of the wind guide cover in a dispersed manner in the circumferential direction. As a result, in the wind guide device of Patent Document 1, during travel, the ventilation resistance of the traveling wind can be reduced to improve the cooling efficiency of the radiator, and by dispersing and exhausting the traveling wind in the circumferential direction of the fan, the exhausted traveling wind is said to be likely to diffuse into the outside air.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, in the configuration of Patent Document 1, when the vehicle is in motion, hot air flows backward from the area without a fan cover, potentially affecting electrical components and the rider located behind the radiator with heat. In particular, in the case of a fully faired vehicle, the inflow and outflow of airflow into and out of the fairing is relatively small, causing the air that has passed through the radiator to become trapped, making the heat from the air passing through the radiator more likely to affect electrical components. Furthermore, in saddle-type vehicles, it is desirable to suppress the decrease in the amount of air passing through the radiator when the vehicle is in motion.

[0006] The present invention aims to provide a saddle-type vehicle that can suppress the decrease in airflow through the radiator while driving, while also suppressing the effects of heat from the radiator's airflow on electrical components located behind the radiator and on the rider. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The inventors of the present invention first considered suppressing the inflow of air passing through the radiator to the rear by covering the radiator core with a cover (radiator cover), thereby suppressing the heat effects of the air passing through the radiator on electrical components (rear components) located behind the radiator and on the rider. Specifically, they considered providing a radiator cover that covers the fan and the radiator core. They found that this configuration suppresses the discharge of air passing through the radiator towards the rear, thereby suppressing the heat effects of the air passing through the radiator on rear components and the rider.

[0008] However, when a radiator cover is installed to cover the back of the radiator core, the airflow passing through the radiator core hits the radiator cover during driving. This reduces the amount of airflow that can escape in the space behind the radiator core, resulting in increased pressure. As a result, it was found that air may not flow smoothly through the radiator core and may stagnate, potentially reducing the amount of air passing through the radiator.

[0009] In particular, within the radiator core, the area that does not overlap with the fan when viewed from the front, and does not overlap with the front forks or front fenders (forward parts) positioned in front of the radiator core (the airflow increase area), allows airflow to pass through the radiator and flow to the rear without being obstructed by the fan or forward parts. As a result, the pressure in the space behind the airflow increase area becomes higher compared to other parts. Consequently, the increased pressure in the space behind the radiator core makes it more difficult for air to flow smoothly through the radiator core.

[0010] The inventors of the present invention, taking into account the aforementioned pressure increase in the space behind the radiator core during driving, conducted further studies and found that by providing an opening (pressure reduction section) in the radiator cover at a position opposite to the portion of the radiator core where the airflow increases during driving (airflow increase region), and allowing a portion of the airflow passing through the radiator to escape from the space behind the radiator core to the space behind the radiator cover, it is possible to suppress the pressure increase in the space behind the radiator core and suppress the decrease in the airflow passing through the radiator.

[0011] Based on the above findings, the saddle-type vehicle according to each aspect of the present invention has the following configuration. (1) The saddle-type vehicle comprises a radiator having a radiator core for cooling coolant, a fan positioned behind the radiator core, and a front member positioned in front of the radiator core and overlapping with at least a portion of the radiator core in a front view, and at least a portion of the fuel tank and / or air cleaner is positioned above the engine and between the left and right body frames that extend from the head pipe to the seat in a plan view, and comprises a radiator cover that covers at least a portion of the radiator core and the fan from the rear, and the radiator cover is positioned in a front view The radiator core is an area that does not overlap with the fan and the front member, covers at least a portion of the airflow increase region where the amount of air passing through the radiator core increases during driving, and has a rear partition wall portion arranged to divide the space between the radiator core and the rear component located behind the radiator core into a front space and a rear space, thereby restricting the inflow of the air passing through the radiator into the rear space, and is provided with a pressure reduction portion at a position opposite to the airflow increase region that releases a portion of the air passing through the radiator into the rear space.

[0012] In the saddle-type vehicle of (1), the inflow of air that has been heated by passing through the radiator core (radiator-passing airflow) into the rear space can be restricted. Furthermore, in the saddle-type vehicle of (1), a pressure reduction section is provided at a position opposite to the part of the radiator core where the airflow is increased during driving (airflow increase region), so when driving (when the fan is not operating), the pressure rise in the space behind the radiator core (the forward space which is behind the airflow increase region) can be suppressed, and the decrease in the airflow passing through the radiator core can be suppressed. As a result, the saddle-type vehicle of (1) can suppress the decrease in the airflow passing through the radiator during driving while suppressing the heat effects of the radiator-passing airflow on rear components and the rider.

[0013] Thus, with the saddle-type vehicle of (1), by providing a pressure reduction section opposite to the airflow increase region, the decrease in airflow passing through the radiator during driving can be suppressed, thereby improving the cooling performance of the radiator during driving compared to a case where the radiator cover does not have a pressure reduction section. Furthermore, with the saddle-type vehicle of (1), by improving the cooling performance of the radiator during driving, the radiator core can be made relatively smaller. Therefore, with the saddle-type vehicle of (1), the options for the position in which the radiator core is placed are expanded. For example, if the radiator core is placed further forward than conventionally, the exhaust position of the airflow passing through the radiator when the vehicle is stopped (for example, the position of the exhaust port on the cowl) can be set to a position further forward and away from the rider, thereby setting the exhaust position of the hot air to be away from the rider. Therefore, with the saddle-type vehicle of (1), the effect of heat from the airflow passing through the radiator on the rider can be further suppressed when the vehicle is stopped.

[0014] According to one aspect of the present invention, the saddle-type vehicle can adopt the following configuration. (2) In the saddle-type vehicle described in (1) above, the radiator cover has an upper partition wall portion that covers at least a portion of the upper end of the radiator core and is arranged to partition the front space and the upper space above the front space, thereby restricting the inflow of the radiator airflow into the upper space.

[0015] The saddle-type vehicle of (2) suppresses the inflow of air passing through the radiator to the rear, and also suppresses the inflow of air passing through the radiator to the upper part of the radiator where the fuel tank and other components are located and heat tends to accumulate, thereby suppressing the heat impact on electrical components located near the fuel tank and air cleaner, as well as on the rider. Furthermore, when the vehicle is stopped, the heat from the radiator tends to rise upwards, and the saddle-type vehicle of (2) can suppress the heat impact from the radiator on electrical components located above the radiator and on the rider when the vehicle is stopped. As a result, the saddle-type vehicle of (2) can suppress the heat impact from air passing through the radiator on electrical components and the rider both when the vehicle is stopped and when it is in motion, while suppressing the decrease in the amount of air passing through the radiator when the vehicle is in motion.

[0016] Furthermore, with the saddle-type vehicle of (2), it becomes easier to control the airflow passing through the radiator towards the sides and downwards of the vehicle. Therefore, with the saddle-type vehicle of (2), for example, if the vehicle has a cowl, it becomes easier to guide the airflow passing through the radiator towards the exhaust vents provided in the cowl and discharge it to the outside of the vehicle.

[0017] According to one aspect of the present invention, the saddle-type vehicle can adopt the following configuration. (3) In the saddle-type vehicle described in (1) or (2) above, the pressure reduction section includes an opening in the radiator cover formed to release a portion of the airflow passing through the radiator into the rear space.

[0018] The saddle-type vehicle of (3) can restrict the inflow of air passing through the radiator into the rear space. Furthermore, the saddle-type vehicle of (3) has a pressure reduction section provided as an opening that allows air to escape at a position opposite to the airflow increase area, so that when driving (when the fan is not operating), the pressure rise in the space behind the radiator core (the forward space which is behind the airflow increase area) can be suppressed, and the decrease in airflow passing through the radiator core can be suppressed. As a result, the saddle-type vehicle of (3) can suppress the decrease in airflow passing through the radiator while driving, while suppressing the heat effects of air passing through the radiator on rear components and the rider.

[0019] According to one aspect of the present invention, the saddle-type vehicle can adopt the following configuration. (4) In the saddle-type vehicle according to any one of (1) to (3) above, when the fan rotates, the radiator passing air generated by the rotation of the fan is guided by the radiator cover in a guiding direction that is either leftward or rightward, and the pressure reduction portion is provided at a position that is in a direction different from the guiding direction, either leftward or rightward, with respect to the fan in a front view.

[0020] (4) According to the saddle-type vehicle of (4), it is possible to make it difficult for the radiator passing air generated by the rotation of the fan during parking to flow into the rear space from the pressure reduction portion. As a result, the saddle-type vehicle of (4) can further suppress the heat influence of the radiator passing air on the rear components and the rider during parking, while suppressing a decrease in the radiator passing air volume during traveling.

[0021] According to one aspect of the present invention, the saddle-type vehicle can adopt the following configuration. (5) In the saddle-type vehicle according to any one of (1) to (4) above, two of the fans are arranged behind the radiator core, the radiator cover covers a region from one of the two fans to the other, and the pressure reduction portion is provided between the two fans.

[0022] (5) According to the saddle-type vehicle of (5), when adopting a large radiator such as a vehicle with a large displacement, by providing two fans, it is possible to improve the radiator performance during parking while suppressing a decrease in the radiator passing air volume.

[0023] According to one aspect of the present invention, the saddle-type vehicle can adopt the following configuration. (6) In the straddle-type vehicle according to any one of (1) to (5) above, the vehicle includes two fans arranged on the left and right with different rotation directions. When the fans rotate, the radiator passing air generated by the rotation of the two fans is guided to the side of the vehicle by the radiator cover.

[0024] According to the straddle-type vehicle of (6), it becomes easier to let the radiator passing air generated by the fan escape to the outside of the vehicle when the vehicle is stopped. As a result, the straddle-type vehicle of (6) can more efficiently suppress the heat influence of the radiator passing air on the rear components and the rider, and can suppress a decrease in the passing air volume of the radiator during running.

[0025] According to one aspect of the present invention, the straddle-type vehicle can adopt the following configuration. (7) In the straddle-type vehicle according to any one of (1) to (6) above, the front member includes a front fork constituting a steering mechanism and a front fender attached to the front wheel. The radiator cover is configured such that, in a front view, the radiator core covers at least a part of the air volume increasing region that does not overlap with the fan, the front fork, and the front fender, and has the pressure reducing portion at a position facing the air volume increasing region.

[0026] In the straddle-type vehicle of (7), since the pressure reducing portion is provided at a position facing the portion of the radiator core where the air volume increases during running (between the left and right front forks and above the fender in a front view), it is possible to suppress an increase in pressure in the space behind the radiator core (the front space that is the back of the air volume increasing region) during running (when the fan is not operating), and suppress a decrease in the passing air volume of the radiator core. As a result, the straddle-type vehicle of (7) can suppress the heat influence of the radiator passing air on the rear components and the rider, and can suppress a decrease in the passing air volume of the radiator during running.

[0027] According to one aspect of the present invention, the straddle-type vehicle can adopt the following configuration. (8) In the saddle-type vehicle described in any of (1) to (7) above, the fan is arranged so as to overlap with at least a part of the front member when viewed from the front.

[0028] In the saddle-type vehicle of (8), the fan is positioned so as to overlap with at least a portion of the front member, so the area of ​​the radiator core through which the airflow passing through the radiator passes without being obstructed by the fan or front parts (airflow increase area) can be set to be larger. As a result, the saddle-type vehicle of (8) can suppress the heat effects of the airflow passing through the radiator on the rear parts and the rider, while allowing a sufficient amount of air to pass through the radiator core during driving and suppressing a decrease in the amount of air passing through the radiator.

[0029] According to one aspect of the present invention, the saddle-type vehicle can adopt the following configuration. (9) In the saddle-type vehicle described in any of (1) to (8) above, the pressure reduction section is provided with a wind direction changing section that changes the direction of the airflow passing through the radiator downwards.

[0030] According to the configuration of (9), the air that escapes from the pressure drop section towards the rear is more likely to flow downwards. Therefore, in the saddle-type vehicle of (9), the air that is discharged to escape towards the rear can be more easily escaped from between the road surface and the vehicle body due to the pressure difference below the vehicle body while driving. In particular, when the engine is positioned in a forward-leaning position, the air that flows downwards is guided to the inclined surface (front surface) of the engine and is more likely to flow downwards. As a result, the saddle-type vehicle of (9) can further suppress the effects of heat from the air passing through the radiator on rear components and the rider, and can also suppress the decrease in the amount of air passing through the radiator while driving.

[0031] According to one aspect of the present invention, the saddle-type vehicle can adopt the following configuration. (10) In a saddle-type vehicle as described in any of (1) to (9) above, the vehicle is provided with a cowl that covers the side of the radiator core and has an upper exhaust port formed on the side of the radiator cover and a lower exhaust port formed below the upper exhaust port, wherein when the vehicle is stopped, the air passing through the radiator generated by the operation of the fan is guided by the radiator cover and discharged to the side of the vehicle through the upper exhaust port and downward from the lower exhaust port, and when the vehicle is in motion, the air passing through the radiator guided by the radiator cover is discharged to flow to the rear of the vehicle through the upper exhaust port due to the pressure difference caused by the difference in flow velocity between the air passing through the radiator and the air flowing from the front to the rear of the upper exhaust port.

[0032] In the saddle-type vehicle of (10), when stationary, the air passing through the radiator is discharged to the side of the vehicle from the upper exhaust port and downward from the lower exhaust port, and when driving, the air passing through the radiator is discharged from the upper exhaust port so that it flows towards the rear of the vehicle. As a result, in vehicles equipped with a cowl, the effect of the air passing through the radiator on the rider can be suppressed. As a result, in vehicles where heat tends to accumulate inside the cowl, the saddle-type vehicle of (10) can suppress the effect of heat from the air passing through the radiator on rear components and the rider both when stationary and when driving, while suppressing the decrease in the amount of air passing through the radiator when driving.

[0033] According to one aspect of the present invention, the saddle-type vehicle can adopt the following configuration. (11) In a saddle-type vehicle as described in any of (1) to (10) above, the vehicle is provided with a cowl that covers the sides of the radiator core and has an upward exhaust port formed on the side of the radiator cover, wherein at least one of the left and right ends of the radiator cover is connected to the upward exhaust port.

[0034] In the saddle-type vehicle of (11), the airflow passing through the radiator can be efficiently guided to the upper exhaust port. As a result, in vehicles where heat tends to accumulate inside the cowl, the saddle-type vehicle of (11) can suppress the effects of heat from the airflow passing through the radiator on rear components and the rider both when stopped and when driving, while suppressing the decrease in the amount of airflow passing through the radiator when driving.

[0035] According to one aspect of the present invention, the saddle-type vehicle can adopt the following configuration. (12) In the saddle-type vehicle described in any of (1) to (11) above, the lower end of the radiator cover is positioned below the upper end of the cylinder head.

[0036] In the saddle-type vehicle of (12), when the engine is positioned in a forward-leaning position, the airflow passing through the radiator can be made to flow more easily downward along the front surface of the engine, thereby restricting the upward flow of airflow passing through the radiator to the engine. As a result, the saddle-type vehicle of (12) can suppress the decrease in the amount of air passing through the radiator while driving, while suppressing the heat effects of the airflow passing through the radiator on rear components and the rider.

[0037] [About saddle-type vehicles] A "saddle-type vehicle" refers to a vehicle in which the rider straddles and sits on a seat. Examples of saddle-type vehicles include mopeds, off-road vehicles, and on-road motorcycles. Furthermore, saddle-type vehicles are not limited to motorcycles, but may also include, for example, four-wheeled vehicles, three-wheeled vehicles, and ATVs (All-Terrain Vehicles). Three-wheeled vehicles may have two front wheels and one rear wheel, or one front wheel and two rear wheels. The drive wheel of a saddle-type vehicle may be the rear wheel or the front wheel. In addition, the drive wheel of a saddle-type vehicle may be both the rear wheel and the front wheel. Furthermore, a saddle-type vehicle may be configured to turn in a lean position.

[0038] In this specification, the saddle-type vehicle is described in an upright position. Furthermore, "front view" in this specification refers to a front view of the saddle-type vehicle. Additionally, "side view" in this specification refers to a side view of the saddle-type vehicle.

[0039] In this specification, "left-right direction" refers to the left-right direction (width direction of the vehicle) in a front view, "left" refers to the left side in a front view, and "right" refers to the right side in a front view. In this specification, "front-rear direction" refers to the front-rear direction of a saddle-type vehicle, "front" refers to the front of a saddle-type vehicle, and "rear" refers to the rear of a saddle-type vehicle. In this specification, "up-down direction" refers to the up-down direction of a saddle-type vehicle, "up" refers to the top of a saddle-type vehicle, and "down" refers to the bottom of a saddle-type vehicle.

[0040] A saddle-type vehicle includes, for example, an engine, head pipe, seat, footrests, fuel tank, air cleaner, body frame, steering mechanism, front wheel, rear wheel, and front fender.

[0041] The engine, for example, has a cylinder head. The engine is arranged in a forward-leaning position, for example, with the cylinders tilted forward. The engine is, for example, a water-cooled engine.

[0042] The "steering mechanism" controls the direction of travel of the vehicle, for example, through the rider's steering. The steering mechanism includes, for example, a steering shaft and a front fork. The steering mechanism is supported by the vehicle frame, for example, via a head pipe. The steering shaft is supported by the vehicle frame, for example, inserted into the head pipe so that it can rotate. The front fork supports the front wheel. The front forks are located on the left and right sides of the front wheel, and they form a pair.

[0043] The front fender is part of the circumferential direction of the front wheel and covers the upper part of the front wheel. The seat is located behind the fuel tank. The fuel tank is located, for example, above the engine. The air cleaner is located, for example, above the engine.

[0044] A saddle-type vehicle has, for example, left and right body frames that extend from the head pipe to the seat. A saddle-type vehicle has, for example, footpegs positioned below the seat where the rider places their feet. A saddle-type vehicle has, for example, footpegs positioned behind the engine's crankshaft. A saddle-type vehicle includes vehicles in which the rider straddles the seat and holds the fuel tank with their knees (knee grip). In other words, a saddle-type vehicle does not include scooter-type vehicles in which the rider places both feet on footboards.

[0045] "The fuel tank and / or air cleaner are positioned above the engine and between the left and right body frames extending from the head pipe to the seat in a plan view, or extending to the left and right body frames" means that at least one of the fuel tank and / or air cleaner is positioned above the engine and between the left and right body frames in a plan view, or extending to the left and right body frames. A saddle-type vehicle includes, for example, one in which at least one of the fuel tank and / or air cleaner is positioned above the engine. A saddle-type vehicle includes, for example, one in which at least one of the fuel tank and / or air cleaner is positioned to extend to the left and right body frames in a plan view. A saddle-type vehicle includes, for example, one in which at least one of the fuel tank and / or air cleaner is positioned between the left and right body frames in a plan view.

[0046] A saddle-type vehicle may, for example, have a fairing. A saddle-type vehicle may, for example, have a full fairing. A saddle-type vehicle may, for example, not have a fairing. An example of a fully faired saddle-type vehicle is a supersport model. An example of a saddle-type vehicle without a fairing is a naked bike.

[0047] A "cowl" is, for example, an exterior part that covers the body or engine of a vehicle. Types of saddle-type vehicles equipped with a cowl include full cowls and half cowls, depending on the extent to which the cowl is provided. A full cowl is a type of vehicle equipped with a cowl that covers the entire body, including the engine. A half cowl is a type of vehicle equipped with a cowl that covers the upper part of the body.

[0048] A cowl may consist of a single part, or it may consist of multiple parts. Examples of cowls include an upper cowl located on the upper part of the vehicle body, an under cowl covering the lower part of the vehicle body, and a middle cowl located below the upper cowl.

[0049] The cowl may, for example, have a front opening to take in airflow while driving. The cowl may also have, for example, an exhaust port to discharge air that has passed through the radiator core (radiator-passing airflow) to the outside. For example, the cowl may cover the sides of the radiator core and have an upper exhaust port formed on the side of the radiator cover. The upper exhaust port may also be provided on each side of the vehicle, for example. The cowl may also have a lower exhaust port to discharge radiator-passing airflow from below the vehicle body. The lower exhaust port may also be provided on each side of the vehicle, for example.

[0050] The "front member" is a member positioned in front of the radiator core and overlapping with at least a portion of the radiator core in a front view. Examples of front members include the front fork, front fender, and front wheel.

[0051] A "radiator" is a device that cools the coolant heated inside the engine. A radiator, for example, includes a radiator core.

[0052] Radiators include, for example, a horizontal-flow radiator that flows the coolant from side to side, and a vertical-flow radiator that flows the coolant from top to bottom. A horizontal-flow radiator has side tanks located at the left and right ends of the radiator core. In a horizontal-flow radiator, the coolant heated by the engine flows into one of the side tanks, cools as it passes through the radiator core, flows into the other side tank, and is then returned to the engine. A vertical-flow radiator has an upper tank located at the top of the radiator core and a lower tank located at the bottom of the radiator core. In a vertical-flow radiator, the coolant heated by the engine flows into the upper tank, cools as it passes through the radiator core, flows into the lower tank, and is then returned to the engine. Note that a radiator may be of the horizontal-flow or vertical-flow type.

[0053] A "radiator core" includes, for example, tubes through which coolant flows and fins for heat dissipation. A radiator core is positioned, for example, in a forward-leaning position with its upper end tilted forward. A radiator core is positioned, for example, in front of the engine. A radiator core is positioned, for example, below the fuel tank.

[0054] The "airflow increase region" is the part of the radiator core. The airflow increase region is the area of ​​the radiator core that does not overlap with the fan and front members when viewed from the front. The airflow increase region is the part of the radiator core where the airflow passing through the radiator is greater when the vehicle is in motion. For example, the airflow increase region is the part of the radiator core that does not overlap with the fan, front fork, and front fender when viewed from the front. In other words, for example, the airflow increase region is the part of the radiator core where, when the vehicle is in motion, the airflow hits the radiator core without being obstructed by other members (front members) in front of the radiator core, and the airflow that has passed through the radiator core flows to the rear without being obstructed by the fan.

[0055] The "fan" generates airflow that passes through the radiator core. The fan is positioned behind the radiator core, adjacent to it. For example, in a front view, the fan is positioned so that at least a portion of it overlaps with the radiator core.

[0056] The fan is designed to operate (rotate) only when the vehicle is below a certain speed. That is, for example, the fan stops operating when the vehicle is stopped. The specific speed is, for example, a speed at which little or no airflow is generated.

[0057] The number of fans may be one or two. The direction of rotation of the fans may be counterclockwise or clockwise when viewed from the front. The direction of rotation of the fans can be appropriately selected to facilitate the discharge of air passing through the radiator to the side of the vehicle, depending on the position of the fans relative to the radiator core. For example, when viewed from the front, if the fans are positioned to the left of the vehicle's centerline (relative to the center of the radiator core), rotating the fans counterclockwise will facilitate the discharge of air passing through the radiator to the left (towards the side of the vehicle). For example, when viewed from the front, if the fans are positioned to the right of the vehicle's centerline, rotating the fans clockwise will facilitate the discharge of air passing through the radiator to the right (towards the side of the vehicle).

[0058] When two fans are installed, for example, the fans may be placed side by side in the left-right direction. When two fans are installed side by side in the left-right direction, for example, the fans may be arranged symmetrically with respect to the left-right center line of the radiator core, or asymmetrically with respect to the left-right center line.

[0059] "Rear components" refer to electrical components located behind the radiator core, for example. These are electrical components positioned in areas where they may be affected by the airflow passing through the radiator core. Examples of rear components include the engine control unit, taillights, headlight units, body control module, fuel pump, and side stand switch.

[0060] "Radiator-passing airflow" refers to air that has passed through the radiator core. This includes airflow generated by, for example, the operation of a fan, as well as airflow from driving.

[0061] [Regarding radiator covers] A "radiator cover" is a cover that encloses the radiator core. The radiator cover encloses at least a portion of the radiator core and fan from the rear. The radiator cover has, for example, one or more compartmentalized walls that partition the space around the radiator core. For example, the radiator cover has a rear compartmentalized wall. For example, the radiator cover has an upper compartmentalized wall. The radiator cover functions, for example, as a duct that guides the airflow through the radiator.

[0062] The "rear compartment wall" is positioned to divide the space behind the radiator core into a front space and a rear space. In other words, the rear compartment wall is, for example, the part of the radiator cover that is located behind the radiator core.

[0063] The "upper compartment wall" is the portion of the radiator cover that covers at least a part of the upper end of the radiator core. The upper compartment wall is positioned, for example, to partition the front space and the upper space above the front space. In other words, the upper compartment wall is, for example, the portion of the radiator cover formed from the rear compartment wall to the upper end of the radiator core. The upper compartment wall can be said to be, for example, the portion that restricts the flow of radiator air that has entered the front space from entering the upper space.

[0064] [Regarding the scope of the radiator cover] The vertical range in which the radiator cover is provided is preferably a range that can suppress the inflow of radiator airflow into the space behind and above the radiator. For example, the radiator cover can be configured so that its upper end is above the radiator core. For example, the radiator cover can be configured so that its lower end is below the cylinder head so that the radiator airflow flowing from below the radiator cover to the rear is guided downward along the front surface of the engine.

[0065] For example, the radiator cover can be configured such that its lateral range facilitates directing airflow through the radiator to the sides of the vehicle. For example, if the vehicle has a cowl and an upward exhaust vent is formed in the cowl, the radiator cover can be positioned so that at least one of its left or right ends is connected to the upward exhaust vent.

[0066] The statement "The radiator cover is positioned so that at least one of its left or right ends is connected to the upper exhaust vent" means, for example, that the radiator cover extends to a position adjacent to the upper exhaust vent at at least one of its left and right ends, and is configured to guide the radiator airflow, which is prevented from flowing into the rear space by the radiator cover, to the upper exhaust vent.

[0067] "Guidance direction" refers to the direction in which the airflow passing through the radiator, generated by the rotation of a fan, is guided by the radiator cover. The guidance direction is, for example, to the left or to the right. The guidance direction is, for example, the direction in which the amount of airflow guided by the radiator cover is greater, between the left and right directions, when the airflow passing through the radiator, generated by the rotation of one fan, is generated. For example, if the amount of airflow guided to the right is greater than the amount of airflow guided to the left, then the right direction is considered the guidance direction. "Position in a direction different from the guidance direction" refers to, for example, to the left or to the right of the fan. For example, if the airflow passing through the radiator, generated by the rotation of a fan, is guided to the left by the radiator cover, then the "position in a direction different from the guidance direction" is to the right of the fan (to the right).

[0068] The "pressure reduction section" includes an opening in the radiator cover formed to release a portion of the airflow passing through the radiator into the rear space. The pressure reduction section may include, for example, multiple openings. The pressure reduction section may include, for example, one opening. The pressure reduction section may have, for example, one opening with an airflow direction changing section, and the opening may be divided into multiple sections. The pressure reduction section may consist of, for example, one or more slit-shaped openings.

[0069] The pressure reduction section is located opposite the airflow increase section. The pressure reduction section may be formed to be contained within the area opposite the airflow increase section, for example. The pressure reduction section may be formed to extend from the area opposite the airflow increase section to other areas (beyond the area opposite the airflow increase section), for example. For example, the pressure reduction section may be formed so that a portion of it overlaps with the fan when viewed from the front.

[0070] The pressure reduction section can be positioned, for example, in a front view, in a direction different from the guide direction, either to the left or to the right of the fan. For example, if the airflow passing through the radiator, generated by the fan's rotation, is guided to the left by the radiator cover, the pressure reduction section can be positioned to the right of the fan in a front view. For example, if the airflow passing through the radiator, generated by the fan's rotation, is guided to the right by the radiator cover, the pressure reduction section can be positioned to the left of the fan in a front view.

[0071] Furthermore, for example, if two fans with different rotation directions are provided, and the airflow passing through the radiator generated by the rotation of these fans is guided to the side of the vehicle by the radiator cover, the pressure reduction section can be positioned between the two fans in a front view. More specifically, for example, if two fans with different rotation directions are provided on the left and right, and the airflow passing through the radiator generated by the rotation of the left fan is guided to the left by the radiator cover, and the airflow passing through the radiator generated by the rotation of the right fan is guided to the right by the radiator cover, the pressure reduction section can be positioned in a front view in a direction different from the guidance direction (left) of the left fan (right direction), and in a direction different from the guidance direction (right) of the right fan (left direction), that is, between the two fans.

[0072] The "wind direction changing section" changes the direction of the airflow passing through the radiator downwards. "Changing the direction of the airflow passing through the radiator downwards" means, for example, changing the direction of the airflow as it passes through the radiator core so that it is inclined downwards from its original direction. The wind direction changing section is provided, for example, in a pressure reduction section. The wind direction changing section is a fin that changes the direction of the airflow passing through the radiator, which flows in from the front space to the rear space via the pressure reduction section, downwards. The wind direction changing section can be configured, for example, by providing one or more fins to a pressure reduction section provided as a single opening formed in the radiator cover. For example, when the wind direction changing section is provided as a fin, the fin can be configured so that its rear end is inclined downwards, thereby changing the direction of the airflow passing through the radiator downwards.

[0073] The airflow direction changing section is not limited to a configuration in which fins are provided in a pressure reduction section. For example, the airflow direction changing section may be configured by forming a convex shape in a part of the radiator cover and forming the opening of the convex portion (pressure reduction section) downwards, thereby discharging the air passing through the radiator downwards.

[0074] [Airflow through the radiator when the vehicle is stationary] Next, we will describe the airflow through the radiator when the vehicle is stationary. In this specification, "stationary" means, for example, when the vehicle is stopped. When the vehicle is stationary, for example, the fan operates.

[0075] When the vehicle is stationary, for example, the operation of the fan generates radiator airflow that passes from the front to the rear of the radiator core. When the vehicle is stationary, for example, the radiator airflow flows backward from the area of ​​the radiator core where the fan is located at the rear. When the vehicle is stationary, the radiator airflow is restricted from entering the rear space by the radiator cover located behind the fan and is guided to the sides and below the vehicle. Note that, for example, when the vehicle is moving at a speed that generates almost no airflow and the fan is operating, the flow of radiator airflow is the same as when the vehicle is stationary.

[0076] [Airflow through the radiator while driving] Next, we will explain the airflow through the radiator while driving. In this specification, "while driving" means, for example, when the vehicle is traveling at a speed that generates enough airflow. For example, "while driving" in this specification does not include when the vehicle is moving at a speed that generates almost no airflow. For example, "while driving" in this specification does not include when the vehicle is moving at a speed that causes the fan to operate. For example, "while driving" in this specification means when the vehicle is moving at a speed above a certain speed. When driving, for example, the fan stops operating.

[0077] During driving, for example, airflow is generated through the radiator due to the air being driven. During driving, for example, the airflow mainly passes through the airflow-increasing region of the radiator core. During driving, the airflow that has passed through the radiator core (radiator-passing airflow) is restricted from flowing into the rear space by the radiator cover located behind the fan, and is guided to the sides and below the vehicle.

[0078] The above-mentioned objectives and other objectives, features, aspects and advantages of this invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of embodiments of this invention made in reference to the accompanying drawings. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any or all combinations of one or more related enumerated items. As used herein, the use of the terms “including,” “comprising,” or “having,” and variations thereof, identifies the presence of described features, processes, operations, elements, components and / or equivalents thereof, but may include one or more steps, operations, elements, components and / or groups thereof. Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as generally understood by those skilled in the art to which this invention belongs. Terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having the meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and this disclosure, and not as ideal or overly formal unless expressly defined herein. It is understood that numerous techniques and processes are disclosed in this description of the present invention. Each of these has its own individual benefit, and each can be used in conjunction with one or more, or possibly all, of the other disclosed techniques. Therefore, for clarity, this description refrains from unnecessarily repeating all possible combinations of the individual steps. Nevertheless, the specification and claims should be read with the understanding that all such combinations are within the scope of the present invention and claims. In the following description, for explanatory purposes, numerous specific details are given to provide a complete understanding of the present invention. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention can be practiced without these specific details. This disclosure should be considered illustrative of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention to the specific embodiments shown by the following drawings or description. [Effects of the Invention]

[0079] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a saddle-type vehicle that can suppress the decrease in the amount of air passing through the radiator while driving, while suppressing the effects of heat from the airflow passing through the radiator on electrical components located behind the radiator and on the rider. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0080] [Figure 1] (a) is a right side view of a saddle-type vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention. (b) is a front view of the saddle-type vehicle of Figure 1(a). (c) is a front view showing the location of the pressure drop section of the saddle-type vehicle of Figure 1(a). (d) is a perspective view showing the radiator and radiator cover of the saddle-type vehicle of Figure 1(a). (e) is a schematic side view showing the radiator core, fan, and radiator cover of the saddle-type vehicle of Figure 1(a). [Figure 2] (a) is a schematic front view showing the radiator core, fan, and radiator cover of the saddle-type vehicle in Figure 1(a). (b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line A1-A1 in Figure 2(a). [Figure 3] (a) is a side view showing the positions of the upper and lower air vents of the saddle-type vehicle in Figure 1(a). (b) is a rear view when cut along the line A2-A2 in Figure 3(a). [Figure 4] Figure 1(a) shows the airflow through the radiator when the saddle-type vehicle is stopped. (a) is a schematic front view showing the airflow through the radiator guided by the radiator cover. (b) is a schematic side view showing the airflow through the radiator guided by the radiator cover. (c) is a side view showing the position and direction when the airflow through the radiator guided by the radiator cover is discharged to the outside of the vehicle. [Figure 5]Figure 1(a) shows the airflow through the radiator during operation of a saddle-type vehicle. (a) is a schematic side view showing the airflow through the radiator guided by the radiator cover. (b) is a schematic front view showing the airflow through the radiator guided by the radiator cover. (c) is a side view showing the position and direction when the airflow through the radiator, guided by the radiator cover, is discharged to the outside of the vehicle. [Figure 6] This figure shows the multi-functional component installed on the saddle-type vehicle shown in Figure 1(a). (a) is a perspective view of the multi-functional component holding the connector and harness, viewed from the rear. (b) is a perspective view of the multi-functional component holding the connector and harness, viewed from the front. (c) is a schematic diagram showing the multi-functional component attached to the front vehicle frame. [Figure 7] (a) is a side view showing the location of the holes, air cleaner, and battery in the tank cover of the saddle-type vehicle in Figure 1(a). (b) is a perspective view showing the water receiving component in the tank cover of the saddle-type vehicle in Figure 1(a). (c) is a cross-sectional view taken along line A3-A3 in Figure 7(a). [Figure 8] Figure 1(a) is a plan view showing the area under the seat of the saddle-type vehicle. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0081] The details of the saddle-type vehicle 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. It should be noted that the embodiments described below are merely examples. The present invention is not to be interpreted in any way as being limited by the embodiments described below.

[0082] [Configuration of saddle-type vehicles] As shown in Figure 1(a), the saddle-type vehicle 1 is equipped with front wheels 2, rear wheels 3, seat 4, head pipe 6c, body frame 6, fuel tank 7, air cleaner 8, front fender 9, step 10, engine control unit 12, engine 20, steering mechanism 30, cowl 40, and radiator 60. Also, as shown in Figure 1(c), the saddle-type vehicle 1 is equipped with two fans 70 and a radiator cover 80.

[0083] The steering mechanism 30 includes a steering shaft 31 and a front fork 32. The steering mechanism 30 is supported by the vehicle frame 6 via a head pipe 6c. The steering shaft 31 is supported by the vehicle frame 6 so that it can be inserted into the head pipe 6c and rotated. The front forks 32 support the front wheels 2. The front forks 32 are positioned on the left and right sides of the front wheels 2, and they form a pair.

[0084] The front fender 9 is part of the circumferential direction of the front wheel 2 and covers the upper part of the front wheel 2. The seat 4 is located Y2 behind the fuel tank 7. The air cleaner 8 and fuel tank 7 are located H1 above the engine 20.

[0085] As shown in Figure 1(a), in the saddle-type vehicle 1, the left and right body frames 6 extend from the head pipe 6c to the seat 4. In the saddle-type vehicle 1, the fuel tank 7 is positioned above the engine 20 H1 and extends to the left and right body frames 6 in a plan view. The air cleaner 8 is positioned above the engine 20 H1 and between the left and right body frames 6 in a plan view. In the saddle-type vehicle 1, a step 10 is positioned below the seat 4 H2 where the rider places their feet.

[0086] As shown in Figure 2(b), the engine 20 is equipped with a cylinder head 21. As shown in Figure 2(b), the engine 20 is positioned in a forward-leaning position.

[0087] The front fork 32 and the front fender 9 attached to the front wheel 2, which constitute the steering mechanism 30, are positioned in front of the radiator core 62 Y1 and constitute a front member 50 that overlaps with at least a portion of the radiator core 62 in a front view.

[0088] As shown in Figure 1(a), the saddle-type vehicle 1 is a full-cowl type vehicle equipped with a cowl 40 that covers the sides of the radiator core 62 and engine 20 and extends to the lower part of the vehicle body. In the saddle-type vehicle 1 of this embodiment, the cowl 40 is composed of multiple parts. Specifically, the cowl 40 is composed of an upper cowl 41, a middle cowl 42, and an under cowl 43.

[0089] The cowl 40 is provided with multiple openings that serve as air intakes or exhaust ports. Specifically, as shown in Figures 1(a) and 1(b), in the saddle-type vehicle 1 of this embodiment, the cowl 40 is equipped with a front opening 44 that takes in airflow while driving. As shown in Figures 1(a) and 1(b), the front opening 44 is formed in the front part of the cowl 40 and is configured to open toward the front Y1. In the saddle-type vehicle 1, airflow can be taken into the cowl 40 through the front opening 44.

[0090] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3(a), the cowl 40 is equipped with an upper exhaust port 45 and a lower exhaust port 46 as exhaust ports for discharging the radiator airflow Wa to the outside of the cowl 40. The upper exhaust port 45 and the lower exhaust port 46 are provided on the left and right sides of the vehicle, respectively. As shown in Figure 3(a), the upper exhaust port 45 is formed on the side of the radiator cover 80. The lower exhaust port 46 is formed lower H2 than the upper exhaust port 45.

[0091] The radiator 60 cools the coolant. As shown in Figure 1(a), the radiator 60 is positioned in a forward-leaning position. The radiator 60 is located in front of the engine 20 Y1 and below the fuel tank 7 H2. As shown in Figure 1(d), in this embodiment, the radiator 60 has two side tanks 61, and the coolant flows from one side tank 61 to the other side tank 61 in a lateral flow configuration.

[0092] As shown in Figures 1(b) and 1(c), the radiator core 62 is provided with an airflow increase region 63 in which the airflow Wa passing through the radiator increases during driving. As shown in Figure 1(c), the airflow increase region 63 is an area in which the radiator core 62 does not overlap with the fan 70, the front fork 32, and the front fender 9 when viewed from the front.

[0093] As shown in Figure 1(e), the fan 70 is located at the rear Y2 of the radiator core 62. As shown in Figure 2(a), the saddle-type vehicle 1 of this embodiment is equipped with two fans 70 located in the left-right direction X. Specifically, as shown in Figure 2(a), the saddle-type vehicle 1 is equipped with two fans 70 in a front view: a fan 70a located on the left X1 and a fan 70b located on the right X2. As shown in Figure 1(c), the two fans 70 are arranged to overlap with the front member 50 (front fork 32 in this embodiment) in a front view.

[0094] As shown in Figure 2(a), fan 70a, located on the left side X1 in a front view, rotates counterclockwise in a front view. Fan 70b, located on the right side X2 in a front view, rotates clockwise in a front view. In other words, fans 70a and 70b rotate in different directions.

[0095] As shown in Figure 2(a), when the fan 70 rotates, the airflow Wa passing through the radiator generated by the rotation of the fan 70 is guided by the radiator cover 80 in either the leftward direction Xa or the rightward direction Xb, which is the guide direction F. More specifically, in the saddle-type vehicle 1, the airflow Wa passing through the radiator generated by the rotation of the left fan X1 fan 70a is guided to the leftward direction Xa by the radiator cover 80. Also, the airflow Wa passing through the radiator generated by the rotation of the rightward fan X2 fan 70b is guided to the rightward direction Xb by the radiator cover 80.

[0096] As shown in Figure 1(d), the radiator cover 80 covers the radiator core 62 and the fan 70 from the rear Y2. As shown in Figure 2(b), the radiator cover 80 covers at least a portion of the upper end 62a of the radiator core 62. Also, as shown in Figure 2(a), the radiator cover 80 covers a portion of the airflow increase region 63. The radiator cover 80 covers the region from one of the two fans 70 to the other.

[0097] As shown in Figure 1(d), the radiator cover 80 comprises a rear compartment wall 81, an upper compartment wall 82, and a pressure reduction section 83. As shown in Figure 1(e), the rear compartment wall 81 is positioned to divide the space behind the radiator core 62 into a front space R1 at the front Y1 and a rear space R2 at the rear Y2. This restricts the inflow of radiator airflow Wa into the rear space R2. The upper compartment wall 82 is positioned to divide the front space R1 and the upper space R3 above the front space R1 at H1. This restricts the inflow of radiator airflow Wa into the upper space R3.

[0098] The pressure reduction section 83 is provided as an opening in the radiator cover 80, which is formed to release a portion of the airflow Wa passing through the radiator into the rear space R2. As shown in Figure 2(a), the pressure reduction section 83 is located between the two fans 70 and opposite the airflow increase region 63.

[0099] With the above configuration, the saddle-type vehicle 1 can restrict the inflow of air (radiator-passing airflow Wa) that has been heated by passing through the radiator core 62 into the rear space R2. Furthermore, in the saddle-type vehicle 1, since a pressure reduction section 83 is provided at a position opposite to the airflow increase region 63 where the airflow increases when the vehicle is in motion, the pressure rise in the space behind the radiator core 62 (the front space R1 which is behind the airflow increase region 63) can be suppressed when the vehicle is in motion (when the fan is not operating), thereby suppressing a decrease in the airflow passing through the radiator core 62. As a result, the saddle-type vehicle 1 can suppress the decrease in the airflow passing through the radiator 60 when the vehicle is in motion, while suppressing the heat effects of the radiator-passing airflow Wa on the rear components 51 (e.g., the engine control unit 12) and the rider.

[0100] As shown in Figure 2(a), the pressure reduction section 83 is located in a front view at a position (right X2) that is in a different direction (right Xb) from the guide direction F (left Xa) of the fan 70a on the left X1, and at a position (left X1) that is in a different direction (left Xa) from the guide direction F (right Xb) of the fan 70b on the right X2. In other words, the pressure reduction section 83 is located between the two fans 70 located on the left and right sides in a front view.

[0101] As shown in Figure 1(d), the pressure reduction section 83 is provided with a wind direction changing section 84 that changes the direction of the airflow Wa passing through the radiator downwards towards Ha. In the saddle-type vehicle 1 of this embodiment, the wind direction changing section 84 is configured by providing four fins to the pressure reduction section 83.

[0102] As shown in Figure 2(b), the radiator cover 80 is positioned such that its lower end 80a is below the upper end 21a of the cylinder head 21 by a distance H2. More specifically, as shown in Figure 2(b), the radiator cover 80 is configured such that, in a side view, its lower end 80a is positioned below the upper end 22a of the forward inclined surface 22 of the engine 20 by a distance H2.

[0103] As shown in Figure 3(b), the radiator cover 80 is positioned so that both its left and right ends are connected to the upper air outlet 45. More specifically, as shown in Figures 3(a) and 3(b), the radiator cover 80 is positioned adjacent to the upper air outlet 45. Also, as shown in Figure 3(b), protruding convex portions 85 are formed on both the left and right ends of the radiator cover 80. As shown in Figure 3(b), a mounting portion 42a into which the convex portions 85 are fitted is provided near the upper air outlet 45 of the middle cowl 42. The radiator cover 80 is positioned relative to the middle cowl 42 by the convex portions 85 being fitted into the mounting portion 42a. In other words, the radiator cover 80 is positioned so that both its left and right ends are adjacent to the middle cowl 42 and are connected to the middle cowl 42. Therefore, the radiator cover 80 is configured such that its left and right range extends from the inner wall 42b of the middle cowl 42 where the upper exhaust port 45 on the left X1 is formed to the inner wall 42c of the middle cowl 42 where the upper exhaust port 45 on the right X2 is formed. As a result, the radiator cover 80 functions as a duct that guides the air passing through the radiator to the upper exhaust port 45.

[0104] [Airflow through the radiator when the vehicle is stationary] Next, the flow of air passing through the radiator when the vehicle is stopped will be explained with reference to Figure 4. As shown in Figures 4(a) and 4(b), when the vehicle is stopped, the fan 70 operates, generating air passing through the radiator, Wa. The air passing through the radiator, Wa generated by the operation of the fan 70, is guided by the radiator cover 80 and directed to the sides and downwards H2. As mentioned above, the radiator cover 80 is positioned so that both the left and right ends are connected to the upper exhaust port 45. Therefore, as shown in Figure 4(c), the air passing through the radiator, Wa guided laterally along the radiator cover 80, is guided to the upper exhaust port 45 and discharged toward the side of the vehicle. The air passing through the radiator, Wa guided downwards H2 along the radiator cover 80, is discharged to the outside of the vehicle through the lower exhaust port 46.

[0105] Thus, when the vehicle is stopped, the airflow Wa passing through the radiator, generated by the operation of the fan 70, is guided by the radiator cover 80 and discharged to the side of the vehicle through the upper exhaust port 45, as well as discharged downwards towards H2 through the lower exhaust port 46.

[0106] [Airflow through the radiator while driving] Next, the flow of air passing through the radiator during driving will be explained with reference to Figure 5. As shown in Figure 5(a), during driving, the airflow Wb passes through the radiator core 62 from the front Y1 to the rear Y2, and the airflow Wb flows towards the rear Y2 as heated air passing through the radiator Wa. As shown in Figure 5(b), the air passing through the radiator Wa is guided by the radiator cover 80 and directed to the sides and downwards H2.

[0107] During driving, the airflow Wb passes through the airflow increase region 63 without being obstructed by the front fork 32 or front fender 9 and hits the radiator cover 80, causing the pressure in the space behind the airflow increase region 63 (forward space R1) to increase. In the saddle-type vehicle 1, a pressure reduction section 83 is provided at a position opposite the airflow increase region 63 of the radiator cover 80. As a result, the saddle-type vehicle 1 can suppress the reduction in airflow to the radiator core 62.

[0108] As mentioned above, the radiator cover 80 is positioned so that both the left and right ends are connected to the upper exhaust port 45. During driving, a pressure difference is generated due to the difference in airflow velocity between the upper exhaust port 45 and the airflow Wb flowing from the front Y1 to the rear Y2, resulting in negative pressure around the upper exhaust port 45. Therefore, as shown in Figure 5(c), the radiator airflow Wa that flows into the front space R1 is guided to the vicinity of the upper exhaust port 45 where the pressure is lower and discharged toward the side of the vehicle. The radiator airflow Wa discharged from the upper exhaust port 45 is then carried toward the rear Y2 by the airflow Wb.

[0109] Thus, during driving, the airflow Wa passing through the radiator, guided by the radiator cover 80, is discharged through the upper exhaust port 45 to the rear Y2 of the vehicle due to the difference in airflow velocity between it and the driving airflow Wb flowing from the front Y1 to the rear Y2 of the upper exhaust port 45.

[0110] [Regarding the harness fixing structure] Next, with reference to Figure 6, the harness fixing structure around the head pipe 6c (around the head pipe) of the saddle-type vehicle 1 of this embodiment will be described.

[0111] In recent years, there has been a trend towards an increase in the size and size of electrical components, making it increasingly difficult to position these components and other materials in the limited space around the head pipe. Furthermore, in saddle-type vehicles such as supersport models, the area around the head pipe requires high rigidity to improve handling performance, often resulting in a complex structure, and making it difficult to effectively utilize the space around the head pipe. Saddle-type vehicle 1 solves the above problems by providing a multi-functional component 100 that has multiple functions, such as fixing the harness around the head pipe.

[0112] In the saddle-type vehicle 1 of this embodiment, the body frame 6 around the head pipe to which the head pipe 6c is attached (front body frame 6a) is a cast frame formed by casting. Also, as shown in Figure 1(a), the saddle-type vehicle 1 is provided with a tank cover 11 in front of the fuel tank 7 at Y1.

[0113] The multi-functional component 100 is a part formed by injection molding of resin. As shown in Figure 6(a), the multi-functional component 100 comprises a column portion 101 that is arranged along the vertical direction H when placed on the vehicle, and a flange portion 102 that is formed in a flange shape.

[0114] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6(b), the multi-functional component 100 includes a connector mounting portion 103 to which a connector is attached, and a holding portion 104 to which a harness or wire is attached. As shown in Figures 6(a) and 6(b), the multi-functional component 100 is provided with a first holding portion 104a, a second holding portion 104b, a third holding portion 104c, a fourth holding portion 104d, and a fifth holding portion 104e as the holding portion 104. Each holding portion 104 is provided with a hole for fixing the harness or wire. A resin clamp is attached to each holding portion 104 through which the harness or wire is inserted.

[0115] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6(b), the multi-functional component 100 includes a frame mounting portion 105 which serves as an attachment point to the front vehicle frame 6a, and a cover top mounting portion 106 to which the front end (cover top 11a) of the tank cover 11 is attached. Also, as shown in Figure 6(a), the multi-functional component 100 includes an air cleaner mounting portion 107 to which the air cleaner 8 is attached.

[0116] As shown in Figure 6(b), the connector mounting portion 103 supports the main switch connector 111, the immobilizer connector 112, and the grip warmer connector 113. The main harness 114 is attached to the first retaining portion 104a and the fourth retaining portion 104d. The clutch wire 115 is attached to the second retaining portion 104b. The main switch harness 116 and the immobilizer harness 117 are attached to the third retaining portion 104c and the fifth retaining portion 104e. The main harness 114 has a movable portion M1 that can move freely from the end located at the front Y1 (around the handlebars) to the portion connected to the first retaining portion 104a, and a non-movable portion M2 from the first retaining portion 104a to the rear Y2 (see Figure 6(b)). The main switch harness 116 and the immobilizer harness 117 have a non-movable section M2 from the connector to the part connected to the fifth retaining section 104e, and a movable section M1 that can move freely from the fifth retaining section 104e forward Y1 (up to the steering wheel area) (see Figure 6(b)).

[0117] As shown in Figure 6(c), the multi-functional component 100 is mounted so as to bridge the front vehicle frame 6a in the vertical direction H, with each connector and harness fixed in place. Specifically, the multi-functional component 100 is positioned so that the column portion 101 faces in the vertical direction H, and is mounted to the front vehicle frame 6a by inserting bolts through the frame mounting portion 105. This allows each harness and connector to be positioned and held together as a single unit. The cover top 11a is mounted on the cover top mounting portion 106, and the air cleaner 8 is mounted on the air cleaner mounting portion 107.

[0118] Thus, the multi-functional part 100 has the following functions: (1) a function to fix parts such as harnesses around the head pipe, (2) a function to guide the clutch wire 115, (3) a function to fix the air cleaner 8, and (4) a function to fix the cover top 11a.

[0119] In the saddle-type vehicle 1, a multi-functional component 100, which has multiple functions such as holding each harness and fixing each connector, air cleaner 8, and cover top 11a, is arranged to bridge the front vehicle frame 6a in the vertical direction H. As a result, the saddle-type vehicle 1 makes effective use of the limited space inside the front vehicle frame 6a and simplifies the wiring.

[0120] [Regarding the structure around the holes in the tank cover] Next, the hole 11b of the tank cover 11 and the component (water receiving component 120) located near the hole 11b will be described with reference to Figure 7.

[0121] In saddle-type vehicles, through-holes (perforations) may be provided in the tank cover for design purposes or to reduce self-heating of electrical components installed inside the vehicle body (for example, the engine control unit located behind the tank cover) due to the entry and exit of airflow through the tank cover. In addition, in saddle-type vehicles, the air cleaner may be located below the tank cover. If holes are provided in the tank cover when the air cleaner is located below the tank cover, water may enter the inside of the tank cover through the holes, raising concerns about water entering the air cleaner. In this case, rubber sheets or similar materials may be placed in the tank cover to prevent water from entering the air cleaner through the holes.

[0122] However, the installation of a rubber plate presented a challenge: it prevented a passage for airflow from the front, making it difficult to reduce the self-heating of electrical components located near the air cleaner (for example, above or behind it). In other words, in saddle-type vehicles where the air cleaner is located below the tank cover and electrical components are located near the air cleaner, it was difficult to create holes in the tank cover while simultaneously preventing water from entering the air cleaner and ensuring a passage for airflow.

[0123] In the saddle-type vehicle 1 of this embodiment, a water receiving component 120 is attached to the back surface of the hole 11b formed in the tank cover 11, thereby achieving both suppression of water entering the air cleaner 8 and securing a passage for airflow while driving. As shown in Figure 7(a), in the saddle-type vehicle 1 of this embodiment, the air cleaner 8 is located below H2 of the tank cover 11. In addition, in the saddle-type vehicle 1, electrical components (engine control unit 12 in this embodiment) are located below H2 of the fuel tank 7. The engine control unit 12 is located behind Y2 of the air cleaner 8.

[0124] As shown in Figure 7(a), the saddle-type vehicle 1 has holes 11b in the tank cover 11. The holes 11b are formed on the left and right sides of the tank cover 11. Also, as shown in Figure 7(c), a water receiving component 120 is attached to the back surface 11c of the tank cover 11 at a position H2 below the holes 11b.

[0125] As shown in Figure 7(b), the water receiving component 120 has a surface shape that faces the hole 11b. The water receiving component 120 blocks the inflow of water toward the air cleaner 8. Furthermore, when the water receiving component 120 is attached to the tank cover 11, it becomes an air passage (see arrow B in Figure 7(b)). As a result, in the saddle-type vehicle 1, the hole 11b is formed in the tank cover 11, while suppressing water from entering the air cleaner 8 and reducing the self-heating of electrical components (engine control unit 12 in this embodiment).

[0126] [Regarding the load-bearing structure under the seat] Next, the load-bearing structure below seat 4 (H2) will be explained with reference to Figure 8.

[0127] In the saddle-type vehicle 1 of this embodiment, the seat 4 is a single seat for one rider. The vehicle body frame 6 of the saddle-type vehicle 1 includes a rear frame 6b that forms the frame below the seat 4 H2. As shown in Figure 8, a battery 140 is positioned between the left and right rear frames 6b.

[0128] When a saddle-type vehicle has a single seat designed for one rider, there is a need to improve the feeling of ground contact when the rider is seated. Therefore, it is sometimes required to set up a load-bearing component near the hip point (the rider's seating position). In particular, the demand for improved ground contact feeling is high in saddle-type supersport models. To meet this demand for improved ground contact, it is conceivable to attach a load-bearing component to the rear frame.

[0129] However, other parts (such as exterior covers) may be fastened to the rear frame. Therefore, when setting up a load-bearing surface on the rear frame, it is necessary to achieve both the setting of the load-bearing surface for the single seat and the fastening of other parts on one of the seating surfaces of the rear frame. On the other hand, there has been a challenge in achieving both load-bearing for the seat and fastening of other parts on the seating surface of the rear frame. For example, the mounting position of other parts such as exterior covers to the rear frame may overlap with the mounting position of the load-bearing member, making it difficult to fasten these parts to the rear frame. In the saddle-type vehicle 1 of this embodiment, a sheet metal member 130 with multiple functions is provided to achieve both the load-bearing portion C of the seat 4 and the fastening of other parts.

[0130] As shown in Figure 8, the sheet metal member 130 is attached to the rear frame 6b so as to bridge the left and right rear frames 6b. Exterior covers 150 are fastened to both ends of the sheet metal member 130. The sheet metal member 130 is positioned below the hip point Ph at H2. The sheet metal member 130 is also positioned above the battery 140 at H1. A damper (not shown) is provided between the sheet metal member 130 and the battery 140.

[0131] Thus, the sheet metal member 130 has the function of supporting the load of the seat 4, the function of suppressing vibrations from the battery 140 located below H2 of the seat 4 from above H1 via a damper (not shown), and the function of fixing the exterior cover 150. As a result, the saddle-type vehicle 1 achieves both the setting of load support for the seat 4 and the setting of fastening other parts, while also improving the feeling of ground contact.

[0132] (Other embodiments) Embodiments and modifications described and illustrated herein are for the purpose of facilitating the understanding of this disclosure and do not limit the spirit of this disclosure. The above embodiments and modifications may be modified and improved without departing from their spirit. This spirit includes equivalent elements, modifications, deletions, combinations (e.g., combinations of features spanning embodiments and modifications), improvements, and changes that can be recognized by a person skilled in the art based on the embodiments disclosed herein. The limitations in the claims should be interpreted broadly based on the terms used in those claims and should not be limited to the embodiments and modifications described herein or in the prosecution of this application. Such embodiments and modifications should be interpreted as non-exclusive. For example, in this specification, the terms “preferred” and “good” are non-exclusive and mean “preferred but not limited to” and “good but not limited to.” [Explanation of Symbols]

[0133] 1. Saddle-type vehicle 9. Front fender (front component) 32 Front fork (front component) 50 Front member 60 radiator 62 Radiator core 63. Airflow Increase Region 70 Fans 70a Fan 70b Fan 80 Radiator Cover 81 Rear compartment wall 83 Pressure drop section R1 Front space R2 Rear space Wa radiator passing air

Claims

1. A saddle-type vehicle comprising a radiator having a radiator core for cooling coolant, a fan positioned behind the radiator core, and a front member positioned in front of the radiator core and overlapping with at least a portion of the radiator core in a front view, wherein at least a portion of the fuel tank and / or air cleaner is positioned above the engine and between the left and right body frames extending from the head pipe to the seat in a plan view, The radiator includes a radiator cover that covers at least a portion of the radiator core and the fan from the rear, The aforementioned radiator cover is, A saddle-type vehicle characterized in that, in a front view, the radiator core is in an area that does not overlap with the fan and the front member, covers at least a portion of the airflow increase region where the airflow passing through the radiator core becomes larger during driving, and has a rear partition wall portion arranged to divide the space behind the radiator core into a front space and a rear space, thereby restricting the inflow of the airflow passing through the radiator into the rear space, and has a pressure reduction portion provided at a position opposite the airflow increase region to release a portion of the airflow passing through the radiator into the rear space.

2. The aforementioned radiator cover is, The saddle-type vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that it has an upper partition wall portion that covers at least a portion of the upper end of the radiator core and is arranged to partition the front space and the upper space above the front space, thereby restricting the inflow of the radiator airflow into the upper space.

3. The saddle-type vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the pressure reduction section includes an opening in the radiator cover formed to release a portion of the airflow passing through the radiator into the rear space.

4. When the fan is rotating, the airflow passing through the radiator, generated by the fan's rotation, is guided by the radiator cover in either a leftward or rightward direction. The saddle-type vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the pressure reduction section is provided in a position in a front view that is to the left or to the right of the fan, which is different from the guide direction.

5. Two of the aforementioned fans are positioned behind the radiator core. The aforementioned radiator cover is, A saddle-type vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that it covers an area from one of the two fans to the other, and the pressure reduction section is provided between the two fans.

6. The system comprises two fans arranged on the left and right sides, with different directions of rotation. A saddle-type vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that when the fan rotates, the airflow passing through the radiator generated by the rotation of the two fans is guided to the side of the vehicle by the radiator cover.

7. The aforementioned front member includes a front fork that constitutes the steering mechanism and a front fender attached to the front wheel. The aforementioned radiator cover is, A saddle-type vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, in a front view, the radiator core covers at least a portion of the airflow increase region that does not overlap with the fan, the front fork, and the front fender, and has the pressure reduction portion at a position facing the airflow increase region.

8. The saddle-type vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the fan is arranged to overlap with at least a portion of the front member when viewed from the front.

9. The saddle-type vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the pressure reduction section is provided with a wind direction changing section that changes the direction of the airflow passing through the radiator downwards.

10. The cowl covers the sides of the radiator core and has an upper exhaust port formed on the side of the radiator cover, and a lower exhaust port formed below the upper exhaust port. When the vehicle is stopped, the airflow generated by the operation of the fan passing through the radiator is guided by the radiator cover and discharged to the side of the vehicle through the upper exhaust port and downward through the lower exhaust port. A saddle-type vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, when driving, the air passing through the radiator, guided by the radiator cover, is discharged to the rear of the vehicle through the upper exhaust port due to the pressure difference caused by the difference in airflow velocity between the air passing through the radiator and the air flowing from the front to the rear of the upper exhaust port.

11. The radiator cover comprises a cowl that covers the sides of the radiator core and has an upward exhaust port formed on the side of the radiator cover, The aforementioned radiator cover is, A saddle-type vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that at least one of the left and right ends is arranged to be connected to the upper air exhaust port.

12. The aforementioned radiator cover is, A saddle-type vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the lower end is positioned below the upper end of the cylinder head.

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