Vehicle

A right front fender and a left front fender are displaceable relative to a vehicle body frame in accordance with an operation of a link mechanism. At least a portion of the right front fender is disposed above a center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between an upper end of a right front wheel and a lower edge of the link mechanism or a steering mechanism directly above the right front wheel, as seen from a front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state. At least a portion of the left front fender is disposed above a center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between an upper end of a left front wheel and a lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism directly above the left front wheel, as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a vehicle equipped with a leanable body frame and two front wheels.

2. Description of the Related Art

A known vehicle includes a vehicle body frame that is leanable leftward or rightward when the vehicle is cornering, and two front wheels that are arranged side by side in a left-right direction of the vehicle body frame (for example, see U.S. Design Pat. No. D547,242 and U.S. Pat. No. 7,073,806).

A front portion of this type of vehicle tends to be large. Thus, in the vehicles described in U.S. Design Pat. No. D547,242 and U.S. Pat. No. 7,073,806, the link mechanism is disposed above the two front wheels so as to reduce the space therebetween, thus realizing a reduction in the size of the front portion of the vehicle in relation to the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame. However, in the vehicle including two front wheels in which a distance therebetween is narrow, the vehicle body cover covering the link mechanism extends, when the vehicle is in the upright state, to an area forward of the front ends of the two front wheels and below upper ends of the two front wheels. Consequently, it is difficult to reduce the size of the front portion of the vehicle in relation to the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame.

An attempt was made to reduce the size of the vehicle body cover in relation to the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame. Specifically, the shape of the vehicle body cover was changed so that a front end of the vehicle body cover was disposed behind the front ends of the two front wheels, the space between which was reduced, and above the upper ends thereof when the vehicle is in the upright state. As a result, although it was possible to decrease the size of the front portion of the vehicle, it was discovered that the maximum speed of the vehicle may decrease, or fuel consumption may deteriorate.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Consequently, preferred embodiments of the present invention provide a front portion of a vehicle including a leanable vehicle body frame and two front wheels smaller in size while maintaining the traveling performance of the vehicle.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle includes a vehicle body frame; a handlebar configured to turn relative to the vehicle body frame; a vehicle body cover at least a portion of which covers the vehicle body frame; a right front wheel and a left front wheel arranged side by side in a left-right direction of the vehicle body frame; a steering mechanism configured to transmit a turning motion of the handlebar to the right front wheel and the left front wheel; a link mechanism disposed above the right front wheel and the left front wheel, and configured to cause the vehicle body frame to lean relative to a vertical direction by changing positions of the right front wheel and the left front wheel relative to the vehicle body frame; and a power unit supported by the vehicle body frame and including a drive source; wherein the vehicle body cover includes a link cover portion covering at least a portion of the link mechanism, configured to not be displaced relative to the vehicle body frame, including a front portion disposed forward of respective rear ends of the right front wheel and the left front wheel in a front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame, and as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame of the vehicle when the vehicle body frame is in an upright state, is configured such that a right lower edge of the front portion directly above the right front wheel is disposed above a lower end of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism in an up-down direction of the vehicle body frame, and such that a left lower edge of the front portion directly above the left front wheel is disposed above a lower end of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame; a right aerodynamic portion configured to be displaced relative to the vehicle body frame in accordance with an operation of the link mechanism, configured to reduce wind pressure received during travelling of the vehicle by at least one of a portion of the link mechanism, a portion of the steering mechanism, a portion of the vehicle body frame, a portion of the vehicle body cover, and a portion of the power unit, any one of which is located between an upper edge of the right front wheel and the right lower edge of the front portion of the link cover portion, and is located above a center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between an upper end of the right front wheel and a lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism directly above the right front wheel as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state; and a left aerodynamic portion configured to be displaced relative to the vehicle body frame in accordance with the operation of the link mechanism, configured to reduce wind pressure received during travelling of the vehicle by at least one of a portion of the link mechanism, a portion of the steering mechanism, a portion of the vehicle body frame, a portion of the vehicle body cover, and a portion of the power unit, any one of which is located between an upper edge of the left front wheel and the left lower edge of the front portion of the link cover portion, and is located above a center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between an upper end of the left front wheel and a lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism directly above the left front wheel as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state.

In the vehicle including the leanable vehicle body frame and the link mechanism, the right front wheel and the left front wheel each have a wide movable range. This is because the right front wheel and the left front wheel are turned when steered, displaced in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame as the right shock absorber and the left shock absorber extend or contract, and displaced in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame in accordance with the operation of the link mechanism. A vehicle body cover, which is not displaced relative to the vehicle body frame, covers a long distance with respect to the right front wheel and the left front wheel, each of which has such a wide movable range, so as to avoid interference therewith.

When a front end of the vehicle body cover is disposed behind the respective front ends of the right and left front wheels arranged with a narrow space therebetween to decrease the size of the vehicle body cover in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame, the vehicle body cover is likely to interfere with the right and left front wheels. It is preferable to secure a large distance between a lower edge of the front portion of the vehicle body cover and each of the respective upper ends of the right and left front wheels so as to prevent interference between the vehicle body cover and the right and left front wheels.

As a result of evaluations of various vehicle body covers having different shapes, it has been discovered that the deterioration of the traveling performance is caused by wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle by at least one of a portion of the power unit, a portion of the vehicle body cover, a portion of the vehicle body frame, a portion of the steering mechanism, and a portion of the link mechanism located between the right lower edge of the front portion of the link cover portion and the upper edge of the right front wheel and between the left lower edge of the front portion of the link cover portion and the upper edge of the left front wheel as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state; located above the center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between the upper end of the right front wheel and the lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism directly above the right front wheel; and is located above the center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between the upper end of the left front wheel and the lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism directly above the left front wheel. Further, it has been discovered that the reduction of the wind pressure contributes to the maintenance of the traveling performance of the vehicle.

In addition, it has been discovered that the vehicle body cover not only covers at least a portion of the link mechanism but also reduces wind pressure. Accordingly, the vehicle body cover is divided in accordance with the functions thereof into a portion (the link cover portion) that covers at least a portion of the link mechanism and a portion (the right aerodynamic portion and the left aerodynamic portion) that contributes to the wind pressure reduction. Then, suitable positions and shapes for each of the individual functional portions was considered.

In the vehicle including the leanable vehicle body frame and the link mechanism, the right front wheel and the left front wheel each have a wide movable range. Consequently, there may be a large change in the positions and sizes of the areas between the link mechanism and the right front wheel and between the link mechanism and the left front wheel, in accordance with the operation of the link mechanism. When the portion defining and serving as the aerodynamic portion is not displaced relative to the vehicle body frame, the aerodynamic portion covers the entire areas that change their position to deflect air flow coming into these areas. This enlarges the portion that defines the aerodynamic portions.

The link cover portion is not displaced relative to the vehicle body frame and covers at least a portion of the link mechanism. In the link cover portion, at least a portion of the function to contribute to the wind pressure reduction is divided into the right aerodynamic portion and the left aerodynamic portion. Thus, the degree of freedom in the design of the link cover portion is enhanced. In addition, by separating at least a portion of the functions that the link cover portion provides, the link cover portion is smaller. Specifically, the link cover portion includes the front portion that is disposed forward of the respective rear ends of the right and left front wheels in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame. As seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state, the right lower edge of the front portion that is directly above the right front wheel is disposed above the lower end of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame, and the left lower edge of the front portion that is directly above the left front wheel is disposed above the lower end of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame. More specifically, the vehicle body cover is made smaller in size in relation to the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame by narrowing the space between the right front wheel and the left front wheel. In addition, the vehicle body cover is made smaller in size in relation to the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame.

A relatively large space is provided between the right lower edge of the front portion of the link cover portion and the upper edge of the right front wheel, and between the left lower edge of the front portion of the link cover portion and the upper edge of the left front wheel by making the link cover portion smaller in size in relation to the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame. However, the right aerodynamic portion and the left aerodynamic portion are configured so as to be displaced relative to the vehicle body frame in accordance with the operation of the link mechanism. More specifically, even though the positions and sizes of the areas between the link mechanism and the right front wheel and between the link mechanism and the left front wheel change in accordance with the operation of the link mechanism, the right aerodynamic portion and the left aerodynamic portion are caused to move according to the changes in the positions and sizes of the areas. Consequently, the right aerodynamic portion and the left aerodynamic portion are made smaller in size even though the right aerodynamic portion and the left aerodynamic portion provide the same aerodynamic function as that of the aerodynamic portion that is not displaced relative to the vehicle body frame irrespective of how the link mechanism operates. With this configuration, even though the right aerodynamic portion and the left aerodynamic portion are made smaller in size, it is possible to reduce or prevent an increase in the wind pressure that the vehicle receives.

Thus, as has been described above, the link cover portion is smaller in size by separating therefrom at least a portion of the function that contributes to the wind pressure reduction. In addition, the link cover portion is also made smaller by providing the right aerodynamic portion and the left aerodynamic portion, both of which are displaced relative to the vehicle body frame in accordance with the operation of the link mechanism, so as to contribute to the wind pressure reduction. Consequently, the front portion of the vehicle is made smaller in size while maintaining the traveling performance of the vehicle including the leanable vehicle body frame and the two front wheels.

Preferably, the vehicle is configured such that a front edge of the right aerodynamic portion is inclined such that at least one of an upper end thereof and a lower end thereof is located behind a front end thereof as seen from a side of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state; and a front edge of the left aerodynamic portion is inclined such that at least one of an upper end thereof and a lower end thereof is located behind a front end thereof as seen from the side of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state.

With this configuration, the direction of air is deflected in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame, along the inclined portion of the right aerodynamic portion, that is flowing toward at least one of a portion of the power unit, a portion of the vehicle body cover, a portion of the vehicle body frame, a portion of the steering mechanism, and a portion of the link mechanism located between the right lower edge of the front portion of the link cover portion and the upper edge of the right front wheel as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state; and is located above the center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between the upper end of the right front wheel and the lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism directly above the right front wheel. For this reason, it is possible to further reduce the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle by at least one of a portion of the power unit, a portion of the vehicle body cover, a portion of the vehicle body frame, a portion of the steering mechanism, and a portion of the link mechanism located between the right lower edge of the front portion of the link cover portion and the upper edge of the right front wheel as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state; and is located above the center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between the upper end of the right front wheel and the lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism directly above the right front wheel. Therefore, the right aerodynamic portion having the function to contribute to the wind pressure reduction is made even smaller in size.

In addition, the direction of air is deflected in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame, along the inclined portion of the left aerodynamic portion, that is flowing toward at least one of a portion of the power unit, a portion of the vehicle body cover, a portion of the vehicle body frame, a portion of the steering mechanism, and a portion of the link mechanism located between the left lower edge of the front portion of the link cover portion and the upper edge of the left front wheel as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state; and is located above the center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between the upper end of the left front wheel and the lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism directly above the left front wheel. For this reason, it is possible to further reduce the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle by at least one of a portion of the power unit, a portion of the vehicle body cover, a portion of the vehicle body frame, the steering mechanism, and a portion of the link mechanism located between the left lower edge of the front portion of the link cover portion and the upper edge of the left front wheel as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state; and is located above the center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between the upper end of the left front wheel and the lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism directly above the left front wheel. Therefore, the left aerodynamic portion having the function to contribute to the wind pressure reduction is made even smaller in size.

Consequently, the front portion of the vehicle is made even smaller in size while maintaining the traveling performance of the vehicle including the leanable vehicle body frame and the two front wheels.

Preferably, the vehicle is configured such that a front edge of the right aerodynamic portion is inclined such that at least one of a right end thereof and a left end thereof is located behind a front end thereof as seen from above the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state; and a front edge of the left aerodynamic portion is inclined such that at least one of a right end thereof and a left end thereof is located behind a front end thereof as seen from above the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state.

With this configuration, the direction of air is deflected in the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame along the inclined portion of the right aerodynamic portion that is flowing toward at least one of a portion of the power unit, a portion of the vehicle body cover, the vehicle body frame, a portion of the steering mechanism, and a portion of the link mechanism located between the right lower edge of the front portion of the link cover portion and the upper edge of the right front wheel as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state; and is located above the center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between the upper end of the right front wheel and the lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism directly above the right front wheel. For this reason, it is possible to further reduce the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle by at least one of a portion of the power unit, a portion of the vehicle body cover, a portion of the vehicle body frame, a portion of the steering mechanism, and a portion of the link mechanism located between the right lower edge of the front portion of the link cover portion and the upper edge of the right front wheel as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state; and is located above the center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between the upper end of the right front wheel and the lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism directly above the right front wheel. Therefore, the right aerodynamic portion having the function to contribute to the wind pressure reduction is made even smaller in size.

In addition, the direction of air is deflected in the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame, along the inclined portion of the left aerodynamic portion, that is flowing toward at least one of a portion of the power unit, a portion of the vehicle body cover, a portion of the vehicle body frame, a portion of the steering mechanism, and a portion of the link mechanism located between the left lower edge of the front portion of the link cover portion and the upper edge of the left front wheel as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state; and is located above the center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between the upper end of the left front wheel and the lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism directly above the left front wheel. For this reason, it is possible to further reduce the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle by at least one of a portion of the power unit, a portion of the vehicle body cover, a portion of the vehicle body frame, a portion of the steering mechanism, and a portion of the link mechanism located between the left lower edge of the front portion of the link cover portion and the upper edge of the left front wheel as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state; and is located above the center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between the upper end of the left front wheel and the lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism directly above the left front wheel. Therefore, the left aerodynamic portion having the function to contribute to the wind pressure reduction is made even smaller in size.

Consequently, the front portion of the vehicle is made even smaller in size while maintaining the traveling performance of the vehicle including the leanable vehicle body frame and the two front wheels.

Preferably, the vehicle is configured such that at least a portion of the right aerodynamic portion is disposed behind a front end of the right front wheel in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state; and at least a portion of the left aerodynamic portion is disposed behind a front end of the left front wheel in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state.

With this arrangement, it is possible to further reduce the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle by at least one of a portion of the power unit, a portion of the vehicle body cover, a portion of the vehicle body frame, the steering mechanism, and a portion of the link mechanism located between the right lower edge of the front portion of the link cover portion and the upper edge of the right front wheel as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state; and is located above the center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between the upper end of the right front wheel and the lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism directly above the right front wheel. Furthermore, it is possible to bring the right front wheel close to the right aerodynamic portion while preventing interference between the right front wheel that is displaced and the right aerodynamic portion. For this reason, the vehicle including the right aerodynamic portion with the function to contribute to the wind pressure reduction is made smaller in size.

In addition, it is possible to further reduce the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle by at least one of a portion of the power unit, a portion of the vehicle body cover, a portion of the vehicle body frame, a portion of the steering mechanism, and a portion of the link mechanism located between the left lower edge of the front portion of the link cover portion and the upper edge of the left front wheel as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state; and is located above the center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between the upper end of the left front wheel and the lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism directly above the left front wheel. Furthermore, it is possible to bring the left front wheel close to the left aerodynamic portion while preventing interference between the left front wheel that is displaced and the left aerodynamic portion. For this reason, the vehicle including the left aerodynamic portion with the function to contribute to the wind pressure reduction is made smaller in size.

Consequently, the front portion of the vehicle is made even smaller in size while maintaining the traveling performance of the vehicle including the leanable vehicle body frame and the two front wheels.

Preferably, the vehicle is configured such that at least a portion of the right aerodynamic portion is disposed forward of at least one of a portion of the link mechanism, a portion of the steering mechanism, a portion of the vehicle body frame, a portion of the vehicle body cover, and a portion of the power unit, any one of which is located between the upper edge of the right front wheel and the right lower edge of the front portion of the link cover portion, and is located above the center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between an upper end of the right front wheel and a lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism directly above the right front wheel, as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state; and at least a portion of the left aerodynamic portion is disposed forward of at least one of a portion of the link mechanism, a portion of the steering mechanism, a portion of the vehicle body frame, a portion of the vehicle body cover, and a portion of the power unit, any one of which is located between the upper edge of the left front wheel and the left lower edge of the front portion of the link cover portion, and is located above the center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between an upper end of the left front wheel and a lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism directly above the left front wheel, as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state.

With this arrangement, it is possible to further reduce the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle by at least one of a portion of the power unit, a portion of the vehicle body cover, a portion of the vehicle body frame, a portion of the steering mechanism, and a portion of the link mechanism located between the right lower edge of the front portion of the link cover portion and the upper edge of the right front wheel as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state; and is located above the center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between the upper end of the right front wheel and the lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism directly above the right front wheel. Furthermore, it is possible to bring the right front wheel close to the right aerodynamic portion while preventing interference between the right front wheel that is displaced and the right aerodynamic portion. For this reason, the vehicle including the right aerodynamic portion with the function to contribute to the wind pressure reduction is made smaller in size.

In addition, it is possible to further reduce the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle by at least one of a portion of the power unit, a portion of the vehicle body cover, a portion of the vehicle body frame, a portion of the steering mechanism, and a portion of the link mechanism located between the left lower edge of the front portion of the link cover portion and the upper edge of the left front wheel as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state; and is located above the center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between the upper end of the left front wheel and the lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism directly above the left front wheel. Furthermore, it is possible to bring the left front wheel close to the left aerodynamic portion while preventing interference between the left front wheel that is displaced and the left aerodynamic portion. For this reason, the vehicle including the left aerodynamic portion with the function to contribute to the wind pressure reduction is made smaller in size.

Consequently, the front portion of the vehicle is made even smaller in size while maintaining the traveling performance of the vehicle including the leanable vehicle body frame and the two front wheels.

Preferably, the vehicle is configured such that the steering mechanism includes a right shock absorber supporting the right front wheel at a lower portion thereof, and configured to buffer displacement of the right front wheel in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame relative to an upper portion thereof; a left shock absorber supporting the left front wheel at a lower portion thereof, and configured to buffer displacement of the left front wheel in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame relative to an upper portion thereof; a right bracket to which the upper portion of the right shock absorber is fixed; a left bracket to which the upper portion of the left shock absorber is fixed; a steering shaft to which the handlebar is attached; and a transmission mechanism configured to transmit a turning motion of steering shaft to the right bracket and the left bracket; the right aerodynamic portion is fixed to any one of the link mechanism, the right shock absorber, the right bracket, and the transmission mechanism; and the left aerodynamic portion is fixed to any one of the link mechanism, the left shock absorber, the left bracket, and the transmission mechanism.

With this configuration, since the right and left aerodynamic portions are moved directly in accordance with the operation of the link mechanism, it is easy to make the right and left aerodynamic portions smaller in size. Consequently, the front portion of the vehicle is made even smaller in size while maintaining the traveling performance of the vehicle including the leanable vehicle body frame and the two front wheels.

Preferably, the vehicle is configured such that the right aerodynamic portion is fixed to the upper portion of the right shock absorber; and the left aerodynamic portion is fixed to the upper portion of the left shock absorber.

With this configuration, even when the right front wheel is displaced in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame due to the operation of the right shock absorber, the right aerodynamic portion is not displaced in the same direction in accordance with the displacement of the right front wheel. Accordingly, it is possible to further reduce the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle by at least one of a portion of the power unit, a portion of the vehicle body cover, a portion of the vehicle body frame, a portion of the steering mechanism, and a portion of the link mechanism located between the right lower edge of the front portion of the link cover portion and the upper edge of the right front wheel as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state; and is located above the center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between the upper end of the right front wheel and the lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism directly above the right front wheel. Therefore, the right aerodynamic portion having the function to contribute to the wind pressure reduction is made even smaller in size.

In addition, even when the left front wheel is displaced in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame due to the operation of the left shock absorber, the left aerodynamic portion is not displaced in the same direction in accordance with the displacement of the left front wheel. Accordingly, it is possible to further reduce the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle by at least one of a portion of the power unit, a portion of the vehicle body cover, a portion of the vehicle body frame, a portion of the steering mechanism, and a portion of the link mechanism located between the left lower edge of the front portion of the link cover portion and the upper edge of the left front wheel as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state; and is located above the center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between the upper end of the left front wheel and the lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism directly above the left front wheel. Therefore, the left aerodynamic portion having the function to contribute to the wind pressure reduction is made even smaller in size.

Consequently, the front portion of the vehicle is made even smaller in size while maintaining the traveling performance of the vehicle including the leanable vehicle body frame and the two front wheels.

Preferably, the vehicle may be configured such that at least a portion of the right aerodynamic portion is disposed above the center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between the upper end of the right front wheel and the lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism directly above the right front wheel, and is disposed below the right lower edge of the front portion of the link cover portion as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state; and at least a portion of the left aerodynamic portion is disposed above the center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between the upper end of the left front wheel and the lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism directly above the left front wheel, and is disposed below the left lower edge of the front portion of the link cover portion as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state.

With this arrangement, it is possible to further reduce the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle by at least one of a portion of the power unit, a portion of the vehicle body cover, a portion of the vehicle body frame, a portion of the steering mechanism, and a portion of the link mechanism located between the right lower edge of the front portion of the link cover portion and the upper edge of the right front wheel as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state; and is located above the center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between the upper end of the right front wheel and the lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism directly above the right front wheel. Therefore, the right aerodynamic portion having the function to contribute to the wind pressure reduction is made even smaller in size.

In addition, it is possible to further reduce the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle by at least one of a portion of the power unit, a portion of the vehicle body cover, a portion of the vehicle body frame, a portion of the steering mechanism, and a portion of the link mechanism located between the left lower edge of the front portion of the link cover portion and the upper edge of the left front wheel as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state; and is located above the center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between the upper end of the left front wheel and the lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism directly above the left front wheel. Therefore, the left aerodynamic portion having the function to contribute to the wind pressure reduction is made even smaller in size.

Consequently, the front portion of the vehicle is made even smaller in size while maintaining the traveling performance of the vehicle including the leanable vehicle body frame and the two front wheels.

Preferably, the vehicle may be configured such that at least a portion of the right aerodynamic portion is disposed below the center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between the upper end of the right front wheel and the lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism directly above the right front wheel, and is disposed above an upper edge of the right front wheel as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state; and at least a portion of the left aerodynamic portion is disposed below the center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between the upper end of the left front wheel and the lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism directly above the left front wheel, and is disposed above an upper edge of the left front wheel as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state.

According to the arrangement described above, at least a portion of the right aerodynamic portion is disposed below the center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between the upper end of the right front wheel and the lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism that is directly above the right front wheel, and is disposed above the upper edge of the right front wheel as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state. Since the right aerodynamic portion that is displaced relative to the vehicle body frame is disposed both above and below the center, the function contributing to the wind pressure reduction is ensured even though the right aerodynamic portion is small. Here, the portion below the center is spaced farther apart from the link cover portion that is not displaced relative to the vehicle body frame than the portion above the center. Accordingly, even though a portion of the right aerodynamic portion is disposed below the center, interference of the right aerodynamic portion with the link cover portion is avoided.

In addition, at least a portion of the left aerodynamic portion is disposed below the center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between the upper end of the left front wheel and the lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism that is located above the upper side of the left front wheel, and is disposed above the upper edge of the left front wheel as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state. Since the left aerodynamic portion that is displaced relative to the vehicle body frame is disposed both above and below the center, the function contributing to the wind pressure reduction is ensured even though the left aerodynamic portion is small. Here, the portion below the center is spaced farther apart from the link cover portion that is not displaced relative to the vehicle body frame than the portion above the center. Accordingly, even though portion of the left aerodynamic portion is disposed below the center, interference of the right aerodynamic portion with the link cover portion is avoided.

Consequently, the front portion of the vehicle is made even smaller in size while maintaining the traveling performance of the vehicle including the leanable vehicle body frame and the two front wheels.

Preferably, the vehicle may be configured such that the right aerodynamic portion covers at least a portion of an upper surface of the right front wheel, and is configured to prevent objects including muddy water kicked up by the right front wheel from scattering; and the left aerodynamic portion covers at least a portion of an upper surface of the left front wheel, and is configured to prevent objects including muddy water kicked up by the left front wheel from scattering.

With this configuration, it is possible to further reduce the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle by at least one of a portion of the power unit, a portion of the vehicle body cover, a portion of the vehicle body frame, a portion of the steering mechanism, a portion of the link mechanism located between the right lower edge of the front portion of the link cover portion and the upper edge of the right front wheel as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state; and is located above the center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between the upper end of the right front wheel and the lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism directly above the right front wheel. Therefore, the right aerodynamic portion having the function to contribute to the wind pressure reduction is made even smaller in size. In addition, since a portion of the fender function for the right front wheel is assigned to the right aerodynamic portion, it is possible to enhance the degree of freedom in the design of the right aerodynamic portion and the right front fender. Moreover, since a portion of the function of the right aerodynamic portion is assigned to the right front fender of the right front wheel, it is possible to enhance the degree of freedom in the design of the right aerodynamic portion and the right front fender. Accordingly, compared with a case where individual elements are prepared for each of the functions, the overall configuration is made smaller while ensuring the same functions.

In addition, it is possible to further reduce the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle by at least one of a portion of the power unit, a portion of the vehicle body cover, a portion of the vehicle body frame, a portion of the steering mechanism, and a portion of the link mechanism located between the left lower edge of the front portion of the link cover portion and the upper edge of the left front wheel as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state; and is located above the center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between the upper end of the left front wheel and the lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism directly above the left front wheel. Therefore, the left aerodynamic portion having the function to contribute to the wind pressure reduction is made even smaller in size. In addition, since a portion of the fender function for the left front wheel is assigned to the left aerodynamic portion, it is possible to enhance the degree of freedom in the design of the left aerodynamic portion and the left front fender. Moreover, since a portion of the function of the left aerodynamic portion is assigned to the left front fender of the left front wheel, it is possible to enhance the degree of freedom in the design of the left aerodynamic portion and the left front fender. Accordingly, compared with a case where individual elements are prepared for each of the functions, the overall configuration is made smaller while ensuring the same functions.

Consequently, the front portion of the vehicle is made even smaller in size while maintaining the traveling performance of the vehicle including the leanable vehicle body frame and the two front wheels.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In vehicles including the leanable vehicle body frame and the link mechanism, the right front wheel and the left front wheel each have a wide movable range. This is because the right front wheel and the left front wheel are turned when steered, are displaced in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame as the right shock absorber and the left shock absorber extend or contract, and are displaced in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame in accordance with the operation of the link mechanism. A vehicle body cover, that is not displaced relative to the vehicle body frame, covers a long distance with respect to the right front wheel and the left front wheel, each of which has such a wide movable range, so as to avoid interference therewith.

When a front end of the vehicle body cover is disposed behind the respective front ends of the right and left front wheels arranged within a narrow space so as to decrease the size of the vehicle body cover in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame, the vehicle body cover is likely to interfere with the right and left front wheels. It is preferable to secure a large distance between a lower edge of the front portion of the vehicle body cover and each of the respective upper ends of the right and left front wheels so as to prevent interference between the vehicle body cover and the right and left front wheels.

Then, it was considered how to reduce wind pressure that the vehicle receives when the vehicle is in the upright state and the front end of the vehicle body cover is disposed behind the respective front ends of the right front wheel and the left front wheel and above the respective top ends of the right front wheel and the left front wheel located within a narrowed space. Specifically, a structure was considered including an aerodynamic portion extending downward and rearward from the front end portion of the vehicle body cover. However, since the aerodynamic portion has to avoid interference with the fright front wheel and the left front wheel, the dimensions of the aerodynamic portion are limited in relation to the left-right direction and the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame. Thus, sufficient wind pressure reduction has been unable to be obtained.

When the steering ranges of the right front wheel and the left front wheel are decreased, the movable ranges of the right front wheel and the left front wheel are accordingly decreased such that the dimension of the aerodynamic portion is increased. However, when the steering ranges for the right and left front wheels are decreased, the minimum turning radius of the vehicle decreases. That is, it has been discovered that, in the structure wherein the aerodynamic portion is extended downward and rearward from the front end portion of the vehicle body cover with a dimension decreased in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame, it is impossible to obtain a sufficient wind pressure reduction while ensuring sufficient steering ranges of the right front wheel and the left front wheel.

Accordingly, the vehicle body cover is divided in accordance with the functions thereof into the portion (the link cover portion) that covers at least a portion of the link mechanism and the portion (the aerodynamic portion) that contributes to the wind pressure reduction. Then suitable positions and shapes for each of the individual functional portions was considered.

In the vehicle including the leanable vehicle body frame and the link mechanism, the right front wheel and the left front wheel each have a wide movable range. Consequently, there may be a large change in the positions and sizes of the areas between the link mechanism and the right front wheel and between the link mechanism and the left front wheel in accordance with the operation of the link mechanism. When the configuration in which the portion defining and serving as the aerodynamic portion is not displaced relative to the vehicle body frame, the aerodynamic portion is configured to cover the entire areas that change to deflect air flow coming into the areas. This enlarges the portion that defines the aerodynamic portions.

The link cover portion is not displaced relative to the vehicle body frame and covers at least a portion of the link mechanism. In the link cover portion, at least a portion of the function that contributes to the wind pressure reduction is divided into the aerodynamic portion. Thus, the degree of freedom in design of the link cover portion is enhanced. In addition, by separating portions of the functions that the link cover portion performs, the link cover portion is made smaller. Specifically, the link cover portion includes the front portion that is disposed forward of the respective rear ends of the right and left front wheels in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame. As seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state, the right lower edge of the front portion that is directly above the right front wheel is disposed above the lower end of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame, and the left lower edge of the front portion that is directly above the left front wheel is disposed above the lower end of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame. More specifically, the vehicle body cover is made smaller in size in relation to the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame by narrowing the space between the right front wheel and the left front wheel. In addition, the vehicle body cover is made smaller in size in relation to the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame.

A relatively large space is formed between the right lower edge of the front portion of the link cover portion and the right front wheel and between the left lower edge of the front portion of the link cover portion and the left front wheel by making the link cover portion smaller in size in relation to the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame. However, the right aerodynamic portion and the left aerodynamic portion are configured so as to be displaced relative to the vehicle body frame in accordance with the operation of the link mechanism. More specifically, even though the positions and sizes of the areas between the link mechanism and the right front wheel and between the link mechanism and the left front wheel change in accordance with the operation of the link mechanism, the right aerodynamic portion and the left aerodynamic portion are caused to move according to the changes in the positions and sizes of the areas. Consequently, the right aerodynamic portion and the left aerodynamic portion are made smaller in size even though the right aerodynamic portion and the left aerodynamic portion provide the same aerodynamic function as that of the aerodynamic portion that is not displaced relative to the vehicle body frame irrespective of how the link mechanism operates. With this configuration, even though the right aerodynamic portion and the left aerodynamic portion are made smaller in size, it is possible to reduce or prevent an increase in the wind pressure that the vehicle receives.

Thus, as has been described above, the link cover portion is made smaller in size by separating at least a portion of the function that contributes to the wind pressure reduction. In addition, the right aerodynamic portion and the left aerodynamic portion which include the function of contributing to the wind pressure reduction is made smaller by configuring the right aerodynamic portion and the left aerodynamic portion to be displaced relative to the vehicle body frame in accordance with the operation of the link mechanism. Consequently, the front portion of the vehicle is made smaller in size while maintaining the traveling performance of the vehicle including the leanable vehicle body frame and the two front wheels.

Referring to the accompanying drawings, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail.

In the accompanying drawings, an arrow F denotes a frontward direction of a vehicle. An arrow B denotes a rearward direction of the vehicle. An arrow U denotes an upward direction of the vehicle. An arrow D denotes a downward direction of the vehicle. An arrow R denotes a rightward direction of the vehicle. An arrow L denotes a leftward direction of the vehicle.

A vehicle turns by causing a vehicle body frame to lean leftward or rightward of the vehicle in relation to a vertical direction. Then, in addition to the directions based on the vehicle, directions based on the vehicle body frame are determined. In the accompanying drawings, an arrow FF denotes a frontward direction of the vehicle body frame. An arrow FB denotes a rearward direction of the vehicle body frame. An arrow FU denotes an upward direction of the vehicle body frame. An arrow FD denotes a downward direction of the vehicle body frame. An arrow FR denotes a rightward direction of the vehicle body frame. An arrow FL denotes a leftward direction of the vehicle body frame.

In this specification, a “front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame,” a “left-right direction of the vehicle body frame,” and an “up-down direction of the vehicle body frame” indicate, respectively, a front-rear direction, a left-right direction, and an up-down direction of the vehicle body frame as seen from a rider who drives the vehicle. “Sideways of the vehicle body frame” indicates right or left of the vehicle body frame.

In this specification, an expression “extending in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame” includes a direction that is inclined in relation to the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame and indicates that it extends in a direction closer to the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame than the left-right direction and up-down direction of the vehicle body frame.

In this specification, an expression “extending in the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame” includes a direction that is inclined in relation to the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame and indicates that it extends in a direction closer to the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame than the front-rear direction and up-down direction of the vehicle body frame.

In this specification, an expression “extending in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame” includes a direction that is inclined in relation to the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame and indicates that it extends in a direction closer to the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame than the left-right direction and front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame.

In this specification, an “upright state of the vehicle body frame indicates a state that the vehicle is not steered at all, and a state that the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame coincides with the vertical direction. In this state, a direction based on the vehicle coincides with a direction based on the vehicle body frame. When the vehicle is turned by causing the vehicle body frame to lean leftward or rightward in relation to the vertical direction, the left-right direction of the vehicle does not coincide with the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame. In addition, the up-down direction of the vehicle does not coincide with the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame, either. However, the front-rear direction of the vehicle coincides with the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame.

Referring toFIGS. 1 to 8andFIGS. 13A to 19, a vehicle1according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described. The vehicle1is a vehicle including a leanable vehicle body frame and two front wheels.

FIG. 1is a left side view wherein the entire vehicle1is seen from the left thereof. The vehicle1includes a vehicle main body2, a pair of left and right front wheels3, a rear wheel4, a link mechanism5, and a steering mechanism7.

The vehicle main body2includes a vehicle body frame21, a vehicle body cover22, a seat24, and a power unit25. InFIG. 1, the vehicle body frame21is in an upright state. The following description referring toFIG. 1will be based on the premise that the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state.

The vehicle body frame21includes a head pipe211, a down frame212, and a rear frame213. InFIG. 1, portions of the vehicle body frame21that are concealed by the vehicle body cover22are shown by dashed lines. The vehicle body frame21supports the seat24and the power unit25. The power unit25supports the rear wheel4. The power unit25includes drive source devices such as an engine, an electric motor, a battery and the like and other devices such as a transmission and the like.

The head pipe211is disposed at a front portion of the vehicle1. An upper portion of the head pipe211is disposed behind a lower portion of the head pipe211as seen from the side of the vehicle body frame21.

The down frame212is connected to the head pipe211. The down frame212is disposed directly behind the head pipe211. The down frame212extends in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21.

The rear frame213is disposed directly behind the down frame212. The rear frame213extends in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21. The rear frame213supports the seat24and the power unit25.

The vehicle body cover22includes a front cover221, a front spoiler222, a pair of front fenders223, a rear fender224, and a leg shield225. The vehicle body cover22is a vehicle-mounted portion that covers at least a portion of various elements installed in the vehicle1such as the pair of left and right front wheels3, the vehicle body frame21, the link mechanism5and the like.

The front cover221is disposed forward of the seat24. The front cover221covers the link mechanism5and at least a portion of the steering mechanism7. The shape and position of the front cover221will be described in detail below.

At least a portion of the front spoiler222is disposed directly below the front cover221. The shape and position of the front spoiler222will be described in detail below.

At least a portion of the pair of left and right front fenders223are respectively disposed directly below the front cover221. At least a portion of the pair of left and right front fenders223are respectively disposed directly above the pair of left and right front wheels3. The shape and position of the pair of left and right front fenders223will be described in detail below.

At least a portion of the rear fender224is disposed directly above the rear wheel4.

The leg shield225covers at least a portion of legs of a rider. The leg shield225is disposed behind the pair of left and right front wheels3and forward of the seat24.

At least a portion of the pair of left and right front wheels3is disposed directly below the head pipe211. At least a portion of the pair of left and right front wheels3is disposed directly below the front cover221.

At least a portion of the rear wheel4is disposed below the seat24. At least a portion of the rear wheel4is disposed directly below the rear fender224.

FIG. 2is a front view wherein the front portion of the vehicle1is seen from the front of the vehicle body frame21. InFIG. 2, the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state. The following description referring toFIG. 2will be based on the premise that the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state.FIG. 2shows the front portion of the vehicle1when the front cover221, the front spoiler222, and the pair of left and right front fenders223are removed.

The pair of left and right front wheels3includes a right front wheel31and a left front wheel32. The right front wheel31is disposed to the right of the head pipe211that defines a portion of the vehicle body frame21. The left front wheel32is disposed to the left of the head pipe211. The right front wheel31and the left front wheel32are arranged side by side in the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame21.

The steering mechanism7includes a right shock absorber33, a left shock absorber35, a right bracket317, and a left bracket327.

The right shock absorber33includes a right outer tube312(one example of a lower portion of the right shock absorber). The right outer tube312supports the right front wheel31. The right outer tube312extends in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21. The right outer tube312includes a right support shaft314at a lower end portion thereof. The right front wheel31is supported by the right support shaft314.

The right shock absorber33includes a right inner tube316(one example of an upper portion of the right shock absorber). The right inner tube316extends in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21. The right inner tube316is disposed directly above the right outer tube312when the right inner tube316is partially inserted into the right outer tube312. An upper portion of the right inner tube316is fixed to the right bracket317.

The right shock absorber33is preferably a so-called telescopic shock absorber, for example. When the right inner tube316moves relative to the right outer tube312in a direction that the right outer tube312extends, the right shock absorber33extends or contracts in that direction. This enables the right shock absorber33to buffer a displacement of the right front wheel31in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21in relation to the right inner tube316.

The left shock absorber35includes a left outer tube322(one example of a lower portion of the left shock absorber). The left outer tube322supports the left front wheel32. The left outer tube322extends in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21. The left outer tube322includes a left support shaft324at a lower end portion thereof. The left front wheel32is supported by the left support shaft324.

The left shock absorber35includes a left inner tube326(one example of an upper portion of the left shock absorber). The left inner tube326extends in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21. The left inner tube326is disposed directly above the left outer tube322when the left inner tube326is partially inserted into the left outer tube322. An upper portion of the left inner tube326is fixed to the left bracket327.

The left shock absorber35is preferably a so-called telescopic shock absorber, for example. When the left inner tube326moves relative to the left outer tube322in a direction that the left outer tube322extends, the left shock absorber35extends or contracts in that direction. This enables the left shock absorber35to buffer a displacement of the left front wheel32in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21in relation to the left inner tube326.

FIG. 3is a left side view wherein the front portion of the vehicle1is seen from the left of the vehicle body frame21. InFIG. 3, the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state. The following description referring toFIG. 3will be based on the premise that the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state.FIG. 3shows the front portion of the vehicle1when the front cover221and the pair of left and right front fenders223are removed.

The left shock absorber35includes a left turn prevention mechanism36. The left turn prevention mechanism36includes a left turn prevention rod361(one example of an upper portion of the left shock absorber), a left guide323, and the left bracket327. The left guide323is fixed to an upper portion of the left outer tube322. The left guide323includes a left guide tube323bat a front portion thereof.

The left turn prevention rod361extends parallel or substantially parallel to the left inner tube326. The left turn prevention rod361is fixed to a front portion of the left bracket327. The left turn prevention rod361is disposed directly ahead of the left inner tube326when the left turn prevention rod361is partially inserted into the left guide tube323b. This prevents the left turn prevention rod361from moving relative to the left inner tube326. When the left inner tube326moves relative to the left outer tube322in a direction that the left outer tube322extends, the left turn prevention rod361also moves relative to the left guide tube323b. On the other hand, the left outer tube322is prevented from turning relative to the left inner tube326about an axis that extends in a direction that the left shock absorber35extends or contracts.

As shown inFIG. 2, the right shock absorber33includes a right turn prevention mechanism34. The right turn prevention mechanism34includes a right turn prevention rod341(one example of an upper portion of the right shock absorber), a right guide313, and the right bracket317. The right guide313is fixed to an upper portion of the right outer tube312. The right guide313includes a right guide tube313bat a front portion thereof.

The right turn prevention rod341extends parallel or substantially parallel to the right inner tube316. The right turn prevention rod341is fixed to a front portion of the right bracket317. The right turn prevention rod341is disposed directly ahead of the right inner tube316with a portion thereof inserted into the right guide tube313b. This prevents the right turn prevention rod341from moving relative to the right inner tube316. When the right inner tube316moves relative to the right outer tube312in a direction that the right outer tube312extends, the right turn prevention rod341also moves relative to the right guide tube313b. On the other hand, the right outer tube312is prevented from turning relative to the right inner tube316about an axis that extends in a direction that the right shock absorber33extends or contracts.

As shown inFIG. 2, the steering mechanism7includes a steering force transmission mechanism6. The steering force transmission mechanism6includes the handlebar23and a steering shaft60. The handlebar23is attached to an upper portion of the steering shaft60. A portion of the steering shaft60is turnably supported on the head pipe211. A turning axis Z of the steering shaft60extends in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21. As shown inFIG. 1, the upper portion of the steering shaft60is disposed behind a lower portion thereof. Consequently, as shown inFIG. 3, the turning axis Z of the steering shaft60is inclined in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21. The steering shaft60turns about the turning axis Z according to an operation of the handlebar23by the rider.

The steering force transmission mechanism6transmits a steering force generated in accordance with the operation of the handlebar23by the rider to the right bracket317and the left bracket327. A specific configuration thereof will be described in detail below.

In the vehicle1according to the present preferred embodiment, the link mechanism5preferably uses a four parallel or substantially parallel joint link system (also referred to as a parallelogram link).

As shown inFIG. 2, the link mechanism5is disposed below the handlebar23. The link mechanism5is disposed above the right front wheel31and the left front wheel32. The link mechanism5includes an upper cross member51, a lower cross member52, a right side member53, and a left side member54. The link mechanism5is free from the turning of the steering shaft60about the turning axis Z in association with the operation of the handlebar23and does not turn relative to the vehicle body frame21about the turning axis Z.

The upper cross member51includes a pair of plate-shaped members512. The plate-shaped members512are individually disposed directly ahead of and directly behind the head pipe211. Each of the plate-shaped members512extends in the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame21.

A middle portion of the upper cross member51is supported on the head pipe211by a support portion A. The upper cross member51is able to turn relative to the head pipe211about a middle upper axis that passes through the support portion A and extends in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21.

Aright end portion of the upper cross member51is supported on the right side member53by a support portion B. The upper support portion51is able to turn relative to the right side member53about aright upper axis that passes through the support portion B and extends in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21.

A left end portion of the upper cross member51is supported on the left side member54by a support portion C. The upper cross member51is able to turn relative to the left side member54about a left upper axis that passes through the support portion C and extends in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21.

The lower cross member52includes a pair of plate-shaped members522. The plate-shaped members522are individually disposed directly ahead of and directly behind the head pipe211. Each of the plate-shaped members522extends in the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame21. The second cross member52is disposed below the first cross member51. A lengthwise dimension of the lower cross member52in the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame21is the same as or similar to a lengthwise dimension of the upper cross member51in the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame21. The lower cross member52extends parallel or substantially parallel to the upper cross member51.

A middle portion of the lower cross member52is supported on the head pipe211by a support portion D. The lower cross member52is able to turn about a middle lower axis that passes through the support portion D and extends in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21.

A right end portion of the lower cross member52is supported on the right side member53by a support portion E. The lower cross member52is able to turn about a right lower axis that passes through the support portion E and extends in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21.

A left end portion of the lower cross member52is supported on the left side member54by a support portion F. The lower cross member52is able to turn about a left lower axis that passes through the support portion F and extends in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21.

The middle upper axis, the middle right axis, the middle left axis, the middle lower axis, the right lower axis, and the left lower axis extend parallel or substantially parallel to each other. The middle upper axis, the middle right axis, the middle left axis, the middle lower axis, the right lower axis, and the left lower axis are disposed above the right front wheel31and the left front wheel32.

FIG. 4is a plan view wherein the front portion of the vehicle1is seen from above the vehicle body frame21. InFIG. 4, the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state. The following description referring toFIG. 4will be based on the premise that the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state.FIG. 4shows a state seen through the front cover221which is indicated by dashed lines.

As shown inFIGS. 2 and 4, the right side member53is disposed directly to the right of the head pipe211. The right side member53is disposed above the right front wheel31. The right side member53extends in a direction that the head pipe211extends. The right side member53extends in a direction that the turning axis Z of the steering shaft60extends. An upper portion of the right side member53is disposed behind a lower portion thereof.

The lower portion of the right side member53is connected to the right bracket317. The right bracket317is able to turn relative to the right side member53about a right center axis X. The right center axis X extends in the direction that the right side member53extends. As shown inFIG. 2, the right center axis X extends parallel or substantially parallel to the turning axis Z of the steering shaft60in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21. As shown inFIG. 4, the right center axis X extends parallel or substantially parallel to the turning axis Z of the steering shaft60in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21.

As shown inFIGS. 2 and 4, the left side member54is disposed directly to the right of the head pipe211. The left side member54is disposed above the left front wheel32. The left side member54extends in the direction that the head pipe211extends. The left side member54extends in the direction that the turning axis Z of the steering shaft60extends. An upper portion of the left side member54is disposed behind a lower portion thereof.

The lower portion of the left side member54is connected to the left bracket327. The left bracket327is able to turn relative to the left side member54about a left center axis Y. The left center axis Y extends in the direction that the right side member53extends. As shown inFIG. 2, the left center axis Y extends parallel or substantially parallel to the turning axis Z of the steering shaft60in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21. As shown inFIG. 4, the left center axis Y extends parallel or substantially parallel to the turning axis Z of the steering shaft60in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21.

Thus, as has been described above, the upper cross member51, the lower cross member52, the right side member53, and the left side member54are supported on the vehicle body frame21so that the upper cross member51and the lower cross member52maintain postures that are parallel or substantially parallel to each other and the right side member53and the left side member54maintain postures that are parallel or substantially parallel to each other.

As shown inFIG. 2, the steering force transmission mechanism6includes a middle transmission plate61, a right transmission plate62, a left transmission plate63, a middle joint64, a right joint65, a left joint66, and a tie rod67, in addition to the handlebar23and the steering shaft60.

The middle transmission plate61is connected to the lower portion of the steering shaft60. The middle transmission plate61cannot turn relative to the steering shaft60. The middle transmission plate61is able to turn relative to the head pipe211about the turning axis Z of the steering shaft60. A front portion of the middle transmission plate61is tapered in the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame21than a rear portion thereof.

The right transmission plate62is disposed directly to the right of the middle transmission plate61. The right transmission plate62is connected to a lower portion of the right bracket317. The right transmission plate62cannot turn relative to the right bracket317. The right transmission plate62is able to turn relative to the right side member53about the right center axis X. A front portion of the right transmission plate62is more tapered in the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame21than a rear portion thereof.

The left transmission plate63is disposed directly to the left of the middle transmission plate61. The left transmission plate63is connected to a lower portion of the left bracket327. The left transmission plate63cannot turn relative to the left bracket327. The left transmission plate63is able to turn relative to the left side member54about the left center axis Y. A front portion of the left transmission plate63is more tapered in the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame21than a rear portion thereof.

As shown inFIG. 4, the middle joint64is disposed at the front portion of the middle transmission plate61. The right joint65is disposed at the front portion of the right transmission plate62. The right joint65is disposed directly to the right of the middle joint64. The left joint66is disposed at the front portion of the left transmission plate63. The left joint66is disposed directly to the left of the middle joint64.

The tie rod67extends in the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame21. The tie rod67includes a middle front rod641, a right front rod651, and a left front rod661.

The middle front rod641extends in the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame21. The middle front rod641is supported on the middle transmission plate61via the middle joint64. The middle front rod641is able to turn relative to the middle transmission plate61. A turning axis of the middle front rod641relative to the middle transmission plate61extends parallel or substantially parallel to the turning axis Z of the steering shaft60.

The right front rod651is disposed directly to the right of the middle front rod641. The right front rod651extends in the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame21. The right front rod651extends parallel or substantially parallel to the middle front rod641. The right front rod651is supported on the right transmission plate62via the right joint65. The right front rod651is able to turn relative to the right transmission plate62. A turning axis of the right front rod651relative to the right transmission plate62extends parallel or substantially parallel to the right center axis X.

The left front rod661is disposed directly to the left of the middle front rod641. The left front rod661extends in the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame21. The left front rod661extends parallel or substantially parallel to the middle front rod641. The left front rod661is supported on the left transmission plate63via the left joint66. The left front rod661is able to turn relative to the left transmission plate63. A turning axis of the left front rod661relative to the left transmission plate63extends parallel or substantially parallel to the left center axis Y.

The tie rod67further includes a middle ring671, a right ring672, and a left ring673.

The middle ring671is connected to the middle front rod641. The middle ring671is able to turn relatively about the middle front rod641that extends in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21.

The right ring672is disposed directly to the right of the middle ring671. The right ring672is connected to the right front rod651. The right ring672is able to turn relatively about the right front rod651that extends in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21.

The left ring673is disposed directly to the left of the middle ring671. The left ring673is connected to the left front rod661. The left ring673is able to turn relatively about the left front rod661that extends in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21.

Thus, as has been described above, the right transmission plate62and the left transmission plate63are respectively connected to the middle transmission plate61via the tie rod67.

Next, referring toFIGS. 4 and 7, a steering operation of the vehicle1will be described.FIG. 7is a plan view wherein the front portion of the vehicle1is seen from above the vehicle body frame21showing a state when the right front wheel31and the left front wheel32are steered rightward.FIG. 7shows a state seen through the front cover221which is indicated by dashed lines.

When the rider operates the handlebar23, the steering shaft60turns about the turning axis Z relative to the head pipe211. When steering rightward as shown inFIG. 7, the steering shaft60turns in a direction indicated by an arrow G. The middle transmission plate61turns about the turning axis z in the direction of the arrow G relative to the head pipe211as the steering shaft60turns.

The middle front rod641of the tie rod67turns in an opposite direction to the direction indicated by the arrow G about the middle joint64relative to the middle transmission plate61as the middle transmission plate61turns in the direction indicated by the arrow G. This causes the tie rod67to move rightward and rearward while maintaining the posture of the tie rod67.

As the tie rod67moves rightward and rearward, the right front rod651and the left front rod661of the tie rod67turn in the opposite direction to the direction indicated by the arrow G about the right joint65and the left joint66, respectively. This causes the right transmission plate62and the left transmission plate63to turn in the direction indicated by the arrow G while the tie rod67maintains its posture.

When the right transmission plate62turns in the direction indicated by the arrow G, the right bracket317that is prevented from turning relative to the right transmission plate62turns about the right center axis X in the direction indicated by the arrow G relative to the right side member53.

When the left transmission plate63turns in the direction indicated by the arrow G, the left bracket327that is prevented from turning relative to the left transmission plate63turns about the left center axis Y in the direction indicated by the arrow G relative to the left side member54.

When the right bracket317turns in the direction indicated by the arrow G, the right shock absorber33that is connected to the right bracket317via the right inner tube316turns in the direction indicated by the arrow G about the right center axis X relative to the right side member53. When the right shock absorber33turns in the direction indicated by the arrow G, the right front wheel31that is supported on the right shock absorber33via the right support shaft314turns in the direction indicated by the arrow G about the right center axis X relative to the right side member53.

When the left bracket327turns in the direction indicated by the arrow G, the left shock absorber35that is connected to the left bracket327via the left inner tube326turns in the direction indicated by the arrow G about the left center axis Y relative to the left side member54. When the left shock absorber35turns in the direction indicated by the arrow G, the left front wheel32that is supported on the left shock absorber35via the left support shaft324turns in the direction indicated by the arrow G about the left center axis Y relative to the left side member54.

Thus, as has been described above, the steering force transmission mechanism6transmits a steering force to the right front wheel31and the left front wheel32in accordance with the operation of the handlebar23by the rider. The right front wheel31and the left front wheel32turn in a direction that corresponds to a direction that the handlebar23is operated by the rider about the right center axis X and the left center axis Y.

Next, referring toFIGS. 5 and 8, a leaning operation of the vehicle1will be described.FIG. 5is a front view wherein the front portion of the vehicle1is seen from the front of the vehicle body frame21. InFIG. 5, the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state. The following description referring toFIG. 5will be based on the premise that the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state.FIG. 5shows a state seen through the front cover221which is indicated by dashed lines.FIG. 8is a front view wherein the front portion of the vehicle1is seen from the front of the vehicle body frame21when the vehicle body frame21is caused to lean leftward.FIG. 8shows a state seen through the front cover221which is indicated by dashed lines.

As shown inFIG. 5, when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, the link mechanism5has a rectangular or substantially rectangular shape when the vehicle1is seen from the front of the vehicle body frame21. As shown inFIG. 8, when the vehicle body frame21is in the leaned state, the link mechanism5has a shape of a parallelogram when the vehicle1is seen from the front of the vehicle body frame21. The deformation of the link mechanism5is interlocked with the leftward or rightward leaning of the vehicle body frame21. When the link mechanism5is described as operating, this indicates that the upper cross member51, the lower cross member52, the right side member53, and the left side member54of the link mechanism5turn relative to each other about the turning axes that pass through the corresponding support portions A to F to deform the link mechanism5.

For example, as shown inFIG. 8, when the rider causes the vehicle1to lean leftward, the head pipe211leans leftward in relation to the vertical direction. When the head pipe211leans, the upper cross member51turns rightward relative to the head pipe211about the middle upper axis that passes through the support portion A. Similarly, the lower cross member52turns rightward relative to the head pipe211about the middle lower axis that passes through the support portion D. This causes the upper cross member51to move leftward relative to the lower cross member52.

As the upper cross member51moves leftward, the upper cross member51turns rightward relative to the right side member53and the left side member54about the right upper axis that passes through the support portion B and the left upper axis that passes through the support portion C. Similarly, the lower cross member52turns rightward relative to the right side member53and the left side member54about the right lower axis that passes through the support portion E and the left lower axis that passes through the support portion F. This causes the right side member53and the left side member54to lean leftward in relation to the vertical direction while maintaining their postures that are parallel or substantially parallel to the head pipe211.

Here, the lower cross member52moves leftward relative to the tie rod67. As the lower cross member52moves leftward, the middle ring671, the right ring672, and the left ring673of the tie rod67turn rightward about the middle front rod641, the right front rod651, and the left front rod661, respectively. This enables the tie rod67to keep a posture parallel or substantially parallel to the upper cross member51and the lower cross member52.

As the right side member53leans leftward, the right bracket317that is connected to the right side member53leans leftward. As the right bracket317leans leftward, the right shock absorber33that is connected to the right bracket317leans leftward. As the right shock absorber33leans leftward, the right front wheel31that is supported on the right shock absorber33leans leftward while maintaining a posture that is parallel or substantially parallel to the head pipe211.

As the left side member54leans leftward, the left bracket327that is connected to the left side member54leans leftward. As the left bracket327leans leftward, the left shock absorber35that is connected to the left bracket327leans leftward. As the left shock absorber35leans leftward, the left front wheel32that is supported on the left shock absorber35leans leftward while maintaining a posture that is parallel or substantially parallel to the head pipe211.

The description of the leaning operations of the right front wheel31and the left front wheel32are based on the vertical direction. However, when the vehicle1operates to lean (when the link mechanism5operates), the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21does not coincide with the vertical direction. When a description is made based on the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21, when the link mechanism5is in operation, the relative positions of the right front wheel31and the left front wheel32to the vehicle body frame21change. In other words, the link mechanism5changes the positions of the right front wheel31and the left front wheel32relative to the vehicle body frame21in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21to cause the vehicle body frame21to lean in relation to the vertical direction.

As shown inFIG. 4, when the vehicle1is not turned or steered at all and the vehicle body21is in the upright state, respective front ends WF of the right front wheel31and the left front wheel32coincide with each other. Although not shown in the figure, respective rear ends WB of the right front wheel31and the left front wheel32also coincide with each other. In addition, as shown inFIG. 5, when the vehicle1is not turned or steered at all and the vehicle body21is in the upright state, respective upper ends WU of the right front wheel31and the left front wheel32coincide with each other.

As described with reference toFIG. 1, the vehicle body cover22includes the front cover221, the front spoiler222, and the front fenders223. Referring toFIG. 6, the positions and shapes of the constituent elements will be described.FIG. 6is a side view wherein the front portion of the vehicle1is seen from the left of the vehicle body frame21. InFIG. 6, the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state. The following description referring toFIG. 6will be based on the premise that the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state.FIG. 6shows a state seen through the front cover221which is indicated by dashed lines.

The front cover221(one example of a link cover portion) covers at least a portion of the link mechanism5. The front cover221is not displaced relative to the vehicle body frame21. The front cover221includes a front portion221a. The front portion221ais disposed forward of the respective rear ends WB of the right front wheel31and the left front wheel32in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21. A front end CF of the front portion221ais disposed behind the respective front ends WF of the right front wheel31and the left front wheel32in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21, when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state.

The front spoiler222is preferably made of synthetic resin or the like. The front spoiler222is connected to the steering shaft60via a stay602. As shown inFIG. 5, a lower end portion of the steering shaft60projects farther downward than a lower end portion of the head pipe211to define a spoiler mounting portion601.

The front spoiler222is displaced in relation to the vehicle body frame21in accordance with the operation of the steering mechanism7. As shown inFIG. 7, when the rider operates the handlebar23, the steering shaft60turns about the turning axis Z relative to the head pipe211. This causes the front spoiler222that is connected to the steering shaft60via the spoiler mounting portion601and the stay602to turn about the turning axis Z relative to the head pipe211. More specifically, the front spoiler222is displaced in the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame21in accordance with the operation of the steering mechanism7.

As shown inFIG. 8, when the rider causes the vehicle1to lean leftward, the head pipe211leans leftward in relation to the vertical direction. When the headpipe211leans leftward, the steering shaft60also leans leftward. When the steering shaft60leans leftward, the front spoiler222that is connected to the steering shaft60via the spoiler mounting portion601and the stay602leans leftward in relation to the vertical direction.

The front fenders223include a right front fender223R and a left front fender223L. The right front fender223R and the left front fender223L are preferably made of synthetic resin or the like. As shown inFIG. 6, the left front fender223L includes a rear surface223band a front surface223cwhich are inclined. Although not shown, the right front fender223R preferably has a similar configuration.

The left front fender223L is supported on the left bracket327. A plurality of stud bolts223aare provided on the left bracket327. A plurality of hole portions through which the stud bolts223aare respectively inserted are provided in the left front fender223L. The left front fender223L is fixed to the left bracket327by inserting the plurality of stud bolts223ainto the plurality of corresponding hole portions. The left front fender223L cannot be displaced relative to the left bracket327.

The right front fender223R is supported on the right bracket317. Although not shown, the right front fender223R is fixed to the right bracket317by a similar configuration to that of the left front fender223L. The right front fender223R cannot be displaced relative to the right bracket317.

Consequently, the right front fender223R and the left front fender223L are displaced relative to the vehicle body frame21in accordance with the operation of the steering mechanism7. As shown inFIG. 7, when the rider operates the handlebar23, via the steering force transmission mechanism6, the right bracket317and the left bracket327are turned relative to the right side member53and the left side member54about the right center axis X and the left center axis Y, respectively. This causes the right front fender223R and the left front fender223L that are connected to the right bracket317and the left bracket327via the stud bolts223ato turn about the right center axis X and the left center axis Y relative to the right side member53and the left side member54. More specifically, the right front fender223R and the left front fender223L are displaced in the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame21in accordance with the operation of the steering mechanism7.

As shown inFIG. 8, when the rider causes the vehicle1to lean leftward, the link mechanism5operates. The positions of the right bracket317and the left bracket327relative to the vehicle body frame21are changed in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21in accordance with the operation of the link mechanism5. Consequently, the right front fender223R and the left front fender223L that are fixed to the right bracket317and the left bracket327, respectively, change their relative positions to the vehicle body frame21in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21. More specifically, the right front fender223R and the left front fender223L are displaced relative to the vehicle body frame21in accordance with the operation of the link mechanism5.

Thus, as has been described above, the vehicle1according to the present preferred embodiment includes the vehicle body frame21. A handlebar23is able to turn relative to the vehicle body frame21. At least a portion of a vehicle body cover22covers the vehicle body frame21. The right front wheel31and the left front wheel32are arranged side by side in the left-right direction of the body frame21. The steering mechanism7transmits a turning motion of the handlebar23to the right front wheel31and the left front wheel32. The link mechanism5is disposed above the right front wheel31and the left front wheel32. The link mechanism5changes the respective positions of the right front wheel31and the left front wheel32relative to the vehicle body frame21, thus causing the vehicle body frame21to lean relative to the vertical direction. The power unit25is supported by the vehicle body frame21. The vehicle body cover22includes a front cover221(one example of the link cover portion), a right front fender223R (one example of the right aerodynamic portion) and a left front fender223L (one example of the left aerodynamic portion).

The left front fender223L is displaced relative to the vehicle body frame21in accordance with the operation of the link mechanism5. As illustrated inFIG. 17, the left front fender223L reduces the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle1by at least one of a portion of the power unit25, a portion of the vehicle body cover22, a portion of the vehicle body frame21, a portion of the steering mechanism7, and a portion of the link mechanism5, any one of which is located between the left lower edge CDEL of the front portion221aof the front cover221and the upper edge WUEL of the left front wheel32as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state, and is located above the center CL in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUL of the left front wheel32and the lower edge MDEL of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7directly above the left front wheel32.

Here, the “left lower edge CDEL of the front portion221aof the front cover221” denotes a contour portion of the front portion221ashown inFIG. 6that extends from a portion intersecting an imaginary line denoting the front end CF to a portion intersecting an imaginary line denoting a rear end WBL of the left front wheel32by way of a lower end CD.

Here, the “upper edge WUEL of the left front wheel32” denotes a contour portion that extends from a portion intersecting an imaginary line denoting a right end32R of the left front wheel32to a portion intersecting an imaginary line denoting a left end32L of the left wheel32. Both imaginary lines shown inFIG. 17extend in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21.

Here, the “lower edge MEDL of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7that is directly above the left front wheel32” denotes a contour portion of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7that appears between the imaginary line denoting the right end32R of the left front wheel32and the left end32L of the left front wheel32inFIG. 17, and that faces the upper edge WUEL of the left front wheel32. In the example shown inFIG. 17, portion of the left transmission plate63(seeFIG. 2) defines the lower edge MDEL. Any portion that is included in the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7and that is disposed in the related position can define the lower edge MDEL.

The right front fender223R is displaced relative to the vehicle body frame21in accordance with the operation of the link mechanism5. As illustrated inFIG. 17, the right front fender223R reduces the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle1by at least one of a portion of the power unit25, a portion of the vehicle body cover22, a portion of the vehicle body frame21, a portion of the steering mechanism7, and a portion of the link mechanism5, any one of which is located between the right lower edge CDER of the front portion221aof the front cover221and the upper edge WUER of the right front wheel31as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state, and is located above the center CR in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUR of the right front wheel31and the lower edge MDER of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7directly above the right front wheel31.

Here, the “right lower edge CDER of the front portion221aof the front cover221” denotes a contour portion of the front portion221ashown inFIG. 6that extends from a portion intersecting an imaginary line denoting the front end CF to a portion intersecting an imaginary line denoting a rear end WBR of the right front wheel31by way of a lower end CD.

Here, the “upper edge WUER of the right front wheel31” denotes a contour portion that extends from a portion intersecting an imaginary line denoting a right end31R of the right front wheel31to a portion intersecting an imaginary line denoting a left end31L of the right wheel31. Both imaginary lines shown inFIG. 17extend in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21.

Here, the “lower edge MEDR of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7that is located above the upper side of the right front wheel31” denotes a contour portion of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7that appears between the imaginary line denoting the right end31R of the right front wheel31and the left end31L of the right front wheel31inFIG. 17, and that faces the upper edge WUER of the right front wheel31. In the example shown inFIG. 17, a portion of the right transmission plate62(seeFIG. 2) defines the lower edge MDER. Any portion that is included in the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7and that is disposed in the related position can define the lower edge MDER.

As shown inFIG. 5, as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21, an area directly above the right front wheel31and the left front wheel32and behind the right front wheel31and the left front wheel32is referred to as a behind-front-wheels area S. In the present preferred embodiment, a right upper portion and a left upper portion of the leg shield225as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21corresponds to the behind-front-wheels area S. When no leg shield225is provided, among vehicle portions that are mounted on the down frame212or the periphery thereof, what corresponds to the behind-front-wheels area S is each of portions directly above the right front wheel31and the left front wheel32as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21while behind the right front wheel31and the left front wheel32. The right front fender223R and the left front fender223L reduce wind pressure that the behind-front-wheels area S receives when the vehicle1travels straight ahead.

Referring to schematic drawings ofFIGS. 13A to 16, there will be described the functions and advantageous effects of the right front fender223R and the left front fender223L that are configured as described above. Portion (a) inFIG. 14is a side view wherein the front portion of the vehicle1according to the present preferred embodiment is seen from the side of the vehicle body frame21. Portion (b) inFIG. 14is a side view wherein the front portion of a vehicle1001according to a comparison example is seen from the same direction. Portion (a) inFIG. 15is a front view wherein the front portion of the vehicle1according to the present preferred embodiment is seen from the front of the vehicle body frame21. Portion (b) inFIG. 15is a front view wherein the front portion of the vehicle1001according to the comparison example is seen from the same direction. Portion (a) inFIG. 16is a plan view wherein the front portion of the vehicle1according to the present preferred embodiment is seen from above the vehicle body frame21. Portion (b) inFIG. 16is a plan view wherein the front portion of the vehicle1001according to the comparison example is seen from the same direction. In any one of those drawings, the vehicle body frame is in the upright state.

In the vehicle including the leanable vehicle body frame and the link mechanism, the right front wheel and the left front wheel each have a wide movable range. This is because the right front wheel and the left front wheel are turned when steered, are displaced in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame as the right shock absorber and the left shock absorber extend or contract, and are displaced in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame in accordance with the operation of the link mechanism. A vehicle body cover that is not displaced relative to the vehicle body frame covers a long distance with respect to the right front wheel and the left front wheel, each of which has such a wide movable range, so as to avoid interference therewith.

When a front end of the vehicle body cover is disposed behind the respective front ends of the right and left front wheels arranged within a narrowed space so as to decrease the size of the vehicle body cover in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame, the vehicle body cover is likely to interfere with the right and left front wheels. It is desirable to secure a large distance between a lower edge of the front portion of the vehicle body cover and each of the respective upper ends of the right and left front wheels so as to prevent interference between the vehicle body cover and the right and left front wheels.

As a result of evaluations of various vehicle body covers having different shapes, it has been discovered that the deterioration of the traveling performance is caused by wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle by at least one of a portion of the power unit, a portion of the vehicle body cover, a portion of the vehicle body frame, a portion of the steering mechanism, and a portion of the link mechanism located between the right lower edge of the front portion of the link cover portion and the upper edge of the right front wheel and between the left lower edge of the front portion of the link cover portion and the upper edge of the left front wheel as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state; is located above the center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between the upper end of the right front wheel and the lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism directly above the right front wheel; and is located above the center in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame between the upper end of the left front wheel and the lower edge of the link mechanism or the steering mechanism directly above the left front wheel. It has been discovered that the traveling performance of the vehicle is maintained by reducing the wind pressure.

In addition, it has been discovered that the vehicle body cover not only covers at least a portion of the link mechanism but also reduces wind pressure. Accordingly, the vehicle body cover is divided in accordance with the functions thereof into the portion (the link cover portion) that covers at least a portion of the link mechanism and the portion (the right aerodynamic portion and the left aerodynamic portion) that contributes to the wind pressure reduction. Then suitable positions and shapes for each of the individual functional portions was considered.

In the vehicle including the leanable vehicle body frame and the link mechanism, the right front wheel and the left front wheel each have a wide movable range. Consequently, there is a large change in the positions and sizes of the areas between the link mechanism and the right front wheel and between the link mechanism and the left front wheel in accordance with the operation of the link mechanism. When a portion of the vehicle body cover that defines the aerodynamic portion is not displaced relative to the vehicle body frame, as in the vehicle1001according to the comparison example shown inFIG. 13B, the aerodynamic portion covers the entire the areas1223that change largely to deflect air flow coming into these areas. This enlarges the vehicle body cover.

The front cover221, which is one example of a link cover portion provided on the vehicle1, is provided so as not to be displaced relative to the vehicle body frame21and covers at least a portion of the link mechanism5. In the front cover221, at least a portion of the function that contributes to the wind pressure reduction is divided into the aerodynamic portion. Thus, the degree of freedom in design of the front cover221is enhanced. In addition, by separating a portion of the functions that the front cover221performs, the front cover221is made smaller. Specifically, the front cover221includes the front portion221athat is disposed forward of the respective rear ends WBR, WBL of the right front wheel31and the left front wheel32in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21. As seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, the right lower edge CDER of the front portion221athat is directly above the right front wheel31is disposed above the lower end of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21, and the left lower edge CDEL of the front portion221athat is directly above the left front wheel32is disposed above the lower end of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21. More specifically, the vehicle body cover22is made smaller in size in relation to the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame21by narrowing the space between the right front wheel31and the left front wheel32. In addition to this, the vehicle body cover22is also made smaller in size in relation to the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21.

By reducing the size of the front cover221in relation to the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21, relatively large spaces are provided individually between the right lower edge CDER of the front portion221aof the front cover221and the upper edge WUER of the right front wheel31, and between the left lower edge CDEL of the front portion221aof the front cover21and the upper edge WUEL of the left front wheel32. However, the right front fender223R and the left front fender223L are displaced relative to the vehicle body frame21in accordance with the operation of the link mechanism5. More specifically, as shown inFIG. 13A, even though the positions and sizes of the areas defined between the link mechanism5and the right front wheel31and between the link mechanism5and the left front wheel32change in accordance with the operation of the link mechanism5, the right front fender223R and the left front fender223L are caused to move according to the changes in position and size. Consequently, the right front fender223R (one example of the right aerodynamic portion) and the left front fender223L (one example of the left aerodynamic portion) are made smaller in size, even though the right front fender223R and the left front fender223L provide the same function of wind pressure reduction as that of the aerodynamic portion that is not displaced relative to the vehicle body frame21irrespective of how the link mechanism5operates. Thus, even though the right front fender223R and the left front fender223L are made smaller in size, it is possible to reduce or prevent an increase of the wind pressure that the vehicle1receives. In addition, it is possible to reduce the air resistance in the behind-front-wheels area S.

As has been described above, the front cover221is made smaller in size by separating therefrom at least a portion of the function that contributes to the wind pressure reduction. In addition, the right front fender223R and the left front fender223L which include the function of contributing to the wind pressure reduction are made smaller by providing the right front fender223R and the left front fender223L so as to displaced relative to the vehicle body frame21in accordance with the operation of the link mechanisms. Consequently, the front portion of the vehicle1is made smaller in size while maintaining the traveling performance of the vehicle1including the leanable vehicle body frame21and the two front wheels3.

The expressions “divide” and “separate” used in the above explanations are not intended to exclusively indicate a case where the function to cover at least a portion of the link mechanism5is completely divided or separated from the function that contributes to the wind pressure reduction. It is not excluded a case where the front cover221includes the function of contributing to the wind pressure reduction. It is not excluded a case where each of the right front fender223R and the left front fender223L includes the function to cover at least a portion of the link mechanism5.

In the present preferred embodiment, as shown inFIG. 18, as seen from the side of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, a front edge223eL of the left front fender223L is inclined so that at least either of an upper end223fL and a lower end223gL is positioned behind a front end223hL. Similarly, as seen from the side of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, a front edge223eR of the right front fender223R is inclined so that at least either of an upper end223fR and a lower end223gR is positioned behind a front end223hR.

Here, the “front edge223eL of the left front fender223L” denotes a contour portion that extends from the upper end223fL to the lower end223gL. InFIG. 18, the contour portion appears in an area forward of the vehicle body frame21. Here, the “front edge223eR of the right front fender223R” denotes a contour portion that extends from the upper end223fR to the lower end223gR. InFIG. 18, the contour portion appears in an area forward of the vehicle body frame21.

With this configuration, the direction of air is deflected in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21, along the inclined portion of the right front fender223R, that is flowing toward at least one of a portion of the power unit25, a portion of the vehicle body cover22, a portion of the vehicle body frame21, a portion of the steering mechanism7, and a portion of the link mechanism5, any one of which is located between the right lower edge CDER of the front portion221aof the front cover221and the upper edge WUER of the right front wheel31as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, and is located above the center CR in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUR of the right front wheel31and the lower edge MDER of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7directly above the right front wheel31. Accordingly, it is possible to further reduce the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle1by at least one of a portion of the power unit25, a portion of the vehicle body cover22, a portion of the vehicle body frame21, a portion of the steering mechanism7, and a portion of the link mechanism5, any one of which is located between the right lower edge CDER of the front portion221aof the front cover221and the upper edge WUER of the right front wheel31as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, and is located above the center CR in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUR of the right front wheel31and the lower edge MDER of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7directly above the right front wheel31. It is also possible to directly reduce the air resistance in the behind-front-wheels area S. Accordingly, the right front fender223R including the function of contributing to reduce wind pressure is made smaller in size.

In addition, air is deflected in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21, along the inclined portion of the left front fender223L, that is flowing toward at least one of a portion of the power unit25, a portion of the vehicle body cover22, a portion of the vehicle body frame21, a portion of the steering mechanism7, and a portion of the link mechanism5, any one of which is located between the left lower edge CDEL of the front portion221aof the front cover221and the upper edge WUEL of the left front wheel32as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, and is located above the center CL in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUL of the left front wheel32and the lower edge MDEL of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7directly above the left front wheel32. Accordingly, it is possible to further reduce the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle1by at least one of a portion of the power unit25, a portion of the vehicle body cover22, a portion of the vehicle body frame21, a portion of the steering mechanism7, and a portion of the link mechanism5, any one of which is located between the left lower edge CDEL of the front portion221aof the front cover221and the upper edge WUEL of the left front wheel32as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, and is located above the center CL in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUL of the left front wheel32and the lower edge MDEL of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7directly above the left front wheel32. It is also possible to directly reduce the air resistance in the behind-front-wheels area S. Accordingly, the left front fender223L including the function of contributing to reduce wind pressure is made smaller in size.

Accordingly, it is possible to decrease the size of the front portion221aof the vehicle1while maintaining the traveling performance of the vehicle1including the leanable vehicle body frame21and two front wheels.

In the present preferred embodiment, as shown inFIG. 19, as seen from above the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, the front edge223eR of the right front fender223R is inclined so that at least either of a right end223iR and a left end223jR is positioned behind the front end223hR. In addition, as seen from above the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, a front edge223eL of the left front fender223L is inclined so that at least either of a right end223iL and a left end223jL is positioned behind a front end223hR.

Here, the “front edge223eL of the left front fender223L” denotes a contour portion that extends from the right end223iL to the left end223jL. InFIG. 19, the contour portion appears in an area forward of the vehicle body frame21. In addition, the “front edge223eR of the right front fender223R” denotes a contour portion that extends from the right end223iR to the left end223jR. InFIG. 19, the contour portion appears in an area forward of the vehicle body frame21.

With this configuration, air is deflected in the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame21, along the inclined portion of the right front fender223R, that is flowing toward at least one of a portion of the power unit25, a portion of the vehicle body cover22, a portion of the vehicle body frame21, a portion of the steering mechanism7, and a portion of the link mechanism5, any one of which is located between the right lower edge CDER of the front portion221aof the front cover221and the upper edge WUER of the right front wheel31as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, and is located above the center CR in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUR of the right front wheel31and the lower edge MDER of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7directly above the right front wheel31. Accordingly, it is possible to further reduce wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle1by at least one of a portion of the power unit25, a portion of the vehicle body cover22, a portion of the vehicle body frame21, a portion of the steering mechanism7, and a portion of the link mechanism5, any one of which is located between the right lower edge CDER of the front portion221aof the front cover221and the upper edge WUER of the right front wheel31as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, and is located above the center CR in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUR of the right front wheel31and the lower edge MDER of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7directly above the right front wheel31. It is also possible to directly reduce the air resistance in the behind-front-wheels area S. Accordingly, the right front fender223R including the function of contributing to reduce wind pressure is made smaller in size.

In addition, air is deflected in the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame21, along the inclined portion of the left front fender223L, that is flowing toward at least one of a portion of the power unit25, a portion of the vehicle body cover22, a portion of the vehicle body frame21, a portion of the steering mechanism7, and a portion of the link mechanism5, any one of which is located between the left lower edge CDEL of the front portion221aof the front cover221and the upper edge WUEL of the left front wheel32as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, and is located above the center CL in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUL of the left front wheel32and the lower edge MDEL of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7directly above the left front wheel32. Accordingly, it is possible to further reduce the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle1by at least one of a portion of the power unit25, a portion of the vehicle body cover22, a portion of the vehicle body frame21, a portion of the steering mechanism7, and a portion of the link mechanism5, any one of which is located between the left lower edge CDEL of the front portion221aof the front cover221and the upper edge WUEL of the left front wheel32as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, and is located above the center CL in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUL of the left front wheel32and the lower edge MDEL of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7directly above the left front wheel32. It is also possible to directly reduce the air resistance in the behind-front-wheels area S. Accordingly, the left front fender223L including the function of contributing to reduce the wind pressure is made smaller in size.

Accordingly, it is possible to decrease the size of the front portion of the vehicle1while maintaining the traveling performance of the vehicle1including the leanable vehicle body frame21and the two front wheels3.

In the present preferred embodiment, as shown inFIG. 6, at least a portion of the right front fender223R is disposed behind the front end WFR of the right front wheel31in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state. In addition, at least a portion of the left front fender223L is disposed behind the front end WFL of the left front wheel32in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state.

With this arrangement, it is possible to further reduce the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle1by at least one of a portion of the power unit25, a portion of the vehicle body cover22, a portion of the vehicle body frame21, a portion of the steering mechanism7, and a portion of the link mechanism5, any one of which is located between the right lower edge CDER of the front portion221aof the front cover221and the upper edge WUER of the right front wheel31as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, and is located above the center CR in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUR of the right front wheel31and the lower edge MDER of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7directly above the right front wheel31. It is also possible to directly reduce the air resistance in the behind-front-wheels area S. Further, the right front wheel31and the right front fender223R are made closer to each other while avoiding interference of the displacing right front wheel31with the right front fender223R. Accordingly, the vehicle1equipped with the right front fender223R including the function of reducing the wind pressure is made smaller in size.

In addition, it is possible to further reduce the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle1by at least one of a portion of the power unit25, a portion of the vehicle body cover22, a portion of the vehicle body frame21, a portion of the steering mechanism7, and a portion of the link mechanism5, any one of which is located between the left lower edge CDEL of the front portion221aof the front cover221and the upper edge WUEL of the left front wheel32as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, and is located above the center CL in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUL of the left front wheel32and the lower edge MDEL of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7directly above the left front wheel32. It is also possible to directly reduce the air resistance in the behind-front-wheels area S. Further, the left front wheel32and the left front fender223L are made closer to each other while avoiding interference of the displacing left front wheel32with the left front fender223L. Accordingly, the vehicle1equipped with the left front fender223L including the function of contributing to the reduction in wind pressure is made smaller in size.

Accordingly, it is possible to decrease the size of the front portion of the vehicle1while maintaining the traveling performance of the vehicle1including the leanable vehicle body frame21and the two front wheels3.

In the present preferred embodiment, as illustrated inFIG. 17, at least a portion of the right front fender223R is disposed forward of at least one of a portion of the power unit25, a portion of the vehicle body cover22, a portion of the vehicle body frame21, a portion of the steering mechanism7, and a portion of the link mechanism5, any one of which is located between the right lower edge CDER of the front portion221aof the front cover221and the upper edge WUER of the right front wheel31as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, and is located above the center CR in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUR of the right front wheel31and the lower edge MDER of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7directly above the right front wheel31.

In addition, at least a portion of the left front fender223L is disposed forward of at least one of a portion of the power unit25, a portion of the vehicle body cover22, a portion of the vehicle body frame21, a portion of the steering mechanism7, and a portion of the link mechanism5, any one of which is located between the left lower edge CDEL of the front portion221aof the front cover221and the upper edge WUEL of the left front wheel32as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, and is located above the center CL in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUL of the left front wheel32and the lower edge MDEL of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7directly above the left front wheel32.

With this arrangement, it is possible to further the reduce wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle1by at least one of a portion of the power unit25, a portion of the vehicle body cover22, a portion of the vehicle body frame21, a portion of the steering mechanism7, and a portion of the link mechanism5, any one of which is located between the right lower edge CDER of the front portion221aof the front cover221and the upper edge WUER of the right front wheel31as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, and is located above the center CR in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUR of the right front wheel31and the lower edge MDER of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7directly above the right front wheel31. It is also possible to directly reduce the air resistance in the behind-front-wheels area S. Further, the right front wheel31and the right front fender223R are made closer to each other while avoiding interference of the displacing right front wheel31with the right front fender223R. Accordingly, the vehicle1equipped with the right front fender223R including the function of reducing the wind pressure is made smaller in size.

In addition, it is possible to further reduce the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle1by at least one of a portion of the power unit25, a portion of the vehicle body cover22, a portion of the vehicle body frame21, a portion of the steering mechanism7, and a portion of the link mechanism5, any one of which is located between the left lower edge CDEL of the front portion221aof the front cover221and the upper edge WUEL of the left front wheel32as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, and is located above the center CL in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUL of the left front wheel32and the lower edge MDEL of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7directly above the left front wheel32. It is also possible to directly reduce the air resistance in the behind-front-wheels area S. Further, the left front wheel32and the left front fender223L are made closer to each other while avoiding interference of the displacing left front wheel32with the left front fender223L. Accordingly, the vehicle1equipped with the left front fender223L including the function of reducing the wind pressure is made smaller in size.

Accordingly, it is possible to decrease the size of the front portion of the vehicle1while maintaining the traveling performance of the vehicle1including the leanable vehicle body frame21and the two front wheels3.

In the present preferred embodiment, as shown inFIG. 17, as seen from the front the vehicle1in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, at least a portion of the right front fender223R is disposed above a center CR in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUR of the right front wheel31and a right lower edge MDER of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7that is directly above the right front wheel31, and is disposed below a right lower edge CEDR of the front portion221aof the front cover221.

In addition, as seen from the front of the vehicle1in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, at least a portion of the left front fender223L is disposed above a center CL in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUL of the left front wheel32and a left lower edge MDEL of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7that is directly above the left front wheel32, and is disposed below a left lower edge CEDL of the front portion221aof the front cover221.

With this arrangement, it is possible to directly reduce the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle1by at least one of a portion of the power unit25, a portion of the vehicle body cover22, a portion of the vehicle body frame21, a portion of the steering mechanism7, and a portion of the link mechanism5, any one of which is located between the right lower edge CDER of the front portion221aof the front cover221and the upper edge WUER of the right front wheel31as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, and is located above the center CR in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUR of the right front wheel31and the lower edge MDER of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7directly above the right front wheel31. It is also possible to directly reduce the air resistance in the behind-front-wheels area S. Accordingly, the right front fender223R including the function of reducing the wind pressure is made smaller in size.

In addition, it is possible to directly reduce the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle1by at least one of a portion of the power unit25, a portion of the vehicle body cover22, a portion of the vehicle body frame21, a portion of the steering mechanism7, and a portion of the link mechanism5, any one of which is located between the left lower edge CDEL of the front portion221aof the front cover221and the upper edge WUEL of the left front wheel32as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, and is located above the center CL in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUL of the left front wheel32and the lower edge MDEL of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7directly above the left front wheel32. It is also possible to directly reduce the air resistance in the behind-front-wheels area S. Accordingly, the left front fender223L including the function of reducing the wind pressure is made smaller in size.

Accordingly, it is possible to decrease the size of the front portion of the vehicle1while maintaining the traveling performance of the vehicle1including the leanable vehicle body frame21and the two front wheels3.

In the present preferred embodiment, as shown inFIG. 17, as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, at least a portion of the right front fender223R is disposed below the center CR in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUR of the right front wheel31and the lower edge MDER of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7that is directly above the right front wheel31, and is disposed above the upper edge WUER of the right front wheel31.

In addition, as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, at least a portion of the left front fender223L is disposed below the center CL in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUL of the left front wheel32and the lower edge MDEL of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7that is directly above the left front wheel32, and is disposed above the upper edge WUEL of the left front wheel32.

According to the arrangement described above, as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, at least a portion of the right front fender223R is disposed below the center CR in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUR of the right front wheel31and the lower edge MEDR of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7that is directly above the right front wheel31, and is disposed upward than the upper edge WUER of the right front wheel31. Since the right front fender223R that is displaced relative to the vehicle body frame is disposed both above and below the center CR, the function of contributing to the wind pressure reduction is ensured even though the right front fender223R is small. In addition, it is possible to ensure the function of reducing the air resistance in the behind-front-wheels area S. Here, the portion below the center CR is spaced farther away from the front cover221that is displaced relative to the vehicle body frame21than the portion above the center CR. Accordingly, even though a portion of the right front fender223R is disposed below the center CR, interference of the right front fender223R with the front cover221is avoided.

In addition, as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, at least a portion of the left front fender223L is disposed below the center CL in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUL of the left front wheel32and the lower edge MDEL of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7that is directly above the left front wheel32, and is disposed above the upper edge WUEL of the left front wheel32. Since the left front fender223L that is displaced relative to the vehicle body frame21is disposed both above and below the center CL, the function of contributing to the wind pressure reduction is ensured even though the left front fender223L is small. In addition, it is possible to ensure the function of reducing the air resistance in the behind-front-wheels area S. Here, the portion below the center CL is spaced farther away from the front cover221that is not displaced relative to the vehicle body frame21than the portion higher than the center CL. Accordingly, even though a portion of the left front fender223L is disposed below the center CL, interference of the left front fender223L with the front cover221is avoided.

Accordingly, it is possible to decrease the size of the front portion of the vehicle1while maintaining the traveling performance of the vehicle1including the leanable vehicle body frame21and the two front wheels3.

In the present preferred embodiment, the right front fender223R includes at least a portion of a fender function to cover at least a portion of an upper surface of the right front wheel31and to reduce or prevent the scattering of muddy water or the like that is kicked up by the right front wheel31. In addition, the left front fender223L includes at least a portion of a fender function to cover at least a portion of an upper surface of the left front wheel32and to reduce or prevent the scattering of muddy water or the like that is kicked up by the left front wheel32.

With this configuration, it is possible to directly reduce the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle1by at least one of a portion of the power unit25, a portion of the vehicle body cover22, a portion of the vehicle body frame21, a portion of the steering mechanism7, and a portion of the link mechanism5, any one of which is located between the right lower edge CDER of the front portion221aof the front cover221and the upper edge WUER of the right front wheel31as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, and is located above the center CR in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUR of the right front wheel31and the lower edge MDER of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7directly above the right front wheel31. It is also possible to directly reduce the air resistance in the behind-front-wheels area S. Accordingly, the right front fender223R including the function of reducing the wind pressure is made smaller in size. In addition, since a portion of the fender function for the right front wheel31is provided by the right front fender223R, it is possible to enhance the degree of freedom in the design of the right aerodynamic portion and the right front fender. Moreover, since a portion of the function of the right aerodynamic portion is provided by the right front fender of the right front wheel, it is possible to enhance the degree of freedom in the design of the right aerodynamic portion and the right front fender. Accordingly, compared with a case where individual portions are prepared for each of the functions, the overall configuration is made smaller while ensuring the same functions.

In addition, it is possible to directly reduce the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle1by at least one of a portion of the power unit25, a portion of the vehicle body cover22, a portion of the vehicle body frame21, a portion of the steering mechanism7, and a portion of the link mechanism5, any one of which is located between the left lower edge CDEL of the front portion221aof the front cover221and the upper edge WUEL of the left front wheel32as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, and is located above the center CL in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUL of the left front wheel32and the lower edge MDEL of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7directly above the left front wheel32. It is also possible to directly reduce the air resistance in the behind-front-wheels area S. Accordingly, the left front fender223L including the function of reducing the wind pressure is made smaller in size. Since a portion of a fender function for the left front wheel32is provided by the left front fender223L, it is possible to enhance the degree of freedom in the design of the left aerodynamic portion and the left front fender. Moreover, since a portion of the function of the left aerodynamic portion is provided by the left front fender of the left front wheel, it is possible to enhance the degree of freedom in the design of the left aerodynamic portion and the left front fender. Accordingly, compared with a case where individual portions are prepared for each of the functions, the overall configuration is made smaller while ensuring the same functions.

Accordingly, it is possible to decrease the size of the front portion of the vehicle1while maintaining traveling performance of the vehicle1including the leanable vehicle body frame21and the two front wheels3.

In the present preferred embodiment, as has been described with reference toFIGS. 5 and 6, the right front fender223R and the left front fender223L are fixed to the right bracket317and the left bracket327, respectively.

According to this configuration, since the right front fender223R and the left front fender223L are moved directly in accordance with the operation of the link mechanism5, the right front fender223R and the left front fender223L are easily made small in size. Accordingly, it is possible to decrease the size of the front portion of the vehicle1while maintaining the traveling performance of the vehicle1including the leanable vehicle body frame21and the two front wheels3.

The portion defining and serving as the right aerodynamic portion may be fixed to a portion other than the right bracket317as long as it is possible to reduce the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle1by at least one of a portion of the power unit25, a portion of the vehicle body cover22, a portion of the vehicle body frame21, a portion of the steering mechanism7, and a portion of the link mechanism5, any one of which is located between the right lower edge CDER of the front portion221aof the front cover221and the upper edge WUER of the right front wheel31as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, and is located above the center CR in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUR of the right front wheel31and the lower edge MDER of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7directly above the right front wheel31. For example, the portion defining and serving as the right aerodynamic portion may be fixed to any one of a right shock absorber33and a steering force transmission mechanism6. Here, the steering force transmission mechanism6includes the middle transmission plate61, the right transmission plate62, the middle joint64, the right joint65, and the tie rod67.

In addition, the portion defining and serving as the left aerodynamic portion may be fixed to a portion other than the left bracket327as long as it is possible to reduce the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle1by at least one of a portion of the power unit25, a portion of the vehicle body cover22, a portion of the vehicle body frame21, a portion of the steering mechanism7, and a portion of the link mechanism5, any one of which is located between the left lower edge CDEL of the front portion221aof the front cover221and the upper edge WUEL of the left front wheel32as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, and is located above the center CL in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUL of the left front wheel32and the lower edge MDEL of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7directly above the left front wheel32. For example, the portion defining and serving as the left aerodynamic portion may be fixed to any one of a left shock absorber35and the steering force transmission mechanism6. Here, the steering force transmission mechanism6includes the middle transmission plate61, the left transmission plate63, the middle joint64, the left joint66, and the tie rod67.

For example, in a modified example shown inFIG. 11, aright front fender223R and a left front fender223L are fixed to upper portions of left and right shock absorbers, respectively.

A left shock absorber35A according to a modified example includes a left outer tube322A (one example of the upper portion of the left shock absorber) and a left inner tube326A (one example of the lower portion of the left shock absorber). An upper portion of the left outer tube322A is fixed to a left bracket327. The left inner tube326A is disposed directly below the left outer tube322A when a portion of the left inner tube326A is inserted into the left outer tube322A. The left inner tube326A supports a left front wheel32.

The left front fender223L according to a modified example includes a portion that extends farther rightward in a left-right direction of a vehicle body frame21than the left front wheel32, as seen from the front of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state. The left front fender223L is fixed to the left outer tube322A.

Although not shown, a right shock absorber33A according to a modified example includes a configuration that is preferably symmetrical with that of the left shock absorber35A in relation to the left-right direction. More specifically, the right shock absorber33A according to a modified example includes a right outer tube312A (one example of the upper portion of the right shock absorber) and a right inner tube316A (one example of the lower portion of the right shock absorber). An upper portion of the right outer tube312A is fixed to a right bracket317. The right inner tube316A is disposed directly below the right outer tube312A when a portion of the right inner tube316A is inserted into the right outer tube312A. The right inner tube316A supports a right front wheel31.

Although not shown, the right front fender223R preferably has a configuration that is symmetrical with that of the left front fender223L in relation to the left-right direction. More specifically, the right front fender223R includes a portion that extends farther leftward in the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame21than the right front wheel31, as seen from the front of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state. The right front fender223R is fixed to the right outer tube312A.

With this configuration, even when the right front wheel31is displaced in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21due to the operation of the right shock absorber33, the right front fender223R is not displaced in the same direction in accordance with the displacement of the right front wheel31. Accordingly, it is possible to further reduce the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle1by at least one of a portion of the power unit25, a portion of the vehicle body cover22, a portion of the vehicle body frame21, a portion of the steering mechanism7, and a portion of the link mechanism5, any one of which is located between the right lower edge CDER of the front portion221aof the front cover221and the upper edge WUER of the right front wheel31as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, and is located above the center CR in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUR of the right front wheel31and the lower edge MDER of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7directly above the right front wheel31. It is also possible to directly reduce air resistance in the behind-front-wheels area S. Accordingly, the right front fender223R including the function of reducing the wind pressure is made smaller in size.

In addition, even when the left front wheel32is displaced in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21due to the operation of the left shock absorber35, the left front fender223L is not displaced in the same direction in accordance with the displacement of the left front wheel32. Accordingly, it is possible to further reduce the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle1by at least one of a portion of the power unit25, a portion of the vehicle body cover22, a portion of the vehicle body frame21, a portion of the steering mechanism7, and a portion of the link mechanism5, any one of which is located between the left lower edge CDEL of the front portion221aof the front cover221and the upper edge WUEL of the left front wheel32as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, and is located above the center CL in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUL of the left front wheel32and the lower edge MDEL of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7directly above the left front wheel32. It is also possible to directly reduce the air resistance in the behind-front-wheels area S. Accordingly, the left front fender223L including the function of reducing the wind pressure is made smaller in size.

Accordingly, it is possible to decrease the size of the front portion of the vehicle1while maintaining the traveling performance of the vehicle1including the leanable vehicle body frame21and the two front wheels3.

The shape of the right front fender223R may be appropriately selected as long as it is possible to reduce the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle1by at least one of a portion of the power unit25, a portion of the vehicle body cover22, a portion of the vehicle body frame21, a portion of the steering mechanism7, and a portion of the link mechanism5, any one of which is located between the right lower edge CDER of the front portion221aof the front cover221and the upper edge WUER of the right front wheel31as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state, and is located above the center CR in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUR of the right front wheel31and the lower edge MDER of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7directly above the right front wheel31.

The shape of the left front fender223L may be appropriately selected as long as it is possible to reduce the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle1by at least one of a portion of the power unit25, a portion of the vehicle body cover22, a portion of the vehicle body frame21, a portion of the steering mechanism7, and a portion of the link mechanism5, any one of which is located between the left lower edge CDEL of the front portion221aof the front cover221and the upper edge WUEL of the left front wheel32as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state, and is located above the center CL in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUL of the left front wheel32and the lower edge MDEL of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7directly above the left front wheel32. At least one of a portion of the power unit25, a portion of the vehicle body cover22, a portion of the vehicle body frame21, a portion of the steering mechanism7, and a portion of the link mechanism5, any one of which is located between the right lower edge CDER of the front portion221aof the front cover221and the upper edge WUER of the right front wheel31as seen from the front side in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state is located above the center CR in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUR of the right front wheel31and the lower edge MDER of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7directly above the right front wheel31.

Referring toFIGS. 9A-9C, 10A, and 10B, such a modified example will be described.FIGS. 9A-9C, 10A, and 10Bare front views that schematically show a portion of the configuration of the modified example.FIG. 9Ais a front view wherein the configuration is seen from the front in a front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21.FIG. 9Bis a left side view wherein the configuration is seen from the left in a left-right direction of the vehicle body frame21.FIG. 9Cis a plan view wherein a right front fender223R and a left front fender223L according this modified example are seen from above in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21.

The right front fender223R according to the modified example includes a first right projecting portion223dR that extends farther leftward in the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame21than a right front wheel31, and includes a second projecting portion223kR that extends farther upward in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21than the right front wheel31, as seen from the front of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state.

The left front fender223L according to the modified example includes a first left projecting portion223dL that extends farther rightward in the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame21than a left front wheel32, and includes a second projecting portion223kL that extends farther upward in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21than the left front wheel32, as seen from the front of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state.

The first right projecting portion223dR, the second right projecting portion223kR, the first left projecting portion223dL, and the second left projecting portion223kL are displaced relative to the vehicle body frame21in accordance with the operation of a steering mechanism7. As shown inFIG. 7, when the rider operates the handlebar23, via the steering force transmission mechanism6, the right bracket317and the left bracket327are turned relative to the right side member53and the left side member54about the right center axis X and the left center axis Y, respectively. This causes the right front fender223R and the left front fender223L that are connected to the right bracket317and the left bracket327via the stud bolts223ato turn about the right center axis X and the left center axis Y relative to the right side member53and the left side member54. Consequently, the first right projecting portion223dR, the second right projecting portion223kR, the first left projecting portion223dL, and the second left projecting portion223kL are displaced in the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame21in accordance with the operation of the steering mechanism7.

As shown inFIG. 8, when the rider causes the vehicle1to lean leftward, the link mechanism5operates. The positions of the right bracket317and the left bracket327relative to the vehicle body frame21are changed in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21in accordance with the operation of the link mechanism5. This causes the right front fender223R and the left front fender223L that are fixed to the right bracket317and the left bracket327, respectively, to change their relative positions to the vehicle body frame21in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21. Consequently, the first right projecting portion223dR, the second right projecting portion223kR, the first left projecting portion223dL, and the second left projecting portion223kL are displaced relative to the vehicle body frame21in accordance with the operation of the link mechanism5.

The first right projecting portion223dR and the second left projecting portion223dL are disposed and shaped so that the first right projecting portion223dR and the first left projecting portion223dL are prevented from interfering with each other even though the first right projecting portion223dR and the first left projecting portion223dL are displaced relative to the vehicle body frame21according to the steering operation and the leaning operation that are described above.

The right front fender223R may be fixed to a right outer tube312(one example of the lower portion of the right shock absorber) of a right shock absorber33. The left front fender223L may be fixed to a left outer tube322(one example of the lower portion of the left shock absorber) of a left shock absorber35. Here, the right front fender223R may also be displaced relative to the vehicle body frame21by being displaced in the same direction as a right shock absorber33extends or contract. Similarly, the left front fender223L may also be displaced relative to the vehicle body frame21by being displaced in the same direction as a left shock absorber35extends or contract.

Additionally, as shown in one example shown inFIG. 12, the left front fender223L is preferably integral and unitary with the left bracket327. Although not shown, the right front fender223R according to this modified example may also be integral and unitary with the right bracket317.

The terms and expressions that are used herein are used to describe the preferred embodiments of the present invention and hence should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention. It should be understood that any equivalents to the characteristic matters that are shown and described herein should not be excluded and that various modifications made within the scope of claims to be made later are permitted.

The expressions “divide” and “separate” used in the above explanations are not intended to exclusively indicate a case where the function to cover at least a portion of the link mechanism5is completely divided or separated from the function to contribute to the wind pressure reduction. It is not excluded a case where the link cover portion includes the function to contribute to the wind pressure reduction. It is not excluded a case where each of the right aerodynamic portion and the left aerodynamic portion includes the function to cover at least a portion of the link mechanism.

When referred to in this specification, the “parallel or substantially parallel” line also includes two straight lines which do not intersect each other as members while they are inclined within the range of about ±40 degrees, for example. When referred to in relation to the “direction,” and the “member” in the present invention, the term “along” also includes a case where the direction and the member are inclined within the range of about ±40 degrees, for example. When referred to in relation to the “direction” in the present invention, the term “extend” also includes a case where the direction is inclined within the range of about ±40 degrees, for example.

The present invention is implemented with many different preferred embodiments. This disclosure should be regarded as provision of the preferred embodiments based on the principle of the present invention. Based on the understanding that the preferred embodiments which are described and/or illustrated herein are not intended to limit the present invention thereto, several preferred embodiments are described and illustrated herein.

Several illustrated preferred embodiments of the present invention are described herein. The present invention should not be limited to the preferred embodiments described herein. The present invention includes every preferred embodiment that includes equivalent elements, modifications, deletions, combinations (for example, combinations of characteristics that are common to various preferred embodiments), improvements and/or modifications that those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains can recognize based on the disclosure made herein. Matters limited by claims should be construed widely based on terms that are used in the claims and should not be limited to the preferred embodiments described in this description or the prosecution of this patent application. Such preferred embodiments are interpreted to be non-exclusive. For example, in this disclosure, the terms “preferred,” “preferable” and “good” should be construed as being non-exclusive and those terms indicate, respectively, “preferred but not limited to,” “preferable but not limited thereto” and “good but not limited thereto.”

The vehicle according to the preferred embodiments of the present invention is preferably a vehicle including a leanable vehicle body frame and two front wheels. The number of rear wheels is not limited to one, and may be two.

In a preferred embodiment, a center in the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame21of the rear wheel4coincides with a center in the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame21of the space defined between the right front wheel31and the left front wheel32. Although the configuration described above is preferable, the center in the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame21of the rear wheel4does not have to coincide with the center in the left-right direction of the vehicle body frame21of the space defined between the right front wheel31and the left front wheel32.

The link mechanism5may further include a cross member other than the upper cross member51and the lower cross member52. The “upper cross member” and the “lower cross member” are merely so called based on their relative positions in the up-down direction. The upper cross member is not necessarily an uppermost cross member of the link mechanism5. The upper cross member indicates a cross member that is above another cross member that is below. The lower cross member is not necessarily a lowermost cross member of the link mechanism5. The lower cross member indicates a cross member that is below another cross member that is above. At least one of the upper cross member51and the lower cross member52may include two portions such as a right cross member and a left cross member. In this way, the upper cross member51and the lower cross member52may include a plurality of cross members, as long as the linkage function is realized.

The portion that defines the right aerodynamic portion does not have to be the right front fender223R that is included in the vehicle body cover22. The right aerodynamic portion may include a plurality of rods or a group of fins, as long as it is possible to ensure the function of reducing the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle1by at least one of a portion of the power unit25, a portion of the vehicle body cover22, a portion of the vehicle body frame21, a portion of the steering mechanism7, and a portion of the link mechanism5, any one of which is located between the right lower edge CDER of the front portion221aof the front cover221and the upper edge WUER of the right front wheel31as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state, and is located above the center CR in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUR of the right front wheel31and the lower edge MDER of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7directly above the right front wheel31. Here, the material of the right aerodynamic portion is not limited to resins but metals or the like may be used.

The portion that defines the left aerodynamic portion does not have to be the left front fender223L that is included in the vehicle body cover22. The left aerodynamic portion may include a plurality of rods or a group of fins, as long as it is possible to ensure the function of reducing the wind pressure received during the traveling of the vehicle1by at least one of a portion of the power unit25, a portion of the vehicle body cover22, a portion of the vehicle body frame21, a portion of the steering mechanism7, and a portion of the link mechanism5, any one of which is located between the left lower edge CDEL of the front portion221aof the front cover221and the upper edge WUEL of the left front wheel32as seen from the front in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state, and is located above the center CL in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUL of the left front wheel32and the lower edge MDEL of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7directly above the left front wheel32. At least one of a portion of the power unit25, a portion of the vehicle body cover22, a portion of the vehicle body frame21, a portion of the steering mechanism7, and a portion of the link mechanism5, any one of which is located between the right lower edge CDER of the front portion221aof the front cover221and the upper edge WUER of the right front wheel31as seen from the front side in the front-rear direction of the vehicle body frame21of the vehicle1when the vehicle body frame is in the upright state is located higher than the center CR in the up-down direction of the vehicle body frame21between the upper end WUR of the right front wheel31and the lower edge MDER of the link mechanism5or the steering mechanism7in the upper side of the right front wheel31. Here, the material of the left aerodynamic portion is not limited to resins but metals or the like may be used.

This application claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2012-276256 filed on Dec. 18, 2012, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.