US Patent:
20010027890, Oct 11, 2001
Inventors:
Joseph Bria - Danbury CT, US
Paul Hammerstrom - Danbury CT, US
Thomas Patterson - Westport CT, US
Christopher Dodman - Danbury CT, US
Jared Floyd - New Milford CT, US
International Classification:
B60K005/00
US Classification:
180/291000, 180/068300, 180/312000, 280/830000
Abstract:
The present invention is directed towards a vehicle for off-road use with an improved frame, rear suspension, fuel tank, air intake, and four-stroke engine. Preferably, the vehicle has four wheels and a rider sits astride thereon. The frame has twin spars and is formed of aluminum. The frame further includes a removable engine frame. In one embodiment, one spar is used as an oil tank and the other spar is a cooling fluid reservoir. A swing arm pivotally connected to the frame and rotatably supports an axle assembly. The swing arm is connected to the frame by a rear shock that is disposed on the central plane of the vehicle. The frame supports a front body panel that includes an engine, air intake that is high and forward on the vehicle. The fuel tank is configured and dimensioned to be disposed beneath a seat, and has a rear portion with a T-shaped cross-section. The engine of the vehicle has and electronically controlled fuel injectors, and has a forward air intake and a rearward exhaust.