Leaning vehicle

A leaning vehicle including a vehicle body frame having a main framework part, a seat, left and right steps, left and right front wheels, at least one rear wheel, a leaning linkage mechanism including left and right swing arms swingably supporting the left and right front wheels and connected to the vehicle body frame via left and right support parts, respectively, and a buffer device buffering movement of the left and right front wheels. The leaning vehicle leans the vehicle body frame leftward and rightward when turning left and right, respectively. The main framework part includes a main-framework-front portion that is located further forward than centers of the left and right steps, that is wider than a distance between the left and right support parts, and that supports the leaning linkage mechanism at a position further downward than at least a part of the left and right steps.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present teaching relates to a leaning vehicle.

BACKGROUND ART

A known leaning vehicle is configured to lean leftward when turning to the left and lean rightward when turning to the right. As such a leaning vehicle, Patent Document 1, for example, discloses a three-wheeled leaning vehicle including a vehicle body frame, two front wheels, and a rear wheel. The two front wheels include a left front wheel and a right front wheel.

CITATION LIST

Patent Document

Patent Document 1: International Patent Application Publication No. 2019-044471

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

Technical Problem

A leaning vehicle is required of having enhanced design flexibility in, for example, a riding position of a driver and layout of parts mounted on a vehicle body frame.

An object of the present teaching is to provide a leaning vehicle capable of enhancing design flexibility in, for example, a riding position of a driver and layout of parts mounted on a vehicle body frame.

Solution to Problem

A leaning vehicle according to one embodiment of the present teaching is a leaning vehicle including: a vehicle body frame; a seat supported by the vehicle body frame and being configured such that a driver is seated on the seat; a left step and a right step supported by the vehicle body frame and being configured such that feet of the driver are placed on the left step and the right step; a left front wheel located at the left of the vehicle body frame; a right front wheel located at the right of the vehicle body frame; at least one rear wheel; a leaning linkage mechanism including a left swing arm and a right swing arm and configured to support the vehicle body frame, the left front wheel, and the right front wheel such that the vehicle body frame, the left front wheel, and the right front wheel lean leftward or rightward, the left swing arm swingably supporting the left front wheel to the vehicle body frame, the right swing arm swingably supporting the right front wheel to the vehicle body frame; and a buffer device configured to buffer movement of the left front wheel and the right front wheel. The leaning vehicle leans the vehicle body frame, the left front wheel, the right front wheel, and the rear wheel leftward when turning to the left, and leans the vehicle body frame, the left front wheel, the right front wheel, and the rear wheel rightward when turning to the right. The vehicle body frame includes a main framework part. The main framework part includes a main-framework-front portion located further forward than centers of the left step and the right step in a front-rear direction and extending linearly in the front-rear direction. The main-framework-front portion has a dimension in a vehicle width direction larger than a distance between a support part of the left swing arm to the vehicle body frame and a support part of the right swing arm to the vehicle body frame. The main-framework-front portion supports at least a part of the leaning linkage mechanism at a position further downward than an upper surface of at least a part of the left step and the right step, in a side view of the leaning vehicle.

As described above, the main-framework-front portion is configured such that the main-framework-front portion extends linearly in the front-rear direction, the dimension of the main-framework-front portion in a vehicle width direction is larger than the distance between the support part of the left swing arm to the vehicle body frame and the support part of the right swing arm to the vehicle body frame, and in a side view of the leaning vehicle, the main-framework-front portion supports at least a part of the leaning linkage mechanism at a position further downward than the upper surface of at least a part of the left step and the right step. Accordingly, flexibility in, for example, a riding position of a driver and layout of parts mounted on the vehicle body frame can be enhanced. Thus, the degree of design flexibility of the leaning vehicle can be increased.

In another aspect, the leaning vehicle according to the present teaching preferably has the following configuration. The main framework part is located between the left step and the right step in plan view.

As described above, since the main framework part is located between the left step and the right step in plan view, flexibility in, for example, a riding position of a driver and layout of parts mounted on the vehicle body frame can be enhanced. Thus, the degree of design flexibility of the leaning vehicle can be increased.

In another aspect, the leaning vehicle according to the present teaching preferably has the following configuration. The main framework part extends linearly in the front-rear direction between legs of the driver in a state where the driver is seated on the seat and feet of the driver are placed on the left step and the right step.

As described above, the main framework part has a small width and linearly extends in the front-rear direction. Accordingly, flexibility in, for example, a riding position of a driver and layout of parts mounted on the vehicle body frame can be enhanced. Thus, the degree of design flexibility of the leaning vehicle can be increased.

In another aspect, the leaning vehicle according to the present teaching preferably has the following configuration. The main framework part extends linearly in the front-rear direction at a position further downward than the upper surfaces of the left step and the right step on which the driver seated on the seat places the feet in a side view of the leaning vehicle.

As described above, since the main framework part is configured to extend linearly in the front-rear direction at a position further downward than the upper surfaces of the left step and the right step on which a driver seated on the seat places the feet in a side view of the leaning vehicle, flexibility in, for example, a riding of the driver and layout of parts mounted on the vehicle body frame can be enhanced. Thus, the degree of design flexibility of the leaning vehicle can be increased.

In another aspect, the leaning vehicle according to the present teaching preferably has the following configuration. In the main framework part, the main-framework-front portion supports the leaning linkage mechanism, and a main-framework-rear portion located further rearward than centers of the left step and the right step in the front-rear direction supports the seat, the rear wheel, and the driving source.

In this configuration, in the main framework part of the vehicle body frame, the main-framework-front portion supports the leaning linkage mechanism supporting the vehicle body frame, the left front wheel, and the right front wheel such that the vehicle body frame, the left front wheel, and the right front wheel lean leftward or rightward, and the main-framework-rear portion supports the other mounted parts. Accordingly, flexibility in, for example, a riding position of a driver and layout of parts mounted on the vehicle body frame can be enhanced. Thus, the degree of design flexibility of the leaning vehicle can be increased.

In another aspect, the leaning vehicle according to the present teaching preferably has the following configuration. The leaning vehicle further includes a steering handle configured to rotate about a steering axis by operation of the driver. The vehicle body frame includes a handlebar support part rotatably supporting the steering handle. The handlebar support part is constituted by a member different from the main framework part, and extends upward from an upper portion of the main framework part.

In this configuration, since the handlebar support part constituted by a member different from the main framework part and rotatably supporting the steering handle extends upward from the upper portion of the main framework part having a small width and formed linearly, flexibility in, for example, a riding position of a driver and layout of parts mounted on the vehicle body frame can be enhanced. Thus, the degree of design flexibility of the leaning vehicle can be increased.

In another aspect, the leaning vehicle according to the present teaching preferably has the following configuration. At least a part of the handlebar support part extends upward from an upper portion of the main-framework-front portion.

With this configuration, since the handlebar support part extends upward from the upper portion of the main framework part having a small width and formed linearly, flexibility in, for example, a riding position of a driver and layout of parts mounted on the vehicle body frame can be enhanced. Thus, the degree of design flexibility of the leaning vehicle can be increased.

In another aspect, the leaning vehicle according to the present teaching preferably has the following configuration. An upper end of the main-framework-front portion is lower than a lower end of the steering handle.

With this configuration, since the upper end of the main-framework-front portion in the main framework part having a small width and formed linearly is lower than the lower end of the steering handle, flexibility in, for example, a riding position of a driver and layout of parts mounted on the vehicle body frame can be enhanced. Thus, the degree of design flexibility of the leaning vehicle can be increased.

In another aspect, the leaning vehicle according to the present teaching preferably has the following configuration. The leaning linkage mechanism is configured to be detachable from the main framework part and the handlebar support part.

With this configuration, since the leaning linkage mechanism is configured to be detachable from the main framework part and the handlebar support part, flexibility in, for example, a riding position of a driver and layout of parts mounted on the vehicle body frame can be enhanced. Thus, the degree of design flexibility of the leaning vehicle can be increased.

In another aspect, the leaning vehicle according to the present teaching preferably has the following configuration. The upper end of the main-framework-front portion is lower than a seat surface of the seat.

With this configuration, since the upper end of the main-framework-front portion in the main framework part having a small width and formed linearly is lower than the seat surface of the seat, flexibility in, for example, a riding position of a driver and layout of parts mounted on the vehicle body frame can be enhanced. Thus, the degree of design flexibility of the leaning vehicle can be increased.

In another aspect, the leaning vehicle according to the present teaching preferably has the following configuration. The upper end of the main-framework-front portion is lower than an upper end of the leaning linkage mechanism.

With this configuration, since the upper end of the main-framework-front portion in the main framework part having a small width and formed linearly is lower than the upper end of the leaning linkage mechanism, flexibility in, for example, a riding position of a driver and layout of parts mounted on the vehicle body frame can be enhanced. Thus, the degree of design flexibility of the leaning vehicle can be increased.

In another aspect, the leaning vehicle according to the present teaching preferably has the following configuration. An upper end of the handlebar support part is higher than the seat surface of the seat.

With this configuration, since the upper end of the handlebar support part is higher than the seat surface of the seat, flexibility in, for example, a riding position of a driver and layout of parts mounted on the vehicle body frame can be enhanced. Thus, the degree of design flexibility of the leaning vehicle can be increased.

In another aspect, the leaning vehicle according to the present teaching preferably has the following configuration. A track width between the left front wheel and the right front wheel is larger than a distance between a left end of the left step and a right end of the right step.

With this configuration, since the track width between the left front wheel and the right front wheel is larger than the distance between the left end of the left step and the right end of the right step, flexibility in, for example, a riding position of a driver and layout of parts mounted on the vehicle body frame can be enhanced. Thus, the degree of design flexibility of the leaning vehicle can be increased.

In another aspect, the leaning vehicle according to the present teaching preferably has the following configuration. The left step has a recess on which a left foot of the driver seated on the seat is placed.

This configuration can prevent the left step from interfering with the left foot of a driver when the driver lands the left foot. In addition, since the left step has the recess, in the configuration in which the driver can land the left foot without interference with the left step, flexibility in, for example, a riding of the driver and layout of parts mounted on the vehicle body frame can be enhanced. Thus, the degree of design flexibility of the leaning vehicle can be increased.

It will be further understood that the terms “including,” “comprising” or “having” and variations thereof when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, steps, elements, components, and/or their equivalents but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

It will be further understood that the terms “mounted,” “connected,” “coupled,” and/or their equivalents are used broadly and encompass both direct and indirect mounting, connecting and coupling. Further, “connected” and “coupled” are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections or couplings, and can include connections or couplings, whether direct or indirect.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one having ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs.

It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and the present disclosure and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

In describing the invention, it will be understood that a number of techniques and steps are disclosed. Each of these has individual benefit and each can also be used in conjunction with one or more, or in some cases all, of the other disclosed techniques.

Accordingly, for the sake of clarity, this description will refrain from repeating every possible combination of the individual steps in an unnecessary fashion. Nevertheless, the specification and claims should be read with the understanding that such combinations are entirely within the scope of the invention and the claims.

Embodiments of a leaning vehicle according to the present teaching will be described.

A leaning vehicle herein is a vehicle that turns in a leaning posture. Specifically, the leaning vehicle is a vehicle that leans leftward when turning to the left and leans rightward when turning to the right in a left-right direction of the vehicle. The leaning vehicle may be a single-passenger vehicle or a vehicle on which a plurality of passengers can ride. The leaning vehicle includes all the types of vehicles that turn in leaning postures, such as three-wheeled vehicles and four-wheeled vehicles.

The term “the main framework part extends linearly” herein refers to not only a case where the main framework part extends linearly in the front-rear direction but also a case where the main framework part extends obliquely leftward or rightward or upward or downward with respect to the front-rear direction of the leaning vehicle and a case where the direction of extension of the main framework part is shifted stepwise leftward or rightward or upward or downward with respect to the front-rear direction. The term “the main framework part extends linearly” also refers to a case where a part of the main framework part has a projection projecting in the left-right direction of the leaning vehicle or a recess recessed in the left-right direction of the leaning vehicle.

[Left End of Left Step, Right End of Right Step]

The left end of the left step herein refers to a portion of the left step located at the leftmost end in the left-right direction of the leaning vehicle. The right end of the right step herein refers to a portion of the right step located at the rightmost end in the left-right direction of the leaning vehicle.

[Track Width Between Left Front Wheel and Right Front Wheel]

The track width between the left front wheel and the right front wheel herein refers to a distance between the center of the left front wheel and the center of the right front wheel in the left-right direction of the leaning vehicle.

Advantageous Effects of Invention

According to one embodiment of the present teaching, it is possible to provide a leaning vehicle capable of enhancing design flexibility in, for example, a riding position of a driver and layout of parts mounted on a vehicle body frame.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENT

Embodiments will be described hereinafter with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will not be repeated. The dimensions of components in the drawings do not strictly represent actual dimensions of the components and dimensional proportions of the components.

In the following description, arrow F in the drawings represents a forward direction of a leaning vehicle1,1001. Arrow B in the drawings represents a rearward direction of the leaning vehicle1,1001. Arrow U in the drawings represents an upward direction of the leaning vehicle1,1001. Arrow D in the drawings represents a downward direction of the leaning vehicle1,1001. Arrow R in the drawings represents a rightward direction of the leaning vehicle1,1001. Arrow L in the drawings represents a leftward direction of the leaning vehicle1,1001. A front-rear direction, a left-right direction, and a top-bottom direction of the leaning vehicle1,1001refer to a front-rear direction, a left-right direction, and a top-bottom direction, respectively, with respect to the leaning vehicle1,1001when seen from a driver of the leaning vehicle1,1001.

The leaning vehicle1,1001according to each embodiment turns with a vehicle body frame21,1021leaning leftward or rightward with respect to the vertical direction. Thus, inFIGS.5and6illustrating a state where the vehicle body frame21leans, in addition to the directions with respect to the leaning vehicle1described above, directions with respect to the vehicle body frame21are defined as follows.

Arrow FU in the drawings represents an upward direction of the vehicle body frame21. Arrow FD in the drawings represents a downward direction of the vehicle body frame21. Arrow FR in the drawings represents a rightward direction of the vehicle body frame21. Arrow FL in the drawings represents a leftward direction of the vehicle body frame21. A left-right direction and a top-bottom direction of the vehicle body frame21refer to a left-right direction and a top-bottom direction, respectively, with respect to the vehicle body frame21when seen from a passenger driving the leaning vehicle1.

First Embodiment

Overall Configuration

FIG.1is a left side view schematically illustrating an overall configuration of a leaning vehicle1according to a first embodiment.FIG.2is a front view schematically illustrating the overall configuration of the leaning vehicle1. The leaning vehicle1includes a vehicle main body2, a pair of left and right front wheels3, a rear wheel4, a leaning linkage mechanism5, a steering mechanism6, a buffer device7, and a power unit8(driving source).

The leaning vehicle1according to this embodiment is a vehicle that leans leftward when turning to the left and leans rightward when turning to the right. That is, the leaning vehicle1according to this embodiment is a vehicle in which the vehicle main body2and the pair of left and right front wheels3lean leftward when turning to the left and the vehicle main body2and the pair of left and right front wheels3lean rightward when turning to the right.

As illustrated inFIGS.1and2, the vehicle main body2includes the vehicle body frame21, a rear arm23, a vehicle body cover26, and a seat27. InFIGS.1and2, the vehicle body frame21is in an upright state. In the case of referring toFIGS.1and2, the following description is based on a premise that the vehicle body frame21is in the upright state. The upright state of the vehicle body frame21refers to a state where the top-bottom direction of the vehicle body frame21coincides with the vertical direction.

As illustrated inFIG.1, the vehicle body frame21supports mounted parts mounted on the leaning vehicle1, such as the vehicle body cover26, the seat27, and the power unit8. Specifically, a front portion of the vehicle body frame21supports the leaning linkage mechanism5. A rear portion of the vehicle body frame21supports a rear-arm-support part24, the seat27, and the power unit8.

The power unit8includes a motor as a driving-force-generating source, for example. The power unit8may include an engine or may have a hybrid system including a combination of an engine and a motor, as the driving-force-generating source.

A driving force output from the power unit8is transferred to the rear wheel4by a driving-force-transfer part8a. The driving-force-transfer part8ais supported by the rear arm23described later rotatably supporting the rear wheel4. The driving-force-transfer part8aincludes, for example, a chain.

FIG.3is a disassembled perspective view illustrating a schematic configuration of the vehicle body frame21, the pair of left and right front wheels3, the rear wheel4, the leaning linkage mechanism5, and the steering mechanism6. As illustrated inFIG.3, the vehicle body frame21includes a main framework part21a, a leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22, the rear-arm-support part24, and a handlebar support part25.

The main framework part21ais a frame constituting a framework of the vehicle main body2of the leaning vehicle1. Although a detailed configuration of the main framework part21awill be described later, the main framework part21aincludes a front framework part211and a rear framework part212. The front framework part211is located forward of the rear framework part212in the main framework part21a. The rear framework part212is located rearward of the front framework part211in the main framework part21a. The front framework part211and the rear framework part212are aligned in the front-rear direction and are coupled to each other.

A front portion of the front framework part211supports the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22. A front portion of the rear framework part212supports the power unit8and the seat27, and a rear portion of the rear framework part212supports the rear-arm-support part24.

As illustrated inFIG.1, the seat27is supported by the rear framework part212of the vehicle body frame21. The seat27includes a seat portion27aand a seat back27b. Although not specifically illustrated, the seat portion27aof the seat27is supported by an upper portion of the rear framework part212. The upper surface of the seat portion27ais a seat surface27con which the driver is seated.

As illustrated inFIG.3, the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22is connected to the front end of the front framework part211. The leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22supports the leaning linkage mechanism5described later. The leaning linkage mechanism5supports the pair of left and right front wheels3. That is, the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22supports the pair of left and right front wheels3through the leaning linkage mechanism5. A detailed configuration of the leaning linkage mechanism5will be described later. The leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22is detachable from the front framework part211. Accordingly, the leaning linkage mechanism5supported by the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22is also detachable from the main framework part21a. The leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22is also detachable from the handlebar support part25described later connected to the main framework part21a.

As illustrated inFIGS.2and3, the pair of left and right front wheels3includes a left front wheel31located at the left of the vehicle body frame21and a right front wheel32located at the right of the vehicle body frame21. A left arm mechanism51of the leaning linkage mechanism5described later extends leftward from the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22to support the left front wheel31to the vehicle body frame21. A right arm mechanism52of the leaning linkage mechanism5described later extends rightward from the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22to support the right front wheel32to the vehicle body frame21.

As illustrated inFIG.3, a buffer-device-support part28supporting the buffer device7is disposed between the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22and the front framework part211. The buffer-device-support part28is connected to an upper portion of the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22and a front lower end portion of the handlebar support part25connected to the front framework part211.

The buffer-device-support part28includes a buffer-device-support-main-body portion28aand a tower portion28b. The buffer-device-support-main-body portion28ais a cylindrical member and supports a proximal end portion of the tower portion28bextending in the top-bottom direction. The buffer-device-support-main-body portion28ais connected to the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22and the front lower end portion of the handlebar support part25.

The buffer device7buffers movement of the left front wheel31and the right front wheel32. As illustrated inFIG.2, the buffer device7includes a left buffer device71and a right buffer device72. The left buffer device71connects the tower portion28bto a left-upper-arm member511of the leaning linkage mechanism5described later. The right buffer device72connects the tower portion28bto a right-upper-arm member521of the leaning linkage mechanism5described later. Although not specifically illustrated, each of the left buffer device71and the right buffer device72includes a spring and a damper.

The left buffer device71buffers a force to be input to the left front wheel31from the road surface and positions the left front wheel31relative to the vehicle body frame21. The right buffer device72buffers a force to be input to the right front wheel32from the road surface and positions the right front wheel32relative to the vehicle body frame21.

As illustrated inFIG.3, the handlebar support part25is connected to an upper portion of a front portion of the front framework part211, and extends upward from an upper portion of the front framework part211. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the handlebar support part25from hindering getting on and off of a driver when the driver gets on and off the leaning vehicle1. Thus, the driver can easily get on or off the leaning vehicle1. As illustrated inFIG.1, a height H5of the upper end of the handlebar support part25is higher than the seat surface27cof the seat27. The upper end of the handlebar support part25is located at the highest position in the handlebar support part25in the top-bottom direction.

The handlebar support part25may partially extend upward from an upper portion of a portion of the main framework part21aexcept the front framework part211. That is, the handlebar support part25may be provided in any manner in the main framework part21aas long as at least a portion of the handlebar support part25extends upward from the upper portion of the front framework part211. In this embodiment, the handlebar support part25is constituted by a member different from the main framework part21a.

The handlebar support part25may extend upward from an upper portion of a portion except the front framework part211. That is, the handlebar support part25may extend upward from an upper portion of the main framework part21a.

The handlebar support part25supports a bar handle61and a steering shaft62of the steering mechanism6. The handlebar support part25has a height with which the bar handle61of the steering mechanism6is located at a position at which the driver seated on the seat surface27cof the seat27can easily hold the bar handle61.

The steering mechanism6includes the bar handle61, the steering shaft62, a steering-shaft-support part63, and an unillustrated steering-force-transfer part. The bar handle61is a bar member extending in the left-right direction, and is connected to an upper end portion of the steering shaft62. The steering shaft62is rotatably supported by the steering-shaft-support part63fixed to an upper portion of the handlebar support part25, which will be described later. Although not specifically illustrated, the steering shaft62is connected to the steering-force-transfer part such that rotation of the bar handle61can be transferred to the steering-force-transfer part. The steering-force-transfer part transfers rotation of the steering shaft62, as a steering force in the left direction or in the right direction, to the left front wheel31and the right front wheel32. A detailed configuration of the steering-force-transfer part will be omitted.

The bar handle61and the steering shaft62constitute a steering handle SH. The steering shaft62is a portion supported by the steering-shaft-support part63, and does not include other rotation shafts connected to the steering shaft62by transfer parts. The steering handle SH rotates about a steering axis P.

As illustrated inFIG.3, the handlebar support part25according to this embodiment includes four handle-support-leg parts25a, a plurality of handle-support-beam parts25b, and a handle-support-top-panel part25c. Each of the four handle-support-leg parts25aand the plurality of handle-support-beam parts25bis a plate-shaped bar member elongated in one direction. The handle-support-top-panel part25cis a flat-plate member.

Upper end portions of the four handle-support-leg parts25aare coupled to the handle-support-top-panel part25c. The four handle-support-leg parts25aare coupled to one another in the left-right direction by a part of the plurality of handle-support-beam parts25b, and are coupled to each other in the front-rear direction by another part of the plurality of handle-support-beam parts25b. In this embodiment, the four handle-support-leg parts25a, the plurality of handle-support-beam parts25b, and the handle-support-top-panel part25care integrally formed. Accordingly, the handlebar support part25is formed in a tower shape by the plate-shaped bar members.

Lower end portions of the four handle-support-leg parts25aare fixed to the front framework part211. The four handle-support-leg parts25amay be fixed to the front framework part211in any manner as long as the handle-support-leg parts25acan be fixed to the front framework part211, such as welding, fastening using a fastening member, or bonding.

The steering-shaft-support part63of the steering mechanism6described later is fixed to the top of the handle-support-top-panel part25c. The bar handle61is coupled to the steering shaft62rotatably supported by the steering-shaft-support part63. The handlebar support part25supports the steering handle SH constituted by the bar handle61and the steering shaft62.

The rear-arm-support part24is connected to the rear end of the rear framework part212. The rear-arm-support part24rotatably supports front portions of the pair of left and right rear arms23. Each of the pair of left and right rear arms23extends rearward from the rear-arm-support part24. Rear portions of the pair of left and right rear arms23rotatably support the rear wheel4.

The vehicle body cover26(cover) is supported by the vehicle body frame21. As illustrated inFIGS.1and2, the vehicle body cover26includes a vehicle-body-cover-main body26acovering the vehicle body frame21, and an upper cover26blocated above the vehicle-body-cover-main body26a. The upper cover26bhas a convex shape projecting upward when seen in the left-right direction. Accordingly, the upper cover26bconstitutes a passenger space in which the driver rides, between the upper cover26band the vehicle-body-cover-main body26a. Thus, the driver of the leaning vehicle1is not directly exposed to the weather so that comfort of the driver can be thereby enhanced. The upper cover26bis located over the head of the driver seated on the seat surface27cof the seat27.

The vehicle-body-cover-main body26acovers a right portion of the driver seated on the seat surface27cof the seat27, and leaves a left portion of the driver open. Accordingly, the driver is allowed to get on or off the leaning vehicle1from the left.

A right lower portion of the vehicle-body-cover-main body26ahas an opening26c. The opening26cis provided to allow the right foot of the driver seated on the seat surface27cof the seat27to be placed on the ground through the opening26c. That is, the leaning vehicle1includes the vehicle body cover26located at the right of the driver seated on the seat27to cover the right portion of the driver, and the vehicle body cover26has the opening26cthrough which the right foot of the driver seated on the seat27is allowed to pass when the right foot of the driver is placed on the ground. As a result, convenience of the leaning vehicle1can be enhanced. In addition, with the configuration described above, the leaning vehicle1does not need to have a self-standing function, and thus, the configuration of the leaning vehicle1can be simplified.

As illustrated inFIGS.1and4, in a front lower portion of the vehicle-body-cover-main body26afacing the passenger space, a plate-shaped left step261and a plate-shaped right step262are provided. The left step261is located in a left portion of the vehicle-body-cover-main body26a, and the left foot of the driver seated on the seat surface27cof the seat27is placed on the left step261. A front portion of the left step261is inclined forward and upward. The right step262is located in a right portion of the vehicle-body-cover-main body26a, and the right foot of the driver seated on the seat surface27cof the seat27is placed on the right step262. A front portion of the right step262is inclined forward and upward.

FIG.4is a plan view schematically illustrating a relationship among the driver, the vehicle body frame21, and the vehicle body cover26.FIG.7showsFIG.4andFIG.1together. InFIGS.4and7, parts of the leaning vehicle1except the vehicle body frame21, the left front wheel31, the right front wheel32, the rear wheel4, and the leaning linkage mechanism5are not shown for description, and the outer shape of the vehicle body cover26is indicated by an alternate long and short dash line.

The left step261is located at the left of the main framework part21ain plan view of the leaning vehicle1. The right step262is located at the right of the main framework part21ain plan view of the leaning vehicle1. That is, the main framework part21ais located between the left step261and the right step262in the left-right direction. InFIGS.2,4, and7, the left step261and the right step262are indicated by chain double-dashed lines and slashes, for description.

In this embodiment, the left step261and the right step262are integrally formed with the vehicle-body-cover-main body26a. The left step and the right step may be separately provided from the vehicle-body-cover-main body26a.

With the configuration described above, the left step261and the right step262are supported by the main framework part21awith the vehicle-body-cover-main body26ainterposed therebetween. The main framework part21amay be provided with step support parts individually supporting the left step and the right step. In this case, the left step and the right step are supported on the main framework part21aby the step support parts.

As illustrated inFIGS.4and7, a distance WS between the left end of the left step261and the right end of the right step262in the left-right direction is smaller than a track width WH between the left front wheel31and the right front wheel32. That is, the track width WH between the left front wheel31and the right front wheel32is larger than the distance WS between the left end of the left step261and the right end of the right step262. Accordingly, the distance from a grounding position of the feet of the driver before the driver rides on the leaning vehicle1to the seat surface27cof the seat27in the left-right direction is small. As a result, the driver can easily get on or off the leaning vehicle1.

The track width between the left front wheel31and the right front wheel32refers to a distance between the center of the left front wheel31and the center of the right front wheel32in the left-right direction of the leaning vehicle1.

A left rear portion of the left step261has a recess261a. The recess261aenables the driver to easily get on or off the leaning vehicle1. In addition, the driver can place the left foot on the ground while being seated on the seat surface27cof the seat27. As a result, convenience of the leaning vehicle1can be enhanced.

As illustrated inFIG.2, a front portion of the vehicle-body-cover-main body26ais provided with a front cover265covering the front of an unillustrated linkage-mechanism-driving motor for driving the leaning linkage mechanism5described later. The front cover265constitutes a front portion of a cabin C described later to cover a front portion of the linkage-mechanism-driving motor and cover a front portion of the driver seated on the seat surface27cof the seat27. The front cover265includes a light transmitting part265athrough which the driver seated on the seat surface27cof the seat27can visually recognize the pair of left and right front wheels3. The light transmitting part265ais made of, for example, a transparent material. The light transmitting part265amay be made of any material as long as the light transmitting part265ais made of a light transmissive material that allows light to pass therethrough.

The front cover265is located further rearward than the pair of left and right front wheels3. The left step261and the right step262are disposed rearward of the front cover265. Accordingly, the front cover265prevents water splashed by the pair of left and right front wheels3from entering the passenger space as a space in which the driver rides.

The upper cover26band the front cover265of the vehicle-body-cover-main body26aconstitute the cabin C covering a front portion and an upper portion of the driver seated on the seat surface27cof the seat27. The cabin C may include a portion of the vehicle-body-cover-main body26acovering a left portion of the driver, may include a portion of the vehicle-body-cover-main body26acovering a right portion of the driver, and/or may include a portion of the vehicle-body-cover-main body26acovering a rear portion of the driver.

A configuration of the leaning linkage mechanism5will now be described with reference toFIGS.3,5, and6.FIG.5is a schematic view of the leaning linkage mechanism5with the vehicle body frame21leaning leftward, when the leaning linkage mechanism5is seen toward the rear.FIG.6is a schematic view of the leaning linkage mechanism5with the vehicle body frame21leaning rightward, when the leaning linkage mechanism5is seen toward the rear.

The leaning linkage mechanism5is a double wishbone-type linkage mechanism. The leaning linkage mechanism5is supported by the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22. The leaning linkage mechanism5includes the left arm mechanism51and the right arm mechanism52.

The left arm mechanism51is connected to a left portion of the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22and the left front wheel31. As will be described later, the left arm mechanism51is rotatable upward or downward relative to each of the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22and the left front wheel31. That is, the left arm mechanism51supports the left front wheel31with respect to the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22such that the left front wheel31is rotatable upward or downward.

The left arm mechanism51swings upward relative to the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22when the vehicle body frame21leans leftward, and swings downward relative to the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22when the vehicle body frame21leans rightward. The left arm mechanism51includes the left-upper-arm member511, a left-lower-arm member512, and a left knuckle513. The left-upper-arm member511and the left-lower-arm member512are left swing arms.

The left-upper-arm member511is a flat-plate member and disposed between the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22and the left front wheel31to extend in the left-right direction. A right end portion of the left-upper-arm member511is connected to the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22to be rotatable upward or downward about the right end portion of the left-upper-arm member511. A portion in which the right end portion of the left-upper-arm member511is rotatably connected to the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22is a support part511a(i.e., the left support part) of the left-upper-arm member511to the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22. A left end portion of the left-upper-arm member511is connected to the left knuckle513connected to the wheel member of the left front wheel31to be rotatable upward or downward about the left end portion of the left-upper-arm member511.

The left-lower-arm member512is a flat-plate member and disposed under the left-upper-arm member511in parallel with the left-upper-arm member511. That is, in a manner similar to the left-upper-arm member511, the left-lower-arm member512is also disposed between the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22and the left front wheel31to extend in the left-right direction. A right end portion of the left-lower-arm member512is connected to the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22to be rotatable upward or downward about the right end portion of the left-lower-arm member512. A portion in which the right end portion of the left-lower-arm member512is rotatably connected to the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22is a support part512aof the left-lower-arm member512to the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22. A left end portion of the left-lower-arm member512is connected to the left knuckle513connected to the wheel member of the left front wheel31to be rotatable upward or downward about the left end portion of the left-lower-arm member512.

With the configuration of the left arm mechanism51described above, when the vehicle body frame21leans leftward, the left knuckle513leans leftward in parallel with the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22. At this time, the left-upper-arm member511and the left-lower-arm member512are kept in the parallel state. On the other hand, when the vehicle body frame21leans rightward, the left knuckle513leans rightward in parallel with the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22. At this time, the left-upper-arm member511and the left-lower-arm member512are kept in the parallel state.

The right arm mechanism52is connected to a right portion of the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22and the right front wheel32. As will be described later, the right arm mechanism52is rotatable upward or downward relative to each of the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22and the right front wheel32. That is, the right arm mechanism52supports the right front wheel32with respect to the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22such that the right front wheel32is rotatable upward or downward.

The right arm mechanism52swings downward relative to the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22when the vehicle body frame21leans leftward, and swings upward relative to the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22when the vehicle body frame21leans rightward. The right arm mechanism52includes the right-upper-arm member521, a right-lower-arm member522, and a right knuckle523. The right-upper-arm member521and the right-lower-arm member522are right swing arms.

The right-upper-arm member521is a flat-plate member and disposed between the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22and the right front wheel32to extend in the left-right direction. A left end portion of the right-upper-arm member521is connected to the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22to be rotatable upward or downward about the left end portion of the right-upper-arm member521. A portion in which the left end portion of the right-upper-arm member521is rotatably connected to the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22is a support part521a(i.e., the right support part) of the right-upper-arm member521to the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22. A right end portion of the right-upper-arm member521is connected to the right knuckle523connected to the wheel member of the right front wheel32to be rotatable upward or downward about the right end portion of the right-upper-arm member521.

The right-lower-arm member522is a flat-plate member and disposed under the right-upper-arm member521in parallel with the right-upper-arm member521. That is, in a manner similar to the right-upper-arm member521, the right-lower-arm member522is also disposed between the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22and the right front wheel32to extend in the left-right direction. A left end portion of the right-lower-arm member522is connected to the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22to be rotatable upward or downward about the left end portion of the right-lower-arm member522. A portion in which the left end portion of the right-lower-arm member522is rotatably connected to the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22is a support part522aof the right-lower-arm member522to the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22. A right end portion of the right-lower-arm member522is connected to the right knuckle523connected to the wheel member of the right front wheel32to be rotatable upward or downward about the right end portion of the right-lower-arm member522.

With the configuration of the right arm mechanism52described above, when the vehicle body frame21leans leftward, the right knuckle523leans leftward in parallel with the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22. At this time, the right-upper-arm member521and the right-lower-arm member522are kept in the parallel state. On the other hand, when the vehicle body frame21leans rightward, the right knuckle523leans rightward in parallel with the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22. At this time, the right-upper-arm member521and the right-lower-arm member522are kept in the parallel state.

In this manner, with the leaning linkage mechanism5with the configuration described above, the vehicle body frame21, the left front wheel31, and the right front wheel32are allowed to lean leftward or rightward.

Although not specifically illustrated, the leaning linkage mechanism5described above may be configured such that leftward leaning and rightward leaning are controlled by the linkage-mechanism-driving motor. The linkage-mechanism-driving motor is disposed further rearward than the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22and rearward of the front cover265, for example.

A configuration of the main framework part21awill now be described in detail with reference toFIG.3.

The main framework part21aextends in the front-rear direction. That is, the width of the main framework part21ain the left-right direction is smaller than the length of the main framework part21ain the front-rear direction. The main framework part21aincludes the front framework part211and the rear framework part212.

The front framework part211is located ahead of the rear framework part212. The front framework part211extends in the front-rear direction. The front framework part211includes a pair of front-framework-side-wall portions211aand a front-framework-bottom-wall portion211b. The pair of front-framework-side-wall portions211ais disposed side by side in the left-right direction and elongated in the front-rear direction. The front-framework-bottom-wall portion211bconnects lower end portions of the pair of front-framework-side-wall portions211a. The pair of front-framework-side-wall portions211aand the front-framework-bottom-wall portion211bare connected to each other by, for example, welding. The pair of front-framework-side-wall portions211aand the front-framework-bottom-wall portion211bmay be connected to each other by, for example, bonding or bolts, or may be integrally formed.

The height of the pair of front-framework-side-wall portions211ais lower in rear portions than front portions. Accordingly, the front framework part211is allowed to be placed near the feet of a driver seated on the seat surface27cof the seat27. Thus, the main framework part21acan be disposed in a lower portion of the leaning vehicle1so that the barycenter of the leaning vehicle1can be lowered.

In this embodiment, as illustrated inFIG.4, a portion of the main framework part21alocated further forward than a center X in the front-rear direction of the left step261and the right step262is a main-framework-front portion121. The main-framework-front portion121includes a part of the front framework part211. The main-framework-front portion121linearly extends in the front-rear direction.

The main-framework-front portion121is configured such that a dimension WF thereof in the vehicle width direction is larger than a distance D between the support part511aof the left upper arm511to the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22and the support part521aof the right upper arm521to the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22(seeFIGS.5and6). The main-framework-front portion121is configured such that the dimension WF thereof in the vehicle width direction is larger than a distance D between the support part512aof the left lower arm512to the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22and the support part522aof the right lower arm522to the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22(seeFIGS.5and6).

As illustrated inFIG.1, the upper end of the main-framework-front portion121is lower than the lower end of the steering handle SH. Specifically, a height H2of the upper end of the main-framework-front portion121is smaller than a height H1of the lower end of the steering handle SH. Accordingly, flexibility in, for example, a riding position of a driver and layout of parts mounted on the vehicle body frame can be enhanced. Thus, the degree of design flexibility of the leaning vehicle can be increased.

The lower end of the steering handle SH is located at the lowest position in the bar handle61and the steering shaft62. In this embodiment, the lower end of the steering handle SH is the lower end of the steering shaft62.

The upper end of the main-framework-front portion121is located at the highest position in the main-framework-front portion121. In this embodiment, the upper end of the main-framework-front portion121is a front portion of the front framework part211.

The upper end of the main-framework-front portion121is lower than the seat surface27cof the seat27. Specifically, the height H2of the upper end of the main-framework-front portion121is smaller than a height H3of the seat surface27cof the seat27. Accordingly, flexibility in, for example, a riding position of a driver and layout of parts mounted on the vehicle body frame can be enhanced. Thus, the degree of design flexibility of the leaning vehicle can be increased. The height H3of the seat surface27cof the seat described above is the height of a lowest portion in the seat surface27c.

The upper end of the main-framework-front portion121is lower than the upper end of the leaning linkage mechanism5. That is, as illustrated inFIG.2, the height H2of the upper end of the main-framework-front portion121is smaller than a height H4of the leaning linkage mechanism5. Accordingly, flexibility in, for example, a riding position of a driver and layout of parts mounted on the vehicle body frame can be enhanced. Thus, the degree of design flexibility of the leaning vehicle can be increased. The upper end of the leaning linkage mechanism5is located at the highest position in the leaning linkage mechanism5.

The height as used in this embodiment refers to a height from the road surface on which the leaning vehicle1is traveling.

As illustrated inFIG.3, a plate-shaped reinforcing member213is disposed on upper portions of center portions in the front-rear direction of the pair of front-framework-side-wall portions211a. The reinforcing member213is connected to the center portions in the front-rear direction of the pair of front-framework-side-wall portions211ato bridge the center portions in the left-right direction. The reinforcing member213may not be provided. The reinforcing member213may have other shapes such as a rod shape.

The rear framework part212is located rearward of the front framework part211. The rear framework part212extends in the front-rear direction. The rear framework part212includes a pair of rear-framework-side-wall-portions212aand a plurality of rear-framework-beam portions212b. The pair of rear-framework-side-wall-portions212ais disposed side by side in the left-right direction and elongated in the front-rear direction. The plurality of rear-framework-beam portions212bconnect the pair of rear-framework-side-wall-portions212ain the left-right direction.

The dimension of the rear framework part212in the top-bottom direction is larger than the dimension of the front framework part211in the top-bottom direction. The dimension of the rear framework part212in the left-right direction is smaller than the dimension of the front framework part211in the left-right direction.

The rear framework part212supports the power unit8. The upper portion of the rear framework part212supports the seat27. The rear end portion of the rear framework part212supports the rear-arm-support part24.

Each of the rear-framework-side-wall-portions212aof the rear framework part212has an opening212c. Each rear-framework-side-wall-portion212amay not include an opening.

The front framework part211and the rear framework part212are aligned in the front-rear direction and connected to each other. Accordingly, the vehicle body frame21is elongated in the front-rear direction as described above.

In this embodiment, a portion of the main framework part21alocated further rearward than the center X in the front-rear direction of the left step261and the right step262is a main-framework-rear portion122. The main-framework-rear portion122includes a rear portion of the front framework part211and the rear framework part212.

As illustrated inFIG.4, the main framework part21ais located between the left step261and the right step262provided in the vehicle-body-cover-main body26ain plan view. The main framework part21alinearly extends in the front-rear direction between the legs of the driver whose feet are placed on the left step261and the right step262in a state where the driver is seated on the seat27. In the main framework part21a, the main-framework-front portion121located further forward than the center X in the front-rear direction of the left step261and the right step262supports the leaning linkage mechanism5, and the main-framework-rear portion122located further rearward than the center X in the front-rear direction of the left step261and the right step262supports the seat27, the rear wheel4, and the power unit8. As illustrated inFIG.2, the main-framework-front portion121supports at least a part of the leaning linkage mechanism5at a position further downward than the upper surface of at least a part of the left step261and the right step262in a side view of the leaning vehicle1.

In the configuration described above, the main framework part21ais of a shape having a small width and extending linearly. In the main framework part21a, the main-framework-front portion121supports the leaning linkage mechanism5supporting the vehicle body frame21, the left front wheel31, and the right front wheel32such that the vehicle body frame21, the left front wheel31, and the right front wheel32lean leftward or rightward, and the main-framework-rear portion122supports the other mounted parts. Accordingly, flexibility in, for example, a riding position of a driver and layout of parts mounted on the vehicle body frame21can be enhanced. Thus, the degree of design flexibility of the leaning vehicle1can be increased.

As illustrated inFIG.1, the main framework part21aof this embodiment extends linearly in the front-rear direction at a position further downward than the upper surface of at least a part of the left step261and the right step262on which the driver seated on the seat surface27cof the seat27places the feet, in a side view of the leaning vehicle1. Accordingly, flexibility in, for example, a riding position of a driver and layout of parts mounted on the vehicle body frame21can be enhanced. Thus, the degree of design flexibility of the leaning vehicle1can be increased.

In addition, as described above, since the main framework part21aof the vehicle body frame21is disposed at a low position in the leaning vehicle1, the driver can easily get on or off the leaning vehicle1even in the case of the leaning vehicle1of this embodiment with the upper cover26b.

Furthermore, since the main-framework-front portion121is configured such that the dimension WF thereof in the vehicle width direction is larger than the distance D between the support part511aof the left-upper-arm member511to the vehicle body frame21and the support part521aof the right-upper-arm member521to the vehicle body frame21as in this embodiment, rigidity of the main-framework-front portion121can be enhanced, as compared to a portion of the vehicle body frame21supporting the left-upper-arm member511and the right-upper-arm member521. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce deformation of the main-framework-front portion121caused by a force input from the left front wheel31through the left-upper-arm member511and a force input from the right front wheel32though the right-upper-arm member521. Thus, the configuration described above can increase rigidity of the entire vehicle body frame21.

Similarly, since the main-framework-front portion121is configured such that the dimension WF thereof in the vehicle width direction is larger than the distance D between the support part512aof the left-lower-arm member512to the vehicle body frame21and the support part522aof the right-lower-arm member522to the vehicle body frame21, rigidity of the main-framework-front portion121can be increased, as compared to a portion of the vehicle body frame21supporting the left-lower-arm member512and the right-lower-arm member522. Thus, it is possible to reduce deformation of the main-framework-front portion121caused by a force input from the left front wheel31through the left-lower-arm member512and a force input from the right front wheel32through the right-lower-arm member522. Thus, the configuration described above can increase rigidity of the entire vehicle body frame21.

Second Embodiment

FIG.8is a left side view illustrating a schematic configuration of a leaning vehicle1001according to a second embodiment.FIG.9is a plan view illustrating a schematic configuration of a vehicle body frame1021of the leaning vehicle1001. InFIG.9, a floor1029including a left step261and a right step262and described later is indicated by chain double-dashed lines and slashes.

In this embodiment, a configuration of the vehicle body frame1021is different from a configuration of the vehicle body frame21of the leaning vehicle1according to the first embodiment. In the following description, components similar to those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference characters and will not be described again, and only components different from those of the first embodiment will be described.

As illustrated inFIG.9, the vehicle body frame1021includes a main framework part1021a, a leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22, and a handlebar support part25.

The main framework part1021aincludes a pipe-shaped left main frame1041and a pipe-shaped right main frame1042extending in the front-rear direction below the left step261and the right step262. The left main frame1041is located in a left portion of the leaning vehicle1001in plan view. The right main frame1042is located in a right portion of the leaning vehicle1001in plan view. In this embodiment, the left main frame1041and the right main frame1042are disposed symmetrically with respect to the center of the leaning vehicle1001in the left-right direction in plan view.

In this embodiment, the left step261and the right step262are constituted by the plate-shaped floor1029located on the left main frame1041and the right main frame1042. A front portion of the floor1029is inclined forward and upward. A rear portion of the floor1029is flat. That is, in this embodiment, the left step261and the right step262are integrally formed. The upper surfaces of the left step261and the right step262are the upper surface of the floor1029.

As illustrated inFIGS.8and9, the left main frame1041includes a left-main-frame-front portion1041a, a left-main-frame-rear portion1041c, and a left-main-frame-intermediate portion1041b. The left-main-frame-front portion1041a, the left-main-frame-intermediate portion1041b, and the left-main-frame-rear portion1041care aligned in the front-rear direction and coupled to one another.

The left-main-frame-intermediate portion1041bextends in the front-rear direction below the left step261. The left-main-frame-intermediate portion1041bsupports a seat27.

The left-main-frame-front portion1041aextends forward and obliquely upward from a front portion of the left-main-frame-intermediate portion1041b. The left-main-frame-front portion1041ais formed such that the front end portion of the left-main-frame-front portion1041aapproaches the front end portion of a right-main-frame-front portion1042adescribed later, that is, the front end portion of the left-main-frame-front portion1041aapproaches the center of the leaning vehicle1001in the left-right direction in plan view. The front end portion of the left-main-frame-front portion1041ais connected to the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22through a buffer-device-support part28. The left-main-frame-front portion1041aand the right-main-frame-front portion1042adescribed later support the handlebar support part25.

The left-main-frame-rear portion1041chas a shape extending upward from the rear end of the left-main-frame-intermediate portion1041band bent rearward. The left-main-frame-rear portion1041cis integrated with the left-main-frame-intermediate portion1041b.

The right main frame1042includes the right-main-frame-front portion1042a, a right-main-frame-rear portion1042c, and a right-main-frame-intermediate portion1042b. The right-main-frame-front portion1042a, the right-main-frame-intermediate portion1042b, and the right-main-frame-rear portion1042care aligned in the front-rear direction and coupled to one another.

The right-main-frame-intermediate portion1042bextends in the front-rear direction below the right step262. The right-main-frame-intermediate portion1042bsupports the seat27.

The right-main-frame-front portion1042aextends forward and obliquely upward from a front portion of the right-main-frame-intermediate portion1042b. The right-main-frame-front portion1042ais formed such that the front end portion of the right-main-frame-front portion1042aapproaches the front end portion of the left-main-frame-front portion1041a, that is, the front end portion of the right-main-frame-front portion1042aapproaches the center of the leaning vehicle1001in the left-right direction in plan view. The front end portion of the right-main-frame-front portion1042ais connected to the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22through the buffer-device-support part28. The right-main-frame-front portion1042aand the left-main-frame-front portion1041asupport the handlebar support part25.

The right-main-frame-rear portion1042chas a shape extending upward from the right-main-frame-intermediate portion1042band bent rearward. The right-main-frame-rear portion1042cis integrated with the right-main-frame-intermediate portion1042b.

The left-main-frame-intermediate portion1041band the right-main-frame-intermediate portion1042bare coupled to each other by a front coupling part1043extending in the left-right direction. The left-main-frame-rear portion1041cand the right-main-frame-rear portion1042care coupled to each other by a rear coupling part1044located further rearward than the front coupling part1043and extending in the left-right direction. Accordingly, rigidity of the main framework part1021acan be increased.

The rear coupling part1044supports a front portion of a swing arm1023to be rotatable upward or downward. The swing arm1023rotatably supports a rear wheel4, instead of the rear arm of the first embodiment. The swing arm1023is provided with a power unit8.

A battery81for supplying electric power to the power unit8is disposed between the left-main-frame-intermediate portion1041band the right-main-frame-intermediate portion1042b. In a case where a driving source of the leaning vehicle1001includes an engine, a fuel tank is disposed between the left-main-frame-intermediate portion1041band the right-main-frame-intermediate portion1042b.

As described above, the main framework part1021aextends linearly in the front-rear direction at a position further downward than the upper surfaces of the left step261and the right step262. Accordingly, the barycenter of the leaning vehicle1001can be lowered, and a driver can easily get on or off the leaning vehicle1001.

With this configuration described above, the main framework part1021ais configured to extend linearly in the front-rear direction at a position further downward than the upper surfaces of the left step261and the right step262on which the driver seated on a seat surface27cof the seat27places the feet in a side view of the leaning vehicle1001. Thus, flexibility in, for example, the riding position of the driver and layout of mounted parts mounted on the vehicle body frame1021can be enhanced. Accordingly, the degree of design flexibility of the leaning vehicle1001can be increased.

A portion of the main framework part1021alocated further forward than the center X in the front-rear direction of the left step261and the right step262is a main-framework-front portion1121. The main-framework-front portion1121includes the left-main-frame-front portion1041a, the right-main-frame-front portion1042a, a front portion of the left-main-frame-intermediate portion1041b, and a front portion of the right-main-frame-intermediate portion1042b. A portion of the main framework part1021alocated further rearward than the center X in the front-rear direction of the left step261and the right step262is a main-framework-rear portion1122. The main-framework-rear portion1122includes a rear portion of the left-main-frame-intermediate portion1041b, a rear portion of the right-main-frame-intermediate portion1042b, the left-main-frame-rear portion1041c, and the right-main-frame-rear portion1042c. In the main framework part1021a, the main-framework-front portion1121supports a leaning linkage mechanism5, and the main-framework-rear portion1122supports the seat27, the rear wheel4, and the power unit8.

With the configuration described above, in the main framework part1021aof the vehicle body frame1021, the main-framework-front portion1121supports the leaning linkage mechanism5supporting the vehicle body frame1021, a left front wheel31, and a right front wheel32such that the vehicle body frame1021, the left front wheel31, and the right front wheel32lean leftward or rightward, and the main-framework-rear portion1122supports the other mounted parts. Accordingly, flexibility in, for example, a riding position of a driver and layout of parts mounted on the vehicle body frame1021can be enhanced. Thus, the degree of design flexibility of the leaning vehicle1001can be increased.

As illustrated inFIG.8, the upper end of the main-framework-front portion1121is lower than the lower end of the steering handle SH. Specifically, a height H2of the upper end of the main-framework-front portion1121is smaller than a height H1of the lower end of the steering handle SH. Accordingly, flexibility in, for example, a riding position of a driver and layout of parts mounted on the vehicle body frame1021can be enhanced. Thus, the degree of design flexibility of the leaning vehicle1001can be increased.

The lower end of the steering handle SH is located at the lowest position in the bar handle61and the steering shaft62. In this embodiment, the lower end of the steering handle SH is the lower end of the steering shaft62.

The upper end of the main-framework-front portion1121is located at the highest position in the main-framework-front portion1121. In this embodiment, the upper end of the main-framework-front portion1121is the front ends of the left-main-frame-front portion1041aand the right-main-frame-front portion1042a.

The upper end of the main-framework-front portion1121is lower than the seat surface27cof the seat27. Specifically, the height H2of the upper end of the main-framework-front portion1121is smaller than a height H3of the seat surface27cof the seat27. Accordingly, flexibility in, for example, a riding position of a driver and layout of parts mounted on the vehicle body frame1021can be enhanced. Thus, the degree of design flexibility of the leaning vehicle1001can be increased. The height H3of the seat surface27cof the seat described above is the height of a lowest portion in the seat surface27c.

The height as used in this embodiment refers to a height from the road surface on which the leaning vehicle1001is traveling.

In this embodiment, as illustrated inFIG.9, a distance WS between the left end of the left step261and the right end of the right step262in the left-right direction is also smaller than a track width WH between the left front wheel31and the right front wheel32. That is, the track width WH between the left front wheel31and the right front wheel32is larger than the distance WS between the left end of the left step261and the right end of the right step262. Accordingly, the distance from a grounding position of the feet of the driver before the driver rides on the leaning vehicle1001to the seat surface27cof the seat27in the left-right direction is small. As a result, the driver can easily get on or off the leaning vehicle1001.

The track width between the left front wheel31and the right front wheel32refers to a distance between the center of the left front wheel31and the center of the right front wheel32in the left-right direction of the leaning vehicle1001.

In this embodiment, as illustrated inFIG.8, the main-framework-front portion1121also supports at least a part of the leaning linkage mechanism5at a position further downward than the upper surface of at least a part of the left step261and the right step262, in a side view of the leaning vehicle1001.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, as illustrated inFIG.9, the main-framework-front portion1121is also configured such that the dimension WF thereof in the vehicle width direction is larger than the distance D between the support part511aof the left-upper-arm member511to the vehicle body frame1021and the support part521aof the right-upper-arm member521to the vehicle body frame1021. In addition, the main-framework-front portion1121is configured such that the dimension WF thereof in the vehicle width direction is larger than the distance D between the support part512aof the left-lower-arm member512to the vehicle body frame1021and the support part522aof the right-lower-arm member522to the vehicle body frame1021. In this embodiment, the dimension WF of the main-framework-front portion1121in the vehicle width direction is a dimension of a front end portion of the main-framework-front portion1121in the vehicle width direction.

Other Embodiments

The embodiments of the present teaching have been described above, but the embodiments are merely examples for carrying out the present teaching. Thus, the present teaching is not limited to the embodiments described above, and the embodiments may be modified as necessary within a range not departing from the gist of the present teaching.

In the first embodiment, the handlebar support part25is provided separately from the front framework part211. Alternatively, the handlebar support part may be integrally provided with the front framework part. That is, the handlebar support part may be integrally provided with the main framework part.

In the first embodiment, the main framework part21aincludes the front framework part211and the rear framework part212. Alternatively, the main framework part may include at least a part of a casing of the power unit, in addition to the front framework part and the rear framework part.

In each embodiment, the leaning linkage mechanism5is a double wishbone-type linkage mechanism including the left upper arm511, the right upper arm521, the left lower arm512, and the right lower arm522. Alternatively, the leaning linkage mechanism may include only one of the upper arm and the lower arm.

In the first embodiment, the main framework part21aincludes the front framework part211and the rear framework part212. Alternatively, the main framework part may be one unit, or may be constituted by coupling three or more members in the front-rear direction. The main framework part may be constituted by coupling a plurality of parts in the left-right direction. The main framework part may be constituted by using pipe members.

In the first embodiment, a rear portion of the front framework part211is lower than a front portion of the front framework part211. Alternatively, the front framework part may have a uniform height in the front-rear direction, or may have a front portion lower than a rear portion thereof.

In the first embodiment, the dimension of the rear framework part212in the left-right direction is smaller than the dimension of the front framework part211in the left-right direction, and the height of the rear framework part212is larger than the height of the front framework part211. Alternatively, the dimension of the rear framework part in the left-right direction may be equal to or larger than the dimension of the front framework part in the left-right direction. The height of the rear framework part may be equal to or smaller than the height of the front framework part.

In the first embodiment, in the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22, the support part511aof the left upper arm511and the support part521aof the right upper arm521are located away from each other. In the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part22, the support part512aof the left lower arm512and the support part522aof the right lower arm522are located away from each other. Alternatively, in the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part, the support part of the left upper arm and the support part of the right upper arm may be located at the same position. In the leaning-linkage-mechanism-support part, the support part of the left lower arm and the support part of the right lower arm may be located at the same position.

In each embodiment, the upper end of the main-framework-front portion121,1121is lower than the lower end of the steering handle SH. Alternatively, the upper end of the main-framework-front portion may be equal to or higher than the lower end of the steering handle.

In each embodiment, the upper end of the main-framework-front portion121,1121is lower than the seat surface27cof the seat27. Alternatively, the upper end of the main-framework-front portion may be equal to or higher than the seat surface of the seat.

In the first embodiment, the upper end of the main-framework-front portion121is lower than the upper end of the leaning linkage mechanism5. Alternatively, the upper end of the main-framework-front portion may be equal to or higher than the upper end of the leaning linkage mechanism.

In each embodiment, the track width WH between the left front wheel31and the right front wheel32is larger than the distance WS between the left end of the left step261and the right end of the right step262in the left-right direction. Alternatively, the track width between the left front wheel and the right front wheel may be equal to or smaller than the distance between the left end of the left step and the right end of the right step in the left-right direction.

In each embodiment, the handlebar support part25is formed in a tower shape by plate-shaped bar members. Alternatively, the handlebar support part may be constituted by pipe members or plate-shaped members as long as the handlebar support part can rotatably support the steering handle.

In the second embodiment, the power unit8is provided on the swing arm1023. Alternatively, the power unit may be provided on the rear wheel. In this case, a wheel-in motor, for example, may be provided in the rear wheel.

In the second embodiment, the main framework part2021aof the vehicle body frame1021of the leaning vehicle1001includes the pipe-shaped left main frame1041and the pipe-shaped right main frame1042extending in the front-rear direction below the left step261and the right step262. Alternatively, each of the left main frame and the right main frame may be constituted by a member obtained by bending a flat plate in a U shape. The main framework part may include a frame except the left main frame and the right main frame. The configuration of the main framework part is not limited to the configuration of the second embodiment.

In each embodiment, the seat27includes the seat portion27aand the seat back27b. Alternatively, the seat may be a so-called straddled type seat including only a seat portion.

In each embodiment, the three-wheeled vehicle has been described as an example of the leaning vehicle, but the leaning vehicle may be a four-wheeled vehicle or a vehicle other than the three-wheeled vehicle.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST