Description:
FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
[See section 10, Rule 13]

“A VEHICLE”

HERO MOTOCORP LIMITED, an Indian Company at: The Grand Plaza, Plot No.2, Nelson Mandela Road, Vasant Kunj- Phase -II, New Delhi, India, 110 070

THE FOLLOWING SPECIFICATION PARTICULARLY DESCRIBES THE INVENTION AND THE MANNER IN WHICH IT IS TO BE PERFORMED.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION:
[01] The present invention relates to a vehicle comprising a unique provision for main stand application.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:
[02] Conventionally, a saddle type vehicle such as a two-wheeled vehicle is provided with a seat to accommodate a driver and a pillion rider. In such a vehicle, there is provided a grab rail beneath the seat which can be held by the pillion rider. The two-wheeled vehicle is also provided with a stand device. When the two-wheeled vehicle is not being driven by the operator, it can be supported on ground using the stand device. Conventional stand device is pivoted either to an engine, an engine-bracket or a frame of the two-wheeled vehicle. The stand device is generally moved between an extended state, in which the stand rests on ground to support the two wheeled vehicle and a retracted state, in which the stand moves away from the ground. To move the stand device from the retracted state to the extended state, a user can hold the grab rail.

[03] However, in case the vehicle comprises a seat intended to accommodate only one person (for example only the driver, which type of seat is referred to as a “singular seat”) the vehicle is not provided with a grab rail. Also, in such a vehicle there is no provision for receiving the grab rail. In such a case, moving the stand device from retracted state to extended state becomes a challenge. Thus, there is a need to address the aforesaid problem. Additionally, the grab rail has to be provided in such a manner that the aesthetic appeal of the vehicle is not adversely affected.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:
[04] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[05] Accordingly, the present invention provides a vehicle comprising a body frame comprising at least one cross member; a singular seat (i.e. a seat intended to accommodate only one person) disposed above the body frame; a first skin member disposed below the singular seat; a second skin member disposed behind the single seat; and a grab rail extending beyond a distal portion of the singular seat. In an embodiment of the invention, the cross member comprises at least a first mounting provision for receiving a first complementary mounting provision forming part of the second skin member, and a second complementary mounting provision forming part of the grab rail.

[06] In an embodiment of the invention, the grab rail comprises a proximal coupling end disposed below the singular seat and a distal free end extending beyond the rear tip of the singular seat.

[07] In another embodiment of the invention, the proximal coupling end comprises the second complementary mounting provision for coupling the proximal coupling end to the first mounting provision of the cross member.

[08] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the proximal coupling end of the grab rail comprises a first profile projecting in a vehicle downward direction, the first mounting provision comprises a second profile that comes in abutting relationship with the first profile.

[09] In still another embodiment of the invention, the singular seat comprising a proximal portion pivotally connected to the body frame, a distal portion overlapping partially the second skin member in a plan view of the vehicle, and an intermediate portion which comprises a first part of a seat locking mechanism.

[010] In further embodiment of the invention, the cross member comprises a second part of the seat locking mechanism that co-operates with the first part of the seat locking mechanism so as to maintain the singular seat in a retained state.

[011] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the body frame comprises a rear cushion element mounting provision for receiving a rear cushion element.

[012] In an embodiment of the invention, the rear cushion element is coupled between the body frame and a rear ground engaging member.

[013] In another embodiment of the invention, the rear cushion element mounting provision is located behind the cross member in a vehicle length direction.

[014] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the vehicle further comprises a third skin member disposed below the singular seat.

[015] In still another embodiment of the invention, third skin member overlaps at least partly the cross member, the second skin member, and the grab rail in a plan view of the vehicle.

[016] In a further embodiment of the invention, the third skin member comprises a third complementary mounting provision adapted to be coupled to the first mounting provision forming part of the cross member.

[017] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the third skin member comprises an opening allowing the second part of the seat locking mechanism to co-operate with the first part of the seat locking mechanism in a retained state of the singular seat.

[018] In an embodiment of the invention, the cross member comprises a second mounting provision for receiving a fourth complementary mounting provision forming part of the second skin member and a fifth complementary mounting provision forming part of the third skin member.

[019] In another embodiment of the invention, the second mounting provision is spaced apart from the first mounting provision in a vehicle width direction.

[020] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the fourth complementary mounting provision is spaced apart from the first complimentary mounting provision in a vehicle width direction.

[021] In still another embodiment of the invention, the fifth mounting provision is spaced apart from the third complementary mounting provision in a vehicle width direction.

[022] In a further embodiment of the invention, the body frame comprises a main frame extending in a rearward and downward direction of the vehicle from a head pipe.
[023] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the body frame further comprises a first rail member extending from a first side of the main frame and a second rail member extending from a second side of the main frame.

[024] In an embodiment of the invention, the first rail member comprises a first portion joined to the main frame and extending in a downward and rearward direction from the main frame; a second portion extending in a rearward direction from the first portion, the second portion comprising a first stand device attachment provision; a third portion extending in an upward and rearward direction from the second portion; a fourth portion extending in a rearward direction from the third portion; and a first bracket member connected to one of the third portion and fourth portion.

[025] In another embodiment of the invention, the second rail member comprises a fifth portion joined to the main frame and extending in a downward and rearward direction from the main frame; a sixth portion extending in a rearward direction from the fifth portion, the sixth portion comprising a second stand device attachment provision; a seventh portion extending in an upward and rearward direction from the sixth portion; an eighth portion extending in a rearward direction from the seventh portion; and a second bracket member connected to one of the seventh portion and the eighth portion.

[026] In still another embodiment of the invention, one of the first bracket member and the second bracket member receives the first skin member, the second skin member, the grab rail, and the cross member while another of the first bracket member and the second bracket member receiving the first skin member, the second skin member, and the cross member.

[027] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the vehicle further comprises a stand device connected to the body frame.

[028] In a further embodiment of the invention, the stand device comprises a first leg; and a second leg spaced apart from the first leg.

[029] In furthermore embodiment of the invention, the first leg comprises a first upper portion and a first bottom portion and the second leg comprises a second upper portion and a second bottom portion.

[030] In an embodiment of the invention, the stand device is coupled to the body frame vide the first upper portion and the second upper portion while the first bottom portion and the second bottom portion are intended to support the vehicle in an extended position of the stand device.

[031] In another embodiment of the invention, one of the first leg and the second leg comprises a force receiving portion.

[032] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the force receiving portion protrudes at least partly in a width direction of the vehicle.

[033] In still another embodiment of the invention, the force receiving portion is located below one of the first bracket member and the second bracket member which receives the first skin member, the second skin member, the grab rail, and the cross member in a top view of the vehicle.

[034] In a further embodiment of the invention, the first bracket member is positioned at about an intermediate location of the fourth portion such that a first distance between the first bracket member and a front end of the fourth portion being less than a second distance between the first bracket member and a rear end of the fourth portion.

[035] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the second bracket member is positioned at about an intermediate location of the eighth portion such that a third distance between the second bracket member and a front end of the eighth portion being less than a fourth distance between the second bracket member and a rear end of the eighth portion.

[036] An advantage of the invention is that the vehicle having a singular seat i.e. a seat intended to accommodate only one person (for example only the driver) is now provided with a grab rail which can be effectively used for moving the stand device from the retracted state to the extended state.

[037] Another advantage of the invention is that the grab rail is provided only on one side of the vehicle, especially the side of the vehicle from where the stand device is traditionally moved from the retracted state to the extended state. In particular, the grab rail is provided on the side of the vehicle where the force receiving portion of the stand device is located. Thus, a size, a weight and a cost of the grab rail of the substantially low.

[038] Yet another advantage of the invention is that the grab rail is easily accessible and hence, it is convenient for the user to hold the same while moving the stand device from the retracted state to the extended state.

[039] Still another advantage of the invention is that the grab rail is be coupled to the cross member at a single location, Thus, the coupling of the grab rail is simple and involves very less number of components. Thus, a time of assembling as well disassembling the grab rail is substantially low.

[040] A further advantage of the invention is that the first profile provided in the proximal coupling end of the grab rail and the second profile provided in the first mounting provision restricts rotation of the grab rail about the proximal coupling end in an effective manner.

[041] A furthermore advantage of the invention is that the second skin member, the grab rail and the third skin member gets coupled to via sandwich coupling to the first mounting provision provided in the cross member. Thus, a number of parts required to coupling the second skin member, the grab rail and the third skin member is substantially low. Thus, a cost as well as a weight of the vehicle gets reduced.

[042] Another advantage of the invention is that the third skin member effectively hides the proximal coupling end of the grab rail and hence, an aesthetic appeal of the vehicle is enhanced.

[043] To further clarify the advantages and features of the invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which is illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES:
[044] In order that the invention may be readily understood and put into practical effect, reference will now be made to exemplary embodiments as illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings, where like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views. The figures together with a detailed description below, are incorporated in and form part of the specification, and serve to further illustrate the embodiments and explain various principles and advantages, in accordance with the present invention where:

[045] Figure 1 illustrates a semi-transparent side view of the vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[046] Figure 2 illustrates a partial exploded perspective view of the vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[047] Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of the body frame in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[048] Figure 4 illustrates a perspective view of the stand device in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[049] Figure 5 illustrates a magnified view of the connection between the grab rail and the first mounting provision in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; and

[050] Figure 6 illustrates a perspective view of the vehicle showing a user holding the grab rail, the steering handle bar and applying pressure on the force receiving portion of the stand device to bring the stand device from a retracted state to an extended state in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[051] It may be noted that to the extent possible, like reference numerals have been used to represent like elements in the drawings. Further, skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and may not have been necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the drawings may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of aspects of the present invention. Furthermore, one or more elements may have been represented in the drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.

Detailed Description of the Invention:
[052] For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated device, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.

[053] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are explanatory of the invention and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.

[054] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[055] Reference throughout this specification to “an aspect”, “another aspect” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrase “in an embodiment”, “in another embodiment”, and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.

[056] The terms "comprises", "comprising", or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that one or more devices or sub-systems or elements or structures or components proceeded by "comprises... a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices or other sub-systems or other elements or other structures or other components or additional devices or additional sub-systems or additional elements or additional structures or additional components.

[057] As used herein, and unless the context dictates otherwise, the terms "coupled to", “connected to”, “operably connected to”, and “operatively connected to” are intended to include both direct connection / coupling (in which two elements that are coupled / connected to each other contact each other) and indirect coupling / connection (in which at least one additional element is located between the two elements). Therefore, the terms "coupled to" and "coupled with" are used synonymously. Similarly, the terms “connected to” and “connected with” are used synonymously.

[058] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one ordinary skilled in the art to which this invention belongs. The device, methods, and examples provided herein are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

[059] The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g. “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as being essential to the practice of the invention.

[060] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is herein deemed to contain the group as modified thus fulfilling the written description of all Markush groups used in the appended claims.

[061] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[062] The terms “front / forward”, “rear / rearward / back / backward”, “up / upper / top”, “down / lower / lower ward / downward, bottom”, “left / leftward”, “right / rightward” used therein represents the directions as seen from a vehicle driver sitting astride.

[063] While the present invention is illustrated in the context of a vehicle, however, cover and aspects and features thereof can be used with other types of vehicles as well. The terms “vehicle”, “two wheeled vehicle” and “motorcycle” have been interchangeably used throughout the description. The term “vehicle” comprises vehicles such as motorcycles, scooters, bicycles, mopeds, scooter type vehicles, All-Terrain Vehicles (ATV) and the like.

[064] Referring to Figure 1 there is illustrated side view of a vehicle (10). The vehicle (10) comprises, inter-alia, a body frame (12) rotably supporting a front ground engaging member (94) and a rear ground engaging member (56). The front ground engaging member (94) is coupled to the body frame (12) via a front fork (96). The front fork (96) is coupled to a steering handle bar (98), which is configured to be rotated by the rider to steer the vehicle (10). The rear ground engaging member (56) is coupled to the body frame (12) via a swing arm (100). There may be disposed a front fender (102) which is positioned above the front ground engaging member (94). There may also be disposed a head light (104) above the front fender (102) and in front of the steering handle bar (98). The vehicle (10) further comprises at least one power unit (106) which supplies driving power to at least one of the front ground engaging member (94) and the rear ground engaging member (56). The power unit (106) may be a motor, in which case the vehicle (10) further comprises at least one battery (not visible) which supplies electrical power to the motor. The vehicle (10) may further comprise a tail light (108) which is supported by the body frame (12) and located above the rear ground engaging member (56).

[065] The vehicle (10) further comprises a singular seat (16) disposed above the body frame (12). The vehicle (10) further comprises a second skin member (20) disposed behind the single seat (16). The singular seat (16) in particular comprises a proximal portion (42) pivotally connected to the body frame (12), a distal portion (24) that overlaps partially the second skin member (20) in a plan view of the vehicle (10), and an intermediate portion (44) disposed between the proximal portion (42) and the distal portion (24).

[066] The vehicle (10) further comprises a rear cushion element (54) coupled between the rear ground engaging member (56) and the body frame (12). Since the rear ground engaging member (56) is connected to the body frame (12) vide the swing arm (100), the rear cushion element (54) may alternatively couple the swing arm (100) to the body frame (12). Thus, the rear cushion element (54) may either directly or indirectly couple the ground engaging member (56) to the body frame (12).

[067] The vehicle (10) further comprises a stand device (36) disposed between the front ground engaging member (94) and the rear ground engaging member (56). The stand device (36) is coupled to the body frame (12). The vehicle (10) further comprises a grab rail (22) which is disposed below the singular seat (10).

[068] Now referring to Figure 2, there is illustrated an exploded perspective view of a part of the vehicle (10) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In an embodiment of the invention, the body frame (12) comprises at least one cross member (14). In an embodiment of the invention, the vehicle (10) further comprises a first skin member (18) disposed below the singular seat (16). The first skin member (18) is adapted to function as a storage compartment in which the user can store article or there may be disposed one or more vehicular components. It can be seen that the cross member (14) comprises at least a first mounting provision (26). The second skin member (20) comprises a first complementary mounting provision (28). The grab rail (22) comprises a second complementary mounting provision (30). In an embodiment of the invention, the first mounting provision (26) is adapted to receive the first complementary mounting provision (28) forming part of the second skin member (20), and the second complementary mounting provision (30) forming part of the grab rail (22). In an embodiment of the invention, in a connected state, the grab rail (22) extends beyond the distal portion (24) of the singular seat (16).

[069] In an embodiment of the invention, the grab rail (22) comprises a proximal coupling end (32) disposed below the singular seat (16) and a distal free end (34) extending beyond the distal portion (24) of the singular seat (16). To couple the grab rail (22) to the first mounting provision (26), the proximal coupling end (32) comprises the second complementary mounting provision (30).

[070] In an embodiment of the invention, the singular seat (16) is releasable held by the body frame (12). By way of a non-limiting example, the intermediate portion (44) comprises a first part (48) of a seat locking mechanism (46) and the cross member (14) comprises a second part (50) of the seat locking mechanism (46). The first part (48) of the seat locking mechanism (46) interacts with the second part (50) of the seat locking mechanism (46) so as to maintain the singular seat (16) in a retained state with respect to the body frame (12).

[071] As mentioned above, the rear cushion element (54) may either directly or indirectly couple the ground engaging member (56) to the body frame (12). Thus, as shown in Figure 2, the body frame (12) comprises a rear cushion element mounting provision (52) for receiving the rear cushion element (54). In particular, the rear cushion element mounting provision (52) is located behind the cross member (14) in a vehicle length direction.

[072] In an embodiment of the invention, the cross member (14) which is coupled to the body frame (12) or forming part of the body frame (12) may be visible. Likewise, some parts of the second skin member (20), especially the first complementary mounting provision (28) may be visible. Also, some parts of the grab rail (22), especially the second complementary mounting provision (30) forming part of the grab rail (22) may be visible. Thus, there may be provided a third skin member (58) which is disposed above at least a part of the cross member (14), at least a part of the second skin member (20) and at least a part of the grab rail (22).The third skin member (58) is disposed below the singular seat (16) and hence, when the singular seat (16) is opened, the third skin member (58) tends to hide at least a part of the cross member (14), at least a part of the second skin member (20) and at least a part of the grab rail (22). To connect the third skin member (58), there is provided a third complementary mounting provision (60). The third complementary mounting provision (60) is adapted to be coupled to the first mounting provision (26) forming part of the cross member (14). In an embodiment of the invention, the third skin member (58) is disposed to hide the entirety of the cross member (14). As the cross member (14) comprises a second part (50) of the seat locking mechanism (46), the third skin member (58) comprises an opening (62) allowing the second part (50) of the seat locking mechanism (46) to co-operate with the first part (48) of the seat locking mechanism (46).

[073] In another embodiment of the invention, the cross member (14) comprises a second mounting provision (80) (best visible in Figure 5), the second skin member (20) comprises a fourth complementary mounting provision (82), the third skin member (58) comprises a fifth complementary mounting provision (84). It can be seen that the second mounting provision (80) is spaced from the first mounting provision (26) in a vehicle width direction. Likewise, the fourth complementary mounting provision (82) is spaced apart from the first complimentary mounting provision (28) in a vehicle width direction and the fifth mounting provision (84) is spaced apart from the third complementary mounting provision (60) in a vehicle width direction. Thus, it can be said that the second skin member (20) is coupled to the cross member (14) at at least two locations and the third skin member (58) is coupled to the cross member (14) at at least two locations. However, the grab rail (22) is coupled to the cross member (14) at only one location.

[074] Now referring to Figure 3, there is illustrated a perspective view of the body frame (12). In an embodiment of the invention, the body frame (12) comprises a main frame (64) extending in a rearward and downward direction of the vehicle (10) from a head pipe (66). In an embodiment of the invention, the body frame (12) further comprises a first rail member (68) extending from a first side of the main frame (64); and a second rail member (70) extending from a second side of the main frame (64). The first rail member (68) and the second rail member (70) are spaced from each other in a vehicular width direction. The first rail member (68) and the second rail member (70) tend to function as the footboard portion of the vehicle (10). Also, the first rail member (68) and the second rail member (70) function to support one or more batteries carried by the vehicle (10).

[075] In an embodiment of the invention, the first rail member (68) comprises a first portion (681) joined to the main frame (64) and extending in a downward and rearward direction from the main frame (64); a second portion (682) extending in a rearward direction from the first portion (681), the second portion (682) comprising a first stand device attachment provision (72); a third portion (683) extending in an upward and rearward direction from the second portion (682); and a fourth portion (684) extending in a rearward direction from the third portion (683). Similarly, the second rail member (70) comprises a fifth portion (705) joined to the main frame (64) and extending in a downward and rearward direction from the main frame (64); a sixth portion (706) extending in a rearward direction from the fifth portion (705), the sixth portion (706) comprising a second stand device attachment provision (74); a seventh portion (707) extending in an upward and rearward direction from the sixth portion (706); and an eighth portion (708) extending in a rearward direction from the seventh portion (707).

[076] In an embodiment of the invention, the body frame (12) comprises a first bracket member (76) connected to one of the third portion (683) and fourth portion (684); and a second bracket member (78) connected to one of the seventh portion (707) and the eighth portion (708). In another embodiment of the invention, one of the first bracket member (76) and the second bracket member (78) is adapted to receive the first skin member (18), the second skin member (20), the grab rail (22), and the cross member (14) and another of the first bracket member (76) and the second bracket member (78) receiving the first skin member (18), the second skin member (20), and the cross member (14).

[077] In an embodiment of the invention, the body frame (12) comprises a first connecting member (72) connected to one of the second portion (682) and the third portion (683); and a second connecting member (not visible) connected to one of the sixth portion (706) and the seventh portion (707). The first connecting member (72) and the second connecting member (74) may be used for connecting the stand device (36).

[078] Now referring to Figure 4, there is illustrated a perspective view of the stand device (36) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The stand device (36) in particular comprises a first leg (90); and a second leg (92) spaced apart from the first leg (90). The first leg (90) in turn comprises a first upper portion (901) and a first bottom portion (902); and the second leg (92) in turn comprises a second upper portion (921) and a second bottom portion (902). The first upper portion (901) and the second upper portion (921) are intended for coupling the stand device (36) to the body frame (12) (vide the first connecting member (72) and the second connecting member (not shown)). On the other hand, the bottom portion (902) and the second bottom portion (922) are intended to support the vehicle (10) in an extended position of the stand device (36).

[079] The stand device (36) further comprises a force receiving portion (93) adapted to receive an actuating force from a user which allows the user to move the stand device (36) from the retracted state to the extended state. In particular, one of the first leg (90) and the second leg (92) comprises the force receiving portion (93) protruding at least partly in a width direction of the vehicle. As best seen in Figure 2, the force receiving portion (93) is located below one of the first bracket member (76) and the second bracket member (78) receiving the first skin member (18), the second skin member (20), the grab rail (22), and the cross member (14) in a top view of the vehicle (10). Thus, the force receiving portion (93) and the grab rail (22) are disposed on the same side of the vehicle (10). As best seen in Figure 6, the user can apply a downward pressure on the force receiving portion (93) using his feet and hold the grab rail (22) using his hand pull the vehicle (10) in a rearward direction to bring the stand device (36) from the retracted state to the extended state. The user may hold both the grab rail (22) and the steering handle bar (98) using his hands and pull the vehicle (10) in a rearward direction to bring the stand device (36) from the retracted state to the extended state.

[080] Since the user will hold the grab rail (22) and pulling the vehicle (10), there exists a possibility that the grab rail (22) rotates with respect to the first mounting provision (26) provided on the cross member (14). Thus, referring to Figure 5, which shows a magnified view of the connection between the grab rail (22) and the first mounting provision (26), the proximal coupling end (32) of the grab rail (22) comprises a first profile (86) projecting in a vehicle downward direction and the first mounting provision (26) comprises a second profile (88). When the grab rail (22) has been coupled to the first mounting provision (26), the first profile (86) comes in abutting relationship with the second profile (88) and thereby restricts a rotational movement of the grab rail (22).

[081] An advantage of the invention is that the vehicle having a singular seat i.e. a seat intended to accommodate only one person (for example only the driver) is now provided with a grab rail which can be effectively used for moving the stand device from the retracted state to the extended state.

[082] Another advantage of the invention is that the grab rail is provided only on one side of the vehicle, especially the side of the vehicle from where the stand device is traditionally moved from the retracted state to the extended state. In particular, the grab rail is provided on the side of the vehicle where the force receiving portion of the stand device is located. Thus, a size, a weight and a cost of the grab rail of the substantially low.

[083] Yet another advantage of the invention is that the grab rail is easily accessible and hence, it is convenient for the user to hold the same while moving the stand device from the retracted state to the extended state.

[084] Still another advantage of the invention is that the grab rail is be coupled to the cross member at a single location, Thus, the coupling of the grab rail is simple and involves very less number of components. Thus, a time of assembling as well disassembling the grab rail is substantially low.

[085] A further advantage of the invention is that the first profile provided in the proximal coupling end of the grab rail and the second profile provided in the first mounting provision restricts rotation of the grab rail about the proximal coupling end in an effective manner.

[086] A furthermore advantage of the invention is that the second skin member, the grab rail and the third skin member gets coupled to via sandwich coupling to the first mounting provision provided in the cross member. Thus, a number of parts required to coupling the second skin member, the grab rail and the third skin member is substantially low. Thus, a cost as well as a weight of the vehicle gets reduced.

[087] Another advantage of the invention is that the third skin member effectively hides the proximal coupling end of the grab rail and hence, an aesthetic appeal of the vehicle is enhanced.

[088] While specific language has been used to describe the disclosure, any limitations arising on account of the same are not intended. As would be apparent to a person in the art, various working modifications may be made to the method in order to implement the inventive concept as taught herein.

[089] The figures and the forgoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. For example, orders of processes described herein may be changed and are not limited to the manner described herein. Moreover, the actions of any flow diagram need not be implemented in the order shown; nor do all of the acts necessarily need to be performed. Also, those acts that are not dependent on other acts may be performed in parallel with the other acts. The scope of embodiments is by no means limited by these specific examples.
, Claims:WE CLAIM:

1. A vehicle (10), comprising:
a body frame (12) comprising at least one cross member (14);
a singular seat (16) disposed above the body frame (12);
a first skin member (18) disposed below the singular seat (16);
a second skin member (20) disposed behind the single seat (16); and
a grab rail (22) extending beyond a distal portion (24) of the singular seat (16);
the cross member (14) comprising at least a first mounting provision (26) for receiving a first complementary mounting provision (28) forming part of the second skin member (20), and a second complementary mounting provision (30) forming part of the grab rail (22).

2. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the grab rail (22) comprises a proximal coupling end (32) disposed below the singular seat (16) and a distal free end (34) extending beyond the rear tip (24) of the singular seat (16), the proximal coupling end (32) comprising the second complementary mounting provision (30) for coupling the proximal coupling end (32) to the first mounting provision (26) of the cross member (14).

3. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the proximal coupling end (32) of the grab rail (22) comprises a first profile (86) projecting in a vehicle downward direction, the first mounting provision (26) comprises a second profile (88) that comes in abutting relationship with the first profile (86).

4. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the singular seat comprising a proximal portion (42) pivotally connected to the body frame (12), a distal portion (24) overlapping partially the second skin member (20) in a plan view of the vehicle (10), and an intermediate portion (44) comprising a first part (48) of a seat locking mechanism (46); the cross member (14) comprising a second part (50) of the seat locking mechanism (46) that co-operates with the first part (48) of the seat locking mechanism (46) so as to maintain the singular seat (16) in a retained state.

5. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the body frame (12) comprising a rear cushion element mounting provision (52) for receiving a rear cushion element (54), the rear cushion element (54) being coupled between the body frame (12) and a rear ground engaging member (56), the rear cushion element mounting provision (52) being located behind the cross member (14) in a vehicle length direction.

6. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 1, comprising a third skin member (58) disposed below the singular seat (16), the third skin member (58) overlapping at least partly the cross member (14), the second skin member (20), and the grab rail (22) in a plan view of the vehicle (10), the third skin member (58) comprises at least one of:
a third complementary mounting provision (60) adapted to be coupled to the first mounting provision (26) forming part of the cross member (14); and
an opening (62) allowing the second part (50) of the seat locking mechanism (46) to co-operate with the first part (48) of the seat locking mechanism (46) in a retained state of the singular seat (16).

7. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the cross member (14) comprises a second mounting provision (80) for receiving a fourth complementary mounting provision (82) forming part of the second skin member (20) and a fifth complementary mounting provision (84) forming part of the third skin member (58); the second mounting provision (80) being spaced apart from the first mounting provision (26) in a vehicle width direction; the fourth complementary mounting provision (82) being spaced apart from the first complimentary mounting provision (28) in a vehicle width direction; and the fifth mounting provision (84) being spaced apart from the third complementary mounting provision (60) in a vehicle width direction.

8. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the body frame (12) comprises:
a main frame (64) extending in a rearward and downward direction of the vehicle (10) from a head pipe (66);
a first rail member (68) extending from a first side of the main frame (64); and
a second rail member (70) extending from a second side of the main frame (64);
the first rail member (68) comprising:
a first portion (681) joined to the main frame (64) and extending in a downward and rearward direction from the main frame (64);
a second portion (682) extending in a rearward direction from the first portion (681), the second portion (682) comprising a first stand device attachment provision (72);
a third portion (683) extending in an upward and rearward direction from the second portion (682);
a fourth portion (684) extending in a rearward direction from the third portion (683); and
a first bracket member (76) connected to one of the third portion (683) and fourth portion (684); and
the second rail member (70) comprising:
a fifth portion (705) joined to the main frame (64) and extending in a downward and rearward direction from the main frame (64);
a sixth portion (706) extending in a rearward direction from the fifth portion (705), the sixth portion (706) comprising a second stand device attachment provision (74);
a seventh portion (707) extending in an upward and rearward direction from the sixth portion (706);
an eighth portion (708) extending in a rearward direction from the seventh portion (707); and
a second bracket member (78) connected to one of the seventh portion (707) and the eighth portion (708); and
one of the first bracket member (76) and the second bracket member (78) receiving the first skin member (18), the second skin member (20), the grab rail (22), and the cross member (14) and another of the first bracket member (76) and the second bracket member (78) receiving the first skin member (18), the second skin member (20), and the cross member (14).

9. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 8, comprising a stand device (36) connected to the body frame (12), the stand device (36) comprising:
a first leg (90);
a second leg (92) spaced apart from the first leg (90);
the first leg (90) comprising a first upper portion (901) and a first bottom portion (902);
the second leg (92) comprising a second upper portion (921) and a second bottom portion (902);
the first upper portion (901) and the second upper portion (921) coupling the stand device (36) to the body frame (12);
the first bottom portion (902) and the second bottom portion (922) intending to support the vehicle (10) in an extended position of the stand device (36);
one of the first leg (90) and the second leg (92) comprising a force receiving portion (94), the force receiving portion (93) protruding at least partly in a width direction of the vehicle; and
the force receiving portion (93) being located below the grab rail (22) in a top view of the vehicle (10).

10. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 8, wherein at least one of:
the first bracket member (76) being at about an intermediate location of the fourth portion (684) such that a first distance between the first bracket member (76) and a front end of the fourth portion (684) being less than a second distance between the first bracket member (76) and a rear end of the fourth portion (684); and
the second bracket member (78) being at about an intermediate location of the eighth portion (708) such that a third distance between the second bracket member (78) and a front end of the eighth portion (708) being less than a fourth distance between the second bracket member (78) and a rear end of the eighth portion (708).