A handlebar assembly for a vehicle

Abstract

The present invention relates to a handlebar assembly (100) comprising a handlebar (102) connected to a first member (104) of the vehicle to selectively move in a first direction (A-A). In one embodiment, the handlebar assembly 100 comprises a left guide member (106L), a right guide member (106R), a handlebar (102) and a bracket (112). The first end portions (106L1, 106R1) of the left guide member (106L) and the right guide member (106R) are adapted to receive the handlebar (102) of the handlebar assembly (100). The middle portions (106L2, 106R2) comprises a plurality of grooves (108) to secure the handlebar at plurality of pre-defined positions in the first direction (A-A). The left guide member (106L) and the right guide member (106R) are adapted to be received in a left guide member receiving hole (104l) and the right guide member receiving hole (104J) of the first member (104).

Description

[0001] TITLE OF INVENTION

[0002] A HANDLEBAR ASSEMBLY FOR A VEHICLE

[0003] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0004]

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle. More particularly, the present invention relates to an adjustable handlebar assembly for the vehicle.

[0005] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0006]

[0002] Prior arts discloses risers and adjustable handlebars for saddle type vehicles. The riser allows a rider to increase a height of the handlebar. However, the riser is used only for purpose of elevation and cannot be used to change the height of the handlebar to multiple levels. Adjustable handlebar is a valuable feature on a motorcycle owing to its significant benefits in enhancing rider comfort, control, and customization. The adjustable handlebar allow riders to tailor a position of the handlebar to fit individual body size, arm length, and riding style, which helps to reduce strain and discomfort, especially on long rides. By adjusting the handlebar to a more comfortable position, riders can avoid unwarranted postures, thereby reducing fatigue and lowering the risk of developing musculoskeletal issues over time. Furthermore, adjustable handlebar improve control by enabling riders to find an optimal position for better handling and responsiveness. They can also be repositioned to adapt to different riding conditions or styles, such as transitioning from an aggressive sport riding position to a more relaxed touring posture. For motorcycles shared by multiple riders such as members of a family or customers of vehicle rental services having different heights and arm lengths, adjustable handlebars offer a quick solution to accommodate varying preferences without needing a complete setup change. By adjusting the handlebars, people with different heights and arm lengths can achieve an optimal and ergonomic position that reduces strain or discomfort during vehicle operation.

[0003] Adjustable handlebars also allow adjustments for different types of riding gear, ensuring better control and comfort. Enhanced safety is another benefit, as an adjustable setup helps riders achieve a more stable and safer riding position, reducing the likelihood of accidents caused by discomfort or poor handling. Riders with specific physical conditions or injuries may find adjustable handlebars particularly beneficial for alleviating pain. Lastly, the versatility of adjustable handlebars supports adaptation to various riding styles, such as commuting, touring, or off-roading, and provides a custom fit for different motorcycle models. Overall, adjustable handlebars contribute to a more personalized and comfortable riding experience, improved control and safety, and greater adaptability for diverse riding conditions and rider needs.

[0007]

[0004] However, adjustable handlebars or risers on motorcycles can introduce additional complexity into the motorcycle’s setup, potentially leading to more maintenance and mechanical issues, if not properly cared for. Over time, the adjustment mechanisms may wear out, resulting in loose or unstable handlebars if not regularly checked and serviced which may lead to multiple issues such as NVH (Noise Vibration and Harshness) issues. Stability and safety can also be concerns, as some adjustable systems may not provide the same rigidity as fixed handlebars, which can affect handling and stability. Improper adjustments can lead to poor ergonomics and control issues, with the risk of handlebars shifting during rides if the locking mechanisms fail. Also, installation of adjustable handlebars or risers can be complex and may require special tools or professional expertise. Additionally, maintaining the desired riding position may necessitate frequent adjustments, which can be inconvenient and time-consuming. The cost of adjustable handlebars or risers can be higher than standard fixed handlebars, both in terms of initial purchase and installation.

[0008]

[0005] Design limitations can also be a factor, as some adjustable handlebars offer a limited range of height, reach, or angle adjustments, which may not suit all riders’ preferences or needs. Further, the visual impact of adjustable handlebars or risers may alter the aesthetics of the motorcycle, which may not be desirable for some riders. Finding the perfect ergonomic fit can be challenging, and adjustments might not always address specific issues like wrist angle or shoulder strain.

[0009]

[0006] Finally, adjusting handlebars or risers might interfere with other controls or components, necessitating additional adjustments or modifications to ensure proper functionality. Addressing these problems typically involves regular maintenance, proper installation by professionals, and the selection of high-quality components. Riders should also be aware of their motorcycle’s specific requirements and limitations regarding adjustable handlebars.

[0010]

[0007] In view thereof, there is a need-felt to overcome at least the above-mentioned disadvantages of the prior arts.

[0011] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012]

[0008] In one aspect of the present invention, a handlebar assembly for a vehicle is disclosed. The handlebar assembly comprises a handlebar which is connected to a first member of the vehicle to selectively move in a first direction.

[0013]

[0009] In an embodiment, the handlebar assembly comprises a left guide member and a right guide member. The left guide member and / or right guide member is an elongated member defined by a first end portion, a second end portion and a middle portion between the first end portion and the second end portion. The first end portion of each of the left guide member and / or right guide member is adapted to receive a first portion of the handlebar. The middle portion of each of the left guide member and / or right guide member comprises a plurality of grooves. The plurality of grooves are provided along a length of the middle portion to secure the handlebar at plurality of pre-defined positions in the first direction.

[0014]

[0010] In an embodiment, the first end portion of at least one of the left guide member and the right guide member comprises a first receiving groove to receive the first portion of the handlebar. The first end portion(s) of the guide member comprises a plurality of first holes. The first holes provided on the first end portion(s) of the guide member are adapted to align with a plurality of second holes provided on a bracket and fastened with one or more fasteners. The bracket comprises a second receiving groove adapted to receive a second portion of the handlebar.

[0015] [Oi l] In an embodiment, the first member comprises a body having a plurality of receiving holes. The body of the first member is defined by a front end surface and a rear end surface in a lateral direction of the first member and a left end surface and a right end surface in a longitudinal direction of the first member. The plurality of receiving holes comprises a head tube receiving hole, a left front fork receiving hole, right front fork receiving hole, a left guide member receiving hole and a right guide member receiving hole. The head tube receiving hole is adapted to receive a head tube of the vehicle. The left front fork receiving hole is adapted to receive a left front fork of the vehicle. The right front fork receiving hole is adapted to receive a right front fork of the vehicle. The right guide member receiving hole is adapted to receive the right guide member of the handlebar assembly. The left guide member receiving hole is adapted to receive the left guide member of the handlebar assembly.

[0016]

[0012] In an embodiment, a distance between a first lateral axis and a second lateral axis is greater than a distance between a second lateral axis and a third lateral axis. The first lateral axis passes through a center of the head tube receiving hole in the lateral direction of the first member. The second lateral axis passes through a center of the right guide member receiving hole in the lateral direction of the first member. The third lateral axis passes through a center of the right front fork receiving hole in the lateral direction of the first member. Also, a distance between the first lateral axis and a fourth lateral axis is greater than a distance between the fourth lateral axis and a fifth lateral axis. The fourth lateral axis passes through a center of the left guide member receiving hole in the lateral direction of the first member. The fifth lateral axis passes through a center of the left front fork receiving hole in the lateral direction of the first member. Also, the distance between the first lateral axis and the second lateral axis is equal to the distance between the first lateral axis and the fourth lateral axis.

[0013] In an embodiment, a distance between a first longitudinal axis and a second longitudinal axis is greater than a distance between the second longitudinal axis and a third longitudinal axis. The first longitudinal axis passes through the center of the headtube receiving hole in a longitudinal direction of the first member. The second longitudinal axis passes through the centers of the left guide member receiving hole and the right guide member receiving hole in the longitudinal direction of the first member. The third longitudinal axis passes through the centers of the left front fork receiving hole and the right front fork receiving hole in the longitudinal direction of the first member.

[0017]

[0014] In an embodiment, the first member comprises a right slit and a left slit. The right slit extends in the lateral direction of the first member from the right guide member receiving hole to the rear end surface of the first member. Similarly, the left slit extends in the lateral direction of the first member from the left guide member receiving hole to the rear end surface of the first member.

[0018]

[0015] In an embodiment, the first member comprises a right fastener hole and a left fastener hole. The right fastener hole is a through hole extending in the longitudinal direction of the first member from the right end surface of the first member to the right guide member receiving hole. The left fastener hole is a through hole extending in the longitudinal direction of the first member from the left end surface of the first member to the left guide member receiving hole. The right fastener hole is adapted to align with one of the plurality of grooves provided on the right guide member and fastened with a right fastener to secure the handlebar at a plurality of pre-defined positions in the first direction. Similarly, the left fastener hole is adapted to align with one of the plurality of grooves provided on the left guide member and fastened with a left fastener to secure the handlebar at a plurality of pre-defined positions in the first direction.

[0019]

[0016] In an embodiment, the left guide member and the right guide member are integrally or detachably connected to each other by one or more connecting members.

[0017] In an embodiment, the middle portion of the right guide member and the left guide member is provided with a first marking to indicate an extent of movement of the handlebar.

[0020]

[0018] In an embodiment, each of the right fastener hole and the left fastener hole is provided with a second marking for proper fastening of the right fastener and the left fastener.

[0021]

[0019] In another aspect of the present invention, a vehicle is disclosed. The vehicle comprises a first member mounted on a head tube of the vehicle. The first member is adapted to be connected to a handlebar assembly as discussed in the preceding paragraphs.

[0022]

[0020] In yet another aspect of the present invention, a method for adjusting a height of a handlebar of a vehicle is disclosed. The method comprises a step of mounting a handlebar assembly on a first member of the vehicle. The first member is mounted on a head tube of the vehicle. The handlebar assembly comprises a handlebar. The method further comprises a step of the sliding the handlebar in a first direction followed by a step of securing the handlebar at a plurality of pre-defined positions along the first direction.

[0023]

[0021] In an embodiment, the step of mounting the handlebar assembly comprises inserting a right guide member in a right guide member receiving hole and a left guide member of the handlebar assembly in a left guide member receiving hole of the first member wherein the right guide member and the left guide member are adapted to receive the handlebar of the vehicle. The right guide member and the left guide member also comprises a plurality of grooves provided along a length of the right guide member and the left guide member. Also, the step of securing the handlebar at a plurality of pre-defined positions along the first direction comprises aligning one of the plurality of grooves provided on the right guide member with a right fastener hole provided on the first member and fastening the right guide member to the first member with a right fastener, and aligning one of the plurality of grooves provided on the left guide member with a left fastener hole provided on the first member and fastening the left guide member to the first member with a left fastener.

[0024] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025]

[0022] Reference will be made to embodiments of the invention, examples of which may be illustrated in accompanying figures. These figures are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Although the invention is generally described in context of these embodiments, it should be understood that it is not intended to limit the scope of the invention to these particular embodiments.

[0026] Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a frame of a vehicle with a handlebar assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 2 illustrates a left side view of the frame of the vehicle with the handlebar assembly, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 3 illustrates an exploded view of the handlebar assembly , in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 4 illustrates a perspective view of a left guide member and a right guide member of the handlebar assembly, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 5 illustrates a perspective view of a bracket of the handlebar assembly, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 6 illustrates a perspective view of a handlebar of the handlebar assembly, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 7a, Figure 7b and Figure 7c illustrates perspective views of a first member of the vehicle, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 8 illustrates an enlarged view of portion D of the first member shown in Figure 7a, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9 illustrates a sectional view of the handlebar assembly mounted on the first member and cut along line X-X’ as shown in Figure 1, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 10 illustrates a left side perspective view of the handlebar assembly mounted on the first member, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 11 illustrates different position of the handlebar of the handlebar assembly, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 12 is a flow chart illustrating a method for adjusting a height of the handlebar assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0038]

[0023] Various features and embodiments of the present invention here will be discernible from the following further description thereof, set out hereunder.

[0039]

[0024] For the purpose of the present invention, the term “vehicle” comprises any vehicle provided with a handlebar assembly such as, not being limited to motorcycles. The term “vehicle” also comprises, not being limited to, conventional internal combustion engine vehicles, electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles.

[0040]

[0025] Furthermore, arrows provided in the top right corner of figures depicts direction with respect to the vehicle, wherein an arrow F denotes front direction, an arrow R indicates rearward direction, an arrow Rt denotes right direction, an arrow Lt denotes left direction, an arrow Up denotes upward direction and an arrow Dw denotes downward direction, as and where applicable.

[0041]

[0026] Figure 1 illustrates a front perspective view of a frame 10 of a vehicle with a handlebar assembly 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 illustrates a left side view of the frame 10 of the vehicle with the handlebar assembly 100, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] As shown, the frame 10 extends from a head tube 12 of the vehicle. The vehicle comprises a first member 104 mounted on the head tube 12 of the vehicle. The vehicle further comprises a second member 105. The first member 104 and the second member 105 are adapted to support a left front fork 124L and a right front fork 124R of the vehicle. The handlebar assembly 100 of the vehicle having a handlebar 102 is connected to the first member 104 to selectively move in a first direction A- A. For the purposes of the present invention, the first direction A- A is a direction towards a rider of the vehicle and away from the rider of the vehicle. In other words, the handlebar 102 can slidably move in a direction towards the rider of the vehicle and away from the rider of the vehicle.

[0042]

[0028] Figure 3 illustrates an exploded view of the handlebar assembly 100, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 illustrates a perspective view of a left guide member 106L and a right guide member 106R of the handlebar assembly 100, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 illustrates a perspective view of a bracket 112 of the handlebar assembly 100, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 illustrates a perspective view of a handlebar 102 of the handlebar assembly 100, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.

[0043]

[0029] As shown, the handlebar assembly 100 comprises the left guide member 106L, the right guide member 106R, the handlebar 102 and the bracket 112. As shown, each of the left guide member 106L and the right guide member 106R is an elongated member defined by a first end portion 106L1, 106R1, a middle portion 106L2, 106R2 and a second end portion 106L3, 106R3. The middle portion 106L2, 106R2 is provided between the first end portion 106L1, 106R1 and the second end portion 106L3, 106R3. The first end portion 106L1, 106R1 is adapted to receive the handlebar 102 of the handlebar assembly 100. In a non-limiting example, the first end portion 106L1, 106R1 of the left guide member 106L and the right guide member 106R comprises a first receiving groove 110 to receive a first portion 102a (as shown in Figure 6) of the handlebar 102. Each of the first end portions 106L1, 106R1 of the left guide member 106L and the right guide member 106R also comprises a plurality of first holes Ml. The plurality of first holes Ml in the first end portions 106L1, 106R1 of each of the left guide member 106L and the right guide member 106R are adapted to align with a plurality of second holes M2 provided in the bracket 112 of the handlebar assembly 100 and fastened with one or more fasteners Fl. As shown in Figure 5, the bracket 112 comprises a second receiving groove 112a adapted to receive a second portion 102b (as shown in Figure 6) of the handlebar 102 of the handlebar assembly 100. It is to be understood that the construction of the first end portions 106L1, 106R1 of the guide members 106L, 106R and the bracket 112 should not be construed as limiting and other constructions capable of securing the handlebar 102 between the first end portions 106L1, 106R1 of the guide members 106L, 106R and the bracket 112 are well within the scope of the present invention. For example, the left guide member 106L and the right guide member 106R may be integrally connected to each other by one or more connecting members (not shown).

[0044]

[0030] The middle portion 106L2, 106R2 of the left guide member 106L and the right guide member 106R comprises a plurality of grooves 108 (as shown in Figure 8). The plurality of grooves 108 extend along a length of the middle portion 106L2, 106R2 to secure the handlebar 102 at the plurality of pre-defined position in the first direction A- A. In a non-limiting example, the grooves 108 provided on the middle portion 106L2, 106R2 of each of the left guide member 106L and the right guide member 106R are semi-circular. However, this should not be construed as limiting and other regular or irregular shape of the grooves 108 are well within the scope of the present invention.

[0045]

[0031] As shown in Figure 6, the handlebar 102 of the handlebar assembly 100 is an elongated member which extends in a lateral direction of the vehicle. The handlebar 102 is adapted to be held by a rider of the vehicle. The handlebar 102 comprises of a left portion 102L, a right portion 102R and a center portion 102M between the left portion 102L and the right portion 102R. The center portion 102M of the handlebar comprises the first portion 102a adapted to be received by the first end portions 106L1, 106R1 of the left guide member 106L and the right guide member 106R and the second portion 102b adapted to be received by the bracket 112 of the handlebar assembly 100.

[0046]

[0032] Figure 7a, Figure 7b and Figure 7c illustrates perspective views of the first member 104 of the vehicle, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8 illustrates an enlarged view of portion D of the first member 104 shown in Figure 7a, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.

[0047]

[0033] As shown, the first member 104 on which the handlebar assembly 100 is mounted comprises a body 104A and a plurality of receiving holes 104F, 104G, 104H, 1041, 104J. The body 104A of the first member 104 extends between a front end surface 104B and a rear end surface 104C in a lateral direction B-B of the first member 104 and the between a left end surface 104D and a right end surface 104E in a longitudinal direction C-C of the first member 104. It is to be understood that that when the first member 104 is mounted on the vehicle, the lateral direction of the first member 104 is parallel to a longitudinal direction LI -LI (front-rear direction) of the vehicle (as shown in Figure 2) and the longitudinal direction of the first member 104 is parallel to the lateral direction (left-right or side to side direction) of the vehicle. The first member 104 is mounted on the head tube 12. The plurality of receiving holes 104F, 104G, 104H, 1041, 104J provided on the first member 104 are a head tube receiving hole 104F, a left front fork receiving holes 104G, a right front fork receiving hole 104H, a right guide member receiving hole 104J and a left guide member receiving hole 1041. The head tube receiving hole 104F is adapted to receive the head tube 12 of the vehicle. The left front fork receiving hole 104G is adapted to receive the left front fork 124L (shown in Figure 1) of the vehicle. The right front fork receiving hole 104H is adapted to receive the right front fork 124R of the vehicle. The right guide member receiving hole 104J is adapted to receive the right guide member 106R of the handlebar assembly 100 and the left guide member receiving hole 1041 is adapted to receive the left guide member 106L of the handlebar assembly 100. The location of a plurality of receiving holes 104F, 104G, 104H, 1041, 104J on the first member 104 has been shown with respect to lateral axis B-B and longitudinal axis C-C of the first member 104 in Figure 7a-7c.

[0048]

[0034] As shown in Figure 7b, a lateral axis Bl-Bl passes through a center of the head tube receiving hole 104F, a lateral axis B2-B2 passes through the right guide member receiving hole 104J, a lateral axis B3-B3 passes through the right front fork receiving hole 104H, a lateral axis B4-B4 passes through a left guide member receiving hole 1041 and a lateral axis B5-B5 passes through a left front fork receiving hole 104G. A distance XI between the first lateral axis Bl-Bl and the second lateral axis B2-B2 is greater than a distance X2 between the second lateral axis B2-B2 and a third lateral axis B3-B3. In other words, the right guide member receiving hole 104J is near to the right front fork receiving hole 104H than to the head tube receiving hole 104F in the lateral direction B-B of the first member 104. Similarly, a distance X4 between the first lateral axis Bl-Bl and the fourth lateral axis B4-B4 is greater than a distance X5 between the fourth lateral axis B2-B2 and a fifth lateral axis B5-B5. In other words, the left guide member receiving hole 1041 is near to the right front fork receiving hole 104H than to the head tube receiving hole 104F in the lateral direction B-B of the first member 104. Also, the distance XI is equal to the distance X4 and the distance X2 is equal to the distance X5 as shown in Figure 7b.

[0049]

[0035] As shown in Figure 7c, a longitudinal axis Cl-Cl passes through the head tube receiving hole 104F, a longitudinal axis C2-C2 passes through centres of the left guide member receiving hole 1041 and the right guide member receiving hole 104 J and a longitudinal axis C3-C3 passes through centres of left front fork receiving hole 104G and the right front fork receiving hole 104H. As shown, a distance Y 1 between lateral axis Cl-Cl and C2-C2 is greater than a distance Y2 between lateral axis C2- C2 and C3-C3. In other words, the right and left guide members receiving holes 1041, 104J are near to the right and left front fork receiving holes 104G, 104H than to the head tube receiving hole 104F in the longitudinal direction C-C of the first member 104.

[0036] The first member 104 also comprises a right slit 126R and a left slit 126L. The right slit 126R extends in the lateral direction B-B from the right guide member receiving hole 104 J to the rear end surface 104C and the left slit 126L extends in the lateral direction B-B from the left guide member receiving hole 1041 to the rear end surface 104C of the first member 104. The first member 104 also comprises a right fastener hole (not shown) and a left fastener hole 120L. The right fastener hole is a through hole which extends in the longitudinal direction C-C from the right end surface 104E to the right guide member receiving hole 104J. The left fastener hole 120L is also a through hole which extends in the longitudinal direction C-C from the left end surface 104D to the left guide member receiving hole 1041. The left slit 126L and the left fastener hole 120L can be clearly seen in Figure 8 illustrating an enlarged view of portion D of the first member shown in Figure 7a. The portion D is shown with dotted circle in Figure 7a.

[0050]

[0037] Figure 9 illustrates a sectional view of the handlebar assembly 100 mounted on the first member 104 and cut along line X-X’ as shown in Figure 1, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 illustrates a left side view of the handlebar assembly 100 mounted on the first member 104, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.

[0051]

[0038] As shown, the left guide member 106L and the right guide member 106R has a plurality of grooves 108 along its length. When the rider of the vehicle wishes to adjust the position of the handlebar 102, the rider will slide the handlebar 102 in the direction A-A to align one of the plurality of grooves 108 provided on the middle portion 106L2 of the left guide member 106L with the left fastener hole 120L provided on the first member 104 and fasten the left guide member 106L to the first member 104 with a left fastener 122L (as shown in Figure 3 and Figure 10) to secure the handlebar 102 at the selected position. Similarly, one of the plurality of grooves 108 provided on the middle portion 106R2 of the right guide member 106R is aligned with the right fastener hole provided on the first member 104 and fasten the right guide member 106R to the first member 104 with a right fastener 122R (shown in Figure 3) to secure the handlebar 102 at the selected position.

[0052]

[0039] Figure 10 illustrates a left side perspective view of the handlebar assembly 100 mounted on the first member 104, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.

[0053]

[0040] As shown, the handlebar 102 is fixed at one of the plurality of positions by fastening the left guide member 106L to the first member 104 by means of the left fastener 122L. In order to indicate an extent of movement of the handlebar 102 in the direction A- A, the middle portion 106R2 of the right guide member 106R and the middle portion 106L2 of the left guide member 106L may be provided with a first marking Hl. Further, for proper fastening of the right fastener 122R and the left fastener 122L to secure the right guide member 106R and the left guide member 106L to the first member 104, each of the right fastener hole and the left fastener hole 120L may be provided with a second marking H2.

[0054]

[0041] Figure 11 illustrates different positions of the handlebar 102 of the handlebar assembly 100, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.

[0055]

[0042] As shown, the handlebar 102 can be fixed at three different position Pl, P2 and P3 to achieve relaxed posture, commuter posture and sporty posture respectively. The handlebar can be fixed at other positions as well based on the rider’s comfort.

[0056]

[0043] Figure 12 is a flow chart illustrating a method 200 for adjusting a height of the handlebar assembly 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0057]

[0044] As shown, at step 201, the method comprises a step of mounting a handlebar assembly 100 comprising a handlebar 102 on a first member 104 of the vehicle. At step 202, the method comprises sliding the handlebar in a first direction A-A. At step 203, the method comprises securing the handlebar at a plurality of pre-defined position along the first direction A-A.

[0058]

[0045] In an embodiment, the step 201 of the mounting the handlebar 102 comprises inserting a right guide member 106R and a left guide member 106L of the handlebar assembly 100 in a right guide member receiving hole 104 J and a left guide member receiving hole 1041 of the first member 104. The construction of the left guide member 106L and the right guide member 106R has been discussed in detail in the preceding paragraphs. Also, the step 203 of securing the handlebar 102 comprises aligning one of the plurality of grooves 108 provided on the right guide member 106R with a right fastener hole provided on the first member 104 and fastening the right guide member 106R to the first member 104 with a right fastener 122R and aligning one of the plurality of grooves 108 provided on the left guide member 106L with a left fastener hole 120L provided on the first member 104 and fastening the left guide member 106L to the first member 104 with a left fastener 122L.

[0059]

[0046] The claimed features / method steps of the present invention as discussed above are not routine, conventional, or well understood in the art, as the claimed features enable the following solutions to the existing problems in conventional technologies. Specifically, the technical problem of fixed handlebar which may lead to discomfort to the rider of the vehicle, is solved by present invention.

[0060]

[0047] In the present invention, the height of the handlebar can be adjusted manually at a plurality of pre-defined position. The handlebar assembly of the present invention is simple in construction which allows retrofitting of the handlebar assembly in different vehicles.

[0061]

[0048] The present invention allows the rider to adjust the handlebar height based on the rider’s comfort. The adjustment in height of the handlebar results in ergonomic change which can be inferred as shifting between different riding modes. This features enhances the comfort, handling, performance, safety and riding experience for the customers as it is catering customer of different anthropometries in a single motorcycle. The feature of adjustable handlebar in the vehicle also increases aesthetics and market attractiveness of the vehicle.

[0062]

[0049] The handlebar assembly of the present invention comprises lesser number of components as compared to components of the handlebar assemblies of the prior art. This results in weight reduction, part reduction and cost reduction in the vehicle, which is desirable. Further, the different components of the handlebar assembly are also simple in construction which makes it easier to manufacture and install in the vehicle resulting in less manufacturing cost, replacement cost as well as servicing cost, which is desirable.

[0063]

[0050] While the present invention has been described with respect to certain embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modification may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.

[0064] List of Reference Numerals

[0065] 10-frame

[0066] 12-head tube

[0067] 100- handlebar assembly

[0068] 102-handlebar

[0069] 102a- first portion of the handlebar

[0070] 102b- second portion of the handlebar

[0071] 102L- left portion of the handlebar

[0072] 102R- right portion of the handlebar

[0073] 102M- center portion of the handlebar

[0074] 104- first member

[0075] 104A- Body

[0076] 104B- front end surface

[0077] 104C-rear end surface 104D- left end surface

[0078] 104E- right end surface

[0079] 104F- head tube receiving hole

[0080] 104G-left front fork receiving hole 104H- right front fork receiving hole

[0081] 1041- left guide member receiving hole

[0082] 104J- right guide member receiving hole

[0083] 106L- left guide member

[0084] 106L1- first end portion 106L2- middle portion

[0085] 106L3- second end portion

[0086] 106R- right guide member

[0087] 106R1- first end portion

[0088] 106R2- middle portion 106R3 - second end portion

[0089] 108- grooves

[0090] 110- first receiving groove

[0091] 112- bracket

[0092] 112a- second receiving groove 120L- left fastener hole

[0093] 122R-right fastener

[0094] 122L-left fastener

[0095] 124L- left front fork 124R-right front fork

[0096] 126R- right slit

[0097] 126L- left slit

[0098] Ml - first holes on guide members

[0099] M2- second holes on bracket H 1 - first marking

[0100] H2-second marking

[0101] Fl - fasteners for fastening the bracket and guide members

[0102] LI -LI - longitudinal axis of the vehicle

[0103] A- A- first direction of the vehicle B-B- lateral direction of first member

[0104] C-C- longitudinal direction of first member

Claims

WE CLAIM:

1. A handlebar assembly (100) for a vehicle comprising a handlebar (102), the handlebar (102) being connected to a first member (104) of the vehicle to selectively move in a first direction (A- A).

2. The handlebar assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprising: a left guide member (106L) and a right guide member (106R), at least one of said left guide member (106L) and the right guide member (106R) being an elongated member defined by a first end portion (106L1, 106R1), a second end portion (106L3, 106R3) and a middle portion (106L2, 106R2) between the first end portion (106L1, 106R1) and the second end portion (106L3, 106R3), at least one of said first end portions (106L1, 106R1) of the left guide member (106L1) and the right guide member (106R1) being adapted to receive a first portion (102a) of the handlebar (102) and each of the middle portions (106L2, 106R2) comprising a plurality of grooves (108) provided along a length of the middle portion (106L2, 106R2) to secure the handlebar (102) at plurality of pre-defined positions in the first direction (A- A).

3. The handlebar assembly (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the first end portion (106L1, 106R1) of at least one of the left guide member (106L) and the right guide member (106R) comprises a first receiving groove (110) to receive the first portion of the handlebar (102), the first end portions (106L1, 106R1) of the guide members (106L, 106R) further comprising a plurality of first holes (Ml), the plurality of first holes (Ml) adapted to align with a plurality of second holes (M2) provided on a bracket (112) and fastened with a plurality of fasteners (Fl), the bracket (112) comprising a second receiving groove (112a) adapted to receive a second portion (102b) of the handlebar (102).

4. The handlebar assembly (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the first member (104) comprises a body (104 A) having a plurality of receiving holes, the body (104 A) being defined by a front end surface (104B) and a rear end surface (104C) in a lateral direction (B-B) of the first member (104) and a left end surface (104D) and a right end surface (104E) in a longitudinal direction (C-C) of the first member (104) and the plurality of receiving holes comprises a head tube receiving hole (104F) for receiving a head tube, a left front fork receiving hole (104G) for receiving a left front fork (124L), a right front fork receiving hole (104H) for receiving a right front fork (124R), a right guide member receiving hole (104 J) for receiving the right guide member (106R) and a left guide member receiving hole (1041) for receiving the left guide member (106L).

5. The handlebar assembly (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein: a distance (XI) between a first lateral axis (Bl -Bl) and a second lateral axis (B2-B2) being greater than a distance (X2) between the second lateral axis (B2-B2) and a third lateral axis (B3-B3), the first lateral axis (Bl) passing through a center of the head tube receiving hole (104F) in the lateral direction (B-B), the second lateral axis (B2-B2) passing through a center of the right guide member receiving hole (104 J) in the lateral direction (B-B) and the third lateral axis (B3-B3) passing through a center of the right front fork receiving hole (104H); a distance (X4) between the first lateral axis (Bl -Bl) and a fourth lateral axis (B4-B4) being greater than a distance (X5) between the fourth lateral axis (B4-B4) and a fifth lateral axis (B5-B5), the fourth lateral axis (B4-B4) passing through a center of the left guide member receiving hole (1041) in the lateral direction (B-B) and the fifth lateral axis (B5-B5) passing through a center of the left front fork receiving hole (104G); andthe distance (XI) between the first lateral axis (Bl -Bl) and the second lateral axis (B2-B2) being equal to distance (X4) between the first lateral axis (Bl- Bl) and the fourth lateral axis (B4-B4).

6. The handlebar assembly (100) as claimed in claim 5, wherein: a distance (Yl) between a first longitudinal axis (Cl -Cl) and a second longitudinal axis (C2-C2) being greater than a distance (Y2) between the second longitudinal axis (C2-C2) and a third longitudinal axis (C3-C3), the first longitudinal axis (Cl-Cl) passing through the center of the headtube receiving hole (104F) in the longitudinal direction (C-C), the second longitudinal axis (C2-C2) passing through the centers of the left guide member receiving hole (1041) and the right guide member receiving hole (104 J) and the third longitudinal axis (C3-C3) passing through the centers of the left front fork receiving hole (104G) and the right front fork receiving hole (104H).

7. The handle bar assembly (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the first member (104) comprises a right slit (126R) extending in the lateral direction (B-B) from the right guide member receiving hole (104 J) to the rear end surface (104C) and a left slit (126L) extending in the lateral direction (B-B) from the left guide member receiving hole (1041) to the rear end surface (104C).

8. The handlebar assembly (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the first member (104) comprises a right fastener hole and a left fastener hole (120L), the right fastener hole being a through hole extending in the longitudinal direction (C-C) from the right end surface (104E) to the right guide member receiving hole (104 J) and the left fastener hole being a through hole extending in the longitudinal direction (C-C) from the left end surface (104D) to the left guide member receiving hole (1041).

9. The handlebar assembly (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the right fastener hole adapted to align with one of the plurality of grooves (108) provided on the right guide member (106R) and fastened with a right fastener (122R) and the left fastener hole (120L) adapted to align with one of the plurality of grooves (108) provided on the left guide member (106L) and fastened with a left fastener (122L) to secure the handlebar (102) at the plurality of pre-defined positions in the first direction (A- A).

10. The handlebar assembly (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the left guide member (106L) and the right guide member (106R) being integrally or detachably connected to each other by one or more connecting members.

11. The handlebar assembly (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the middle portion (106R2, 106L2) of the right guide member (106R) and the left guide member (106L) being provided with a first marking (Hl) to indicate an extent of movement of the handlebar (102).

12. The handlebar assembly (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein each of the right fastener hole and the left fastener hole (120L) being provided with a second marking (H2) for proper fastening of the right fastener (122R) and the left fastener (122L).

13. A vehicle comprising a first member (104) mounted on a head tube of the vehicle and adapted to be connected to a handlebar assembly as claimed in any of the preceding claims.

14. A method for adjusting a height of a handlebar (102) of a vehicle, the method comprising:mounting a handlebar assembly (100) comprising the handlebar (102) on a first member of the vehicle; sliding the handlebar (102) in a first direction (A- A); and securing the handlebar (102) at a plurality of pre-defined positions along the first direction (A- A).

15. The method as claimed in claim 14, wherein the step of mounting comprises: inserting a right guide member (106R) and a left guide member (106L) of the handlebar assembly (100) in a right guide member receiving hole (104 J) and a left guide member receiving hole (1041) of the first member (104), the right guide member (106R) and the left guide member (106L) being adapted to receive the handlebar (102) of the vehicle, the right guide member (106R) and the left guide member (106L) further comprises a plurality of grooves (108) provided along a length of the right guide member (106R) and the left guide member (106L).

16. The method as claimed in claim 15, wherein the step of securing the handlebar comprises: aligning one of the plurality of grooves (108) provided on the right guide member (106R) with a right fastener hole provided on the first member (104) and fastening the right guide member (106R) to the first member (104) with a right fastener (122R); and aligning one of the plurality of grooves (108) provided on the left guide member (106L) with a left fastener hole (120L) provided on the first member (104) and fastening the left guide member (106L) to the first member (104) with a left fastener (122L).

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