Patent Description:
Conventional two-wheeled vehicles include a frame for supporting an operator. The frame may also support a passenger rearward of the driver. An engine is typically positioned below the driver and is coupled to the frame. The front of the vehicle may include a fairing positioned forward of the driver and supported by the frame or the front triple clamps of the vehicle. Additionally, the vehicle may include cargo and infotainment feature for additional comfort and convenience for the rider. The rear of the vehicle may include a cargo area, for example saddlebags, extending laterally outward from the frame. The prior art document <CIT> discloses the preamble of claim <NUM>.

According to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, a two-wheeled vehicle is providing comprising a frame assembly extending longitudinally from a front end to a second end. The frame assembly includes a forward frame member and a down tube assembly coupled to the forward frame member. The frame assembly including a fairing support mount. The two-wheeled vehicle further comprises a plurality of ground-engaging members supporting the frame assembly on a ground surface and a fairing coupled to the forward frame member and the down tube assembly, wherein the fairing comprising an outer fairing member and an inner fairing member. The two-wheeled vehicle further comprising a pair of brackets, each bracket removably coupled to the down tube assembly and the fairing support mount, wherein at least one of the brackets is coupled to the inner fairing member, wherein the down tube assembly includes a first down tube member and a second down tube member, each of the first and second down tube members having an upper shoulder, each of the brackets coupled to the upper shoulder of one of the first down tube member and the second down tube member.

In an example thereof, the two-wheeled vehicle further comprises a bracket coupled to the down tube assembly and the fairing. In a variation thereof, the two-wheeled vehicle further comprises a steering assembly, the forward frame member includes a head tube configured to receive a portion of the steering assembly, and the bracket extends from a position longitudinally forward of the head tube to a position longitudinally rearward of the head tube. In another variation thereof, the fairing comprising an outer fairing member and an inner fairing member, and the bracket is coupled to the inner fairing member. In a further variation thereof the bracket includes a generally vertical leg coupled to the down tube assembly and a generally horizontal leg coupled to the inner fairing ember. In yet another variation thereof, the down tube assembly supports a radiator.

According to another illustrative example, a two-wheel vehicle is provided comprising a frame, a plurality of ground-engaging members supporting the frame on a ground surface, an engine supported by the frame intermediate the plurality of intermediate ground-engaging members, and a cooling system coupled to the frame intermediate a first one of the plurality of ground engaging members and the engine. The cooling system includes a fan and a shroud surrounding at least a portion of the fan, and the shroud includes a plurality of apertures adapted to direct airflow laterally outward from the fan.

In an example thereof, the two-wheeled vehicle further comprises at least one opening adapted to direct airflow rearwardly from the fan. In another example thereof, the two-wheeled vehicle further comprises at least one opening positioned vertically below the fan and adapted to direct airflow from the fan downward. In a further example thereof, the plurality of apertures includes at least a first aperture adapted to direct airflow laterally outward in a first direction, a second aperture adapted to direct airflow in a second direction different from the first direction, and a third aperture adapted to directed airflow in a third direction different from the first and second directions. In yet a further example thereof, the shroud is configured to at least partially receive a coolant conduit.

According to a further illustrative example, a two-wheeled vehicle is provided comprising a frame having a main frame portion defining an air box, a plurality of ground-engaging members supporting the frame on a ground surface, an engine supported by the frame, and an air breather fluidly coupled to the engine and the main frame portion.

In an example thereof, the engine includes a valve cover, and the air breather is coupled to the valve cover. In another example thereof, the air breather cooperates with the engine and the air box to flow air from the engine upwardly into the air box and recirculate the air to the engine. In a variation thereof, the airbox includes an air filter, the air filter positioned forward of the air breather. In a further variation thereof, the air breather is coupled to the main frame portion at a lowest vertical portion of the main frame portion. In yet a further variation thereof, the air breather is configured to receive a mixture of oil and air, and the main frame portion is configured to collect oil separated from the mixture of oil and air and flow the oil into the engine through the air breather.

According to another illustrative example, a two-wheeled vehicle is provided comprising a frame, a plurality of ground-engaging members supporting the frame on a ground surface, an engine supported by the frame, and an exhaust system fluidly coupled to the engine. The exhaust system includes a muffler having a cylindrical housing extending from a first end to a second end and a first baffle supported within the housing proximate the first end of the cylindrical housing. The second end of the cylindrical housing includes a muffler tip.

In an example thereof, the muffler further includes an outlet pipe supported within the cylindrical housing by a second baffle, and the outlet pipe is coupled to the muffler tip. In a variation thereof, the first end and the first baffle define a first interior chamber of the cylindrical housing, and the first baffle and the second baffle define a second interior chamber of the cylindrical housing. In another variation thereof, the outlet pipe includes a plurality of radially spaced apertures, and the radially spaced apertures are located between the second baffle and the muffler tip. In another example, a length between the first end and the second end defines the length of the cylindrical housing, and the first baffle is positioned within a first half of the length of the cylindrical housing. In a variation thereof, the first baffle is positioned within a first third of the length of the cylindrical housing.

According to a further example, a two-wheeled vehicle is provided comprising a frame assembly including a forward frame portion and a rearward frame portion, a body assembly coupled to the frame assembly and including a fairing positioned at the forward frame portion, a plurality of ground-engaging members configured to support the frame assembly and body assembly, an operator area including a seat supported by the frame assembly, and a windshield assembly supported by the forward frame portion and positioned forward of the seat. The windshield assembly includes a windshield member having a recess and being configured to move in a generally vertical direction relative to the fairing. When the windshield member is in a first position, the recess of the windshield member cooperates with the fairing to define an air opening, and when the windshield member is in a second position, the recess of the windshield member is concealed by the fairing.

In an example thereof, the recess is defined in lowermost extent of the windshield member. In a variation thereof, a size of the air opening increases in the direction of movement of the windshield member. In another example thereof, airflow through the air opening directs air upwardly along a rear side of the windshield member. In a further example thereof, the body assembly further includes a console member positioned with the operator area, and the console member cooperates with the air opening to direct air upwardly. In a variation thereof, a front surface of the console member is angled upwardly from the air opening and a rear surface of the console member includes opening for receiving at least one of a display and a gauge.

According to another illustrative example, a two-wheeled vehicle is provided comprising a frame assembly including a forward frame portion and a rearward frame portion, a body assembly coupled to the frame assembly and including a fairing positioned at the forward frame portion, a plurality of ground-engaging members configured to support the frame assembly and body assembly, an operator area including a seat supported by the frame assembly, aa windshield assembly supported by the forward frame portion and positioned forward of the seat and including a windshield member, and an air vent defined by a portion of the fairing and a portion of the windshield assembly and configured to be selectively opened and closed in response to an input. In an example thereof, the air vent is defined by a recess of the windshield member and an upper portion of the fairing. In another example thereof, the input for opening and closing the air vent is at least one of a selective operator input, a condition of the vehicle, and an ambient condition. In a further example thereof, the air vent is positioned to direct air flow into the operator area and above a head of a rider when the rider is seated in an upright position on the seat. In yet a further example thereof, a size of the air vent is defined by a position of the windshield member. In a variation thereof, the windshield member is movable in a generally vertical direction between a plurality of positions, and an uppermost position of the windshield member maximizes the size of the air vent, and a lowermost position of the windshield member closes the air vent and inhibits air flow between the windshield member and the fairing.

Additional features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the following detailed description of the illustrative embodiments exemplifying the best mode of carrying out the invention as presently perceived.

The above mentioned and other features of the invention, and the manner of attaining them, will become more apparent and the invention itself will be better understood by reference to the following description of embodiments of the invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings:.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. Although the drawings represent embodiments of various features and components according to the present disclosure, the drawings are not necessarily to scale, and certain features may be exaggerated to better illustrate and explain the present disclosure. The exemplification set out herein illustrates an embodiment of the invention, and such an exemplification is not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any manner.

The embodiments disclosed below are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed in the following detailed description. Rather, the embodiments are chosen and described so that others skilled in the art may utilize their teachings. While the present invention primarily involves a touring motorcycle, it should be understood that the invention may have application to other types of vehicles such as all-terrain vehicles, motorcycles, watercraft, utility vehicles, scooters, golf carts, and mopeds.

With references to <FIG>, an illustrative embodiment of a vehicle <NUM> is shown. As illustrated, vehicle <NUM> is a two-wheeled vehicle, such as a motorcycle. Illustratively, vehicle <NUM> includes a frame assembly <NUM> supported by at least one ground-engaging member, specifically a front ground-engaging member, illustratively a front wheel <NUM>, and a rear-ground engaging member, illustratively a rear wheel <NUM>. Vehicle <NUM> travels relative to a ground surface on front wheel <NUM> and rear wheel <NUM>. Frame assembly <NUM> includes at least a main frame portion <NUM> and a rear frame assembly <NUM>, as disclosed herein. While vehicle <NUM> is shown as a two-wheeled vehicle, various embodiments of the present disclosure are also operable with vehicles comprising more than two wheels (e.g., three, four, six, etc. wheels). In addition, it is understood that the various embodiments of the present disclosure are also operable with ground-engaging members other than wheels, such as, for example, tracks, skis, or sleds.

Rear wheel <NUM> is coupled to a powertrain assembly <NUM> to propel vehicle <NUM> through rear wheel <NUM>. Powertrain assembly <NUM> includes a transmission <NUM> coupled to an engine <NUM> to provide power to rear wheel <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, engine <NUM> is a V-twin spark-ignition gasoline engine available from Polaris Industries Inc. , located at <NUM> Highway <NUM> in Medina, Minnesota <NUM>, however, any type of engine may be used. For example, electric motors and other suitable torque-generating machines, including hybrids, are operable with the various embodiments of the present disclosure.

Vehicle <NUM> includes a steering assembly <NUM>, a front suspension assembly <NUM>, a rear suspension assembly <NUM> (<FIG>), and a seat <NUM>. Steering assembly <NUM> includes handlebars <NUM> that may be moved or rotated about a steering axis by an operator to rotate front wheel <NUM> either to the left or the right. Steering assembly <NUM> includes a gripping portion, comprised of hand grips and operator controls for the comfort of the operator while operating vehicle <NUM>. Steering assembly <NUM> is illustratively coupled to vehicle <NUM> by a triple clamp assembly <NUM> (see <FIG>). Vehicle <NUM> further includes engine operating systems such as an air intake system <NUM> and exhaust system <NUM>. Operator controls are also provided for operating and controlling vehicle <NUM>, which may include a vehicle starting system, an electronic throttle control ("ETC"), vehicle speed controls, and vehicle braking systems. Additional systems and components may also be provided such as headlight <NUM>, front turn signals, rear turn signals <NUM>, rear light <NUM>, auxiliary lights, windshield assembly <NUM>, and saddlebag assembly <NUM>.

With reference now to <FIG> and <FIG>, air intake system <NUM> is shown in more detail. Air intake system <NUM> provides air to powertrain assembly <NUM>, particularly engine <NUM>, and illustratively includes an air filter <NUM> and an air filter cover <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, air filter <NUM> and air filter cover <NUM> are received within an air filter portion <NUM> of main frame portion <NUM> of frame assembly <NUM>. More specifically, main frame portion <NUM> includes a head tube <NUM> positioned at a forward end <NUM> and configured to couple with a portion of steering assembly <NUM>. Positioned vertically below head tube <NUM> is an air intake port <NUM> (see <FIG>). Air intake port <NUM> is fluidly coupled to a first end of an air box or channel <NUM> extending through at least a portion of an interior <NUM> of main frame portion <NUM>. As such, interior <NUM> of main frame portion <NUM> defines air box <NUM>. As disclosed further herein, air filter <NUM> is positioned longitudinally intermediate air intake port <NUM> and an air outlet port (not shown). As such, air that flows into air box <NUM> through air intake port <NUM> flows through filter <NUM> and is cleaned or otherwise filtered of any particulate matter or contaminants before exiting air box <NUM> through the air outlet port and entering engine <NUM> through torque tubes (not shown).

In the illustrative embodiment shown, air filter <NUM> includes a frame <NUM> surrounding and supporting a filter medium <NUM>. Frame <NUM> may comprise a rigid material. An advantage, among others, of a rigid frame <NUM> is that air filter <NUM> will better retain its shape as well as seal against air filter portion <NUM> when seated against interior surfaces of main frame portion <NUM>. Air filter <NUM> is secured within air filter portion <NUM> using air filter cover <NUM>. In the embodiment shown, air filter cover <NUM> includes a base <NUM> with opposed prongs <NUM>, illustratively prongs 88a, 88b, extending downwardly from base <NUM>. Base <NUM> is configured to couple to main frame portion <NUM> using, for example, a plurality of fasteners <NUM>. Illustratively, base <NUM> includes a plurality of apertures <NUM> configured to receive a respective one of fasteners <NUM>. Similarly, main frame portion <NUM> includes a plurality of apertures <NUM> surrounding an opening <NUM> which provides access to air filter portion <NUM>. Apertures <NUM> of air filter cover <NUM> align with apertures <NUM> of main frame portion <NUM> such that both apertures <NUM>, <NUM> are configured to receive a respective one of fasteners <NUM> to couple air filter cover <NUM> to main frame portion <NUM>. Opposed prongs <NUM> are adapted to secure air filter <NUM> therebetween such that filter <NUM> is positioned generally laterally intermediate prongs <NUM>. In the embodiment shown, opposed prongs <NUM> extend along opposite sides, illustratively sides 96a, 96b, respectively, of filter medium <NUM> and filter frame <NUM>.

Within air filter portion <NUM>, a plurality of tabs <NUM> extend inwardly from an interior surface of a wall <NUM> of main frame portion <NUM>. In the embodiment shown, air filter portion <NUM> includes an upper tab 98a and a lower tab 98b extending inwardly from interior wall <NUM> and vertically spaced apart from one another. In addition, air filter portion <NUM> includes a mounting flange <NUM> extending inwardly from interior wall <NUM>. Mounting flange <NUM> extends circumferentially around the inner surface of main frame portion <NUM> and is angled relative to a vertical axis of vehicle <NUM>. Mounting flange <NUM> provides a sealing surface against which frame <NUM> of air filter <NUM> may be sealed. More specifically, upper tab 98a and lower tab 98b are longitudinally spaced apart from mounting flange <NUM> to accommodate air filter <NUM> and air filter cover <NUM> when installed. In the embodiment shown, lower tab 98b is longitudinally spaced closer to mounting flange <NUM> than upper tab 98a is longitudinal spaced to mounting flange <NUM>.

When air filter <NUM> is secured between opposed prongs <NUM> of air filter cover <NUM> and air filter <NUM> and air filter cover <NUM> are inserted into air filter portion <NUM> through opening <NUM>, air filter <NUM> and opposed prongs <NUM> of air filter cover <NUM> will be longitudinally positioned between tabs <NUM> and mounting flange <NUM> such that tabs <NUM> contact a forward surface of prongs <NUM> and mounting flange <NUM> contacts a rearward surface of filter <NUM>. Because lower tab 98b is longitudinally spaced closer to mounting flange <NUM>, prongs <NUM> compress air filter <NUM> against mounting flange <NUM>. As a result, frame <NUM> forms a seal with at least mounting flange <NUM>. Air filter cover <NUM> may then be secured to main portion <NUM> using fasteners <NUM>.

Turning now to <FIG>, an air breather <NUM> of engine <NUM> is shown. Air breather <NUM> is positioned proximate a rearward end <NUM> of main frame portion <NUM> and is fluidly coupled to an inner chamber <NUM> of main portion <NUM>, which is rearward of filter <NUM>. Air breather <NUM> is further fluidly coupled to a cam cover or valve cover <NUM> of one of the cylinder heads of engine <NUM>, illustratively the rearward cylinder head. In the embodiment shown, air breather <NUM> comprises a base <NUM> including a fluid passageway <NUM>. Fluid passageway <NUM> extends from an upper surface <NUM> of base <NUM> to a lower surface <NUM> of base <NUM> located opposite upper surface <NUM>. Upper surface <NUM> includes a mounting flange <NUM> adapted to mate with a mounting flange <NUM> of rearward end <NUM>. In the embodiment shown, mounting flange <NUM> of upper surface <NUM> and mounting flange <NUM> of rearward end <NUM> comprise generally planar surfaces. Similarly, lower surface <NUM> includes a mounting flange <NUM> adapted to be received within a recess <NUM> of valve cover <NUM> and is directly coupled to valve cover <NUM>. Air breather <NUM> further includes a gasket or seal for sealing valve cover <NUM> to main frame portion <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, the seal is overmolded to air breather <NUM>. In one embodiment, base <NUM> comprises an elastomer. An advantage, among others, of base <NUM> comprising an elastomer is that vibrations from engine <NUM> may be isolated. To properly mate with mounting flange <NUM> of rearward end <NUM>, mounting flange <NUM> may comprise an aluminum ring inserted into base <NUM>.

Base <NUM> illustratively includes a plurality of apertures <NUM> configured to receive a respective one of fasteners <NUM>. Similarly, valve cover <NUM> includes a plurality of apertures <NUM> that correspond to a respective one of apertures <NUM> and are configured to securely receive a respective one of fasteners <NUM> for coupling base <NUM> to valve cover <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, fasteners <NUM> are screws or bolts for threadably engaging apertures <NUM>. Rearward end <NUM> of main portion <NUM> illustratively includes a plurality of apertures <NUM> configured to receive a respective one of fasteners <NUM>. Similarly, base <NUM> further includes another plurality of apertures <NUM> that correspond to a respective one of apertures <NUM> and are configured to receive a respective one of fasteners <NUM> for coupling air breather <NUM> to main frame portion <NUM>. In the embodiment shown, fasteners <NUM> are screws or bolts. It is contemplated, however, that either of fasteners <NUM> and fasteners <NUM> may comprise a variety of fasteners suitable for securely fastening air breather <NUM> to main frame portion <NUM> and valve cover <NUM>.

Turning specifically to <FIG>, air breather <NUM> provides an outlet for excess crankcase gases that build-up during normal operation of engine <NUM>. More specifically, air breather <NUM> provides an outlet for the air to exit engine <NUM> and flow into main frame portion <NUM>. The air exiting engine <NUM> through air breather <NUM> may include oil suspended in the air, or an air-oil mixture. This air-oil mixture exits a port <NUM> of valve cover <NUM> and passes through air breather <NUM> along fluid passageway <NUM>. From air breather <NUM>, the air-oil mixture enters inner chamber <NUM> of rearward end <NUM> of main frame portion <NUM>. The flow path of the air-oil mixture is schematically illustrated with arrows <NUM> in <FIG>. When the air-oil mixture enters inner chamber <NUM>, the air-oil mixture cools sufficiently to permit the suspended oil to separate from the air. This separated oil collects within inner chamber <NUM>. In the embodiment shown, inner chamber <NUM> is positioned vertically higher than air breather <NUM> and valve cover <NUM>. As a result, the separated oil within inner chamber <NUM> will flow back into fluid passageway <NUM> of air breather <NUM> and re-enter engine <NUM> due, at least in part to, gravity, given that air breather <NUM> is generally positioned at the lowest point of main frame portion <NUM>. This pathway of the separated oil is schematically illustrated with arrows <NUM> in <FIG>. The air separated from the oil also returns to engine <NUM> through the torque tubes such this air mixes with the filtered air from air box <NUM>. An advantage, among others, of air breather <NUM> is that oil expelled with excess crankcase gases during the normal operation of engine <NUM> may be returned to engine <NUM> or powertrain <NUM> as opposed to being expelled outside of engine <NUM>.

Turning now to <FIG>, a cooling system <NUM> of vehicle <NUM> is shown. Cooling system <NUM> provides liquid cooling of engine <NUM> using a coolant having, for example, a high thermal capacity and low viscosity. Referring initially to <FIG>, cooling system <NUM> includes a radiator <NUM>, a fan assembly <NUM>, a fill assembly including a filler neck <NUM>, and a coolant overflow bottle <NUM>. Radiator <NUM> and fan assembly <NUM> are illustratively positioned at forward end <NUM> of vehicle <NUM>. Filler neck <NUM> is positioned longitudinally rearward of radiator <NUM> and fan assembly <NUM> and vertically higher than radiator <NUM> and coolant bottle <NUM>.

Frame assembly <NUM> further includes a rear frame assembly <NUM> coupled to main frame portion <NUM>. More specifically, side frames <NUM> of rear frame assembly <NUM> are coupled to rearward end <NUM> of main frame portion <NUM> and illustratively extend longitudinally rearward of main frame portion <NUM>. Rear frame assembly <NUM> further includes rear frame extension <NUM> extending rearward of side frames <NUM>. As shown in at least <FIG>,an ABS bracket <NUM> is coupled to at least one of side frames <NUM>. ABS bracket <NUM> is adapted to support a power source, such as a battery (not shown), for providing power to the electrical components of the vehicle <NUM>. In the embodiment shown, coolant bottle <NUM> is coupled to ABS bracket <NUM>. As a result, filler neck <NUM> is positioned longitudinally intermediate radiator <NUM> and coolant bottle <NUM>. Similarly, ABS bracket <NUM> is positioned longitudinally intermediate filler neck <NUM> and coolant bottle <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG> and <FIG>, coolant bottle <NUM>, rear frame extension <NUM>, ABS bracket <NUM>, and rear wheel <NUM> are shown in more detail. Rear wheel <NUM> illustratively rotates about an axis of rotation <NUM> during forward or reverse operation of vehicle <NUM>. In the embodiment shown, coolant bottle <NUM> is positioned longitudinally forward of axis <NUM>. In addition, coolant bottle <NUM> is positioned vertically higher than axis <NUM> and is positioned directly over, or in vertical alignment, with a portion of the tire of rear wheel <NUM>. Moreover, coolant bottle <NUM> comprises a curvilinear body <NUM> and illustratively forms an internal debris shield of vehicle <NUM>. In addition, coolant bottle <NUM> includes conduits <NUM>, illustratively conduits 159a, 159b, which fluidly couple coolant bottle <NUM> to the remainder of cooling system <NUM>. More specifically, conduits <NUM> fluidly couple the remainder of cooling system <NUM> to an interior storage volume of coolant bottle <NUM>. The interior storage volume of coolant bottle <NUM> is adapted to hold additional coolant of cooling system <NUM> or act as an expansion tank for coolant during operation of engine <NUM>.

Referring specifically to <FIG>, a cross tube <NUM> is provided having a substantially square tube portion <NUM> and a depending plate portion <NUM>, which are received in a complementary square opening <NUM> and slot <NUM> respectively. Coolant bottle <NUM> is coupled to plate portion <NUM> of cross tube <NUM>. More specifically, plate portion <NUM> illustratively includes a plurality of apertures <NUM> configured to receive a respective fastener <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, a washer <NUM> is placed between respective ones of fastener <NUM> and plate portion <NUM>. coolant bottle <NUM> similarly includes a plurality of apertures <NUM> that correspond to a respective one of apertures <NUM> and are configured to securely receive a respective one of fastener <NUM> for coupling coolant bottle <NUM> to cross tube <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, fastener <NUM> illustratively comprises a bolt for threadably engaging apertures <NUM>.

ABS bracket <NUM> includes a basket <NUM> adapted to support the battery (not shown) and a lateral hanger <NUM> and a longitudinal hanger <NUM>. Lateral hanger <NUM> is configured to couple ABS bracket <NUM> to one of side frames <NUM> (see <FIG>). Similarly, longitudinal hanger <NUM> is configured to couple ABS bracket <NUM> to cross tube <NUM>. More specifically, longitudinal hanger <NUM> includes a vertical portion <NUM> extending vertically upward from basket <NUM> and horizontal tab <NUM> extending horizontally from a distal end of vertical portion <NUM> along a longitudinal axis of vehicle <NUM>. Horizontal tab <NUM> includes a plurality of apertures <NUM> configured to receive a respective one of fasteners <NUM>. Similarly, tube portion <NUM> illustrative includes a plurality of apertures <NUM> that correspond to a respective one of apertures <NUM> and are configured to securely receive a respective one of fasteners <NUM> for coupling horizontal tab <NUM> to tube portion <NUM> of cross tube <NUM>.

Turning now to <FIG>, filler neck <NUM> is shown in more detail. Filler neck <NUM> is positioned vertically above the remainder of cooling system <NUM> and provides an access point for refilling coolant to cooling system <NUM>. Cooling system <NUM> illustratively comprises a Y-shaped body <NUM>, a cap <NUM>, and an water pump return line <NUM>. Body <NUM> includes a vertical riser <NUM> having an upper chamber <NUM> and a lower chamber <NUM> positioned vertically below and fluidly coupled to upper chamber <NUM>. Body <NUM> further includes a first branch <NUM> extending in a first direction and a second branch <NUM> extending in a second direction opposite the first direction. Branches <NUM>, <NUM> are illustratively positioned vertically opposite upper chamber <NUM>. First branch <NUM> is coupled to and in fluid communication with a first conduit <NUM> of cooling system <NUM> using, for example, a barbed fitting <NUM>. Similarly, second branch <NUM> is coupled to and in fluid communication with a second conduit <NUM> of cooling system <NUM> using, for example, a barbed fitting <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, branches <NUM>, <NUM> form a fluid passageway <NUM> of cooling system <NUM>. First branch <NUM> may be further fluidly coupled to radiator <NUM>, and second branch <NUM> may be fluidly coupled to engine <NUM>. Body <NUM> also includes a mounting bracket <NUM> for securely mounting filler neck <NUM> to main portion <NUM> (see <FIG>). In the illustrative embodiment shown, mounting bracket <NUM> includes an aperture <NUM> configured to a receive a fastener <NUM> (see <FIG>) for securely mounting filler neck <NUM> to main portion <NUM>.

Lower chamber <NUM> is in fluidly communication with branches <NUM>, <NUM> via an orifice <NUM>, which is smaller in diameter than the diameter of lower chamber <NUM> and is positioned vertically opposite upper chamber <NUM> and adjacent fluid passageway <NUM>. Water pump return line <NUM> is coupled to and in fluid communication with lower chamber <NUM>. More specifically, water pump return line <NUM> is coupled to a fitting <NUM> of lower chamber <NUM>, which is positioned vertically higher than orifice <NUM>. Fitting <NUM> may further include a barbed end <NUM> for securely coupling to water pump return line <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, water pump return line <NUM> extends horizontally from fitting <NUM> and is further fluidly coupled to a pump <NUM>. Because filler neck <NUM> is positioned vertically higher than the remainder of cooling system <NUM> and is therefore the highest point in cooling system <NUM>, any air bubbles present in cooling system <NUM> will collect within lower chamber <NUM>. Pump <NUM> is powered by engine <NUM> and, therefore, operates whenever engine <NUM> is operating. As a result, air bubbles are continually drawn out of lower chamber <NUM> while engine <NUM> is operating. Air bubbles are separated from the coolant in lower chamber <NUM>, the coolant returns to pump <NUM> through water pump return line <NUM>, and air collected at the top goes to coolant bottle <NUM> through conduit <NUM>.

Upper chamber <NUM> is positioned vertically above lower chamber <NUM> and includes a first chamber <NUM> in fluid communication with a second chamber <NUM>. More specifically, a first end <NUM> of first chamber <NUM> includes a flange <NUM> configured to securely engage cap <NUM>. When cap <NUM> is not securely engaged to flange <NUM>, first chamber <NUM> may be open to the atmosphere, such as when coolant is added to cooling system <NUM>. Positioned at a second end of first chamber <NUM> is second chamber <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, a diameter of second chamber <NUM> is smaller than a diameter of first chamber <NUM>. As a result, first chamber <NUM> includes a restriction <NUM> at the reduction in diameters.

First chamber <NUM> includes an extension <NUM> positioned proximate the second end of first chamber <NUM> and extending from body <NUM>. Extension <NUM> is coupled to and in fluid communication with a conduit <NUM> via a coupler <NUM>. Extension <NUM> illustratively includes a barbed fitting <NUM> for securely coupling extension <NUM> to coupler <NUM>. Similarly, conduit <NUM> includes a barbed fitting <NUM> for securely coupling conduit <NUM> to coupler <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, extension <NUM> extends horizontally away from first chamber <NUM>, and conduit <NUM> is in fluid communication with coolant overflow bottle <NUM>. As a result, coolant residing in coolant overflow bottle <NUM> may be recycled into fluid passageway <NUM> via conduit <NUM>.

Cap <NUM> includes an outer cover <NUM> adapted to be grasped an operator for engaging and disengaging cap <NUM> from flange <NUM> of upper chamber <NUM> of body <NUM>. Cap <NUM> includes an upper pressure seal <NUM> that seals against flange <NUM> when cap <NUM> is secured to body <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, cap <NUM> further includes a pressure valve <NUM> configured to regulate the system pressure within fluid passageway <NUM> of cooling system <NUM>. Pressure valve <NUM> is received within first chamber <NUM> and rests against a sealing protrusion <NUM> of the second end of first chamber <NUM>. Pressure valve <NUM> fluidly decouples first chamber <NUM> from second chamber <NUM> when biased against sealing protrusion <NUM>. As a result, pressure valve <NUM> is wider than the diameter of second chamber <NUM>. Pressure valve <NUM> is displaceable along an axis <NUM> of cap <NUM>.

Cap <NUM> includes a pressure valve spring <NUM> that biases pressure valve <NUM> downward against sealing protrusion <NUM>. Pressure valve <NUM>, when biased against sealing protrusion <NUM>, allows the system pressure of cooling system <NUM> to increase thereby allowing the coolant to increase in temperature without boiling. When the system pressure of cooling system <NUM> exceeds an upper threshold, the biasing force exerted by pressure valve spring <NUM> is exceeded and pressure valve <NUM> is displace vertically away from sealing protrusion <NUM>. As a result, this heated coolant and any collected air may enter first chamber <NUM> and flow to coolant overflow bottle <NUM> via conduit <NUM>. The upper threshold of the system pressure of cooling system <NUM> may be adjusted by modifying, for example, the stiffness of pressure valve spring <NUM> to adjust the biasing force exerted thereby.

Cap <NUM> also includes a lower sealing gasket <NUM> positioned vertically below pressure valve <NUM> and received within second chamber <NUM>. Lower sealing gasket <NUM> forms a seal with sealing protrusion <NUM> and with a vacuum valve <NUM> positioned vertically below lower sealing gasket <NUM>. Vacuum valve <NUM> is displaceable along axis <NUM> of cap <NUM> and includes a vacuum valve spring <NUM> which biases vacuum valve <NUM> against lower sealing gasket <NUM>. Vacuum valve <NUM>, when biased against lower sealing gasket <NUM>, allows pressure valve <NUM> to operate as described. Vacuum valve <NUM> also operates to prevent air from entering cooling system <NUM> when the system pressure of cooling system <NUM> decreases. The system pressure of cooling system <NUM> may decrease when the coolant in cooling system <NUM> cools following operation of engine <NUM>. When the system pressure of cooling system <NUM> falls below a minimum threshold, a pressure differential between the coolant in coolant overflow bottle <NUM> and the coolant in fluid passageway <NUM> overcomes the biasing force of vacuum valve spring <NUM> and displaces vacuum valve <NUM> downward allowing coolant from coolant overflow bottle <NUM> to enter lower chamber <NUM> and fluid passageway <NUM> until equilibrium between fluid passageway <NUM> and coolant overflow bottle <NUM> is reached.

Turning now to <FIG>, radiator <NUM> and blower assembly <NUM> are shown in further detail. Radiator <NUM> includes a frame <NUM> supporting a heat exchanger <NUM> and a coolant manifold <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, frame <NUM> comprises a generally rectangular body with a central portion in which heat exchanger <NUM> is supported. Heat exchanger <NUM> similarly comprises a generally rectangular body. It is contemplated, however, that frame <NUM> and heat exchanger <NUM> may comprise other shapes. Coolant manifold <NUM> is coupled to a vertical lower portion of frame <NUM> and is fluidly coupled to heat exchanger <NUM>. A similar coolant manifold may be supported by frame <NUM> along a vertically upper portion of frame <NUM> or along a side portion proximate a top of frame <NUM>.

Blower assembly <NUM> illustratively includes a fan assembly <NUM> and a shroud <NUM> surround a portion of fan assembly <NUM>. Fan assembly <NUM> includes a fan <NUM> powered by a fan motor <NUM>. Fan motor <NUM> is coupled to a fan motor mount <NUM>, which is illustratively coupled to frame <NUM> of radiator <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, fan motor mount <NUM> is further coupled to coolant manifold <NUM>. Fan motor <NUM> is configured to pull air through and away from radiator <NUM> to facilitate cooling of the coolant flowing through radiator <NUM>.

Shroud <NUM> surrounds a portion of fan assembly <NUM> such that fan assembly <NUM> is positioned longitudinally intermediate radiator <NUM> and shroud <NUM>. As a result, shroud <NUM> is positioned longitudinally rearward of radiator <NUM> along longitudinal axis <NUM>. Illustratively, shroud <NUM> is removably coupled to fan motor mount <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, shroud <NUM> includes a plurality of apertures <NUM> configured to receive a respective fastener <NUM> for securely engaging a corresponding aperture <NUM> on fan motor mount <NUM>.

Shroud <NUM> illustratively includes a shell <NUM> having plurality of apertures <NUM>, illustratively apertures 322a, 322b, 322c, sized and adapted to direct airflow away from radiator <NUM> and blower assembly <NUM> as well as an operator seated on vehicle <NUM>. More specifically, apertures 322a, illustratively elongated slots 324a, 324b, are positioned on a lateral outside <NUM> of shell <NUM>. Elongated slots 324a, 324b are oriented such that airflow is directed away from radiator <NUM> and laterally outboard of an operator. Elongated slots 324a, 324b are illustratively arranged parallel to one another with elongated slots 324b positioned longitudinally rearward of elongated slots 324a. It is contemplated, however, that apertures 322a may comprise a single slot or opening.

Aperture 322b is positioned on lower portion of shell <NUM> of shroud <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, apertures 322b is positioned vertically lower than elongated slots 324a, 324b. Apertures 322b comprises a generally triangular opening oriented to direct airflow downward and laterally outboard of radiator <NUM> and an operator Aperture 322c is positioned on a longitudinally rearward portion <NUM> of shell <NUM> and is oriented to direct airflow rearward of radiator <NUM>. Aperture 322c may be positioned further laterally outward than shown. The boundary of aperture 322c may include chamfering. Radiator <NUM> and blower assembly <NUM> are positioned longitudinally forward of engine <NUM>. Therefore, vehicle <NUM> may include a deflector (not shown) for directing the airflow from aperture 322c laterally outboard of vehicle <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, apertures 322a, 322b, 322c are sized to balance low speed cooling of radiator <NUM> without discharging an excessive amount of hot air on the operator.

Turning now to <FIG>, exhaust system <NUM> is shown in more detail. Exhaust system <NUM> is configured to receive exhaust gases from engine <NUM> and then direct those exhaust gases away from the operator and vehicle <NUM>. Exhaust system <NUM> illustratively includes an exhaust header <NUM> fluidly coupled to engine <NUM>, a catalytic converter <NUM>, and mufflers <NUM>, illustratively a right muffler 334a and a left muffler 334b. In the illustrative embodiment shown, exhaust header <NUM> includes a first exhaust duct <NUM> and a second exhaust duct <NUM>. First exhaust duct <NUM> illustratively includes a mounting flange <NUM> for coupling to an exhaust port of a first cylinder <NUM> of engine <NUM>. Similarly, second exhaust duct <NUM> includes a mounting flange <NUM> for coupling to an exhaust port of a second cylinder <NUM> of engine <NUM>. It is contemplated, however, that exhaust ducts <NUM>, <NUM> may be coupled to exhaust ports of a single cylinder or that one of exhaust ducts <NUM>, <NUM> is non-functioning.

Exhaust ducts <NUM>, <NUM> come together downstream at a wye fitting <NUM>. Illustratively, first exhaust duct <NUM> is coupled to wye fitting <NUM> using a pipe clamp <NUM>, and second exhaust duct <NUM> is integrally formed with wye fitting <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, wye fitting <NUM> is positioned on a right side of vehicle <NUM> and is coupled to catalytic converter <NUM> using a pipe clamp <NUM>. Catalytic converter <NUM> is positioned along an underside of vehicle <NUM> and laterally intermediate the left and right sides of vehicle <NUM>. In one embodiment, exhaust system <NUM> may include an additional catalytic converter <NUM> positioned downstream of wye fitting <NUM> and upstream of catalytic converter <NUM>. In an alternative embodiment, both exhaust ducts <NUM>, <NUM> may be integrally formed with wye fitting <NUM> and catalytic converter <NUM>. Therefore, pipe clamps <NUM>, <NUM> would not be needed. Exhaust system <NUM> further includes an laterally outboard heat shield <NUM> positioned adjacent exhaust header <NUM>.

Referring specifically to <FIG>, catalytic converter <NUM> is shown in more detail. In the illustrative embodiment shown, catalytic converter <NUM> comprises a turtle-shaped body <NUM> having an intake port <NUM>, a right exhaust port or tailpipe 354a, and a left exhaust port or tailpipe 354b. Intake port <NUM> illustratively extends forward of body <NUM> and is configured to receive wye fitting <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, intake port <NUM> is positioned on a right side of catalytic converter <NUM> and, therefore, on a right side of vehicle <NUM>.

Body <NUM> includes a forward portion <NUM>, a middle portion <NUM>, and a rearward portion <NUM>. Portions <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are illustratively coupled together to form unitary body <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, intake port <NUM> is integrally formed with forward portion <NUM>, right tailpipe 354a is integrally formed with rear portion <NUM>, and left tailpipe 354b is integrally formed with middle portion <NUM>. Coupled to an upper surface of body <NUM> is a heat shield <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, heat shield <NUM> is positioned vertically intermediate catalytic converter <NUM> and an undercarriage of vehicle <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, body <NUM> and heat shield <NUM> include a plurality of clearance areas <NUM>, illustratively clearance areas <NUM><NUM> - <NUM><NUM>, sized and shaped to receive various components, such as, for example, frame <NUM>, engine <NUM>, at least one swingarm, a transmission belt, and rear wheel <NUM>. An advantage, among others, of clearance areas <NUM> is that catalytic converter <NUM> may be packaged closely adjacent the undercarriage of vehicle <NUM>. Body <NUM> also includes a plurality of ports <NUM>, illustratively ports 351a, 351b, in which a sensor, such as an oxygen sensor, may be placed. In the illustrative embodiment shown, port 351a is positioned upstream of catalytic converter <NUM> and port 351b is positioned downstream of catalytic converter <NUM>. An advantage of the arrangement of ports 351a, 351b as shown is that measurements before and after catalytic converter <NUM> may be measured.

Middle portion <NUM> illustratively includes an interior wall <NUM> having a central aperture <NUM> configured to support a catalytic converter cartridge <NUM>. Catalytic converter cartridge <NUM> comprises a generally cylindrical body <NUM> having a first open end <NUM> and a second open end <NUM> opposite first open end <NUM>. A center <NUM> of catalytic converter cartridge <NUM> comprises a material, such as, for example, a ceramic monolith having a honeycomb structure, suitable for catalyzing exhaust gases from engine <NUM>. Middle portion <NUM> further includes a wing portion <NUM> extending laterally from central aperture <NUM>. Wing portion <NUM> includes a contoured surface <NUM> configured to aid in funneling exhaust gases from intake port <NUM> towards central aperture <NUM>. Illustratively contoured surface <NUM> is teardrop shaped.

During operation of engine <NUM>, exhaust gases exit each of cylinders <NUM>, <NUM> and enter exhaust header <NUM>. The exhaust gases flow along exhaust header <NUM> and enter a first chamber <NUM> of catalytic converter <NUM> through intake port <NUM>. First chamber <NUM> is defined by forward portion <NUM> and middle portion <NUM>. Once the exhaust gases have entered first chamber <NUM>, contoured surface <NUM> directs the exhaust gases towards central aperture <NUM> and catalytic converter cartridge <NUM>. The exhaust gases then pass from first chamber <NUM> through catalytic converter cartridge <NUM> and enter a second chamber <NUM> defined by middle portion <NUM> and rear portion <NUM>. Catalytic converter cartridge <NUM> may catalyze the exhaust gases as they pass through it. Once the exhaust gases have entered second chamber <NUM>, the exhaust gases are directed to mufflers 334a, 334b via exhaust ports 354a, 354b, respectively.

Referring now to <FIG>, an illustrative muffler <NUM> is shown. In the illustrative embodiment shown, mufflers 334a, 334b are identical. Muffler <NUM> illustratively comprises a cylinder housing <NUM> having a coupler <NUM> for coupling muffler <NUM> to a respective one of tailpipes <NUM> at a first end <NUM> of cylinder housing <NUM>. Cylinder housing <NUM> further includes a muffler tip <NUM> positioned at a second end <NUM> of cylinder housing <NUM>. Illustratively, muffler tip <NUM> comprises a bell or funnel shaped opening <NUM> and is supported within an interior of cylinder housing <NUM>. Positioned longitudinally rearward of coupler <NUM> is a first baffle <NUM> separating a first chamber <NUM> and a second chamber <NUM>. First chamber <NUM> is illustratively positioned intermediate coupler <NUM> and first baffle <NUM>, and second chamber <NUM> is positioned intermediate baffle <NUM> and second end <NUM>. First baffle <NUM> illustratively includes a plurality of apertures <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, apertures <NUM> illustratively comprises fifty-two apertures.

Mufflers <NUM> further includes an outlet pipe <NUM> supported within cylinder housing <NUM>. More specifically, a first end <NUM> of outlet pipe <NUM> is supported by a second baffle <NUM> and a second end <NUM> of outlet pipe <NUM> is coupled to muffler tip <NUM>. In this way, outlet pipe <NUM> fluidly couples second chamber <NUM> to muffler tip <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, a terminal end of first end <NUM> illustratively extends forward of second baffle <NUM> and into second chamber <NUM>. First end <NUM> is illustratively positioned intermediate first baffle <NUM> and second baffle <NUM>. Like baffle <NUM>, baffle <NUM> includes a plurality of apertures <NUM>, illustratively thirty-four apertures. A portion <NUM> of outer surface <NUM> of outlet pipe <NUM> illustratively includes a plurality of radially spaced apart apertures <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, the plurality of apertures <NUM> illustratively comprises thirty-two apertures.

Baffles <NUM>, <NUM> are coupled to an inner conduit <NUM>, which is supported within cylinder housing <NUM>. Inner conduit <NUM> illustratively extends from a first end <NUM> proximate coupler <NUM> to a second end <NUM> longitudinally spaced rearward of first end <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, second end <NUM> of inner conduit <NUM> is positioned intermediate second baffle <NUM> and muffler tip <NUM> and includes a third baffle <NUM>. A portion <NUM> of inner conduit <NUM> from proximate second baffle <NUM> to proximate second end <NUM> includes a plurality of apertures <NUM> radially spaced about an outer surface <NUM> of inner conduit <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, portion <NUM> of inner cylinder <NUM> including apertures <NUM> and portion <NUM> of outlet pipe <NUM> having apertures <NUM> overlap. Muffler <NUM> further includes insulation <NUM> surrounding a portion <NUM> of inner conduit <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, insulation <NUM> is positioned intermediate second end <NUM> of inner conduit <NUM> and muffler tip <NUM>. As a result, insulation <NUM> abuts both third baffle <NUM> and muffler tip <NUM>.

Exhaust gases from exhaust port <NUM> enter first chamber <NUM> of mufflers <NUM> via coupler <NUM> and pass through apertures <NUM> of first baffle <NUM> into second chamber <NUM>. Exhaust gases within second chamber <NUM> flow to outlet pipe <NUM> and may either travel along outlet pipe <NUM> and exit mufflers <NUM> at muffler tip <NUM> or exit outlet pipe <NUM> via apertures <NUM>. Exhaust gases that exit outlet pipe <NUM> via radially spaced apart apertures <NUM> enter an interior volume <NUM> of inner conduit <NUM> spaced radially intermediate outlet pipe <NUM> and inner conduit <NUM>. These exhaust gases may circulate within interior volume <NUM> before reentering outlet pipe <NUM> through apertures <NUM> and exiting mufflers <NUM> at muffler tip <NUM>. An advantage, among others, of circulating at least some of the exhaust gases within interior volume <NUM> is that the acoustic level of exiting exhaust gases may be reduced.

Referring now to <FIG>, a front frame assembly <NUM> is shown in more detail. Front frame assembly <NUM> is coupled to forward end <NUM> of main portion <NUM> of frame <NUM> proximate head tube <NUM>. More specifically, front frame assembly <NUM> illustratively includes a fairing support mount <NUM>, down tubes <NUM>, and brackets <NUM>. Down tubes <NUM>, illustratively down tubes 448a, 448b, are coupled to forward end <NUM> of main portion <NUM> of frame <NUM> and extend generally vertically downward. In the illustrative embodiment shown, a vertically lower end of tubes <NUM> support a longitudinally forward portion of engine <NUM>. In addition, cooling system <NUM>, specifically radiator <NUM>, is supported intermediate down tubes 448a, 448b. Illustratively, tubes <NUM> are formed from a casting process, such as high pressure die casting, for example.

Brackets <NUM>, illustratively brackets 450a, 450b, are coupled to an upper shoulder <NUM> of tubes <NUM> and to fairing support mount <NUM>. In this way, brackets <NUM> couple fairing support mount <NUM> to tubes <NUM> and transfer the weight of front fairing <NUM> to tubes <NUM>. Brackets <NUM> illustratively comprise a generally L-shaped body <NUM> having a generally vertical leg <NUM> coupled to upper shoulder <NUM> and a generally horizontal leg <NUM> coupled to fairing support mount <NUM>. Vertical leg <NUM> includes a mounting flange <NUM> that is received on upper shoulder <NUM> of tubes <NUM>. Mounting flange <NUM> extends generally perpendicular to vertical leg <NUM> and includes apertures <NUM>, which are configured to receive a respective fastener <NUM> for coupling vertical leg <NUM> to tubes <NUM>. Horizontal leg <NUM> includes apertures <NUM>, which are configured to receive a respective fastener <NUM> for coupling to fairing support mount <NUM>. Illustratively, brackets <NUM> are formed from a casting process, such as high pressure die casting, for example.

In the illustrative embodiment shown, fairing support mount <NUM> is configured to support front fairing <NUM> and includes a central mounting <NUM> that is coupled to forward end <NUM> of main portion <NUM> of frame <NUM> longitudinally forward of head tube <NUM>. Central mounting <NUM> comprises a longitudinally forward face <NUM> and a longitudinally rearward face <NUM>. Rearward face <NUM> includes a plurality of apertures <NUM> configured to receive mounting bolts <NUM> extending from forward end <NUM> for coupling central mounting <NUM> to forward end <NUM>. Windshield assembly <NUM> is supported for movement on forward face <NUM>. Extending longitudinally rearward from central mounting <NUM> are wings <NUM>. Wings <NUM> include apertures <NUM>, which are configured to receive a respective one of fasteners <NUM> for coupling brackets <NUM> to fairing support mount <NUM>. Central mounting <NUM> includes openings <NUM>, the significance of which will be explained herein.

Windshield assembly <NUM> is shown in more detail in <FIG>. Windshield assembly <NUM> illustratively includes a windscreen <NUM> coupled to a bracket <NUM> and a motorized base <NUM>. Motorized base <NUM> is coupled to forward face <NUM> of fairing support mount <NUM> and includes a motor <NUM> drivingly engaged with a threaded rod <NUM>. Threaded rod <NUM> includes a carriage <NUM>, which is linearly repositionable along threaded rod <NUM> as threaded rod <NUM> rotates about its axis. Bracket <NUM> is coupled to and moveable with carriage <NUM>. Bracket <NUM> includes a recess <NUM>, which corresponds to a recess <NUM> of windscreen <NUM> when windscreen <NUM> is coupled to bracket <NUM>.

Motorized base <NUM> permits an operator or a control system of vehicle <NUM> to adjust a vertical height of windscreen <NUM> relative to front fairing <NUM>. More specifically, when motor <NUM> is actuated to raise windscreen <NUM>, threaded rod <NUM> will rotates about its axis in a first direction and carriage <NUM> will travel along threaded rod <NUM> until carriage <NUM> reaches the end of its travel and windscreen <NUM> is raised to its highest point (see <FIG>) or an intermediate point therebetween. To lower windscreen <NUM>, motor <NUM> is actuated to lower windscreen <NUM> and threaded rod <NUM> will rotate about its axis in a second direction opposite the first direction. carriage <NUM> will travel along threaded rod <NUM> in the opposite direction relative to when windscreen <NUM> was being raised until carriage <NUM> reaches the end of its and windscreen <NUM> is lowered to its lowest position (see <FIG>) or an intermediate point therebetween. Accordingly, an operator may vertically reposition windscreen <NUM>, for example, to reduce wind buffeting on an operator's head and body during operation of vehicle <NUM>.

Turning now to <FIG>, a framework <NUM> of front fairing <NUM> is shown in more detail. Framework <NUM> includes a plurality of frames coupled to fairing support mount <NUM>, specifically a headlight frame <NUM>, a dash frame <NUM>, a pair of vent frames <NUM>, a pair of interior storage and speaker volume frames <NUM>, a pair of exterior storage and speaker volume frames <NUM>, and a pair of vertical frames <NUM>. Headlight frame <NUM> is coupled to forward face <NUM> of central mounting <NUM> of fairing support mount <NUM> and is configured to support a headlight <NUM> (see <FIG>) within a central opening <NUM>. Headlight frame <NUM> also includes a pair of vent openings <NUM> oriented symmetrically about central opening <NUM>. Vent openings <NUM> are in fluid communication with an internal passageway a cockpit <NUM> of vehicle <NUM> (see <FIG>). Headlight frame <NUM> may also support additional lights, such as running lights or turn signals.

Dash frame <NUM> is coupled to an upper portion of forward face <NUM> of central mounting <NUM> and includes at least one recess <NUM> that receives windshield assembly <NUM>. Dash frame <NUM> also includes a recess <NUM> configured to support a gauge assembly <NUM>. Vent frames <NUM> are coupled to a respective one of interior storage and speaker volume frames <NUM> and configured to engage a rear face <NUM> of headlight frame <NUM>. Coupled to an interior side of each of vent frames <NUM> is a vent conduit <NUM>. Together, vent frames <NUM> and vent conduits <NUM> define an opening <NUM> which engages rear face <NUM> of headlight frame <NUM> at vent openings <NUM>. Interior storage and speaker volume frames <NUM> are coupled to rearward face <NUM> of central mounting <NUM> laterally outwardly of forward end <NUM> of frame <NUM> and longitudinally rearward of central mounting <NUM>. Interior storage frames <NUM> are one-half of a storage assembly <NUM> (see <FIG>), which will be discussed in more detail herein, and are coupled to wings <NUM> and brackets <NUM> laterally outwardly of vent frames <NUM>.

Turning now to <FIG>, front fairing <NUM> includes an outer shell <NUM> supported on framework <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, outer shell <NUM> includes pair of inlets <NUM> positioned vertically above headlight <NUM>. Illustratively, inlets <NUM> are positioned symmetrically about and adjacent a longitudinal centerline of vehicle <NUM>. It is contemplated, however, that inlets <NUM> could be spaced further laterally outward of the longitudinal centerline of vehicle <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, inlets <NUM> are in fluid communication with cockpit <NUM> of vehicle <NUM> (see <FIG>). More specifically, inlets <NUM> are in fluid communication with recess <NUM> of windscreen <NUM> and recess <NUM> of bracket <NUM>. As shown in <FIG> air flows into inlets <NUM> and is communicated to cockpit <NUM> via recesses <NUM>, <NUM> and around gauge assembly <NUM>. If windscreen <NUM> is raised to a height sufficient for recesses <NUM>, <NUM> to be above an upper rim <NUM> of front fairing <NUM>, air may flow into cockpit <NUM> through recesses <NUM>, <NUM> directly. The air flowing through inlets <NUM> and recesses <NUM>, <NUM> may reduce the buffeting felt by an operator as well as provide airflow for thermal comfort of an operator <NUM> (shown in phantom in <FIG>). Front fairing <NUM> also includes winglets <NUM> extending laterally outwardly from a lower portion of outer shell <NUM>. Winglets <NUM> may deflect airflow around operator <NUM> during operation of vehicle <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, winglets <NUM> are fixed relative to outer shell <NUM>. In an alternative embodiment, winglets <NUM> are laterally adjustable relative to outer shell <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG> and <FIG>, cockpit <NUM> includes steering assembly <NUM>, gauge assembly <NUM>, fuel tank assembly <NUM>, center console <NUM>, vent doors <NUM>, speaker assemblies <NUM>, and storage volume <NUM>. As discussed above, steering assembly <NUM> includes handlebars <NUM> that may be moved or rotated about a steering axis by an operator to rotate front wheel <NUM> either to the left or the right. Handlebars <NUM> include right grip 542a and left grip 542b, which are configured to be grasped by an operator during operation of vehicle <NUM>. Either of grips 542a, 542b may be rotatable about an axis thereof to control an operational characteristic of vehicle <NUM>, such as acceleration, for example. Handlebars <NUM> may further include controls 544a, 544b, which have at least one button <NUM> to control a further operational characteristic of vehicle <NUM>, such as turning on or off headlight <NUM>, for example.

Center console <NUM> illustratively includes a digital display <NUM> and a plurality of buttons <NUM>. Display <NUM> may be configured to display information to an operator, such as operational characteristics of vehicle <NUM>, for example. Operational characteristics displayed on display <NUM> may include current vehicle speed, fuel tank level, and direction of travel. Display <NUM> may also display warnings, error messages, or other useful information to an operator, such as the current time, for example. Buttons <NUM> may be used to interact with the information displayed on display <NUM>. For example, an operator may acknowledge or dismiss warnings or change the information displayed. In addition, display <NUM> may comprise a touchscreen that allows an operator to interact directly with the information displayed on display <NUM> without the need to utilize buttons <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, center console <NUM> is coupled to front fairing <NUM> and, therefore, is separate from steering assembly <NUM>, including handlebars <NUM>. To that end, center console <NUM> does not rotate about the steering axis with steering assembly <NUM>.

Referring specifically to <FIG>, vent doors <NUM> provide access to vent conduit <NUM> and are positioned on either side of center console <NUM> within reach of an operator. More specifically, vent doors <NUM> include a central body <NUM> and a handle <NUM>. Handle <NUM> is adapted to be grasped by the operator to rotate handle <NUM> between a fully closed position (see <FIG>) and a fully open position (see <FIG>). In the illustrative embodiment, central body <NUM> includes an upper hinge <NUM> and a lower hinge <NUM>. Hinges <NUM>, <NUM> include an aperture configured to receive a pin <NUM> for coupling vent doors <NUM><NUM> to front fairing <NUM>. At least one of pins <NUM> may include a barrel damper such that the rotational position of vent doors <NUM> is maintained. While vent doors <NUM> are illustrated as rotating, it is contemplated that vent doors <NUM> could comprise, for example, horizontally or vertically operable louvers or sliding gates. As shown in <FIG>, air flows into vent openings <NUM> and through vent conduit <NUM>. Vent doors <NUM> are therefore operable to control whether the air within vent conduit <NUM> flows into cockpit <NUM>. Central body <NUM> is sized and configured to match exit <NUM> of vent conduit <NUM> such that exit <NUM> is substantially closed to air flowing through vent conduit <NUM> when vent doors <NUM> are in the closed position. The air flowing into cockpit <NUM> through vent conduit <NUM> may provide airflow for thermal comfort of the operator.

Turning now to <FIG> and <FIG>, gauge assembly <NUM> includes a gauge pod <NUM> removably coupled to gauges <NUM>. Gauges <NUM> are supported within dash frame <NUM> and, therefore, are coupled to front fairing <NUM> and separate from steering assembly <NUM>, including handlebars <NUM>. Gauges <NUM> display information to an operator such as operational characteristics of vehicle <NUM>. Moreover, gauges <NUM> may comprise an analogue display, a digital display, or a combination thereof. If gauges <NUM> include a digital display, an operator may change the information displayed via buttons <NUM> or interaction with display <NUM>, for example. An additional display screen may be located intermediate gauges <NUM>. An advantage, among others, of positioning center console <NUM> below gauge assembly <NUM>, is that display <NUM> will be closer to an operator and, therefore, easier for the operator to interact with. In addition, a speedometer displayed via gauges <NUM> is closer to the liner of sight for the operator.

Gauge pod <NUM> illustratively includes a gauge hood <NUM> partially surrounding a gauge bezel <NUM> and gauge trim <NUM>. Gauge bezel <NUM> and gauge trim <NUM> are configured to abut gauges <NUM> when gauge pod <NUM> is installed. Gauge hood <NUM> includes at least one tab <NUM> for installing gauge pod <NUM> into dash frame <NUM>. More specifically, tab <NUM> is inserted into a corresponding slot <NUM> of dash frame <NUM>. Once tab <NUM> have been inserted into the corresponding slot <NUM>, gauge hood <NUM> is rotated toward dash frame <NUM> until gauge hood <NUM> engages at least one trim clip <NUM>. A forward portion <NUM> of gauge hood may be coupled to dash frame <NUM> using releasable fastener such as, for example, hook and loop. In this way, gauge pod <NUM> may be installed and removed without a tool. As a result, gauge pod <NUM> may be removed for shipment to increase the packaging efficiency of vehicle <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG> and <FIG>, speaker assemblies <NUM> and storage volume <NUM> are shown in more detail. More specifically, cockpit <NUM> illustratively includes speaker assemblies <NUM> and storage volume <NUM> positioned laterally outward of center console <NUM> and vent doors <NUM>. On each side of vehicle <NUM>, speaker assemblies <NUM> and storage volume <NUM> are supported within a single container <NUM>, which comprises exterior storage and speaker volume frame <NUM> coupled to interior storage and speaker volume frame <NUM>. Exterior storage frame <NUM> may be removable coupled to interior storage frame <NUM> using, for example, a structural adhesive. Speaker assemblies <NUM> includes a speaker or driver <NUM> and a grill <NUM>. Driver <NUM> is housed within a sealed and ported speaker volume <NUM> of exterior storage frame <NUM>. More specifically, volume <NUM> includes a ported opening <NUM>. Sound from driver <NUM> is directed out of ported speaker volume <NUM> through an opening <NUM> and toward the operator. Grill <NUM> covers opening <NUM> when driver <NUM> is housed within ported speaker volume <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, ported speaker volume <NUM> is positioned in an upper portion of single container <NUM>. Storage volume <NUM> is formed in a lower portion of single container <NUM> beneath ported speaker volume <NUM> and is sized and shaped to store, for example, an operator's personal articles during operation of vehicle <NUM>. A lid <NUM> is configured to secure storage volume <NUM>. In one embodiment, lid <NUM> may include a lock.

Turning now to <FIG> and <FIG>, an electronics shelf <NUM> is housed within front fairing <NUM> and supported by framework <NUM>. Electronics shelf <NUM> comprises a generally crescent body <NUM> having at least one aperture <NUM> located at each end thereof. Apertures <NUM> are configured to receive a fastener (not shown) for coupling electronics shelf <NUM> to framework <NUM>. Electronics shelf <NUM> is configured to receive a plurality of controllers or modules <NUM>, illustratively modules 608a-e. Electronics shelf <NUM> includes a variety of wells <NUM>, illustratively wells 610a-e, sized and shaped to receive a respective one of modules 608a-e. It is contemplated, however, that electronics shelf <NUM> may not include all of modules 608a-e every time. More specifically, the number and types of modules <NUM> may be vary depending on, for example, the application of vehicle <NUM>. Accordingly, modules 608b-e are illustrated in phantom.

Electronics shelf <NUM> may further include routing for an antenna if one of modules <NUM> comprises a cell modem. The routing may be configured to optimize the length of the antenna. In the illustrative embodiment shown, connectors <NUM>, illustratively connector 607a, of modules <NUM> are oriented on electronics shelf <NUM> longitudinally rearward such that the corresponding wiring harness may be inserted from a central portion of framework <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, fuel tank assembly <NUM> includes a fuel tank <NUM> and a fuel tank console <NUM>. Fuel tank console <NUM> includes a fuel door assembly <NUM>, which provides access to an interior volume of fuel tank <NUM>. Fuel door assembly <NUM> illustratively includes a collar <NUM> and a fuel door <NUM> pivotally coupled to collar <NUM>. Door <NUM> is pivotably between an open position in which an interior volume of fuel tank <NUM> is accessible and a closed position in which the interior volume is inaccessible. Fuel door assembly <NUM> further includes a latch or securing mechanism <NUM> for securing fuel tank <NUM> in the closed position. Securing mechanism <NUM> is configured to rotate about a pin <NUM> and engage a lip <NUM> of door <NUM> to prohibit door <NUM> from rotating about a pin <NUM> and secure fuel tank <NUM> in the closed position. Fuel door assembly <NUM> also includes a microswitch <NUM>. When door <NUM> is in the closed position, microswitch <NUM> is engaged by a portion <NUM> of door <NUM>. In this way, a controller monitors whether door <NUM> is in the closed position.

Fuel door assembly <NUM> also includes a locking mechanism <NUM> configured to lock door <NUM> in the closed position. Locking mechanism <NUM> includes a control and power cable <NUM> electrically coupled to a motor <NUM>. Actuation of motor <NUM> laterally displaces a locking pin <NUM> between an unlocked position and a locked position. When motor <NUM> is actuated to displace locking pin <NUM> to the unlocked position, securing mechanism <NUM> is free to pivot about pin <NUM> and release door <NUM> from the closed position. Conversely, when motor <NUM> is actuated to displace locking pin <NUM> to the locked position, locking pin <NUM> engages a leg <NUM> of securing mechanism <NUM> thereby preventing securing mechanism from rotating about pin <NUM>. As a result, door <NUM> is locked in the closed position.

Turning now to <FIG> and <FIG>, rear suspension assembly <NUM> is shown in more detail. Rear suspension assembly <NUM> is pivotally coupled to rearward end <NUM> of main portion <NUM> of frame <NUM> and includes a shock absorber assembly <NUM> having an upper strut mount <NUM> and a lower strut mount <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, upper strut mount <NUM> is pivotally coupled to rearward end <NUM>, and lower strut mount <NUM> is coupled to one of swingarms <NUM>, which rotatably support rear wheel <NUM>. Pivotally coupled to upper strut mount <NUM> and lower strut mount <NUM> is a shock absorber <NUM> surrounded by a coil spring <NUM>. Swingarms <NUM> are pivotally coupled to a pivot axis <NUM> which permits swingarms <NUM> to rotate relative to engine <NUM>. Rear suspension assembly <NUM> controls the relative movement between swingarms <NUM> and engine <NUM> by resisting vertical displacements of swingarms <NUM> relative to engine <NUM>.

The initial amount of resistance of rear suspension assembly <NUM> may be customized by adjusting a "pre-load" on shock absorber <NUM> and coil spring <NUM>. Increasing the pre-load on shock absorber <NUM> and coil spring <NUM> increase the functional ride-height of vehicle <NUM> or compensates for an applied load, such as cargo and operator weight Conversely, decreasing the "pre-load" on shock absorber <NUM> and coil spring <NUM> decreases the functional ride height of vehicle <NUM> or compensates for a reduced load from cargo or operator weight. Shock absorber assembly <NUM> includes an adjuster <NUM> comprising a tool engagement portion <NUM> and a visual indicator <NUM> configured to visually indicate the current pre-load on shock absorber <NUM> and coil spring <NUM>. More specifically, visual indicator <NUM> includes a plurality of demarcations <NUM>, illustratively demarcations <NUM><NUM>-<NUM><NUM>, to visually indicate to an operator the current pre-load setting position. Rotation of tool engagement portion <NUM> in a first direction results in visual indicator <NUM> entering adjuster housing <NUM> at a collar <NUM>. The farther visual indicator <NUM> is inserted into housing <NUM>, the fewer demarcations <NUM> will be visible to the operator. Similarly, rotation of tool engagement portion <NUM> in a second direction opposite the first direction results in visual indicator <NUM> exiting housing <NUM>. The farther visual indicator <NUM> extends from housing <NUM>, the more demarcations <NUM> will be visible to the operator. Visual indicator <NUM> is adjustable between a fully inserted position in which zero or one of demarcations <NUM> is visible to the operator and a fully extended position in which all or eight of demarcations <NUM> are visible to the operator.

Referring now to <FIG>, a crankcase <NUM> of powertrain assembly <NUM> includes a crankcase housing <NUM> having a channel <NUM> therein. Channel <NUM> is configured to receive a cable <NUM> for routing along crankcase housing <NUM>. Moreover, channel <NUM> is sized and adapted to receive cable <NUM> inwardly of an outer face <NUM> of crankcase housing <NUM>. In this way, cable <NUM> may be protected from moving components of powertrain assembly <NUM>, such as drive belts and gears, for example. Illustratively, cable <NUM> comprises a gear position sensor wire. In the illustrative embodiment shown, channel <NUM> is cast-in during the casting process to form crankcase housing <NUM>. The casting process may comprise high-pressure die casting, for example. Crankcase housing <NUM> further includes a heat shield <NUM> coupled thereto. Heat shield <NUM> is illustratively positioned lower than the drive belts and gears of powertrain assembly <NUM>. In this way, heat shield <NUM> protects this components from the heat generated by exhaust gases flowing through exhaust system <NUM>.

An underside perspective view of a front fender <NUM> of vehicle <NUM> is shown. Front fender <NUM> is configured to couple to front wheel <NUM> and comprises a generally crescent-shaped body <NUM> having an inner curvilinear surface <NUM> adjacent vehicle <NUM> and an outer curvilinear surface <NUM>. Coupled to outer curvilinear surface <NUM> may be an illuminated emblem, badge, or other ornament. Inner surface <NUM> includes an integrated wiring harness <NUM> for routing a power cable <NUM> from the badge to a power source of vehicle <NUM>. Wiring harness <NUM> includes a forward wiring harness <NUM> adapted to confirm to inner curvilinear surface <NUM>. Harness <NUM> includes a plurality of retaining clips <NUM> for securing power cable <NUM> thereto. Integrated wiring harness <NUM> also includes a wiring channel <NUM> integrally formed with one of fender mounts <NUM>. Wiring channel <NUM> routes power cable <NUM> from harness <NUM> to a leg <NUM> of fender mount <NUM>. From leg <NUM>, power cable <NUM> may be routed to the power source. Wiring channel <NUM> is sized and adapted to route power cable <NUM> along inner curvilinear surface <NUM> of front fender <NUM>. An advantage, among others, of integrated wiring harness <NUM> is that front fender <NUM> may be packaged in close proximity to vehicle <NUM>.

Turning now to <FIG>, a puddle light <NUM> is shown. Puddle light <NUM> is positioned longitudinally forward position of engine <NUM> proximate cooling system <NUM>. More specifically, puddle light <NUM> position vertically lower than cooling system <NUM> and is configured to illuminate a ground surface underneath vehicle <NUM>. Puddle light <NUM> may be configured to illuminate the ground surface when vehicle <NUM> is turned off, thereby providing a guiding light to an operator exiting vehicle <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, a clutch housing or cover <NUM> is shown coupled to crankcase housing <NUM>. Cover <NUM> comprises a shell <NUM> sized and configured to receive at least a portion of a clutch assembly therein. Shell <NUM> includes a lower, generally planar surface <NUM>. planar surface <NUM> includes a lever arm <NUM> pivotally coupled thereto, which is operable to engage and disengage the clutch. A clutch cable <NUM> is coupled to a distal end <NUM> of lever arm <NUM>. Actuation of clutch cable <NUM> in a first direction <NUM> pivots lever arm <NUM> about a front axle <NUM> in a first direction <NUM> and disengages the clutch. Release of clutch cable <NUM> in second direction <NUM> pivots lever arm <NUM> about its front axle <NUM> in a second direction <NUM> and engages the clutch. The tension of clutch cable <NUM> and, therefore, the starting angular position of lever arm <NUM> relative to front axle <NUM> can be adjusted using threaded adjuster <NUM>.

Turning now to <FIG>, front wheel <NUM> is shown in more detail. Front wheel <NUM> illustratively includes a tire <NUM> supported on a rim <NUM>. Rim <NUM> is rotatably coupled to a front fork <NUM> of front suspension assembly <NUM>. More specifically, tire <NUM> and rim <NUM> are rotatable about a front axle <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, a brake disc <NUM> is fixedly coupled to and rotates with rim <NUM>. Brake disc <NUM> is configured to be engaged by a brake caliper to control the rotation of tire <NUM> and rim <NUM>.

Positioned intermediate front fork <NUM> and rim <NUM> is a wheel speed sensor assembly <NUM>. Wheel speed sensor assembly <NUM> illustratively a wheel speed sensor housing <NUM>, a bearing seal <NUM>, a tone ring <NUM>, and a bearing <NUM>. Bearing <NUM> is received within a hub <NUM> of rim <NUM> and rotatably couples rim <NUM> to axle front axle <NUM>. Sensor housing <NUM> includes a wheel speed sensor <NUM> adjacent tone ring <NUM>. Wheel speed sensor <NUM> is configured to measure the number of rotations of tone ring <NUM> to determine the rotational speed of vehicle <NUM>. The distance between wheel speed sensor <NUM> and tone ring <NUM> is shown by gap <NUM>. Wheel speed sensor <NUM> illustratively comprises a back-biased hall effect sensor, and tone ring <NUM> comprises a ferrous material. It is contemplated, however, that other suitable sensors may be used to measure the rotational speed of vehicle <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, tone ring <NUM> is contained within bearing seal <NUM>. As a result, tone ring <NUM> is visually hidden and protected from corrosion or debris intrusion. In addition, integrating tone ring <NUM> with bearing seal <NUM>, wheel speed sensor assembly <NUM> can be packaged between front fork <NUM> and rim <NUM>. As a result, gap <NUM> can be minimized.

Referring now to <FIG>, a wireless key fob <NUM> for vehicle <NUM> is shown. Wireless key fob <NUM> illustratively includes a generally ovoid-shaped body <NUM> having an operator interface surface <NUM> and a rear surface <NUM> opposite surface <NUM>. Body <NUM> includes a loop <NUM> adapted to receive a retaining member, such as a key ring or lanyard, for example. Operator interface surface <NUM> includes a plurality of buttons <NUM>, illustratively accessory lock button <NUM><NUM> and accessory unlock button <NUM><NUM>. Buttons <NUM> may include a textured surface or visual indicator so that an operator may distinguish separate buttons and the functions thereof. Moreover, buttons <NUM> may comprise pushbuttons or capacitance sensing buttons. While wireless key fob <NUM> includes two buttons, it is contemplated that more or fewer than two buttons could be included on wireless key fob <NUM>. For example, rear surface <NUM> may include pushbuttons. Either of surface <NUM>, <NUM> may display a badge, emblem, or icon.

In the illustrative embodiment shown, rear surface <NUM> forms an outer surface of a battery cover <NUM> of wireless key fob <NUM>. Battery cover <NUM> covers a battery compartment (not shown) of wireless key fob <NUM> in which a power source, such as a battery, is located to power the functional features of wireless key fob <NUM>. Battery cover <NUM> includes a release tab <NUM>, which, when actuated, releases battery cover <NUM> from wireless key fob <NUM>. Illustratively, release tab <NUM> may be pushed upwards to actuate it. Wireless key fob <NUM> also includes a courtesy key <NUM> having a having a handle <NUM> and a key blade <NUM> extending therefore. Wireless key fob <NUM> includes a storage cavity <NUM> configured to receive key blade <NUM> and at least a portion of handle <NUM>. Handle <NUM> includes a guide pin <NUM> and wireless key fob <NUM> includes a corresponding recess <NUM> for assisting an operator in aligning key <NUM> within storage cavity <NUM>. Handle <NUM> also includes an acutely extending tab <NUM>, which is configured to be received on top of corresponding release tab <NUM> of ovoid-shaped body <NUM> and battery cover <NUM>. Therefore, when courtesy key <NUM> is stored in cavity <NUM>, tab <NUM> is received on top of release tab <NUM> and release tab <NUM> cannot be actuated (e.g., pulled up) to release battery cover <NUM>.

Turning now to <FIG>, a fuel door lock and unlock system <NUM> and its operation is illustrated. An operator may utilize buttons <NUM> of center console <NUM>, a plurality of buttons (not shown) on fuel tank console <NUM>, or buttons <NUM> of wireless key fob <NUM> to lock and unlock vehicular components, such as saddlebags <NUM> of saddlebag assembly <NUM> and fuel door <NUM>. Generally, fuel door <NUM> will not lock if fuel door <NUM> is in the open position. Locking saddlebags <NUM> will lock fuel door <NUM>. Alternatively, starting engine <NUM> will lock fuel door <NUM>. If an operator actuates a fuel door unlock button, fuel door <NUM> will be unlocked. However, actuating the fuel door unlock button will not unlock fuel door <NUM> if engine <NUM> is running.

Unlock system <NUM> may display various warning screens or messages on digital display <NUM> of center console <NUM>. For example, unlock system <NUM> may display a partial warning screen on digital display <NUM> if fuel door <NUM> is open, but engine <NUM> is not running. Partial warning screens include an oil change warning, a low tire pressure warning, or a low battery warning. This partial warning screen may be dismissible by an operator. Alternatively, unlock system <NUM> may display a full screen warning if fuel door <NUM> is open and engine <NUM> is running. If engine <NUM> or vehicle <NUM> is also operating at a low speed, center console <NUM> may emit a subtle audible warning in addition to the full screen warning. Conversely, if engine <NUM> or vehicle <NUM> is also operating at a high speed, center console <NUM> may emit a constant audible warning in addition to the full screen warning. In one embodiment, the low speed may be approximately <NUM> kilometers per hour ("km/h") and the high speed may be approximately <NUM>/h.

Turning specifically to <FIG>, unlock system <NUM> includes a vehicle control module ("VCM") <NUM>, a wireless control module ("WCM") <NUM>, an engine control module ("ECM") <NUM>, an anti-lock brake system ("ABS") <NUM>, microswitch <NUM>, a digital display module <NUM> communicating with digital display <NUM>, an integrated smart power supply module ("SPS") <NUM>, a saddlebag unlock button <NUM>, a fuel door unlock button <NUM>, a saddlebag lock button <NUM>, and audible tone generator <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment shown, microswitch <NUM> is communicatively coupled to VCM <NUM>. As discussed herein, microswitch <NUM> provides an indication of whether fuel door <NUM> is in the open or closed position. Buttons <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are individually coupled to wireless control module <NUM>, which communicates with VCM <NUM> using a communication network or communication bus, illustratively controller area network ("CAN") <NUM>. WCM <NUM> communicates information such as whether any of buttons <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> have been pushed across CAN <NUM>. WCM <NUM> also communicates authentication and ignition status across CAN <NUM>. ECM <NUM> communicates information such as engine speed to VCM <NUM> across CAN <NUM>. ABS <NUM> communicates information such as vehicle speed to VCM <NUM> across CAN <NUM>. Display module <NUM> communicates with VCM <NUM> using CAN <NUM>. Display module <NUM> communicates information such as the operation status of engine <NUM> and whether fuel door <NUM> is open or closed. In turn, display module <NUM> communicates with SPS <NUM> using CAN <NUM>. SPS <NUM> powers a horn or an audible tone generator <NUM> ; therefore, SPS <NUM> communicates speaker on and off information to SPS <NUM>.

Referring specifically to <FIG>, a first operational process <NUM> of unlock system <NUM> illustrates the process wherein an ignition of vehicle <NUM> off and an operator presses fuel door unlock button <NUM>. First operational process <NUM> begins at block <NUM> where the ignition is turned off At block <NUM>, an operator actuates fuel door unlock button <NUM> to unlock fuel door <NUM>. Fuel door unlock button <NUM> may be located on a wireless key fob or be dash mounted. At block <NUM>, WCM <NUM> authenticates the operator's wireless key fob used by the operator. At block <NUM>, WCM <NUM> determines whether the wireless key fob satisfies the authentication criterium. If not, first operational process <NUM> returns to block <NUM>. If the wireless key fob satisfies the authentication criterium, first operational process <NUM> continues to block <NUM>. At block <NUM>, WCM <NUM> sends a fuel door unlock button status to VCM <NUM>. At block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> actuates motor <NUM> to unlock fuel door <NUM> and saves the current fuel door status (i.e., unlocked) in its memory. First operational process <NUM> then returns to block <NUM>.

Referring specifically to <FIG> and <FIG>, a second operational process <NUM> of unlock system <NUM> illustrates the process wherein an ignition of vehicle <NUM> is off and an operator presses either saddlebag lock button <NUM> or unlock button <NUM><NUM> of wireless key fob <NUM>. Second operational process <NUM> begins at block <NUM> where the ignition is turned off. At block <NUM>, an operator actuates either saddlebag lock button <NUM> or unlock button <NUM><NUM> of wireless key fob <NUM>. At block <NUM>, WCM <NUM> authenticates the wireless key fob used by the operator. At block <NUM>, WCM <NUM> determines whether the wireless key fob satisfies the authentication criterium. If not, second operational process <NUM> returns to block <NUM>. If yes, block <NUM> simultaneously proceeds to blocks <NUM>, <NUM>. At block <NUM>, WCM <NUM> sends the lock button status to VCM <NUM>. From block <NUM>, second operational process <NUM> proceeds to block <NUM>. At block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> locks saddlebags <NUM> and saves the current saddlebag status (i.e., locked) in its memory. From block <NUM>, second operational process <NUM> returns to block <NUM>.

At block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> determines whether fuel door <NUM> is open by polling microswitch <NUM>. If VCM <NUM> determines that fuel door <NUM> is open, second operational process <NUM> moves to block <NUM>. At block <NUM>, second operational process <NUM> waits for a timer to expire, illustratively <NUM> second. Once the timer has elapsed, second operational process <NUM> proceeds to block <NUM> where VCM <NUM> determines if the "Fuel Door Open, Tone Sounded" flag is set. If this flag is set, second operational process <NUM> proceeds to block <NUM> where VCM <NUM> determines whether Y calibratable seconds have elapsed. If Y seconds have elapsed, second operational process <NUM> proceeds to block <NUM> where the VCM <NUM> goes to "Normal Ignition Off State. " second operational process <NUM> then proceeds to block <NUM> where VCM <NUM> clears the "Fuel Door Open; Tone Sounded" flag. Second operational process <NUM> then returns to block <NUM>.

At block <NUM>, if VCM <NUM> determines that fuel door <NUM> is not open, second operational process <NUM> proceeds to block <NUM> and VCM <NUM> clears the "Fuel Door Open; Tone Sounded" flag, if necessary. Second operational process <NUM> then proceeds to block <NUM> where VCM <NUM> locks fuel door <NUM> and saves the current fuel door status (i.e., unlocked) in its memory. Second operational process <NUM> then returns to block <NUM>. At block <NUM>, if the timer has not elapsed, second operational process <NUM> returns to blocks <NUM>. At block <NUM>, if the "Fuel Door Open; Tone Sounded" flag is not set, second operational process <NUM> proceeds to block <NUM> where the VCM <NUM> sounds a horn X times fast. Second operational process <NUM> then proceeds to block <NUM> where the VCM <NUM> sets the "Fuel Door Open, Tone Sounded" flag and proceeds to block <NUM>. At block <NUM>, if Y seconds has not yet elapsed, second operational process <NUM> returns to blocks <NUM>.

Turning specifically to <FIG>, a third operational process <NUM> of unlock system <NUM> illustrates the normal operation of vehicle <NUM>. Third operational process <NUM> begins at block <NUM> where an ignition of vehicle <NUM> is on. At block <NUM>, unlock system <NUM> is operation at normal system functionality. At block <NUM>, third operational process <NUM> waits for a timer to expire, illustratively <NUM>. At block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> determines if fuel door <NUM> is open by polling microswitch <NUM>. If fuel door <NUM> is open, third operational process <NUM> proceeds to block <NUM>, where VCM <NUM> communicates with ECM <NUM> to determine if engine <NUM> is running. If engine <NUM> is running, VCM <NUM> sets the "Fuel Door Open, Engine Running" flag at block <NUM>. At block <NUM>, digital display <NUM> displays the "Fuel Door Open" full screen warning. At block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> communicates with ECM <NUM> to determine if the vehicle speed is greater than a set value X. If the vehicle speed is greater than X, digital display <NUM> sounds a continuous, audible tone or alert via audible tone generator <NUM> at block <NUM>. Third operational process <NUM> then returns to block <NUM>.

If at block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> determines that fuel door <NUM> is not open, third operational process <NUM> proceeds to block <NUM>. At block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> clears the "Fuel Door Open, Tone Sounded" flag. At block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> clears the "Vehicle Speed > Calibration Value" flag. At block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> sets the state to "Fuel Door Open, Engine Running. " At block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> sets the state to "Fuel Door Open, Engine Note Running. " At block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> sets the state to "Engine Running, Unable to Lock Fuel Door. " At block <NUM>, digital display <NUM> removes the "Fuel Door Open" partial screen warning, if necessary. At block <NUM>, digital display <NUM> removes the "Fuel Door Open" full screen warning, if necessary. At block <NUM>, display module <NUM> sets the "Vehicle Speed > Calibration Value" flag. At block <NUM>, display module <NUM> clears the "Fuel Door Open" flag, if necessary. At block <NUM>, display module <NUM> stops, if necessary, the continuous tone or alert, and third operational process <NUM> returns to block <NUM>.

If at block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> determines that engine <NUM> is not running, third operational process <NUM> proceeds to block <NUM>. At block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> sets "Fuel Door Open, Engine Not Running" flag. At block <NUM>, digital display <NUM> displays a "Fuel Door Open" partial screen warning. At block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> clears the "Engine Running, Fuel Door Open" flag. At block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> clears the "Vehicle Speed > Calibration Value" flag, and third operational process <NUM> returns to block <NUM>.

If at block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> determines the vehicle speed is not greater thanX, VCM <NUM> determines whether the vehicle speed is greater than a set value Y at block <NUM>. If the vehicle speed is greater than Y, third operational process <NUM> proceeds simultaneously to blocks <NUM>, <NUM>. At block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> sets the "Vehicle Speed > Calibration Value" flag. At block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> determines if the "Fuel Door Tone Flag" flag equals <NUM>. If this flag equal <NUM>, VCM <NUM> determines whether the "Fuel Door Open, Tone Sounded" flag is set at block <NUM>. If this flag is set, third operational process <NUM> returns to block <NUM>. At block <NUM>, display module <NUM> sets the "Vehicle Speed > Calibration Value" flag. At block <NUM>, display module <NUM> stops, if necessary, the continuous tone or alert. At block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> determines if the "Fuel Door Open, Tone Sounded" flag is set. If this flag is set, third operational process <NUM> returns to block <NUM>.

If at block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> determines that the vehicle speed is less than Y, VCM <NUM> determines whether the vehicle speed is less than a set value Z at block <NUM>. If the vehicle speed is greater than Z, third operational process <NUM> simultaneously proceeds to blocks <NUM>, <NUM>. At block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> clears the "Vehicle Speed > Calibration Value" flag, and third operational process <NUM> returns to block <NUM>. At block <NUM>, display module <NUM> clears the "Fuel Door Open" flag, and third operational process <NUM> returns to block <NUM>. If at block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> determines that the vehicle speed is less than Z, third operational process <NUM> returns to block <NUM>.

If at block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> determines that the "Fuel Door Open, Tone Sounded" flag is not set, VCM <NUM> sounds horn X times fast at block <NUM>. At block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> sets the "Engine Running, Fuel Door Open" flag, and third operational process <NUM> returns to block <NUM>.

If at block <NUM>, display module <NUM> determines that the "Fuel Door Open, Tone Sounded" flag is not yet, display module <NUM> sets the "Fuel Door Open" flag at block <NUM>. At block <NUM>, digital display <NUM> sounds tone i times fast.

Referring now to <FIG>, fourth operational process <NUM> illustrates the process when an ignition of vehicle <NUM> is on, unlock system <NUM> is operating at normal system functionality, and an operator presses fuel door unlock button <NUM>. Fourth operational process <NUM> begins at block <NUM> where the ignition of vehicle <NUM> is on. At block <NUM>, unlock system <NUM> is operation at normal system functionality. At block <NUM>, an operator actuates fuel door unlock button <NUM> to unlock fuel door <NUM>. At block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> communicates with ECM <NUM> to determine if engine <NUM> is running. If VCM <NUM> determines engine <NUM> is running, VCM <NUM> sets the "Fuel Door Open, Engine Running" flag at block <NUM>. At block <NUM>, digital display <NUM> displays a dismissible "Engine Running: Unable to Unlock Fuel Door" partial screen warning. At block <NUM>, display module <NUM> determines whether the operator dismissed this partial screen warning. If the operator dismissed the warning, display module <NUM> removes the "Engine Running: Unable to Unlock Fuel Door" partial screen warning, and fourth operational process <NUM> returns to block <NUM>. If at block <NUM>, display module <NUM> determines that the operator did not dismiss the warning, fourth operational process <NUM> returns to block <NUM> and continues to display the warning. Fourth operational process <NUM> cycles between blocks <NUM>, <NUM> waiting for the operator to dismiss the warning. If after X seconds, the operator has not dismissed the warning, display module <NUM> determines that X seconds has passed at block <NUM>, and fourth operational process <NUM> proceeds to block <NUM>.

If at block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> determines that engine <NUM> is not running, digital display <NUM> removes, if necessary, the "Engine Running: Unable to Open Fuel Door" partial screen warning at block <NUM>. At block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> unlocks fuel door <NUM> and saves the current fuel door status (i.e., unlocked) in its memory. At block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> clears the "Fuel Door Open, Engine Running" flag, and fourth operational process <NUM> returns to block <NUM>.

Turning now to <FIG>, a fifth operational process <NUM> illustrates the process when an ignition of vehicle <NUM> is on, unlock system <NUM> is operating at normal system functionality, and an operator actuates saddlebag lock button <NUM>. Fifth operational process <NUM> begins at block <NUM> where the ignition of vehicle <NUM> is on. At block <NUM>, unlock system <NUM> is operating at normal system functionality. At block <NUM>, an operator actuates saddlebag lock button <NUM> to lock saddlebags <NUM>. At block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> locks vertical frames <NUM> and saves the current saddlebag status (i.e., locked) in its memory. At block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> polls microswitch <NUM> to determine whether fuel door <NUM> is open. If VCM <NUM> determines that fuel door <NUM> is open, VCM <NUM> communicates with ECM <NUM> to determine if engine <NUM> is running at block <NUM>. If VCM <NUM> determines that engine <NUM> is running, VCM <NUM> sets the "Fuel Door Open, Engine Running" flag at block <NUM>. At block <NUM>, digital display <NUM> displays a "Fuel Door Open" full screen warning. At block <NUM>, digital display module <NUM> determines if the "Engine Running, Fuel Door Open" flag is set. If this flag is set, fifth operational process <NUM> returns to block <NUM>.

If at block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> determines that fuel door <NUM> is not open, VCM <NUM> locks fuel door <NUM> and saves the current fuel door status (i.e., locked) in its memory at block <NUM>. At step <NUM>, VCM <NUM> waits until a set time has expired, illustratively <NUM> second. At block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> clears the "Engine Running, Fuel Door Open" flag. At blocks <NUM>, <NUM>, VCM <NUM> clears the "Fuel Door Open, Engine Running" and the "Fuel Door Open, Engine Not Running" flags. At block <NUM>, digital display module <NUM> clears the "Engine Running, Fuel Door Open" flag. At block <NUM>, digital display <NUM> removes, if necessary, the "Fuel Door Open" full screen warning. At block <NUM>, digital display <NUM> removes, if necessary, the "Fuel Door Open" partial screen warning, and fifth operational process <NUM> returns block <NUM>.

If at block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> determines that engine <NUM> is not running, VCM <NUM> sets the "Fuel Door Open, Engine Not Running" flag at block <NUM>. At block <NUM>, digital display <NUM> displays a "Fuel Door Open" partial screen warning, and fifth operational process <NUM> returns to block <NUM>.

If at block <NUM>, digital display module <NUM> determines that the "Engine Running, Fuel Door Open" flag is set, digital display module <NUM> determines if a set period of time has expired, illustratively <NUM> second, at block <NUM>. If the set period of time has expired, VCM <NUM> simultaneously proceeds to blocks <NUM>, <NUM>. At block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> determines if the "Fuel Door Tone" flag is equal to <NUM>. If this flag is equal to <NUM>, VCM <NUM> sets the "Engine Running, Fuel Door Open" flag at block <NUM>, and VCM <NUM> sounds a horn X times fast at block <NUM>. Fifth operational process <NUM> then returns to block <NUM>. At block <NUM>, digital display module <NUM> sets the "Engine Running, Fuel Door Open" flag, and digital display <NUM> sounds a tone or alertX times fast at block <NUM>. Fifth operational process <NUM> then returns to block <NUM>.

If at block <NUM>, the set period of time had not expired, fifth operational process <NUM> returns to block <NUM>. If at block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> determines that the "Fuel Door Tone" flag is not equal to <NUM>, fifth operational process <NUM> returns to block <NUM>.

Referring specifically to <FIG>, a sixth operational process <NUM> illustrates the process when an ignition of vehicle <NUM> is on, unlock system <NUM> is operating at normal system functionality, and an operator starts engine <NUM>. Sixth operational process <NUM> begins at block <NUM> where the ignition of vehicle <NUM> is on. At block <NUM>, unlock system <NUM> is operating at normal system functionality. At block <NUM>, an operator starts engine <NUM>. At block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> polls microswitch <NUM> to determine if fuel door <NUM> is open. If VCM <NUM> determines that fuel door <NUM> is open, VCM <NUM> waits for period of time to expire, illustratively <NUM> second, at block <NUM>. At block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> communicates with ECM <NUM> to determine if engine <NUM> is running. If VCM <NUM> determines that engine <NUM> is running, VCM <NUM> sets the "Fuel Door Open, Engine Running" flag at block <NUM>. At block <NUM>, digital display <NUM> displays a "Fuel Door Open" full screen warning, and sixth operational process <NUM> proceeds to block <NUM>. At block <NUM>, digital display module <NUM> determines if the "Fuel Door Open, Tone Sounded" flag is set. If the flag is set, sixth operational process <NUM> returns to block <NUM>.

If at block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> determines that fuel door <NUM> is not open, VCM <NUM> waits for a set period of time to expire, illustratively <NUM> second, at block <NUM>. At block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> locks fuel door <NUM> and saves the current fuel door status (i.e., locked) in its memory. At block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> clears the "Fuel Door Open, Engine Not Running" flag. At block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> clears a "Fuel Door Open, Tone Sounded" flag. At block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> clears an "Engine Running, Fuel Door Open" flag. At block <NUM>, digital display <NUM> removes, if necessary, the "Fuel Door Open" full screen warning. At block <NUM>, digital display <NUM> removes, if necessary, the "Fuel Door Open" partial screen warning. At block <NUM>, digital display module <NUM> sets the "Vehicle Speed > Calibration Value" flag. At block <NUM>, digital display module <NUM> clears the "Fuel Door Open" flag, and sixth operational process <NUM> returns to block <NUM>.

If at block <NUM>, VCM <NUM> determines that engine <NUM> is not running, VCM <NUM> sets the "Fuel Door Open, Engine Not Running" flag at block <NUM>. At block <NUM>, digital display <NUM> displays a "Fuel Door Open" partial screen warning, and sixth operational process <NUM> returns to block <NUM>.

Claim 1:
A two-wheeled vehicle, comprising:
a frame assembly (<NUM>) extending longitudinally from a front end to a second end, the frame assembly (<NUM>) including a forward frame member (<NUM>) and a down tube assembly (<NUM>) coupled to the forward frame member (<NUM>), the frame assembly (<NUM>) including a fairing support mount (<NUM>);
a plurality of ground-engaging members (<NUM>, <NUM>) supporting the frame assembly (<NUM>) on a ground surface; characterised by
a fairing (<NUM>) coupled to the forward frame member (<NUM>) and the down tube assembly (<NUM>), wherein the fairing (<NUM>) comprising an outer fairing member and an inner fairing member; and
a pair of brackets (450a, 450b), each bracket (450a, 450b) removably coupled to the down tube assembly (<NUM>) and the fairing support mount (<NUM>), wherein at least one of the brackets (450a, 450b) is coupled to the inner fairing member, wherein the down tube assembly (<NUM>) includes a first down tube member (448a) and a second down tube member (448b), each of the first and second down tube members (448a, 448b) having an upper shoulder (<NUM>), each of the brackets (450a, 450b) coupled to the upper shoulder (<NUM>) of one of the first down tube member (448a) and the second down tube member (448b).