Motorcycle suspension system
AssigneeYamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha
InventorMasae Watanabe
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Two embodiments of motorcycle suspension systems that are particularly adapted for use with the steered front wheel. Each embodiment achieves a non-linear suspension rate through the use of a linkage system for loading the suspension element upon relative movement between the wheel and the frame. Each embodiment reduces unsprung weight by loading the suspension element from an intermediate portion of a link that is pivoted to a sprung portion of the motorcycle. In one embodiment of the invention, the linkage system is disposed so as to minimize bending forces on the wheel supporting element that would otherwise be encountered due to the castor angle.
Claims15
In a suspension system for the wheel of a motorcycle or the like comprising a first sprung member, a second unsprung member supported for suspension movement relative to said first member along a line, a wheel rotatably supported by said second member, a suspension element having opposite ends and means for loading said suspension element upon movement of said first member relative to said second member along said line comprising a first link pivotally connected to said first member, a second link pivotally connected to said second member, means for pivotally connecting said links to each other and means for connecting one end of said suspension element to said first link between its pivotal connection to said first member and its pivotal connection to said second link for loading said suspension element upon relative movement between said members.
In a front suspension system for a motorcycle or the like comprising a first member supported for steering movement, a second member supported for reciprocation relative to said first member along a line that is not perpendicular to the ground, a wheel rotatably supported by said second member, a suspension element, and means for loading said suspension element upon relative movement between said members, the improvement comprising said loading means being constructed to apply a force component to said second member perpendicular to said line and in a direction opposite to that exerted on said second member by forces applied vertically to said wheel for minimizing bending forces upon said second member.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.