Two-wheeled vehicles

Abstract

To provide a vehicle adaptable to plural vehicle platforms in an effort to reduce manufacturing time and a cost.SOLUTION: A two-wheeled vehicle (2) includes a frame assembly including a front end part (4) and rear end part (6) existing along a center line (L) which extends in a longitudinal direction, a forward ground engagement member (8) that is coupled to the front end part (4) of the frame assembly so that the forward ground engagement member can move on a front rotation shaft, and a backward ground engagement member (9) that is coupled to the rear end part (6) of the frame assembly so that the backward ground engagement member can move on a rear rotation shaft.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 469,988, entitled "TWO-WHEELED VEHICLE," filed March 10, 2017, the entire disclosure of which is expressly incorporated by reference into this application. [Technical field]

[0002] The present disclosure relates to motorcycles, and more particularly, to motorcycles having a compact, modular configuration. [Background technology]

[0003] A variety of motorcycles can be configured for different uses and different rider preferences. For example, a cruiser type motorcycle may be suitable for riders who prefer long distance comfort over speed, while a sports or standard type motorcycle may be preferred by riders who prefer improved speed performance. Typically, a sports or standard type motorcycle is smaller in overall size than other types of motorcycles, so the configuration of various components on the bike is important. For example, a sports or standard type motorcycle requires a fuel tank and air box that are large enough to sustain the performance of the powertrain, but can be loaded with other components of the motorcycle without increasing the size of the vehicle.

[0004] Furthermore, because of the variety of vehicle platforms, it can be costly and time consuming to manufacture multiple motorcycles, each with its own unique components. For example, it can be costly to require each vehicle platform to have a unique frame, powertrain assembly, and overall layout. Because each distinct type of vehicle has different ride, handling, powertrain, and ergonomic requirements to best meet rider preferences, it may be necessary to uniquely design the overall layout for each vehicle. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Thus, there is a need for a vehicle that can be adapted to multiple vehicle platforms to reduce manufacturing time and costs. For example, there is a need for a modular, sports or standard type vehicle platform with a fuel tank and air box that can meet the necessary power requirements while maintaining a reduced overall vehicle size, so that multiple different sports or standard type vehicle platforms can use similar components, but obtain the components and systems required for the desired performance. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a two-wheeled vehicle includes: a frame assembly having a front end and a rear end extending along a longitudinal centerline; a front ground engaging member operably connected to the front end of the frame assembly at a front pivot; and a rear ground engaging member operably connected to the rear end of the frame assembly at a rear pivot. A wheelbase is defined between the front pivot and the rear pivot, and a vertically extending centerline of the vehicle extends vertically at a midpoint of the wheelbase and is perpendicular to the longitudinal centerline. The vehicle also includes a fuel tank supported by the frame assembly, a forward portion of the fuel tank being aligned generally vertically with the vertical centerline. Further, an airbox assembly is supported by the frame assembly, and a rear portion of the airbox assembly is aligned generally vertically with the vertical centerline. Also, a battery is supported by the frame assembly and positioned longitudinally forward of the vertical centerline.

[0007] A further exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a two-wheeled vehicle comprising: a frame assembly having a front end and a rear end extending along a longitudinally extending centerline; a forward ground engaging member operably connected to the front end of the frame assembly at a front pivot; a rear ground engaging member operably connected to the rear end of the frame assembly at a rear pivot; and a straddle seat supported on the frame assembly and configured to support at least one operator of the vehicle. The vehicle further comprises a fuel tank supported by the frame assembly and positioned below the straddle seat. The fuel tank includes a fuel filler cap positioned forward of the straddle seat. The vehicle further comprises an airbox assembly supported by the frame assembly and extending upwardly from the fuel tank.

[0008] A further exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a two-wheeled vehicle comprising: a frame assembly having a front end and a rear end extending along a longitudinally extending centerline; a front ground engaging member operably connected to the front end of the frame assembly at a front pivot axis; a rear ground engaging member operably connected to the rear end of the frame assembly at a rear pivot axis; and an engine supported by the frame assembly and operably connected to at least one of the front and rear ground engaging members. The engine includes a front cylinder having a front cylinder head, a rear cylinder having a rear cylinder head, and a crankshaft operably connected to the front and rear cylinders. The vehicle further comprises: a straddle seat supported on the frame assembly and configured to support at least one operator of the vehicle; and a fuel tank supported by the frame assembly and positioned below the straddle seat. The forward end of the fuel tank is aligned substantially perpendicular to the crankshaft.

[0009] The above-mentioned and other features of the invention, as well as the manner in which these features are achieved, will become apparent, and the invention itself will be better understood, by reference to the following description of the embodiments of the invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a front left perspective view of a vehicle according to the present disclosure; [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a rear right perspective view of the vehicle shown in FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] Left side view of the vehicle in Figure 1 [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a front left perspective view of a portion of the frame assembly and engine of the vehicle of FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a front right perspective view of the frame assembly connected to the engine of FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 5 is a front right perspective view of the frame assembly of FIG. 4 coupled to a portion of the engine in a first selective position; [Figure 7] FIG. 5 is a front right perspective view of the frame assembly of FIG. 4 coupled to an engine in a second selective position; [Figure 8] FIG. 5 is a front right perspective view of the frame assembly of FIG. 4 coupled to an engine in a third alternative position; [Figure 9] FIG. 5 is a rear left perspective view of the frame assembly and engine of FIG. 4 . [Figure 10] FIG. 5 is a rear-left perspective view of the frame assembly of FIG. 4, including the main frame and intermediate frame portions; [Figure 11] Exploded view of the intermediate frame part of Figure 10 [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is a rear right perspective view of a rear frame portion and a rear suspension assembly positioned rearward of the engine; [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a further rear right perspective view of the rear frame portion and rear suspension assembly of FIG. [Figure 14] Left side view of the rear frame part of Figure 12 [Figure 15] Rear view of the frame assembly in Figure 10 [Figure 16] An exploded view of the rear frame portion and rear suspension assembly of FIG. 12 [Figure 17] FIG. 2 is a rear left perspective view of an alternative frame assembly of the vehicle of FIG. [Figure 18] 18 is a left side view of the alternative frame assembly of FIG. 17 coupled to a powertrain assembly and an alternative embodiment of the rear suspension assembly of the vehicle of FIG. 1; [Figure 19] 18 is a rear left perspective view of the swingarm of the rear suspension assembly of FIG. 18 connected to the frame assembly of FIG. 17 [Figure 20] 20 is a cross-sectional view of the swingarm pivot axle of FIG. 19; [Figure 21] FIG. 2 is a front left perspective view of a crankshaft of the engine of the vehicle of FIG. 1; [Figure 22] Cross-section of the crankshaft in FIG. [Figure 23] Right side view of the engine oil level check window of the vehicle in Figure 1 [Figure 24] Cross-section of the oil level check window in Figure 23 [Diagram 25] Left side view of the inner surface of the oil level window in Figure 23 [Figure 26] FIG. 2 is a front right perspective view of a cooling assembly including a radiator of the vehicle of FIG. 1 . [Figure 27] 27 is a rear-left perspective view of the cooling assembly of Figure 26. [Figure 28] FIG. 2 is a right side view of the exhaust assembly of the vehicle of FIG. [Figure 29] FIG. 2 is a right side view of a front portion of the vehicle supporting a portion of the electrical assembly of the vehicle of FIG. 1, e.g., supporting an engine control unit; [Diagram 30] FIG. 2 is a front right perspective view of the battery compartment of the vehicle of FIG. [Diagram 31] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the fuel tank and air intake assembly of the vehicle of FIG. [Diagram 32] Cross-sectional view of the air intake and fuel tank of FIG. 31 [Diagram 33] FIG. 32 is a front exploded view of a portion of the fuel tank and frame assembly of FIG. 31; [Diagram 34] FIG. 34 is a rear exploded view of the portion of the fuel tank and frame assembly of FIG. [Diagram 35] A rear right perspective view of the fuel tank of FIG. 31 [Diagram 36] FIG. 2 is a right side view of the fuel tank, air intake, and engine of the vehicle of FIG. [Figure 37] FIG. 1 is a rear left perspective view of a plurality of body panels supported on a frame assembly [Figure 38] FIG. 38 is a rear right perspective view of the body panels of FIG. 37. [Figure 39] Exploded view of several body panels from Figure 37 [Diagram 40] Further exploded views of the body panels of FIG. [Diagram 41] FIG. 38 is a left perspective view of a portion of the body panels of FIG. [Diagram 42] Top view of several body panels of FIG. 37 [Diagram 43] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the fuel tank of the vehicle of FIG. [Diagram 44] FIG. 44 is another cross-sectional view of the fuel tank of FIG. 43 when the vehicle is in rear wheel drive mode. [Diagram 45] FIG. 38 is a rear left perspective view of a fuel tank supported on the frame assembly of FIG. 37, the frame assembly including a rear frame assembly; [Figure 46] Exploded view of the frame assembly and fuel tank of Figure 45 [Figure 47] 38 is a front perspective view of a cylinder of the engine of the vehicle of FIG. 1 connected to a portion of the frame assembly of FIG. 37; [Figure 48] FIG. 48 is an exploded view of a portion of the engine and the portion of the frame assembly of FIG. [Figure 49] FIG. 38 is a right-rear perspective view of a rear suspension assembly operatively connected to the frame assembly of FIG. [Figure 50] FIG. 38 is another right rear perspective view of the rear suspension assembly operatively connected to the frame assembly of FIG. 37; [Figure 51]Exploded view of the rear suspension assembly and frame assembly of Figure 49 [Figure 52A] Schematic diagram of the braking system of the vehicle of FIG. [Figure 52B] FIG. 52B is a left perspective view of the braking system of FIG. [Figure 53] FIG. 2 is a front left perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the vehicle electrical box of FIG. 1 configured to support at least one battery therein; [Figure 54] Exploded view of the electrical box in Figure 53 [Figure 55] FIG. 53 is a front left perspective view of the electrical box. [Figure 56] A right rear perspective view of the electrical box of FIG. [Figure 57] Exploded front view of the electrical box of Figure 55 including the battery [Figure 58] Exploded view of the rear of the electrical box and battery in Figure 57 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. The drawings are to scale unless otherwise noted.

[0012] The embodiments disclosed below are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed in the "Practical Guide for Carrying Out the Invention" below. Instead, they are chosen and described to enable others skilled in the art to utilize their teachings. Although the present invention is primarily directed to motorcycles, it should be understood that the present invention is applicable to other types of vehicles, such as full ground vehicles, watercraft, utility vehicles, snowmobiles, scooters, golf carts, and mopeds, as well as any type of motorcycle or other two-wheeled vehicle.

[0013] 1-3, one illustrative embodiment of a two-wheeled vehicle 2 is shown. The vehicle 2 may be configured as any type of motorcycle, such as a sports or standard type motorcycle, a touring motorcycle, a cruiser motorcycle, etc., as well as other embodiments of motorcycle-type vehicles. The vehicle 2 extends along a longitudinal centerline L from a front end 4 to a rear end 6. The front end 4 of the vehicle 2 includes at least one ground engaging member, i.e., a front wheel 8 configured to rotate about a front wheel rotation axis 290, and the rear end 6 of the vehicle 2 includes at least one rear ground engaging member, e.g., a rear wheel 9 configured to rotate about a rear wheel rotation axis 292 (FIG. 3). The vehicle 2 moves on the front and rear wheels 8 and 9 relative to a ground surface G (FIG. 3). Although the vehicle 2 is illustrated as a two-wheeled vehicle, it should be understood that various embodiments of the present teachings may also operate with three-wheeled, four-wheeled, six-wheeled, etc., vehicles.

[0014] 1-3, the rear wheels 9 are coupled to the powertrain assembly 10 through a drive assembly 154 for propelling the vehicle 2 via the rear wheels 9, as further disclosed herein. The drive assembly 154 includes a drive shaft 155, a drive sprocket 156 operably coupled to the drive shaft 155, and a driven sprocket 158 ​​operably coupled to the drive sprocket 156 via a belt or chain 159 (FIG. 1).

[0015] The powertrain assembly 10 includes both an engine 12 and a transmission 14. The transmission 14 is coupled to the engine 12, which provides power to the rear wheels 9 through a drive shaft 155. In the illustrated embodiment, the engine 12 is a V-twin gasoline engine and includes a first or front cylinder 30 and a second or rear cylinder 32 operably coupled together with a crankshaft 34 ( FIG. 36 ) configured to rotate about an axis of rotation 36. The first cylinder 30 and the second cylinder 32, and the crankshaft 34 are generally supported on a crankcase 60 of the engine 12. By way of example, the first cylinder 30 and the second cylinder 32 define a 60° V-shaped configuration. In other embodiments, the engine 12 includes any number of cylinders arranged in any configuration (e.g., 90°). Each cylinder 30, 32 includes a valve cover 39, a cylinder head 38, a cylinder (Cylinder body) 37, and a piston (not shown) is configured to reciprocate within each cylinder 30, 32 to cause rotation of the crankshaft 34. Further details of the engine 12 may be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14 / 213,161, entitled "TWO-WHEELED VEHICLE," filed Mar. 14, 2014 (Attorney Docket No. PLR-05-25858.05P), and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14 / 214,033, entitled "ENGINE," filed Mar. 14, 2014 (Attorney Docket No. PLR-05-25844.02P), the entire disclosures of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference. Also, while the engine 12 is illustrated as a gasoline engine, it should be understood that electric motors and other suitable torque generating machines are operable with various embodiments of the present disclosure. Additionally, in one embodiment, the powertrain assembly 10 includes a continuously variable transmission.

[0016] 1-3, the vehicle 2 also generally includes a steering assembly 16, e.g., a handlebar with gripping surfaces 18 for the operator's hands. The handlebar may include operator controls, such as throttle and braking inputs, for operating the vehicle 2. Additionally, the vehicle 2 may include foot controls for braking and / or throttle control. The steering assembly 16 may be operatively coupled to a triple clamp 26 and a front fork 20, which may include a front suspension assembly 22. The vehicle 2 further includes a rear suspension assembly 24 (FIG. 2). As shown in FIG. 3, a seat 28 may be positioned at least partially above a portion of the rear suspension assembly 24 and configured as a straddle seat for supporting at least one operator, but may also be configured to support at least one passenger behind the operator. Cargo or storage containers (not shown) may be included on the vehicle 2 forward or rearward of the seat 28.

[0017] 4-16, the vehicle 2 includes a frame assembly 40 supported by the front wheels 8 and the rear wheels 9 (FIG. 1). The frame assembly 40 includes a main frame 42 and a rear frame 44 connected together (FIG. 13). As shown in FIGS. 4-12, various portions of the main frame 42 may be constructed of a metallic material, such as steel, and the main frame 42 includes an upper longitudinally extending member 46 and a lower longitudinally extending member 48. Both the upper longitudinally extending member 46 and the lower longitudinally extending member 48 are connected to a head tube 50 configured to receive a portion of the steering assembly 16 (FIG. 1). The upper longitudinally extending member 46 and the lower longitudinally extending member 48 are connected together via a plurality of lateral members 52. Additionally, the main frame 42 includes an upright member 54 extending generally perpendicularly from the lower longitudinally extending member 48. The upright members 54 may be further connected to the lower longitudinally extending members 48 via diagonal frame members 56 .

[0018] As an example, the main frame 42 generally surrounds the powertrain assembly 10 and, more particularly, extends forwardly over the engine 12 and the transmission 14. The main frame 42 may be coupled to the engine 12 via an upright directional member 54. As shown in FIG. 4, for example, the upright directional member 54 may be coupled to a bracket or mounting flange 58 on a crankcase 60 of the engine 12. The mounting flange 58 may be integral with the crankcase 60 or may be coupled to the crankcase 60 by conventional fasteners such as bolts, welds, rivets, or other similar fasteners. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, the mounting flange 58 is positioned forward of the crankcase 60, and thus the upright directional member 54 is also positioned forward of the crankcase 60. Additionally, the mounting flange 58 may be positioned adjacent to an oil filter 62 for the engine 12, such that the main frame 42 is coupled to the crankcase 60 at a location generally adjacent to the oil filter 62. Because portions of the frame assembly 40 are supported on the crankcase 60 , the crankcase 60 defines a structural member of the vehicle 2 that is configured to receive external loads from the frame assembly 40 .

[0019] 5, an additional mounting bracket or flange 98 may be removably connected to the crankcase 60 for connection to the upright directional members 54 of the main frame 42. The flange 98 may be connected to an existing flange 58 on the crankcase 60 or may be directly connected to the crankcase 60 with bolts 100. The flange 98 may be positioned approximately adjacent to the oil filter 62, such that the lower end of the upright directional members 54 may be connected to the flange 98 at a location adjacent to the oil filter 62, thereby connecting the frame assembly 40 and the powertrain assembly 10 together.

[0020] 6, the upright directional member 54 of the main frame 42 may be coupled to a portion of the first cylinder 30 of the engine 12 rather than to the crankcase 60. By way of example, the first cylinder 30 may include a mounting flange 102 that may be removably coupled to and / or integrally formed on an outer housing 104 of the first cylinder 30. The flange 102 may extend forward from a middle portion of the outer housing 104 and be coupled to a lower end of the upright directional member 54 using fasteners such as bolts 106, thereby coupling the main frame 42 and the engine 12 together.

[0021] 7, the main frame 42 may be coupled to the first cylinder 30 of the engine 12 at a location adjacent the upper end 108 of the cylinder 30. More specifically, the upper end 108 of the first cylinder 30, which is coupled to the cylinder head 38 (FIG. 2), may include a removable or integral mounting bracket or flange 110 that extends laterally outward from the outer housing 104 of the first cylinder 30. The lower end of the upright directional member 54 is configured to be coupled to the flange 110 to join the main frame 42 to the upper end 108 of the first cylinder 30.

[0022] In a further alternative embodiment, referring to FIG. 8, a mounting bracket 112 may be removably coupled to the first cylinder 30 and the upright directional member 54 of the main frame 42 to join the frame assembly 40 and the engine 12 together. More specifically, the mounting bracket 112 aligns with mounting holes 114 on the outer housing 104 of the first cylinder 30, and fasteners, such as bolts, are received through the mounting bracket 112 and into the mounting holes 114 to couple the mounting bracket 112 to the first cylinder 30. A lower end of the upright directional member 54 is coupled to the mounting bracket 112 with fasteners 106, such that the main frame 42 is coupled to the engine 12 via the mounting bracket 112, rather than directly to the outer housing 104 of the first cylinder 30 or the crankcase 60 (FIG. 4).

[0023] 9-11 , the main frame 42 also extends rearwardly of the engine 12 and over a portion of the transmission 14. By way of example, the longitudinally extending members 46, 48 may be coupled to a mid-frame portion 64 of the frame assembly 40. The mid-frame portion 64 may include a first or left side member 66 and a second or right side member 68. In one embodiment, the first member 66 and the second member 68 may be constructed from cast aluminum, which may reduce the overall weight of the vehicle 2 and / or adjust the center of gravity of the vehicle 2. Additionally, by casting the first member 66 and the second member 68 from aluminum, the overall configuration of the first member 66 and the second member 68 may be formed into complex or desired shapes to conform to various mounting surfaces on the main frame 42, the rear frame 44, and / or the powertrain assembly 10. The first member 66 and the second member 68 are configured to be connected to the rear ends of the upper longitudinally extending member 46 and the lower longitudinally extending member 48, and as shown in Figures 9-11, the first member 66 and the second member 68 are positioned laterally outward from the rear ends of the upper longitudinally extending member 46 and the lower longitudinally extending member 48.

[0024] 9-11, the mid-frame portion 64 includes a first member 66 and a second member 68, and also includes a mounting arm 70 and a mounting bracket 72. The mounting arm 70 and the mounting bracket 72 may be constructed of a high strength metallic material, such as steel, to provide rigidity and increased strength to the frame assembly 40 at the mid-frame portion 64. The mounting arm 70 and the mounting bracket 72 are configured to couple to the main frame 42 and the powertrain assembly 10. More specifically, the mounting bracket 72 includes a plurality of apertures 78 that are configured to align with mounting apertures 80 on a coupler 74 of the main frame 42. By way of example, the coupler 74 couples the rear ends of the longitudinally extending members 46, 48 together and may be constructed of a metallic material, such as steel. Apertures 78 of mounting bracket 72 and apertures 80 of coupler 74 are configured to align with mounting apertures (not shown) on first member 66 and are configured to receive fasteners, such as bolts, for coupling together first member 66, longitudinally extending members 46, 48, and mounting bracket 72. Furthermore, mounting bracket 72 is configured to be mounted to a portion of powertrain assembly 10, such as rear end 82 of crankcase 60, at location 84 on crankcase 60. Mounting bracket 72 thereby couples rear ends of longitudinally extending members 46, 48 and first member 66 of mid-frame portion 64 to powertrain assembly 10. First member 66 of mid-frame portion 64 may also be configured to be coupled to rear end 82 of crankcase 60 at location 86.

[0025] Similarly, the installation arm 70 is also configured to couple to the rear ends of the longitudinally extending members 46, 48, the second member 68 of the mid-frame portion 64, and a portion of the rear end 82 of the crankcase 60. More specifically, as shown in FIGS. 9-11 , the installation arm 70 includes a plurality of apertures 88 that are configured to align with installation apertures 90 on the second coupler 76 of the main frame 42. By way of example, the second coupler 76 couples the rear ends of the longitudinally extending members 46, 48 together on the right side of the vehicle 2 and may also be constructed of a metallic material such as steel. The apertures 88 of the installation arm 70 and the apertures 90 of the second coupler 76 are configured to align with installation apertures 92 on the second member 68 and are configured to receive fasteners, such as bolts, for coupling the second member 68, the longitudinally extending members 46, 48, and the installation arm 70 together. Additionally, the mounting arm 70 is configured to couple to a portion of the rear end 82 of the crankcase 60 at locations 94, 96 on the crankcase 60. The mounting arm 70 thereby couples the rear ends of the longitudinally extending members 46, 48 and the second member 68 of the mid-frame portion 64 to the powertrain assembly 10.

[0026] The mounting arms 70 and mounting brackets 72 may each include any number and configuration of apertures 88, 78 to align with predetermined apertures on the rear end 82 of the crankcase 60, the couplers 74, 76, and / or the first and second members 66, 68. This allows for the mounting arms 70 and mounting brackets 72 to include apertures 88, 78 that align with predetermined apertures 80, 90 on the couplers 74, 76, predetermined apertures on the first and second members 66, 68, and predetermined apertures at locations 84, 94, 96 on the rear end 82 of the crankcase 60 to facilitate connection therebetween when the configuration of the powertrain assembly 10, frame assembly 40, and / or other components of the vehicle 2 does not allow the main frame 42 and / or the first and second members 68 of the intermediate frame portion 64 to be directly connected to the powertrain assembly 10. Additionally, the mounting arms 70 and mounting brackets 72 allow for modular configuration of various components or systems of the vehicle 2. For example, if the vehicle 2 includes a different powertrain configuration that does not naturally align with the mounting apertures on the frame assembly 40, the mounting arms 70 and mounting brackets 72 can be configured to couple to portions of the frame assembly 40 as disclosed herein and can also be configured to align with the mounting apertures or perforations on the new powertrain configuration. Thus, the mounting arms 70 and mounting brackets 72 can provide overall vehicle configuration flexibility and can also be used to assemble different vehicle platforms without having to replace or redesign existing frame components or powertrain housings.

[0027] 12-16, the frame assembly 40 further includes a rear frame 44, which extends rearwardly from the mid-frame portion 64 and includes the rear suspension assembly 24, a swingarm 116, a first rear frame member 118, and a second rear frame member 120. The first rear frame member 118 extends above the swingarm 116 and is connected to the swingarm 116 at a bracket 150, and the second rear frame member 120 also extends above the swingarm 116 and is connected to the swingarm 116 at a bracket 152. The swingarm 116 is configured to be connected to the rear wheel 9 at the brackets 150, 152 such that the rear axle of the rear wheel 9 is configured to pivot at the brackets 150, 152 while the rear wheel 9 rotates about a rear wheel rotation axis 292 (FIG. 3).

[0028] The swingarm 116 is pivotally coupled to the mid-frame portion 64, more specifically the first member 66 and the second member 68, via pivot members 122, 124, e.g., pivot shafts. By way of example, the swingarm 116 does not include a single pivot shaft or arm that extends continuously from the left side to the right side of the vehicle 2, because the rear end 82 of the crankcase 60 is positioned in front of the swingarm 116. Thus, instead, the exemplary swingarm 116 utilizes two pivot members 122, 124 configured as stub shafts to pivotally couple the swingarm 116 to the mid-frame portion 64 on the right and left sides of the vehicle 2. Although the pivot members 122, 124 extend inwardly, they terminate prior to contacting the rear end 82 of the crankcase 60, and thus the pivot members 122, 124 are separated from one another by the crankcase 60.

[0029] The swingarm 116 is generally configured to straddle the rear end 82 of the crankcase 60 as shown in FIG. 12, which is made possible by the fact that the swingarm 116 does not utilize a single pivot shaft that extends continuously between the first member 66 and the second member 68 of the mid-frame portion 64. Instead, the swingarm 116 is configured to receive the rear end 82 of the crankcase 60 by using pivot members 122, 124 positioned only on the right and left sides, respectively, of the vehicle 2. This positions the swingarm 116 adjacent and proximate to the powertrain assembly 10. Positioning the swingarm 116, including its pivot axis 126, proximate to the powertrain assembly 10 allows the swingarm 116 to pivot about the pivot axis 126 at a location adjacent to the drive shaft 128 of the drive shaft 155 of the transmission 14 (FIGS. 4 and 14). In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 14, the horizontal distance between the drive shaft 128 and the pivot shaft 126 is defined as 300, which is approximately 75-110 mm. By way of example, the distance 300 is approximately 900-100 mm, and more specifically, approximately 93.6 mm. This proximity of the pivot shaft 126 of the swing arm 116 to the drive shaft 128 helps to keep the length of the drive belt 159 (Figure 1) constant throughout the travel of the rear suspension assembly 24.

[0030] The swing arm 116 is configured to pivot relative to the intermediate frame portion 64 in response to movement of the rear wheel 9. More specifically, as shown in Figures 15 and 16, the swing arm 116 includes mounting members 130, 132 that are configured to be received on the pivot members 122, 124, respectively. As shown in Figures 15 and 16, the pivot member 122 extends through a mounting bore 134 on the second member 68 of the intermediate frame portion 64, through a bearing member 136, e.g., a roller bearing, and into the mounting member 130 of the swing arm 116. Additionally, the pivot member 124 extends through a mounting bore 138 on the first member 66 of the intermediate frame portion 64, through a bearing member 140, e.g., a roller bearing, and into the mounting member 132 of the swing arm 116. The swing arm 116 is thereby configured to pivot about a pivot axis 126 that extends through both of the pivot members 122 , 124 by pivoting within the mounting bores 134 , 138 in the mid-frame portion 64 .

[0031] As best shown in FIG. 16, the right side of the vehicle 2 may include a bearing member 136, e.g., a roller bearing, rather than the left bearing member 140 configured as a ball bearing, because the shock absorber 142 of the rear suspension assembly 24 is positioned on the right side of the vehicle 2 and is therefore positioned offset laterally outward from the longitudinally extending centerline L (FIG. 1). Thus, to support the load and movement of the shock absorber 142 on the right side of the vehicle 2 and prevent increased wear on the right side of the vehicle 2 due to the movement of the shock absorber 142, the right side of the swing arm 116 may be operatively coupled to the bearing member 136 rather than the bearing member 140. Additionally, as shown in FIGS. 12-16, a forward portion 144 of the shock absorber 142 is pivotally coupled to a bracket 146 on the second member 68 of the mid-frame portion 64, and a rearward portion 148 of the shock absorber 142 is pivotally coupled to the second rear frame member 120. The shock absorber 142 is thereby configured to reciprocate between a forward portion 144 and a rearward portion 148 and to pivot relative to the second member 68 during movement of the rear wheel 9 .

[0032] 17-20, an alternative embodiment of the frame assembly 40 and rear suspension assembly 24 is shown. The main frame 42' of the alternative embodiment frame assembly 40' includes upper and lower longitudinally extending members 46 and 48, and a head tube 50. Additionally, the main frame 42' includes a bracket 302 extending downwardly from the lower longitudinally extending member 48 for connection to a portion of the powertrain 10, such as the engine 12. Additionally, the alternative embodiment intermediate frame portion 64' includes a first member 304 and a second member 306 that are connected to rear ends of the upper and lower longitudinally extending members 46 and 48.

[0033] 18 , the first member 304 and the second member 306 are configured to be coupled to the rear end 82 of the crankcase 60 at locations 308, 310. Additionally, the alternative embodiment rear suspension assembly 24′ is also configured to be coupled to the first member 304 and the second member 306 and the crankcase 60 at location 310.

[0034] More specifically, as shown in Figures 18-20, the swingarm 116' of the alternative embodiment of the rear suspension assembly 24' includes a pivot axle 312 that is configured to extend continuously through the rear end 82 of the crankcase 60 such that a left side of the pivot axle 312 is positioned within the mounting member 132' of the swingarm 116' and a right side of the pivot axle 312 is positioned within the mounting member 130' of the swingarm 116'. This allows the pivot axle 312 to extend continuously through the crankcase 60 rather than being positioned rearward or laterally outboard of the crankcase 60. The rear end 82 of the crankcase 60 includes a channel 314 configured to receive the pivot axle 312, as shown in Figure 20.

[0035] The swing arm 116' is pivotally coupled to a pivot axle 312 and to a bearing member 140' of the mounting member 132' and at least one bearing member 136' of the mounting member 130', with the bearing members 136', 140' configured to facilitate rotation of the swing arm 116' about the pivot axle 312. The pivot axle 312 may be retained within the channel 314 by a first end 316 of the pivot axle 312 receiving a fastener 318. Additionally, a fastener 320 may be positioned at a second end 322 of the pivot axle 312. The fasteners 318, 322 are configured to retain the pivot axle 312 within the channel 314 of the crankcase 60.

[0036] 21 and 22, the crankshaft 34 of the engine 12 is shown. The crankshaft 34 includes a first main bearing journal 160, a second main bearing journal 162, and a connecting rod journal 164. The connecting rod journal 164 is connected to a connecting rod of a piston (not shown) and provides an intermediate counterweight 166. The crankshaft 34 is rotatably connected to a gear 168, for example, positioned adjacent the second main bearing journal 162.

[0037] In operation, the crankshaft 34 rotates about the axis of rotation 36 during movement of pistons (not shown) in the first and second cylinders 30, 32 (FIG. 2). As the crankshaft 34 rotates, the gear 168 also rotates about the axis of rotation 36. To ensure sufficient lubrication in the crankshaft 34 for its rotation and the movement of the various components of the engine 12, oil passages are drilled or otherwise formed in portions of the crankshaft. By way of example, as shown in FIG. 22, the first main bearing journal 160 is fluidly coupled to a first fluid passage 170 configured to supply oil or other lubricant to the first main bearing journal 160 through a first port 172 and a second port 173. Additionally, the crankshaft 34 also includes a second fluid passage 174 within a portion of the connecting rod journal 164 that may be configured to supply oil or other lubricant to the connecting rod journal 164 through a third port 176. The second fluid passage 174 is fluidly connected to a third fluid passage 178 that extends through a portion of the second main bearing journal 162. The third fluid passage 178 is fluidly connected to a fourth fluid passage 180. In one embodiment, the fourth fluid passage 180 is defined in a gear retainer (not shown) for the gear 168, where the gear retainer couples the gear 168 to the crankshaft 34, for example, by a threaded connection with an end of the crankshaft 34, and may include the fourth fluid passage 180 to supply oil to portions of the crankshaft 34. The oil supplied through the fourth fluid passage 180 may be pressurized oil from an oil pump (not shown in FIG. 22) of the engine 12.

[0038] 23-25, since oil may be used as a lubricant in the engine 12, the oil may need to be inspected and / or changed periodically. However, due to the compact configuration of motorcycles, including the vehicle 2 of the present disclosure, a dipstick or other access point for the engine oil may be difficult to reach or may require removal of various components to access them. Accordingly, the engine 12 of the present disclosure includes an oil level window 186 that can display a portion of the oil in the engine 12, thereby allowing a user to visually determine the quality of the oil. More specifically, the oil level window 186 includes a housing 188 that is coupled to a portion of the crankcase 60 by fasteners, such as bolts 192. In one embodiment, the housing 188 may be integral with the crankcase 60 or may be coupled to the crankcase 60 by fasteners. The housing 188 supports a transparent portion 190, such as a window, that allows a user to visually determine the quality of the oil in the engine 12 and determine whether the oil should be changed. The transparent portion 190 may be constructed of glass or clear plastic and is sealed to the housing 188 by a seal 194 to prevent oil from leaking at the oil level window 186 .

[0039] The oil level sight glass 186 is spaced apart from and not positioned within an oil reservoir (not shown). Thus, oil from the oil reservoir must flow through a conduit 198 into the sight glass reservoir 196. In one embodiment, the conduit 198 is drilled, machined, or otherwise formed within a portion of the crankcase 60 and is configured to provide pressurized oil from the oil reservoir to the sight glass reservoir 196 so that the oil is visible to a user. In one embodiment, the oil level sight glass 186 is positioned on the right side of the crankcase 60, as shown in FIG. 12. The oil level sight glass 186 further includes a vent opening or hole 199 positioned at the top of the sight glass reservoir 196 to allow air therein to exit the sight glass reservoir 196 as oil flows through the conduit 198.

[0040] 26 and 27, the engine 12 is operably coupled to a cooling assembly 200 configured to maintain an engine temperature. The cooling assembly 200 includes a radiator 202; a housing 204 coupled to the radiator 202 and supported on a portion of the main frame 42 (FIG. 1); an inlet conduit 206; and an outlet conduit 208. As shown in FIG. 1, the cooling assembly 200 is positioned longitudinally between the front fork 20 and the powertrain assembly 10. Thus, air flowing from the front to the rear of the vehicle 2 flows into the radiator 202 to facilitate cooling of the engine 12.

[0041] To increase the amount of air flowing through the radiator 202, the exemplary radiator 202 has a curved shape. In particular, the outer end of the radiator 202 extends forward from its central portion, which can direct air inward toward the radiator 202 to increase airflow through the radiator 202. The curved shape of the radiator 202 also has the advantage of allowing other components to occupy space on the vehicle 2 that would be located in different positions if the radiator 202 were configured as a flat panel or planar component. For example, various conduits or hoses (e.g., exhaust conduits on the engine 12) can extend further forward on the vehicle 2 than on other vehicles due to the curved configuration of the radiator 202. Additionally, the cooling assembly 200 includes at least one fan 212, e.g., two fans 212, along a rear surface of the radiator 202, which further promotes airflow through the radiator 202 by drawing air rearward through the radiator 202.

[0042] An inlet conduit 206 of the cooling assembly 200 is coupled to the top of the housing 204 and supplies the radiator 202 with warm cooling fluid (e.g., coolant, water) after the cooling fluid has circulated around the engine 12. A filler cap 210 is positioned adjacent to the inlet conduit 206, allowing a user to add or replace the cooling fluid. As the cooling fluid flows through the radiator 202, its temperature decreases, and thus, when the cooling fluid exits the radiator 202 through the outlet conduit 208, the cooling fluid flows toward the engine 12, decreasing the temperature of the engine 12. The cooling assembly 200 also includes a coolant overflow / reservoir bottle 214. In one embodiment, the bottle 214 is positioned behind the radiator 202.

[0043] 28, the vehicle 2 includes an exhaust assembly 220 fluidly connected to the powertrain assembly 10. The exhaust assembly 220 extends from an exhaust manifold (not shown) of the engine 12 and includes a first exhaust duct 222 fluidly connected to the first cylinder 30 and a second exhaust duct 224 fluidly connected to the second cylinder 32. The first exhaust duct 222 and the second exhaust duct 224 extend rearwardly and are connected to a collector 226 positioned rearwardly of the engine 12. In one embodiment, the collector 226 may be positioned below a portion of the swingarm 116 (FIG. 12). The exhaust gases flowing through the first exhaust duct 222 and the second exhaust duct 224 are mixed in the collector 226 and then flow from the collector 226 through a tailpipe of a muffler 228 to exit the vehicle 2. The recovery device 226 increases the volume of airflow through the exhaust assembly 220 without restricting the flow of exhaust gases towards the muffler 228. Thus, by increasing the volume of the exhaust assembly 220, the recovery device 226 can contribute to reducing the overall noise of the exhaust assembly 220, and because the recovery device 226 does not affect any exhaust gas flow through the exhaust assembly 220, the powertrain assembly 10 can obtain the power required to propel the vehicle 2.

[0044] 29, the vehicle 2 includes an electrical assembly 230 that may include various electrical components. In one embodiment, the electrical assembly 230 includes an engine control unit ("ECU") 232 supported on a portion of the frame assembly 40. More specifically, the ECU 232 may be supported on a portion of the upper longitudinally extending member 46 of the main frame 42 along the right side of the vehicle 2, although other orientations and locations of the ECU 232 are contemplated. Additionally, the electrical assembly 230 may include an anti-lock brake system or assembly ("ABS") module 234, also supported on a portion of the frame assembly 40, as shown in FIG. 14. As shown, the ABS module 234 is positioned directly above a portion of the swingarm 116 and rearward of the rear end 82 of the crankcase 60. The ABS module 234 is operably coupled to brakes 298, 299 (FIG. 1) on the front and / or rear wheels 8 and 9, respectively, to facilitate braking in response to operator input.

[0045] 30 , the electrical assembly 230 also includes a battery 236 for the vehicle 2 supported within a battery housing 238. By way of example, the battery 236 is positioned underneath the vehicle 2, and more particularly, behind the wheels 8 and below the radiator 202. The battery 236 is also positioned within the profile of the upright directional members 54 of the main frame 42. By positioning the battery 236 along the bottom of the vehicle 2, the battery 236 contributes to lowering the center of gravity of the vehicle 2.

[0046] The electrical assembly 230 and vehicle 2 generally may also include various other components, features, and systems, such as those disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 9,421,860, entitled "TWO-WHEELED VEHICLE," issued on August 23, 2016, Attorney Docket No. PLR-12-25433.04P, the entire disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference. Additionally, other features and components of vehicle 2 may be disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 161,720, entitled "DISPLAY SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR A RECREATIONAL VEHICLE," filed on May 23, 2016, Attorney Docket No. PLR-12-27457.01P, the entire disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0047] 31-36, the vehicle 2 further includes an air intake 240 positioned above the battery 236 and laterally inward from the ECU 232 of the electrical assembly 230. The air intake 240 includes an air box 242, which is supported by the main frame 42 and is generally positioned along the longitudinal centerline L (FIG. 1) between the upper longitudinally extending member 46 and the lower longitudinally extending member 48. The air intake 240 also includes an intake tube or conduit 244 that extends forward of the air box 242 toward the triple clamp 26 (FIG. 1) and is configured to channel air from the front of the vehicle 2 into the air box 242. The intake tube 244 may be tapered and may be of a Venturi type to attenuate or reduce noise in the air box 242.

[0048] The airbox 242 includes an upper housing portion 246 pivotally or hingedly connected to a lower housing portion 248, such that the upper housing portion 246 can be opened or moved to expose the interior volume of the airbox 242 for maintenance or replacement of components within the airbox 242. For example, the airbox 242 supports an internal filter 252, which can be accessed for cleaning or replacement by moving the upper housing portion 246. The filter 252 is configured to filter particulates from the air flowing through the intake tube 244 into the airbox 242 before the air flows through the torque tube 250 into the engine 12. The torque tube 250 channels the filtered air within the airbox 242 into a throttle body of the engine 12 to provide combustion air to the first and second cylinders 30, 32.

[0049] 31-36, the vehicle 2 also includes a fuel tank 260 positioned rearward of the airbox 242. By way of example, the fuel tank 260 is longitudinally separated from the steering assembly 16 by the airbox 242. More specifically, the gripping surface 18 of the steering assembly 16 is longitudinally forward of the fuel tank 260 and vertically directly above a portion of the airbox 242.

[0050] The fuel tank 260 is fluidly connected to the engine 12 to provide fuel that is mixed with combustion air from the airbox 242 for operation of the engine 12. In one embodiment, the fuel tank 260 may be blow molded from a polymeric material. The fuel tank 260 extends between a forward end 262 adjacent the rear of the airbox 242 and an aft end 264 positioned adjacent the rear of the seat 28 (FIG. 3) along the longitudinal centerline L (FIG. 1). This results in the pilot generally sitting above the fuel tank 260, rather than the fuel tank 260 being positioned in front of the pilot. The fuel tank 260 also extends vertically between an upper surface 266 and a lower surface 268, and by way of example, the upper surfaces 266 at the forward and aft ends 262 and 264 are positioned at a greater vertical distance from the ground surface G (FIG. 3) than the upper surface 266 at a central portion 270 of the fuel tank 260. This causes the fuel tank 260 to generally define a semi-circular or "U" shape. In one embodiment, the fuel tank 260 has a volume of 13L.

[0051] The fuel tank 260 includes a fuel pump 272 positioned at a central portion 270. Because the fuel pump 272 is positioned at the central portion 270 and therefore positioned lower on the vehicle 2 compared to the forward end 262 and the rearward end 264 of the fuel tank 260, the fuel tank 260 includes a first vent 274 at the forward end 262 for venting air or vapor within the fuel tank at the forward end 262 and a second vent 276 at the rearward end 264 for venting air or vapor flowing toward the rearward end 264. The fuel tank 260 also includes a fuel filler cap 278 positioned at the forward end 262. By positioning the fuel filler cap 278 at the forward end 262 of the fuel tank 260, the fuel filler cap 278 is positioned forward of the seat 28 ( FIG. 3 ) for easy operator access to add fuel to the fuel tank 260. However, in alternative embodiments, the fuel filler cap 278 may be positioned at either the rear end 264 of the fuel tank 260 or longitudinally intermediate the front end 262 and the rear end 264. As shown in FIG. 36 , the fuel pump 272 is positioned lower on the vehicle 2 compared to the fuel filler cap 278.

[0052] The fuel tank 260 is connected to the frame assembly 40, and more particularly to a frame member 280 connected to the mid-frame section 64 and positioned above a portion of the rear frame 44, as best shown in FIG. 3. The frame member 280 may be constructed of a metallic material, such as aluminum, and may be formed by a casting process. In one embodiment, the frame member 280 may be constructed of multiple components connected together or may be formed as a single component. The frame member 280 is configured to receive the lower surface 268 of the fuel tank at the rear end 264 and extend generally upwardly toward the upper surface 266. Because the frame member 280 is formed by a casting process and does not define a tubular frame member, the frame member 280 does not interfere with the overall volume of the fuel tank 260, thus allowing the fuel tank 260 to be as large as possible on the vehicle 2. Additionally, the casting process allows the frame member 280 to be molded to a shape that conforms to the fuel tank 260, which also prevents the frame member 280 from interfering with the desired shape and size of the fuel tank 260. The forward end 262 of the fuel tank 260 is configured to extend forwardly from the frame member 280. Brackets 282, 284 can be configured to extend over a portion of the top surface 266 of the fuel tank 260 and couple with the frame member 280 and the main frame 42 to secure the fuel tank 260 to the frame assembly 40.

[0053] 3 and 36, the fuel tank 260 is generally positioned below the seat 28, but the front end 262 of the fuel tank 260 extends forward of the seat 28 to allow access to the fuel filler cap 278. Furthermore, the front end 262 of the fuel tank 260 generally extends longitudinally forward of the rear end of the air box 242, so that the front end 262 longitudinally overlaps with the rear end of the air box 242 at a position above the crankshaft 34. Thus, the front end 262 of the fuel tank 260 is positioned vertically directly above the crankshaft 34 and the rotation axis 36. However, the fuel tank 260 is positioned rearward of the first cylinder 30 and extends only above the second cylinder 32. Thus, the air box 242 can occupy a volume on the vehicle 2 forward of the fuel tank 260 and vertically above the first cylinder 30. This allows the airbox 242 to have sufficient internal volume to flow the amount of air required for combustion into the engine 12. Also, because the airbox 242 and the fuel tank 260 are not both positioned at a forward location on the vehicle 2 above the first cylinder 30, the overall width of the vehicle 2 can be reduced, given that the fuel tank 260 and the airbox 242 do not laterally overlap at said location.

[0054] Further, the length of the fuel tank 260 extends from a location above the crankshaft 34 to a location above the rear end of the seat 28 and a portion of the rear wheels 9 ( FIG. 3 ), such that the fuel tank 260 has sufficient fuel for the powertrain assembly 10. Also, although an upper surface 266 of the fuel tank 260 is positioned closer to ground level G ( FIG. 3 ) than an upper surface 296 ( FIG. 36 ) of the airbox 242, a lower surface 268 of the fuel tank 260 extends to a location closer to ground level G than the cylinder head 38 of the engine 12. Thus, the vertical volume of the fuel tank 260 combined with the longitudinal length of the fuel tank 260 provides sufficient interior space for the amount of fuel required for the engine 12.

[0055] 3 and 36, the longitudinal length between the front and rear wheel axes 290 and 292 defines a wheelbase of the vehicle 2, and a midpoint 294 of the wheelbase defines a vertically extending centerline V of the vehicle 2. The midpoint 294 and the vertically extending centerline V are equidistant from the front and rear wheel axes 290 and 292. The vertically extending centerline V is perpendicular to the longitudinally extending centerline L. The configuration and positioning of the fuel tank 260, air box 242, seat 28, frame assembly 40, powertrain assembly 10, and electrical assembly 230 may be defined relative to the midpoint 294 and / or the vertically extending centerline V to provide a vehicle 2 having a smaller overall configuration compared to conventional touring or cruiser style motorcycles. For example, a forward portion of the fuel tank 260, including the forward end 262, is generally aligned with and intersects the vertically extending centerline V, while the airbox 242 and the battery 236 are both positioned forward of the vertically extending centerline V. By way of example, the battery 236 is positioned vertically below the airbox 242 and is positioned lower on the vehicle 2 relative to the lower surface 268 of the fuel tank 260. The battery 236 is also positioned forward of the fuel tank 260. Additionally, the ABS module 234 (FIG. 14) is positioned rearward of the vertically extending centerline V and below the lower surface 268 of the fuel tank 260, at a position longitudinally midway between the forward end 262 and the rear end 264 of the fuel tank 260. As also shown, a filler cap 278 of the fuel tank 260 generally intersects the vertically extending centerline V. With this overall configuration of the vehicle 2, the electrical components, such as the battery 236, and other components of the vehicle 2 are positioned away from the air box 242 and the fuel tank 260, thereby providing additional space on the vehicle 2 for the size of the air box 242 and the fuel tank 260. Furthermore, by generally positioning the fuel tank 260 rearward of the air box 242 and connecting the various components of the electrical assembly 230 at different locations on the vehicle 2, the overall size of the vehicle 2, including the lateral width between the right and left sides of the vehicle 2, can be reduced.

[0056] 37-42, the frame assembly 40, 40' can be configured to support a plurality of body panels 400 for the vehicle 2. The body panels 400 can be constructed of a polymeric and / or metallic material, and by way of example, at least a portion of the body panels 400 are supported on the main frames 42, 42' adjacent the head tube 50. In one embodiment, the body panels 400 include at least a first body panel 402, a second body panel 404, a third body panel 406, and a fourth body panel 408. The first body panel 402 and the second body panel 404 define lateral outer body panels that extend outwardly from the main frames 42, 42' and are by way of example supported on at least the upper longitudinally extending members 46. As shown in FIGS. 37 and 38, the first body panel 402 and the second body panel 404 may extend from a location rearward of the head tube 50 to a location generally adjacent a forward portion of the seat 28 ′ of the vehicle 2 .

[0057] As shown in FIGS. 37-42, the third body panel 406 and the fourth body panel 408 are configured to be generally positioned intermediate the first body panel 402 and the second body panel 404 and to extend along the longitudinal centerline L. In one embodiment, the third body panel 406 and the fourth body panel 408 define an upper or outer cover member for supporting and / or concealing various other components of the vehicle 2. More specifically, the third body panel 406 is configured to extend upwardly from the first body panel 402 and the second body panel 404 and is configured to conceal at least a portion of an air filter assembly 412 ( FIG. 41 ), which may be fluidly coupled to the air box 242 or is a component of the air box 242 of the air intake 240 ( FIG. 31 ). 41 , posts 414 may be provided to connect the body panel 400 to the main frames 42, 42′ generally about the air filter assembly 412. By way of example, the air filter assembly 412 is configured to extend upwardly into the third body panel 406 while being retained laterally intermediate the upper longitudinally extending member 46. The posts 414 may be connected to the third body panel 406, the upper longitudinally extending member 46, and / or the first body panel 402 and the second body panel 404 with fasteners 416.

[0058] 37-42, the fourth body panel 408 may be configured as an upper or outer cover member for the fuel filler cap 278. By way of example, the fourth body panel 408 may be positioned longitudinally intermediate the third body panel 406 and a forward portion of the seat 28' (FIG. 37). The fourth body panel 408 is positioned above the support post 414 and includes an opening 418 configured to accommodate the fuel filler cap 278. Additionally, a fuel component 420, such as a catch basin for any spilled fuel, may be positioned beneath a portion of the fourth body panel 408 and may have an opening 422 also configured to align with the opening 418 and the fuel filler cap 278. Fuel component 420 is positioned vertically intermediate support post 414 and fourth body panel 408, with its opening 422 aligned with opening 418 in fourth body panel 408 and opening 424 in support post 414. Fuel filler cap 278 is configured to be supported on fourth body panel 408, and fuel filler cap 278 extends through openings 418, 422, 424 to couple to a portion of alternative fuel tank 260' for vehicle 2 (FIG. 1).

[0059] The combination of the fuel component 420, the support pillar 414, and the support pillar 414 allow for a tolerance in the position of the fuel filler cap 278. In particular, since the fuel tank 260' may be a blow molded component, small variations of approximately 4-5 mm may cause the fuel filler cap 278 to be positioned, or appear to be positioned, off-center and out of alignment with the longitudinal centerline L (FIG. 1). Thus, the support pillar 414 maintains the alignment of the fuel filler cap 278 along the longitudinal centerline L by minimizing any gap between the opening 418 of the fourth body panel 408 and the fuel filler cap 278. Additionally, the support pillar 414 is configured with an opening 415 positioned around the ignition location 500 of the vehicle 2, as shown in FIG. 41, which allows the support pillar 414 to pivot around the ignition location 500 for proper connection and alignment of the body panel 400. The openings 424 also aid in aligning the fuel filler cap 278 along the longitudinal centerline L while remaining portions of the intermediate support posts 414 are configured to align with and support the various body panels 400. When a user changes various portions of the body panels 400, the support posts 414 allow the new panels to remain centered about the fuel filler cap 278 and along the longitudinal centerline L. Thus, when the body panels are moved forward or rearward, the fuel filler cap 278 is configured to move with the body panels.

[0060] 43 and 44, the fuel tank 260' is an alternative embodiment of the fuel tank 260 of FIG. 32. The fuel tank 260' extends along the longitudinal centerline L (FIG. 1) of the vehicle 2 and may be at least partially concealed by the body panels 400, the seat 28', and / or any other components of the vehicle 2. This results in the driver generally sitting above the fuel tank 260', rather than the fuel tank 260' being positioned in front of the driver. In one embodiment, the fuel tank 260' is positioned rearward of the air filter assembly 412. Similar to the fuel tank 260 of FIG. 32, the fuel tank 260' generally defines a semicircular or "U" shape.

[0061] The fuel tank 260' includes a fuel pump 272' positioned in a central portion 270'. Because the fuel pump 272' is positioned in the central portion 270' and thus positioned lower on the vehicle 2 compared to the forward and rearward ends 262', 264' of the fuel tank 260', the fuel tank 260' includes a first vent or valve 274' at the forward end 262' for venting air or vapor within the fuel tank at the forward end 262', and a second vent or breather member 276' at the rearward end 264' for venting air or vapor flowing toward the rearward end 264'. The vents 274', 276' are thus configured to allow fuel vapors to escape when the combustion tank 260' is filled with liquid fuel, but the elevated position of the vents 274', 276' at the forward and aft ends 262', 264' reduces the likelihood of fuel leaking from the fuel tank 260' in the event of a rollover. More specifically, a spring mechanism within the vents 274', 276' closes or is otherwise blocked when the tilt angle of the vehicle 2 exceeds a predetermined value.

[0062] The fuel tank 260' also includes a fill tube 277' configured to receive a fuel filler cap 278 positioned at the forward end 262'. By positioning the fuel filler cap 278 at the forward end 262' of the fuel tank 260', the fuel filler cap 278 is positioned forward of the seat 28' (FIG. 37) for easy pilot access to add fuel to the fuel tank 260'. However, in alternative embodiments, the fuel filler cap 278 may be positioned at the aft end 264' of the fuel tank 260' or anywhere longitudinally intermediate the forward and aft ends 262' and 264'.

[0063] As best seen in FIG. 44, the fuel pump 272' is angled relative to a vertical axis perpendicular to the longitudinal centerline L (FIG. 1). This angled configuration of the fuel pump 272' allows the fuel pump 272' to be positioned in a desired location / orientation on the vehicle 2 while still allowing necessary clearance and loading space for other vehicle components. The fuel pickup 271' is positioned along the bottom surface of the fuel tank 260' and is configured to have a forward angled portion 271a' and a rearward angled portion 271b'. Furthermore, due to this angled configuration of the fuel pump 272' and fuel pickup 271' portions, the fuel tank 260' also includes a fuel float 273' that extends rearward from the fuel tank 260' and can be elevated within the fuel tank 260' relative to a relatively lower extent of the fuel pump 272'. The above configuration of the fuel pump 272', fuel pick-up 271', fuel float 273', and the shape of the fuel tank 260' allow fuel to continue to flow to the engine 12 (FIG. 1) even when the vehicle 2 is in a rear-wheel drive condition. More specifically, because the vehicle 2 is angled upwardly along a line W-W that is angled relative to the longitudinal centerline L and a vertical axis perpendicular to the longitudinal centerline L, for example, when the vehicle 2 is in a rear-wheel drive condition, the rearwardly angled portion 271b' of the fuel pick-up 271' and the fuel float 273' are oriented to receive fuel flowing rearwardly within the fuel tank 260'. Thus, the fuel system of FIGS. 43 and 44 is configured to allow fuel to flow into the fuel pump 272' during rear-wheel drive conditions, thereby maintaining engine performance and vehicle stability during such conditions.

[0064] 45 and 46, the fuel tank 260' is connected to the frame assembly 40, 40', and more particularly to a frame member 280', which is connected to the mid-frame section 64' and positioned above a portion of the rear frame 44', as best seen in FIGS. 45 and 46. The frame member 280' may be constructed of a metallic material, such as aluminum, and may be formed by a casting process. In one embodiment, the frame member 280' may be constructed of multiple components connected together or may be formed as a single component. Because the frame member 280' is formed by a casting process and does not define a tubular frame member, the frame member 280' does not interfere with the overall volume of the fuel tank 260', thus allowing the fuel tank 260' to be as large as possible on the vehicle 2. Additionally, the casting process allows the frame member 280' to be molded to a shape that matches the fuel tank 260', again preventing the frame member 280' from interfering with the desired shape and size of the fuel tank 260'.

[0065] This configuration of the frame member 280' also allows the frame member 280' to support other components of the vehicle 2, such as the seat 28', a passenger handle, a passenger foot support, and / or a tail light, thereby reducing the number of components required to support these various components and / or accessories on the vehicle 2. For example, as shown in FIG. 46, a tab 502 on the frame member 280' may be configured to support at least a portion of the seat 28'. Additionally, a rear portion 504 of the frame member 280' may be configured to support a tail light of the vehicle 2. Additionally, the mounting member 506 may be configured to support at least a portion of the fuel tank 260' on the frame member 280'. Additionally, the frame member 280' includes mounting holes 508 for supporting a passenger handle and mounting holes 510 for supporting a passenger footpeg or foot support. Additional mounting members or drillings may be included in any portion of frame member 280 ′ to receive other components and / or accessories of vehicle 2 .

[0066] The frame member 280' includes a first portion 280a' and a second portion 280b', which are illustratively releasably coupled together by conventional fasteners. However, in one embodiment, the first portion 280a' and the second portion 280b' may be integrally formed. As shown in FIG. 46, the support member 426 may be configured to couple the first portion 280a' and the second portion 280b' together by conventional fasteners.

[0067] The forward end 262' of the fuel tank 260' is configured to extend forward from the frame member 280', while the aft end 264' of the fuel tank 260' is configured to be supported by the frame member 280'. The first and second portions 280a' and 280b' are configured to flank the aft end 264' of the fuel tank 260' and are coupled to the aft end 264' of the fuel tank 260' via at least one bracket. For example, as shown in FIGS. 45 and 46, the frame member 280' is coupled to the fuel tank 260' via a first and second bracket 282' and 284' using conventional fasteners. The brackets 282', 284' may be configured to extend over a portion of the top surface 266' of the fuel tank 260' and coupled to the frame member 280' to secure the fuel tank 260' to the frame assembly 40, 40'.

[0068] 37, 39, 45, and 46, the frame assembly 40, 40' includes an intermediate frame portion 64" that is removably coupled to the main frames 42, 42' and the frame member 280'. The intermediate frame portion 64" includes a first member 304' and a second member 306' coupled to the rear ends of the upper longitudinally extending member 46 and the lower longitudinally extending member 48. The first member 304' and the second member 306' are configured to be coupled to the rear end 82 of the crankcase 60 at location 310 (FIG. 51). The first member 304' and the second member 306' may also be configured with mounting holes or mounting members 512 (FIG. 49) that are configured to support other components of the vehicle 2, such as a yaw rate sensor, a bracket for a portion of the braking system (e.g., an ABS bracket), and / or brake lines. Additionally, the shock absorber 142 of the rear suspension assembly 24' is offset from the longitudinal centerline L such that the shock absorber 142 can be coupled to a portion of the second frame member 306'. As such, the first frame member 304' and the second frame member 306' are configured to be coupled to the main frames 42, 42', the frame member 280', the engine 12, a portion of the rear suspension assembly 24', and various other components of the vehicle 2.

[0069] Further, the main frame 42, 42' is configured to be coupled to at least a first cylinder 30 of the engine 12 using conventional fasteners, such as bolts 428. By way of example, the main frame 42, 42' may include a head mounting bracket 520 that is coupled to the upper longitudinally extending member 46 and / or the lower longitudinally extending member 48 and is configured to be coupled to the cylinder 30 at a location below the valve cover 39. In particular, the head mounting bracket 520 may be coupled to a portion of the cylinder head 39 at a location vertically intermediate the valve cover 39 and the cylinder 37. The head mounting bracket 520 is configured to transfer loads from the frame assembly 40, 40' to the engine 12. In one embodiment, the head mounting bracket 520 is constructed of forged aluminum.

[0070] 47-51, the body panel 400 may include side panels 430, 432 configured to be coupled to the first member 304' and the second member 306', respectively. The side panels 430, 432 are positioned laterally outboard of the first member 304' and the second member 306', respectively, and generally rearward of the upper longitudinally extending member 46 and the lower longitudinally extending member 48. The side panels 430, 432 may be constructed of a polymeric and / or metallic material.

[0071] Further, the rear suspension assembly 24' is also configured to be coupled to the side panels 430, 432 and the crankcase 60 at the location 310. In one embodiment, the rear suspension assembly 24' may also be configured to be coupled to the first member 304' and the second member 306'. More specifically, as shown in FIGS. 49-51, the swingarm 116' of the rear suspension assembly 24' includes a pivot axle 312 that is configured to extend continuously through the rear end 82 of the crankcase 60 such that a left side of the pivot axle 312 is positioned within the mounting member 132' of the swingarm 116' and a right side of the pivot axle 312 is positioned within the mounting member 130' of the swingarm 116', as disclosed herein with respect to FIGS. 18-20. This allows the pivot axle 312 to extend continuously through the crankcase 60, rather than being positioned rearward of or laterally outward of the crankcase 60. The rear end 82 of the crankcase 60 includes a channel 314 configured to receive the pivot axle 312, as shown in FIG.

[0072] 52A and 52B, a braking control system 434 of a vehicle 2 is disclosed. As shown in FIG. 52A, the braking control system 434 includes: a braking input 436 that can be actuated by a user of the vehicle 2; an anti-lock braking system ("ABS") control module 440 electrically coupled to the braking input 436; a pressure sensor 438 electrically coupled to the ABS control module 440; and brake calipers 442 for the front wheels 8 and / or rear wheels 9, also electrically and / or fluidly coupled to the ABS control module 440. The braking control system 434 may be configured as part of an overall electrical system for the vehicle 2, or may be a separate control system from the electrical system. In one embodiment, the braking control system 434 is electrically coupled to an engine control unit ("ECU") 444 and / or a vehicle control unit ("VCU") 446 through a CAN network 450 or other vehicle communication network. The ECU 444 and / or the VCU 446 may be electrically coupled to the stop indicator 448 and the engine 12, as further disclosed herein.

[0073] 52B, the braking control system 434 of the vehicle 2 includes a braking input 436 as a brake lever or other actuator operable by a user's hand or foot. By way of example, the braking input 436 is defined as a manual lever positioned adjacent to and / or coupled to a portion of the steering assembly 16 (FIG. 1). The braking input 436 is electrically and / or fluidly coupled to an ABS control module 440 to provide a braking input signal or other indicator for activation of a brake caliper 442. More specifically, the ABS control module 440 receives an input from the braking input 436 that braking force or pressure is required. A pressure sensor 438 may be positioned within or operably coupled to the ABS control module 440 and is configured to receive the braking input signal or other indicator transmitted through the braking input 436. User applied braking information, including an instruction to apply a desired braking pressure, as transmitted from braking input 436, causes ABS control module 440 to transmit signals, hydraulic pressure, and / or any other mechanism to provide input to brake calipers 442, specifically brake caliper 442a on front wheel 8 and / or brake caliper 442b on rear wheel 9 (FIG. 1). By way of example, pressure sensor 438 may be operatively coupled only to front wheel 8, with rear wheel 9 utilizing a separate pressure sensor that need not be part of ABS control module 440; however, in certain alternative embodiments, pressure sensor 438 may be operatively coupled to front wheel 8 and / or rear wheel 9.

[0074] In the above-described embodiment of pressure sensor 438 positioned or contained within ABS control module 440, pressure sensor 438 is integrated into a larger system or component, rather than as a stand-alone component. Such an embodiment may reduce the likelihood of failure of pressure sensor 438 and / or braking control system 434 as a whole. Additionally, ABS control module 440 includes diagnostic and other sensing elements configured to detect if a malfunction of pressure sensor 438 is occurring and to alert a user of such malfunction. Additionally, the inclusion of pressure sensor 438 within ABS control module 440 eliminates the need for additional wiring or connections for operation of pressure sensor 438, thereby reducing the likelihood of failure due to faulty or damaged wiring or connections.

[0075] 52A and 52B, the indication of the desired brake pressure transmitted from the brake input 436 to the pressure sensor 438 may also be transmitted over the CAN network 450 to the ECU 444 and / or VCU 446. Using this brake pressure information, the ECU 444 and / or VCU 446 may be configured to activate an action in the engine 12 and / or a stop indicator 448. For example, if the vehicle 2 is operating under cruise control, the ECU 444 / VCU 446 may be configured to reduce the throttle input to the engine 12 and disengage the cruise control function to slow down the vehicle 2 in response to the brake pressure transmitted from the pressure sensor 438. Additionally, the ECU 444 / VCU 446 may be configured to activate a stop indicator 448, such as a brake light or any other stop indicator of the vehicle 2, in response to the brake pressure transmitted from the pressure sensor 438.

[0076] 53-58, an electrical box or housing 238' is disclosed, which may be defined as a battery housing for supporting a battery 236 therein. The exemplary battery 236 may be positioned under the vehicle 2, more specifically, behind the front wheels 8 and below the radiator 202, and generally forward of the engine 12. The battery 236 is also positioned within the profile of the upright directional members 54 (FIG. 4) of the main frame 42. The battery 236 may also be positioned within the profile of the upright directional members 54, but the electrical housing 238' and the battery 236 may be directly coupled to the engine 12 via a head mounting bracket 520 (FIG. 47). By positioning the battery 236 along the underside of the vehicle 2, the battery 236 contributes to lowering the center of gravity of the vehicle 2.

[0077] 53-58, electrical housing 238' includes a front cover member 460 and a rear compartment 462 removably coupled to front cover member 460. Front cover member 460 is configured as an aesthetic and protective shield for battery 236, and thus front cover member 460 may be impact resistant against debris propelled rearward by front wheels 8.

[0078] As best shown in FIGS. 53 and 54 , the rear compartment 462 is removably coupled to a portion of the engine 12 using conventional fasteners, such as bolts 468 and bushings 470. The bolts 468 and bushings 470 are configured to be received within at least one channel 472 in the crankcase 60 of the engine 12. The channel 472 may be positioned adjacent to a stator motor and / or an oil filter of the engine 12. Additionally, at least the rear compartment 462 may include a number of mounting bores or members 482, which may be configured as molded-in threaded inserts and / or compression limiters for coupling with the front cover member 460, the crankcase 60, and / or other components of the vehicle 2, as best shown in FIGS. 57 and 58 .

[0079] In addition to supporting the battery 236 on the vehicle 2, the electrical housing 238' is configured to support various other components of the vehicle 2, thereby reducing the number of parts and components required for the operation of the vehicle 2. For example, as shown in FIGS. 53-58 , the electrical housing 238' is configured to support an oil cooler 474 positioned laterally outboard of the rear compartment 462. The oil cooler 474 may be supported on the engine 12 and / or crankcase 60 of the rear compartment 462 using any type of conventional removable fasteners. A vent or louver cover 476 may be positioned forward of the oil cooler 474 to direct ambient air into the oil cooler 474 to reduce the temperature of the fluid flowing through the oil cooler 474.

[0080] Additionally, the electrical housing 238' is configured to support various other electrical components 478, which may include, but are not limited to, fuse mounts, voltage regulator mounts, various sensors (e.g., a tip-over sensor), and / or a starter solenoid. More specifically, at least one of the mounting holes 482 is configured to couple the oil cooler 474 to the rear compartment 462. Additionally, the front cover member 460 and / or the rear compartment 462 include: a mounting member 484 for supporting a starter solenoid thereon; a mounting member 492 for supporting a wire harness thereon; a mounting hole 486 for supporting a voltage regulator 464 thereon; a mounting hole or opening 494 for supporting a tip-over sensor thereon; a mounting member or hole 490 configured as a drain; and a support member 488 configured as a fuse port. Again, the ability to use the electrical housing 238' as a mechanism for mounting various other components of the vehicle 2 results in: more efficient loading of such components; shorter electrical connections to the battery 236 and / or shorter wire harnesses electrically coupled to the battery 236; and an overall reduction in components such as mounting members for supporting sensors, fuses, etc., as described above, on the vehicle 2.

[0081] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the electrical housing 238' is constructed from a polymeric material (e.g., glass-filled polypropylene). Additionally, at least the front cover member 460 of the electrical housing 238' may include a sheet molding compound ("SMC") configured to provide any (or all) of a heat shield, battery retainer, cosmetic cover, and / or battery straps. For example, the top portion 480 of the front cover member 460 may be configured as an SMC component for battery retention, heat shield, and cosmetic cover to conceal the battery 236.

[0082] While this invention has been described as having certain exemplary designs, the invention can be further modified within the spirit and scope of the disclosure. This application is therefore intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention using its general principles. Further, this application is intended to cover such departures from the disclosure as come within known or customary practice in the art to which this invention pertains.

[0083] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail. EMBODIMENT 1 A two-wheeled vehicle: a frame assembly having forward and aft ends extending along a longitudinally extending centerline; a forward ground engaging member operably connected to the forward end of the frame assembly at a forward pivot axis; a rear ground engaging member operably connected to the rear end of the frame assembly at a rear pivot axis, a wheelbase being defined between the front pivot axis and the rear pivot axis, a vertically extending centerline of the vehicle extending vertically at a midpoint of the wheelbase and perpendicular to the longitudinally extending centerline; a fuel tank supported by the frame assembly, a forward portion of the fuel tank intersecting the vertically extending centerline; an airbox supported by the frame assembly, the aft end of the airbox being located on a vertically extending centerline; and a battery supported by the frame assembly and positioned longitudinally forward of the vertically extending centerline, the battery being positioned entirely below a bottom surface of the fuel tank; A two-wheeled vehicle comprising:

[0084] EMBODIMENT 2 2. The two-wheeled vehicle of embodiment 1, wherein the fuel tank includes a fuel filler cap positioned at one of the front portion of the fuel tank and the rear portion of the fuel tank.

[0085] EMBODIMENT 3 3. The two-wheeled vehicle according to embodiment 2, wherein the fuel tank includes a fuel pump positioned longitudinally rearward of the fuel filler cap.

[0086] EMBODIMENT 4 a straddle seat supported by the frame assembly and positioned vertically above the fuel tank; a forward portion of the straddle seat and an aft portion of the straddle seat are positioned aft of the forward portion of the fuel tank; 2. The two-wheeled vehicle of embodiment 1, wherein the rear portion of the straddle seat is positioned adjacent to a rear portion of the fuel tank, the straddle seat supporting an operator and at least one passenger behind the operator.

[0087] EMBODIMENT 5 a steering assembly operably connected to the front ground engaging member; 2. The two-wheeled vehicle of embodiment 1, wherein the fuel tank is longitudinally separated from the steering assembly by the airbox.

[0088] EMBODIMENT 6 6. The two-wheeled vehicle of embodiment 5, wherein the steering assembly includes a handlebar positioned longitudinally forward of the fuel tank and vertically above a front portion of the airbox.

[0089] EMBODIMENT 7 2. The two-wheeled vehicle of embodiment 1, wherein the battery is positioned vertically below the airbox.

[0090] EMBODIMENT 8 A two-wheeled vehicle: a frame assembly having forward and aft ends extending along a longitudinally extending centerline; a forward ground engaging member operably connected to the forward end of the frame assembly at a forward pivot axis; a rear ground engaging member operably connected to the rear end of the frame assembly at a rear pivot point; a straddle seat supported on the frame assembly and configured to support at least one operator of the vehicle and a passenger behind the operator; a fuel tank supported by the frame assembly and positioned below the straddle seat, the fuel tank including a fuel filler cap positioned forward of the straddle seat; and an airbox assembly supported by said frame assembly and extending upwardly from said fuel tank; Equipped with A two-wheeled vehicle, wherein the fuel tank extends from a first end which is a forward portion in the longitudinal direction to a second end opposite the first end, the straddle seat extends from the second end of the fuel tank to at least a midpoint between the first and second ends of the fuel tank, and a rear portion of the fuel tank is adjacent to the rear end of the straddle seat.

[0091] EMBODIMENT 9 9. The two-wheeled vehicle of embodiment 8, wherein a rear portion of the airbox assembly longitudinally overlaps a front portion of the fuel tank.

[0092] EMBODIMENT 10 A two-wheeled vehicle as described in embodiment 8, wherein an upper surface of the airbox assembly is positioned longitudinally forward and vertically above the front portion of the fuel tank.

[0093] EMBODIMENT 11 9. The two-wheeled vehicle of embodiment 8, wherein the fuel filler cap is positioned at the front portion of the fuel tank.

[0094] EMBODIMENT 12 9. The two-wheeled vehicle of embodiment 8, wherein a rear portion of the fuel tank is vertically aligned with a portion of the rear ground engaging member.

[0095] EMBODIMENT 13 The two-wheeled vehicle of embodiment 8, further comprising a battery supported by the frame assembly at a position lower than and forward of the fuel tank.

[0096] EMBODIMENT 14 A two-wheeled vehicle: a frame assembly having forward and aft ends extending along a longitudinally extending centerline; a forward ground engaging member operably connected to the forward end of the frame assembly at a forward pivot axis; a rear ground engaging member operably connected to the rear end of the frame assembly at a rear pivot point; an engine supported by the frame assembly and operably connected to at least one of the forward and rear ground engaging members, the engine including a front cylinder having a forward cylinder head, a rear cylinder having a rear cylinder head, and a crankshaft operably connected to the front and rear cylinders; a straddle seat supported on the frame assembly and configured to support at least one operator of the vehicle; and a fuel tank supported by the frame assembly and positioned below the straddle seat, a forward end of the fuel tank positioned vertically directly above the crankshaft, the fuel tank including an aft end spaced longitudinally from the forward end; A two-wheeled vehicle comprising a fuel tank, the vertical height of the rear end being approximately equal to the vertical height of the front end.

[0097] EMBODIMENT 15 15. The two-wheeled vehicle of embodiment 14, wherein the front end of the fuel tank is positioned rearward of the front cylinder.

[0098] EMBODIMENT 16 15. The two-wheeled vehicle according to embodiment 14, wherein a lower surface of the fuel tank is supported on the frame assembly at a position lower than the front cylinder head and the rear cylinder head.

[0099] EMBODIMENT 17 an airbox assembly supported by the frame assembly and operably connected to the engine; 15. The two-wheeled vehicle of embodiment 14, wherein the fuel tank extends from a rear end of the airbox assembly to a rear portion of the straddle seat.

[0100] EMBODIMENT 18 the airbox assembly is positioned above the front cylinder; 18. The two-wheeled vehicle of embodiment 17, wherein the fuel tank is positioned rearward of the front cylinder.

[0101] EMBODIMENT 19 a steering assembly operably connected to the front ground engaging member; 18. The two-wheeled vehicle of embodiment 17, wherein the airbox assembly is positioned longitudinally midway between the steering assembly and the fuel tank.

[0102] EMBODIMENT 20 15. The two-wheeled vehicle of embodiment 14, wherein the fuel tank includes a fuel filler cap positioned at the front end of the fuel tank.

[0103] EMBODIMENT 21 21. The two-wheeled vehicle of embodiment 20, wherein the fuel tank includes a fuel pump positioned rearward and below the fuel filler cap.

[0104] EMBODIMENT 22 15. The two-wheeled vehicle of embodiment 14, further comprising a battery supported by the frame assembly at a position lower than and forward of the fuel tank.

[0105] EMBODIMENT 23 a brake assembly operably coupled to at least one of the front ground engaging members and the rear ground engaging members; 15. The two-wheeled vehicle of embodiment 14, wherein the brake assembly includes an anti-lock brake module, the anti-lock brake module being positioned below the fuel tank.

[0106] EMBODIMENT 24 24. The two-wheeled vehicle of embodiment 23, wherein the anti-lock brake module is positioned longitudinally intermediate the front and rear portions of the fuel tank.

[0107] EMBODIMENT 25 the fuel tank includes a central portion positioned longitudinally intermediate the forward end and the aft end, A two-wheeled vehicle as described in embodiment 15, wherein the vertical height of the central portion is less than the vertical heights of the front end and the rear end.

[0108] EMBODIMENT 26 A two-wheeled vehicle: a frame assembly having forward and aft ends extending along a longitudinally extending centerline; a plurality of body panels removably coupled to the frame assembly; a forward ground engaging member operably connected to the forward end of the frame assembly at a forward pivot axis; a rear ground engaging member operably connected to the rear end of the frame assembly at a rear pivot point; an engine supported by the frame assembly and operably connected to at least one of the forward and aft ground engaging members; a straddle seat supported on the frame assembly and configured to support at least one operator of the vehicle; and 1. A fuel tank having a fuel filler cap, wherein at least one of the body panels has a tank alignment post removably coupled to the frame assembly at a location centered along the longitudinal centerline, one of the body panels having an opening through which the fuel filler cap passes, the tank alignment post being coupled to the fuel tank adjacent the fuel filler cap and configured to maintain alignment of the fuel tank centered about the longitudinal centerline to minimize a gap between the fuel filler cap and the opening in the panel. A two-wheeled vehicle comprising:

[0109] EMBODIMENT 27 The two-wheeled vehicle of embodiment 26, wherein the at least one of the plurality of body panels includes a first body panel positioned against a first side of the fuel tank and a second body panel positioned against a second side of the fuel tank.

[0110] EMBODIMENT 28 the plurality of body panels including a support member configured to receive the fuel filler cap; 28. The two-wheeled vehicle of embodiment 27, wherein the support member is positioned to contact a portion of the frame assembly and receive the first body panel and the second body panel.

[0111] EMBODIMENT 29 The two-wheeled vehicle of embodiment 28, wherein the plurality of body panels includes a third body panel configured to receive the fuel filler cap and be aligned with the fuel filler cap along a centerline extending in the longitudinal direction.

[0112] EMBODIMENT 30 A two-wheeled vehicle: a frame assembly extending along a longitudinally extending centerline, the frame assembly including a longitudinally extending member and a connecting member coupled to the longitudinally extending member; a forward ground engaging member operably connected to a forward end of said frame assembly at a forward pivot axis; a rear ground engaging member operably connected to the rear end of said frame assembly at a rear pivot point; an engine supported by the frame assembly and operably connected to at least one of the forward and aft ground engaging members; and a rear suspension assembly positioned generally rearward of the engine and operably connected to the rear ground engaging member, the rear suspension assembly including at least one rear swing arm and a rear shock absorber, the linking member of the frame assembly being operably connected to the rear swing arm and the rear shock absorber; Equipped with the connecting member of the frame assembly is connected to the engine; The rear swingarm is operably connected to a crankcase of the engine, and a pivot axle of the rear swingarm extends continuously from a first lateral area of ​​the crankcase to a second lateral area opposite the first lateral area.

[0113] EMBODIMENT 31 31. The two-wheeled vehicle of embodiment 30, wherein the rear shock absorber is laterally offset from the longitudinally extending centerline.

[0114] Further, a sectioned description of preferred embodiments of the present invention is added.

[0115] EMBODIMENT 32 A two-wheeled vehicle: a frame assembly having forward and aft ends extending along a longitudinally extending centerline, the frame assembly including a first longitudinally extending member and a second longitudinally extending member defining a portion of the forward end, the frame assembly further including a first support member coupled to the first longitudinally extending member and a second support member coupled to the second longitudinally extending member, the first support member intersecting the first longitudinally extending member at a spaced apart location rearward of the forward end and the second support member intersecting the second longitudinally extending member at a spaced apart location rearward of the forward end; a forward ground engaging member operably connected to the forward end of the frame assembly at a forward pivot axis; a rear ground engaging member operably connected to the rear end of the frame assembly at a rear pivot point; and an engine supported by the frame assembly and operably coupled to at least one of the front and rear ground engaging members, the engine including a front cylinder having a front cylinder head and a rear cylinder having a rear cylinder head, at least one of the front cylinder head and the rear cylinder head being positioned laterally intermediate the first and second support members, and at least one of the front and rear cylinders being coupled to the first and second support members; A two-wheeled vehicle comprising:

[0116] EMBODIMENT 33 33. The two-wheeled vehicle according to embodiment 32, wherein the first support member and the second support member are detachably connected to the at least one of the front cylinder head and the rear cylinder head.

[0117] EMBODIMENT 34 The two-wheeled vehicle according to embodiment 33, wherein the first support member and the second support member are detachably connected to at least one of the front cylinder head and the rear cylinder head at a vertically intermediate position between a valve cover provided on each of the front cylinder head and the rear cylinder head and each of the front cylinder and the rear cylinder. [Explanation of symbols]

[0118] 2. Two-wheeled vehicles, vehicles 4 Front end 6 Rear end 8 Front Wheel 9 Rear wheel 10 Powertrain Assembly 12 Engine 14 Transmission 16 Steering Assembly 18 Gripping surface 20 Front fork 22 Front suspension assembly 24 Rear suspension assembly 24' Rear Suspension Assembly 26 Triple clamp 28 sheets 28' Seat 30 First cylinder, front cylinder 32 Second cylinder, rear cylinder 34 Crankshaft 36 Rotation Axis 37 Cylinder 38 Cylinder head 39 Valve cover 40 Frame Assembly 40' Frame Assembly 42 Mainframe 42' Main Frame 44 Rear Frame 44' Rear Frame 46 upper longitudinally extending member 48 Lower longitudinally extending member 50 Head tube 52 Transverse Member 54 Upright directional members 56 Diagonal frame member 58 Bracket, installation flange 60 Crankcase 62 Oil filter 64 Intermediate frame part 64' Intermediate frame section 64” mid-frame section 66 First member, left member 68 Second member, right side member 70 Installation arm 72 Mounting bracket 74 Coupler 76 Second Coupler 78 Aperture 80 Installation aperture, aperture 82 Rear end of crankcase 60 84 position 86 position 88 Aperture 90 Installation Aperture 92 Installation Aperture 94 position 96 position 98 Additional mounting brackets, flanges 100 Volts 102 Installation flanges, flanges 104 Outer housing 106 Bolts and fasteners 108 Upper end of cylinder 30 110 Mounting bracket, flange 112 Mounting bracket 114 Installation holes 116 Swingarm 116' Swingarm 118 First rear frame member 120 Second rear frame member 122 Pivot member 124 Pivot member 126 Pivot axis 128 Drive shaft 130 Installation parts 130' Installation material 132 Installation parts 132' Installation parts 134 Installation holes 136 Supporting members 138 Installation holes 140 Supporting member 142 Shock absorber 144 Front part 146 Bracket 148 Rear part 150 Bracket 152 Bracket 154 Drive Assembly 155 Drive shaft 156 Drive sprocket 158 Driven sprocket 159 Belts, chains, drive belts 160 1st main bearing journal 162 Second main bearing journal 164 Connecting Rod Journal 166 Intermediate Balance Weight 168 Gears 170 First fluid passage 172 First Port 173 Secondary Port 174 Second fluid passage 176 Third Port 178 Third fluid passage 180 Fourth fluid passage 186 Oil level check window 188 Housing 190 Transparent part 192 volts 194 Seals 196 Check window reservoir 198 Conduit 200 Cooling Assembly 202 Radiator 204 Housing 206 Inflow conduit 208 Outflow conduit 210 Fuel filler cap 212 Fan 214 Coolant overflow / reservoir bottle, bottle 220 Exhaust Assembly 222 First exhaust duct 224 Secondary Exhaust Duct 226 Recovery Device 228 Muffler 230 Electrical Assembly 232 Engine control unit, ECU 234 ABS module 236 Battery 238 Battery Housing 238' Electrical box, housing, electrical housing 240 Air Intake 242 Air Box 244 Intake tubes or conduits 246 Upper housing part 248 Lower housing part 250 torque tube 252 Filters 260 Fuel Tank 260' Fuel Tank 262 Front end 262' forward end 264 Rear end 264' rear end 266 Top surface of fuel tank 260 266' Top of fuel tank 260' 268 Underside of fuel tank 260 270 Central part 270' center section 271' Fuel Pickup 271a' Front angled section 271b' Rear angled section 272 Fuel Pump 272' Fuel Pump 273' Fuel Float 274 First Vent 274' First vent, valve 276 Second Vent 276' Secondary vent, breather member 277' Filling Tube 278 Fuel filler cap, fuel filler cap 280 Frame members 280' Frame member 280a' first portion of frame member 208' 280b' second portion of frame member 208' 282 Bracket 284 Bracket 290 Front wheel pivot 292 Rear wheel pivot 294 Midpoint of wheelbase 296 Top of air box 242 298 Brake 299 Brake 300 Horizontal distance between drive shaft 128 and pivot shaft 126 302 Bracket 304 First Component 306 Second Component 308 position 310 position 312 pivoting axle 314 Channels 316 First end of pivot shaft 312 318 Fastening devices 320 Fastening devices 322 second end of pivot shaft 312 400 body panels 402 1st Body Panel 404 2nd Body Panel 406 3rd Body Panel 408 4th Body Panel 412 Air Filter Assembly 414 Post 415 Aperture 416 Fastening devices 418 Aperture 420 Fuel Components 422 Aperture 424 Aperture 426 Support member 428 Volts 430 Side Panel 432 Side Panel 434 Braking Control System 436 Braking Input 438 Pressure Sensor 440 Anti-lock Brake System Control Module, ABS Control Module 442 Brake caliper 444 Engine Control Unit, ECU 446 Vehicle Control Unit, VCU 448 Stop Indicator 450 CAN network 460 Front cover member 462 Aft Compartment 464 Voltage Regulator 468 Volts 470 Bush 472 Channels 474 Oil cooler 476 Vent or louver cover 478 Electrical Parts 480 Upper part of the front cover member 460 482 Installation drilling or components 484 Installation parts 486 Installation holes 488 Support member 490 Installation parts or drilling 492 Installation parts 494 Installation holes or openings 500 positions 502 Tab 504 Rear portion of frame member 280' 506 Installation parts 508 Installation holes 510 Installation holes 512 Installation drilling, installation parts 520 Head installation bracket L longitudinal centerline, the centerline extending in the longitudinal direction G ground surface V Vertical centerline

Claims

1. A two-wheeled vehicle comprising: a frame assembly having front and rear ends extending along a longitudinally extending centerline, the frame assembly including a first upper longitudinally extending member defining a portion of the front end, a first lower longitudinally extending member, a second upper longitudinally extending member, and a second lower longitudinally extending member, the frame assembly further including a first support member coupled to the first lower longitudinally extending member and a second support member coupled to the second lower longitudinally extending member, the first support member intersecting the first lower longitudinally extending member at a spaced location rearward of the front end and the second support member intersecting the second lower longitudinally extending member at a spaced location rearward of the front end; a forward ground engaging member operably connected to the forward end of the frame assembly at a forward pivot axis; a rear ground engaging member operably connected to the rear end of the frame assembly at a rear pivot point; and an engine supported by the frame assembly and operably coupled to at least one of the front and rear ground engaging members, the engine including a front cylinder having a front cylinder head and a rear cylinder having a rear cylinder head, at least one of the front cylinder head and the rear cylinder head being positioned laterally intermediate the first and second support members, and at least one of the front and rear cylinders being coupled to the first and second support members; A two-wheeled vehicle comprising:

2. The two-wheeled vehicle according to claim 1 , wherein the first support member and the second support member are detachably coupled to the at least one of the front cylinder head and the rear cylinder head.

3. 3. The two-wheeled vehicle according to claim 2, wherein the first support member and the second support member are detachably coupled to the at least one of the front cylinder head and the rear cylinder head at a vertically intermediate position between a valve cover provided on the front cylinder head and the rear cylinder head, respectively, and a cylinder body of each of the front cylinder and the rear cylinder.

4. A two-wheeled vehicle as described in claim 1, further comprising a battery located within the profile of the support member and directly connected to the engine via the first support member.

5. A two-wheeled vehicle as described in claim 4, wherein the battery is positioned underneath the two-wheeled vehicle.

6. A two-wheeled vehicle as described in claim 5, wherein the battery is positioned rearward of the forward ground engaging member and below the radiator, and generally forward of the engine.

7. A two-wheeled vehicle as described in claim 1, wherein the frame assembly includes a support member extending generally perpendicularly from each of the first and second lower longitudinally extending members.

8. A two-wheeled vehicle as described in claim 7, wherein the support members are further connected to the lower longitudinally extending members via diagonal frame members, respectively.

9. A two-wheeled vehicle as described in claim 7, wherein the support member is connected to the engine.

10. A two-wheeled vehicle as described in claim 9, wherein the support member is connected to an installation flange of the engine crankcase.

11. A two-wheeled vehicle as described in claim 10, wherein the support member is positioned forward of the crankcase.

12. A two-wheeled vehicle as described in claim 7, wherein the support member is connected to a portion of the first cylinder.

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