A saddle-type vehicle

Abstract

The present invention relates to a saddle-type vehicle (10) having a frame assembly (12) and a prime mover (100). The frame assembly (12) includes a headtube (20), a main tube (30), and a downtube (40). The prime mover (100) is supported on the frame assembly (12) and positioned within a predefined zone (P) closer to a center of gravity (CG) of the vehicle, ensuring better weight distribution, improved handling, and enhanced ride stability.

Description

[0001] TITLE OF INVENTION

[0002] A SADDLE-TYPE VEHICLE

[0003] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0004]

[0001] The present invention relates to a saddle-type vehicle. More particularly, the present invention relates to a frame assembly for a saddle-type vehicle.

[0005] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0006]

[0002] Saddle-type vehicles are among the most widely used motor vehicles globally, with substantial demand across various regions. In particular, twowheeled saddle-type vehicles have revolutionized transportation by seamlessly catering to both personal and commercial needs. For personal mobility, these vehicles offer an economical and environmentally friendly solution for daily commuting. Their compact design enables easy navigation through traffic and convenient parking. On the commercial side, they have become indispensable in industries such as e-commerce, food delivery, and ride-hailing services.

[0007]

[0003] With the shift from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs), there is a pressing need to address the challenges associated with this transition. One of the primary obstacles in converting an ICE motorcycle to an EV is the proper mounting of the electric motor. Unlike traditional motorcycles, which have fixed engine placements and fuel tanks, electric motorcycles require a unique approach for integrating key components such as the motor, battery, and other electrical systems. The motor must be securely mounted to the frame to efficiently transfer power to the wheels while minimizing vibration and structural stress. This aspect is crucial, as motor placement significantly impacts the vehicle’s weight distribution, handling, and overall performance. Achieving an optimal motor mount demands meticulous design to ensure proper alignment and seamless integration with other components.

[0008]

[0004] Batteries, being among the heaviest components in an electric motorcycle, require careful positioning within the frame. The battery carrier must be securely mounted to ensure safety, stability, and efficient power delivery. Impropermounting could lead to potential damage, posing safety hazards such as fire risks or compromised performance. Additionally, electric motorcycles necessitate protective covers for essential components like the motor, battery, and electrical wiring. These covers not only shield against debris, dust, and moisture but also aid in heat dissipation. Integrating these protective elements without affecting the vehicle’s design or performance is a significant challenge during the conversion process.

[0009]

[0005] Crash guards are another critical consideration, as they help protect both the rider and the vehicle in the event of an accident. In electric motorcycles, integrating crash guards is more complex due to the need to safeguard electrical components along with the rider. The crash guard must be designed to provide adequate protection without interfering with the motor, battery, or other essential components.

[0010]

[0006] Addressing these mounting and integration challenges requires significant modifications to the frame design. Since the layout of an ICE motorcycle differs substantially from that of an EV, designers face the challenge of adapting an existing ICE frame for electric propulsion with minimal alterations while ensuring safety and performance standards are met. If the same design is required for both ICE and EV models, two distinct frame assemblies are necessary due to the fundamental differences in their powertrains and component layouts. An ICE motorcycle frame is designed to accommodate an engine, transmission, and fuel tank, whereas an EV frame must house a battery pack, electric motor, and associated electronic systems. Attempting to use a single frame design considering an economic platform to create both versions present poses multiple challenges, including differences in weight distribution, structural integrity, and space constraints. The additional reinforcement required for the battery mounting in an EV can increase frame weight, potentially affecting the ride quality of an ICE variant. Moreover, designing a common frame that meets both ICE and EV requirements without excessive compromises in performance, safety, or manufacturability remains a significant engineering challenge.

[0007] In view of the foregoing, there is a need to provide a saddle-type vehicle with a frame assembly which overcomes at least the above-mentioned disadvantages.

[0011] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012]

[0008] In one aspect of the invention, a saddle-type vehicle is disclosed. The saddle-type vehicle includes a frame assembly. The frame assembly includes a headtube, a main tube, a downtube and a prime mover. The main tube extends rearwardly and downwardly from the headtube. The downtube extends rearwardly and downwardly from said headtube. The prime mover is positioned in a predefined zone closer to a center of gravity of said vehicle.

[0013]

[0009] In an embodiment, the predefined zone is defined by imaginary planes. The imaginary planes include a first imaginary plane, a second imaginary plane, a third imaginary plane and a fourth imaginary plane.

[0014]

[0010] In an embodiment, the first imaginary plane, the second imaginary plane, the third imaginary plane and the fourth imaginary plane collectively form a quadrilateral plane.

[0015]

[0011] In an embodiment, the first imaginary plane passes vertically through a portion of the main tube and making a first angle with a ground and the third imaginary plane passes axially through a portion of the main tube and intersecting with each of the first imaginary plane and the second imaginary plane.

[0016]

[0012] In an embodiment, the second imaginary plane is passing axially through a portion of said downtube and intersecting with each of the first imaginary plane and the fourth imaginary plane. The fourth imaginary plane is passing axially through a portion of a guard member. The guard member is supportably attached to each of the down tube and the main tube and intersecting with each of the first imaginary plane and the second imaginary plane.

[0017]

[0013] In an embodiment, the prime mover is connected to at least one of the downtube and the main tube through one or more mounting members.

[0018]

[0014] In an embodiment, the mounting members include a first mounting member and a second mounting member. The first mounting member is connected to aportion of the downtube. The second mounting member is connected to the main tube.

[0019]

[0015] In an embodiment, each of the first mounting member and the second mounting member is configured with a plurality of openings. The plurality of openings are adapted to receive attachment means to connect at least one of the prime mover, a tray, the guard member, and the crash guard.

[0020]

[0016] In an embodiment, the first mounting member is configured to receive the attachment means to connect at least one of the crash guard, the guard member, the tray, and the prime mover.

[0021]

[0017] In an embodiment, the second mounting member is configured to receive said attachment means to connect each of the prime mover, the seat rail support members, the tray.

[0022]

[0018] In an embodiment, the tray includes a central support portion, a pair of lateral support portions, a front coupling member, and a rear coupling member. The central support portion is formed by a pair of elongated tubes extending in the frontrear direction of the vehicle. The pair of lateral support portions extends outwardly from both sides of the central portion in a vehicle width direction. Each of the pair of lateral support portions is formed by one or more elongated tubes. The front coupling member is attached to front ends of the pair of elongated tubes of the central support portion. The front coupling member is configured to be attached to said first mounting member. The rear coupling member is attached to rear ends of the pair of elongated tubes of the central support portion. The rear coupling member is configured to be attached to the second mounting member.

[0023]

[0019] In an embodiment, the central support portion and the pair of lateral support portions of the tray is configured to support at least a battery.

[0024]

[0020] In an embodiment, the first mounting member includes a base portion and a pair of spaced apart flange portions. The pair of spaced apart flange portions extends outwardly from the base portion. Each flange portion includes a plurality of mounting holes configured to receive attachment means.

[0025]

[0021] In an embodiment, the guard member includes a pair of tubular members. The pair of tubular members extends in a vehicle length direction andinterconnected by a pair of connection members. Each of the pair of tubular members includes a front connection end and a rear connection end.

[0026]

[0022] In an embodiment, the crash guard includes a central support portion, a leftside portion extends outwardly and downwardly from the central portion, and a right-side portion extends outwardly and downwardly from the central portion.

[0027] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028]

[0023] 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.

[0029] Figure 1 is a side view of a saddle-type vehicle illustrating the mounting configuration of an exemplary prime mover on a frame assembly in an assembled condition, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 2a is a perspective exploded view of the frame assembly without showing the prime mover and illustrating a tray in a dismantled condition, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 2b is a perspective exploded view of the frame assembly and illustrating the prime mover in a dismantled condition, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 3a is a perspective exploded view of the frame assembly and illustrating a structure of a guard member in a dismantled condition, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 3b is a perspective exploded view of the frame assembly and illustrating a crash guard in a dismantled condition, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 3 c is a perspective exploded view of a section of the frame assembly, illustrating a mounting member in a dismantled condition, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.Figures 4a, 4b and 4c are front, perspective and side views, respectively, of a first mounting member of the saddle-type vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 5 is a top perspective view illustrating the structure of the tray, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0037]

[0024] Various features and embodiments of the present invention here will be discernible from the following further description thereof, set out hereunder.

[0038]

[0025] The present invention relates to a saddle-type vehicle having a frame assembly configured to accommodate different types of prime movers while ensuring structural integrity, optimal weight distribution, and ease of assembly.

[0039]

[0026] Figure 1 is a side view of a saddle-type vehicle illustrating the mounting configuration of an exemplary prime mover on a frame assembly in an assembled condition, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0040]

[0027] In the present invention, a longitudinal axis refers to a front to rear axis relative to a vehicle, defining a vehicle length direction while a lateral axis refers to a side to side, or left to right axis relative to the vehicle, defining a vehicle width direction. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. Arrows provided in the top right corner of figures depicts direction with respect to the vehicle, wherein an arrow Fr denotes a front direction, an arrow Rr indicates a rearward direction, an arrow Up denotes an upward direction, an arrow Dw denotes a downward direction of the vehicle.

[0041]

[0028] Figure 1 is a side view of a saddle-type vehicle 10 with a frame assembly 12 and an exemplary prime mover 100 and without other components shown. The saddle-type vehicle 10 hereinafter also referred to as “vehicle”. The frame assembly 12 supports various components and provides a stable structure. The frame assembly 12 includes a head tube 20, a main tube 30 and a downtube 40. The main tube 30 extends rearwardly and downwardly in a front-rear direction (Fr-Rr) of the vehicle 10. The main tube 30 includes a front end 30a (shown in Figure 2a) and arear end 30b. The front end 30a is attached to the head tube 20. The downtube 40 extends rearwardly and downwardly in the front-rear direction (Fr-Rr) of the vehicle 10. The prime mover 100 is positioned in a predefined zone (P).

[0042]

[0029] The prime mover 100 includes but not limited to an internal combustion (IC) engine or a traction motor. The prime mover 100 is strategically positioned within a predefined zone (P) closer to the center of gravity (CG) of the vehicle 10, ensuring better weight distribution, improved handling, and enhanced ride stability. The predefined zone (P) is defined by four imaginary planes - a first imaginary plane (A- A'), a second imaginary plane (B-B'), a third imaginary plane (C-C ), and a fourth imaginary plane (D-D'). These planes (A- A', B-B', C-C', D-D') intersect with each other to form a quadrilateral plane, ensuring precise positioning of the prime mover 100 within the frame assembly 12 of the vehicle 10. The first imaginary plane (A- A') passes through a portion of the main tube (30) and forming a first angle with the ground. The third imaginary plane (C-C') passes axially through a portion of the main tube 30 and intersects with both the first imaginary plane (A- A') and the second imaginary plane (B-B'). The second imaginary plane (B-B') passes axially through a portion of the downtube 40 and intersects with both the first imaginary plane (A- A') and the fourth imaginary planes (D-D'). A portion of the fourth imaginary plane (D-D') passes axially with a guard member 130 that is supportably attached to both the downtube 40 and the main tube 30. The fourth imaginary plane (D-D') intersect with each of the first imaginary plane (A- A') and the second imaginary plane (B-B'). The intersection of these planes defines the spatial constraints within which the prime mover is positioned.

[0043]

[0030] To facilitate secure and modular attachment of the prime mover 100 or other components required for operating the prime mover 100, the vehicle 10 incorporates one or more mounting members 110, 150 that allow for detachable connection to the downtube 40 and / or the main tube 30. These mounting members 110, 150 include a first mounting member 110, which is connected to a portion of the downtube 40, preferably at its lower end, and a second mounting member 150, which is connected to the main tube 30, preferably at its rear end 30b. The secondmounting member 150 is configured to support a swing arm (not shown) to which a rear wheel (not shown) is swingably attached.

[0044]

[0031] The frame assembly 12 includes a pair of seat rails 60 extending rearwardly from a portion of the main tube 30 in the front-rear direction (Fr-Rr) of the vehicle 10. A pair of seat rail support members 66 being attached to the second member 150 and each of the pair of seat rails 60.

[0045]

[0032] In an embodiment, the saddle-type vehicle 10 includes a tray 120 configured to hold / support one or more components. The tray 120 is securely attached to both the first mounting member 110 and the second mounting member 150. The supported components may include, but are not limited to, a battery pack, wiring harness, or any other vehicle component necessary for operating the traction motor 100, particularly if the saddle-type vehicle is electric or hybrid.

[0046]

[0033] In an embodiment, the saddle-type vehicle 10 includes a crash guard 140 guard supported on the down tube 40 and the first mounting member 110. The crash guard 140 is configured to provide rider safety and protect vehicle components in case of an impact.

[0047]

[0034] In an embodiment, the saddle-type vehicle 10 includes the guard member 130 positioned below the prime mover 100. The guard member 130 is securely mounted to both the first mounting member 110 and the second mounting member 150. The guard member 130 provides protection to the prime mover 100 and any components located adjacent to it within a predefined protection zone (P). This protection is offered against potential damage from external elements such as stones, water splashes, road debris, or any similar objects encountered during vehicle operation. The guard member 130 acts as a shield, preventing these elements from directly impacting the prime mover 100 and its surrounding components.

[0048]

[0035] Figure 2a is a perspective exploded view of the frame assembly 12, excluding the prime mover 100, while illustrating the tray 120 in a dismantled state. This configuration is in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Similarly, Figure 2b provides a perspective exploded view of the frame assembly 12, illustrating the prime mover 100 in a dismantled condition, in accordance withan embodiment of the present invention. The first mounting member 110 and the second mounting member 150 are provided with a plurality of openings (X) and (Y), respectively. These openings (X, Y) are adapted to accommodate attachment means, referred to (M) and (N). The attachment means (M, N) includes, but not limited to a, bolt and a nut. These attachment means (M, N) facilitate the secure connection of various components, including the prime mover 200, the tray 120, the guard member 130, and the crash guard 140.

[0049]

[0036] In an embodiment, the first mounting member 110 is structured to receive attachment means (M, N) for connecting one or more attachment portions of components such as the crash guard 140, the guard member 130, the tray 120, and the prime mover 200. This configuration ensures structural integrity and effective distribution of loads during operation.

[0050]

[0037] In an embodiment, the second mounting member 150 is configured to accommodate attachment means (M, N) for securing one or more attachment portions of the multiple components, including the prime mover 200, the seat rail support members 66, the tray 120 and the guard member 130.

[0051]

[0038] In an embodiment, the tray 120 includes a central support portion 121, which is formed by a pair of elongated tubes 122 extending in the front-rear direction (Fr-Rr) of the vehicle 10. Further, the tray 120 incorporates a pair of lateral support portions 124,126 each of which extend outwardly from one side of the central support portion 121 in the vehicle width direction (Lt-Rt). These lateral support portions 124, 126 being constructed / formed using one or more elongated tubes 128 to enhance structural rigidity and load-bearing capacity. A front coupling member, denoted as (Cl), is affixed to front ends 122a of the elongated tubes 122 forming the central support portion 121. This front coupling member (Cl) is configured to be securely attached to the first mounting member 110 through attachment means (M, N) fastened to the opening (X) of the first mounting member 110, ensuring a firm connection thereof. Similarly, a rear coupling member, denoted by (C2), is connected to rear ends 122b of the elongated tubes 122 of the central support portion 121. This rear coupling member (C2) is configured for secure attachment to the second mounting member 150 via attachment means (M,N) attached to the opening (Y) of the second mounting member 150, thereby providing a robust connection between the tray 120 and the frame assembly 12.

[0052]

[0039] In an embodiment, the central support portion 121 and the lateral support portions 124 and 126 of the tray 120 are configured to accommodate and support at least one battery pack. This configuration ensures proper weight distribution and enhances the overall functionality of the battery pack.

[0053]

[0040] In an embodiment, the first mounting member 110 includes a base portion 112 and a pair of spaced-apart flange portions 116 that extend outwardly from lateral side of the base portion 112. Each of these flange portions 116 is provided with the openings X, which are precisely configured to receive the attachment means (M, N). This configuration ensures a reliable and efficient method for securing the components 120, 130.

[0054]

[0041] In an embodiment, the prime mover 100 includes a casing 101 having front attachment ends 102a, 102b and a rear attachment end 102c. The front attachment ends 102a, 102b are secured to the first mounting member 110 through attachment means (Ml, Nl) and (M2, N2). The rear attachment end is secured to the second mounting member 150 via an auxiliary connection member 158 and attachment means (M3, N3).

[0055]

[0042] Figure 3a is a perspective exploded view of the frame assembly 12 and illustrating a structure of a guard member 130 in a dismantled condition, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. This figure highlights the individual components and their relative positioning before assembly, offering insights into the design and functionality of the guard member 130. Figure 3b is a perspective exploded view of the frame assembly 12 and illustrating a crash guard 140 in a dismantled condition, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3b showcases another perspective view of the frame assembly 12, specifically focusing on the crash guard 140 in a disassembled condition. This view reveals the various elements of the crash guard 140 and how they integrate into the overall frame structure. Figure 3c is a perspective exploded view of the frame assembly 12, illustrating the structure of the first mounting member 110 in a dismantled condition, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.Specifically, Figure 3c provides a perspective representation of the frame assembly 12, showcasing the first mounting member 110 in its dismantled condition. This visual representation details the attachment points and structural characteristics essential for mounting the component, enhancing the understanding of its role within the assembly.

[0056]

[0043] In an embodiment, the guard member 130 includes a pair of tubular members 132 extending in the vehicle length direction and interconnected by a pair of connection members 134. Each of the pair of tubular members 132 includes a front connection end 132a and a rear connection end 132b.

[0057]

[0044] In an embodiment, the crash guard 140 includes a central support portion 142a, a left-side portion 142b extending outwardly and downwardly from the central portion 142a and a right-side portion 142c extending outwardly and downwardly from the central portion 142a.

[0058]

[0045] In an embodiment, the guard member 130 includes a pair of elongated tubular members 132, which are oriented in the lengthwise direction of the vehicle. These tubular members 132 are structurally reinforced and interconnected by a pair of rigid connection members 134, ensuring stability and durability. Each of the tubular members 132 features two distinct connection ends: a front connection end 132a, designed to align and secure with the forward section of the vehicle frame, and a rear connection end 132b, which facilitates attachment to the rear portion of the assembly. This configuration not only enhances structural integrity but also contributes to the overall protective function of the guard member 130.

[0059]

[0046] In another embodiment, the crash guard 140 is designed with a multisectioned structure to provide enhanced impact resistance and vehicle protection. The crash guard 140 includes a central support portion 142a, which serves as the primary load-bearing section the central support portion 142 includes a first connection member 144. The first connection member 144 includes a plate with a ring like member. The first connection member 144 is configured to be supported on a recess 44 (shown in Figure 3c) formed on a lower end of the downtube 40. The crash guard 140 includes a left-side portion 142b extending outwardly in the vehicle width direction (Lt-Rt) from a portion of the central support portion 142 and thendownwardly in a vehicle height direction (Up-Dw). Similarly, a right-side portion 142c extends outwardly in the vehicle width direction (Lt-Rt) from a portion of the central support portion 142 and then downwardly in the vehicle height direction (Up-Dw). Each of these side portions 142b, 142c terminates into ends 146 having a clamping member 148. The clamping member 148 includes a hole configured to receive the fastener for securing the ends 146 to the first mounting member 140. These side portions 142b, 142c are strategically positioned to absorb and distribute impact forces efficiently, minimizing damage to the rider or to the vehicle in case of a vehicle accident.

[0060]

[0047] In an embodiment, the lower end of the down tube 40 includes mounting holes 46 for mounting the first mounting member 110.

[0061]

[0048] Figures 4a, 4b and 4c are front, perspective and side views, respectively, of the first mounting member of the saddle-type vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0062]

[0049] As shown, the first mounting member 110 is a mounting bracket having the base portion 112 extending in the vehicle width direction (Lt-Rt). The pair of flange portions 116a, 116b extends integrally outwardly from the lateral ends 112a, 112b of the base portion 112 in the front-rear direction (Fr-Rr) of the vehicle 10. The flange portions 116a, 116b faces an internal side of each other and are symmetrically formed.

[0063]

[0050] In an embodiment, the plurality of openings (X) provided on the flange portion 116a corresponds with the plurality of opening (X) provided on the flange portion 116b. An upper portion of each of the flange portions 116a, 116b includes a first opening (XI), a second opening (X2), a third opening (X3), and a four opening (X4). The first openings (XI) are configured to receive the attachment means (M, N) to secure the first mounting member 110 on a mounting hole provided on the downframe 40 through the attachment means (M, N). The second openings (X2) are configured to mount the crash guard 140 through the attachment means (M, N). The third openings (X3) are configured to mount the first coupling member (Cl) of the tray 120. The fourth openings (X4) are configured to mount the frontupper attachment end of the prime mover 100 through the attachment means (M, N).

[0064]

[0051] A lower portion of each of the flange portions 116a, 116b includes a fifth opening (X5) and a sixth opening (X6). The fifth opening(X5) is configured to mount the front lower attachment end of the prime mover 100 through the attachment means (M, N). The sixth opening (X6) is configured to mount the guard member 130.

[0065]

[0052] In an embodiment, each of flange portions 116a, 116b may include one or more cut out portions 118 formed to reduce the weight of the first mounting member 110.

[0066]

[0053] Figure 5 is a top perspective view illustrating the structure of the tray 120, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. As shown, the pair of lateral support portions 124, 126 includes a supporting plates 124a, 1226a. Each of the supporting plates 124a, 126a includes recesses for mounting casing of the battery pack (not shown) or any other component.

[0067]

[0054] Advantageously, the present invention provides a frame assembly for a saddle-type vehicle. The frame assembly is configured to accommodate different types of prime movers while ensuring structural integrity, optimal weight distribution, and ease of assembly. The vehicle frame assembly comprises a headtube, a main tube, and a downtube, each of which plays a critical role in supporting various components and providing a stable structure. The prime mover, which can be either an internal combustion engine or a traction motor, is positioned within a predefined zone closer to the center of gravity of the vehicle, ensuring better weight distribution, improved handling, and enhanced ride stability. One of the key advantages of the present invention is its ability to support modular vehicle configurations. The same frame assembly designed for an IC engine can be adapted for use with a traction motor or a hybrid powertrain with minimal modifications. This significantly reduces the need for separate frame designs for different powertrains, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity, production costs, and parts requirements. The configuration of mounting members allows for easy integration of electric drive components, batteries, and other necessary electricalsystems without requiring significant alterations to the frame structure. Additionally, the placement of the prime mover within the predefined zone improves overall vehicle balance, reducing dynamic instability caused by uneven weight distribution. Furthermore, the mounting members allows mounting provisions for auxiliary components, such as trays and guard members, allows for better space utilization and protection of electrical components, sensors, or auxiliary power units when disposed within the predefined zone of the frame assembly, making the vehicle adaptable to various operational requirements.

[0068]

[0055] 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.

[0069] List of Reference Numerals

[0070] 10 - Saddle-type Vehicle

[0071] 12 - Frame Assembly of the saddle-type vehicle

[0072] 20 - Head tube of the frame assembly

[0073] 30 - Main tube of the frame assembly

[0074] 30a - Front end of the main tube

[0075] 30b - Rear end of the main tube

[0076] 40 - Downtube of the frame assembly

[0077] 60 - Seat Rails of the frame assembly

[0078] 66 - Seat rail support members

[0079] 100 - Prime mover

[0080] 101 - Casing of the prime mover

[0081] 102a, 102b - Front attachment ends of the casing

[0082] 102c - Rear attachment end of the casing

[0083] 110 - Mounting member / First mounting member

[0084] 112 - Base portion of the mounting member

[0085] 116, 116a, 116 - Flange portions of the mounting member

[0086] 118 - Cut out portions of the first mounting member120 - Tray

[0087] 121 - Central support portion

[0088] 122 - Elongated tubes

[0089] 122a- Front end of the elongated tubes

[0090] 122b - Rear end of the elongated tubes

[0091] 124 - Lateral support portion

[0092] 124a - Supporting plate of the lateral support portion 126 - Lateral support portion

[0093] 126a - Supporting plate of the lateral support portion 128 - Elongated tube

[0094] 130 - Guard member

[0095] 140 - Crash guard

[0096] 150 - Mounting member / Second mounting member 158 - Auxiliary connection member

[0097] M, N - Attachment means

[0098] P - Predefined zone of the frame assembly

[0099] X, Y - Openings

[0100] A-A' - First imaginary plane

[0101] B-B'- Second imaginary plane

[0102] C-C - Third imaginary plane

[0103] D-Dl - Fourth imaginary plane

Claims

WE CLAIM:

1. A saddle-type vehicle (10) comprisinga frame assembly (12) having a headtube (20); a main tube (30), said main tube (30) extending rearwardly and downwardly from said headtube (20) and; a downtube (40), said downtube (40) extending rearwardly and downwardly from said headtube (20), anda prime mover (100), said prime mover (100) is positioned in a predefined zone (P) closer to a center of gravity (CG) of said vehicle (10).

2. The saddle-type vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said predefined zone (P) is defined by imaginary planes (A-A’, B-B’, C-C’, D-D'), said imaginary planes (A-A’, B-B’, C-C’, D-D’) includes a first imaginary plane (A- A'), a second imaginary plane (B-B'), a third imaginary plane (C-C') and a fourth imaginary plane (D-D').

3. The saddle-type vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 2, wherein said first imaginary plane (A-A'), said second imaginary plane (B-B'), said third imaginary plane (C-C') and said fourth imaginary plane (D-D') collectively form a quadrilateral plane.

4. The saddle-type vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 2, wherein said first imaginary plane (A-A') passing vertically through a portion of said main tube (30) and making a first angle with a ground and wherein said third imaginary plane (C- C ) passing axially through a portion of said main tube (30) and intersecting with each of said first imaginary plane (A-A') and said second imaginary plane (B-B ).

5. The saddle-type vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 2, wherein said second imaginary plane (B-B') passing axially through a portion of said downtube (40) and intersecting with each of said first imaginary plane (A-A') and said fourth imaginary plane (D-D'), and said fourth imaginary plane (C-C') passing axiallythrough a portion of a guard member (130) supportably attached to each of said downtube (40) and said main tube (30) and intersecting with each of said first imaginary plane (A- A') and said second imaginary plane (B-B') .

6. The saddle-type vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said prime mover (100) being connected to at least one of said downtube (40) and said main tube (30) through one or more mounting members (110, 150).

7. The saddle-type vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said mounting members (110, 150) includes a first mounting member (110) and a second mounting member (150), said first mounting member (110) being connected to a portion of said downtube (40), and said second mounting member (150) being connected to said main tube (30).

8. The saddle-type vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 7, wherein each of said first mounting member (110) and said second mounting member (150) being configured with a plurality of openings (X, Y ), said plurality of openings (X, Y) adapted to receive attachment means (M, N) to connect at least one of said prime mover (100) and a tray (120), a guard member (130) and the crash guard (140).

9. The saddle-type vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 7, wherein said first mounting member (110) being configured to receive said attachment means (M, N) to connect at least one of said crash guard (140), said guard member (130), said tray (120), and said prime mover (100).

10. The saddle-type vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 7, wherein said second mounting member (150) being configured to receive said attachment means (M, N) to connect each of said prime mover (100), said seat rail support members (66), and said tray (120).

11. The saddle-type vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the tray (120) comprises:a central support portion (121) formed by a pair of elongated tubes (122, 122) extending in the front-rear direction of the vehicle;a pair of lateral support portions (124, 126) extending outwardly from both sides of the central portion in a vehicle width direction (Lt-Rt), each of the pair of lateral support portions (124, 126) formed by one or more elongated tubes (128);a front coupling member (Cl) attached to front ends (122a) of the pair of elongated tubes (122, 122) of the central support portion (121), the front coupling member (Cl) being configured to be attached to said first mounting member (110), anda rear coupling member (C2) attached to rear ends (122b) of the pair of elongated tubes (122) of the central support portion (122), the rear coupling member (C2) being configured to be attached to said second mounting member (150).

12. The saddle-type vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the central support portion (121) and the pair of lateral support portions (124, 126) of the tray (120) being configured to support at least a battery.

13. The saddle-type vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the first mounting member (110) comprises: a base portion (112) and a pair of spaced apart flange portions (116) extending outwardly from the base portion, each flange portions (116) having a plurality of mounting holes configured to receive attachment means.

14. The saddle-type vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the guard member (130) comprises: a pair of tubular members (132) extending in a vehicle length direction and interconnected by a pair of connection members (134), each ofthe pair of tubular members (132) comprises a front connection end (132a) and a rear connection end (132b).

15. The saddle-type vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the crash guard (140) comprises a central support portion (142a), a left-side portion (142b) extending outwardly and downwardly from the central portion (142a), and a right-side portion (142c) extending outwardly and downwardly from the central portion (142a).

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