Description:TECHNICAL FIELD

[001] The present disclosure relates in general to the field of automobiles. Particularly, but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to a two-wheeled vehicle. Further embodiments of the present disclosure relates to a grab rail of the vehicle.

BACKGROUND

[002] The information in this section merely provides background information related to the present disclosure and may not constitute prior art(s) for the present disclosure.

[003] Two wheeled vehicles are used by riders for daily commuting or even long-distance travelling. To ensure safety, use of a headgear or helmet has been proved to provide significant protection for the rider and pillion riders of the vehicle. The risk associated with riding motorcycle is not limited to the rider of the vehicle. Rather, when there is a passenger or a pillion rider, the passenger is also exposed to the same risks. Hence, most jurisdictions have made it mandatory for the passengers to use the headgear when using the vehicle. Therefore, it is necessary for the rider of the vehicle and the passenger to carry helmets. A problem arises when the helmets are not in use. It is desirable that some mechanism be provided for securing the helmet to the vehicle when the helmet is not in use.

[004] In conventional vehicles such as mopeds storage space is provided, and such storage space is usually sufficient to store just one helmet. Spare helmets have to be carried by the vehicle user or may be locked to the vehicle by use of external locking units such as bungee cords or spiral locks and the like. However, the attachment and/or detachment of the spare helmet can be a lengthy and/or complex process consuming time. The use of conventional locking units may also result in the loss of the spare helmet if not properly secured. This may be not merely an inconvenience but may result pose a physical danger to the riders and others.

[005] The present disclosure is directed to overcome one or more limitations stated above or any other limitations associated with the prior art. The information disclosed in this background is only for enhancement of understanding of the general background of the invention and should not be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that this information forms the prior art already known to a person skilled in the art.

SUMMARY

[006] One or more shortcomings of the prior art are overcome by system or apparatus as disclosed henceforth and additional advantages are provided through the device as described in the present disclosure.

[007] Additional features and advantages are realized through the techniques of the present disclosure. Other embodiments and aspects of the disclosure are described in detail herein and are considered a part of the claimed disclosure.

[008] In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, a two-wheeled vehicle is described. The two-wheeled vehicle includes a steering mechanism, a body frame and a seat. The seat is supported by the body frame and is displaceable between an open position and a closed position. The two-wheeled vehicle further includes a grab rail. A first end of the grab rail is movably secured to the body frame and a second end opposite to the first end is releasably secured to the body frame below the seat. The grab rail being configured to be displaceable between an engaged condition and a disengaged condition relative to the body frame upon selectively displacing the seat between the closed position and the open position, respectively. This configuration of the grab rail allows the rider or the pillion rider to secure accessories such as helmet.

[009] In an embodiment, the vehicle includes one or more cover panels being adapted to conceal the body frame. The body frame includes a head tube, a down frame, a cross member, a left seat rail and a right seat rail. The head tube is configured to rotatably support the steering mechanism. The down frame extends downward and rearward from the head tube. Further, the cross member is disposed in width direction of the vehicle on one end of the down frame. The left and right seat rails extend upwardly and rearwardly from either ends of the cross member.

[0010] In an embodiment, the grab rail includes a gripping portion extending between the first end and the second end. The gripping portion integrally extends from the first end rearwardly from a rear end of the seat and arching towards the second end. The first end of the grab rail is at least one of pivotally and swivelably connected to the body frame. The second end of the grab rail is selectively displaceable between the engaged condition and the disengaged condition relative to the body frame about the point of pivot of the first end.

[0011] In an embodiment, the first end of the grab rail is connected to at least one of the left seat rail and the right seat rail and is configured to facilitate movement of the second end selectively between the engaged condition and the disengaged condition relative to remaining of the at least one of the left seat rail and the right seat rail. The engaged condition of the grab rail corresponds to the second end being engaged with the at least one of the left seat rail and the right seat rail. The disengaged condition corresponds to the second end being disengaged from at least one of the left seat rail and the right seat rail.

[0012] In an embodiment, at least one of the first end and the second end of the grab rail is defined with one or more slots configured to receive a plurality of lugs defined on the body frame in the engaged condition of the grab rail. The one or more slots is at least one of oblong shaped, oval shaped and rectangular shaped.

[0013] In an embodiment, the grab rail is lockable relative to the body frame in the engaged condition when the seat is in closed position and is displaceable to the disengaged condition when the seat is in open position.

[0014] In an embodiment, a seat locking mechanism is provided and may be secured to the body frame. The seat locking mechanism is configured to lock the seat in closed position relative to the body frame which in turn locks the grab rail in the engaged condition.

[0015] In an embodiment, the second portion of the grab rail is configured to be locked relative to the body frame by a locking unit.

[0016] In an embodiment, the grab rail is secured to the body frame such that the seat partially overlaps the grab rail in a plan view. The grab rail being substantially at the same height as an upper surface of the seat.

[0017] In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, a locking unit for securing a grab rail relative to a body frame of a two-wheeled vehicle is described. The locking unit includes a first latch member mounted on a subframe extending between a left seat rail and the right seat rail of the two-wheeled vehicle. A first end of the first latching member is configured to lock the seat in a closed position of the seat. The first latch member being selectively operable between a first position and a second position upon displacing the seat between an open position and a closed position. A second latch member connected to the first latch member on a second end opposite to the first end. The second latch member is configured to releasably receive a hook defined on a grab rail in an engaged condition and is configured to release the hook of the grab rail upon operating the first latch member to the second position from the first position to displace the grab rail to a disengaged condition. The first latch member is spring biased towards the second position.

[0018] The configuration of the grab rail employed in the vehicle ensures that the accessories such as the head gear can be locked to the vehicle without the need for carrying the same. Also, the configuration of the grab rail is cost effective. The present disclosure provides the grab rail that is simple in construction, along with being robust and compact. Advantageously, the grab rail according to the present disclosure can be retrofitted to various vehicles. The configuration of the grab rail of the present disclosure eliminates need of complex mechanism and/or components to receive and lock external accessories

[0019] It is to be understood that the aspects and embodiments of the disclosure described above may be used in any combination with each other. Several of the aspects and embodiments may be combined to form a further embodiment of the disclosure.

[0020] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0021] The novel features and characteristics of the disclosure are set forth in the description. The disclosure itself, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives, and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following description of an illustrative embodiments when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. One or more embodiments are now described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein like reference numerals represent like elements and in which:

[0022] FIG.1 illustrates a schematic side view of a vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0023] FIG.2 illustrates a perspective view of the vehicle of FIG.1 depicting seat in an open position and a grab rail in a disengaged condition, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] FIG.3 illustrates a perspective view of a grab rail of the vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] FIG.4a illustrates a perspective view of a rear portion of the vehicle depicting grab rail in engaged condition, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] FIG.4b illustrates a perspective view of a rear portion of the vehicle depicting grab rail in disengaged condition accommodating helmet, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0027] FIG.5 illustrates a sectional view of a locking unit for locking grab rail, in, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0028] Skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and have not 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 embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] While the disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail below. It should be understood, however that it is not intended to limit the disclosure to the forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

[0030] Before describing detailed embodiments it may be observed that the novelty and inventive step that are in accordance with the present disclosure resides in a grab rail. However, such modifications should be construed within the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings are showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having benefit of the description herein.

[0031] The term “comprises”, comprising, or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions, such that a device, structure, or method that comprises a list of components or steps does not include only those components or steps but may include other components or steps not expressly listed or inherent to such device or structure or method. In other words, one or more elements in a device proceeded by “comprises… a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the device.

[0032] The following paragraphs describe the present disclosure with reference to FIG(s) 1 to 5. In the figure, the same element or elements which have similar functions are indicated by the same reference signs. With general reference to the drawings, a two-wheeled vehicle in accordance with preferred embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated and generally identified with reference numeral 100. Henceforth, the two-wheeled vehicle (100) may also be referred to as a vehicle (100) and may be used interchangeably. The vehicle (100) embodies a grab rail configuration for securely accommodating accessories such as but not limiting to protective head gear including helmets. The grab rail embodied in the vehicle (100) in accordance with the present disclosure is depicted in corresponding figures with reference numeral 106. It will be understood that the teachings of the present disclosure are not limited to any particular vehicle. In the corresponding figures only necessary features important to understand the novel configuration according to the present disclosure are labelled. Although other features are explained in detail, the same are not labelled in order not to obscure the embodiments being described.

[0033] The terms “vehicle”, “modular vehicle”, “two-wheeled vehicle”, “electric vehicle” “Moped” and “motorcycle” have been interchangeably used throughout the description. The term “vehicle” comprises vehicles such as motorcycles, scooters, bicycles, mopeds, scooter type vehicle, and the like. In the present disclosure, the term “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any embodiment or implementation of the present subject matter described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.

[0034] While the present disclosure is illustrated in the context of a two wheeled vehicle, the features illustrated thereof can be used with other type of vehicles as well. The terms “front/forward”, “rear/rearward/back/backward”, “up/upper/top”, “elevated/closed”, and “down/lower/lower ward/downward, bottom”, used therein represents the directions as seen from a vehicle driver sitting astride.

[0035] The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit application and uses. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any theory presented in the preceding background or summary or the following detailed description. It is to be understood that the disclosure may assume various alternative orientations and step sequences, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices or components illustrated in the attached drawings and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be descried referring to the accompanying drawings. While some specific terms of “front / forward”, “rear / rearward / back / backward”, “up / upper / top”, “down / lower / lower ward / downward, bottom”, “left / leftward”, “right / rightward” and other terms containing these specific terms and directed to a specific direction will be used, the purpose of usage of these terms or words is merely to facilitate understanding of the present invention referring to the drawings. Accordingly, it should be noted that the meanings of these terms or words should not improperly limit the technical scope of the present invention.

[0036] Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for description and should not be regarded as limiting. Unless specified or limited otherwise, the terms “secured” “accommodated,” “mounted,” “connected,” “supported,” and “coupled” and variations thereof are used broadly and encompass both direct and indirect mountings, connections, supports, and couplings. Further, “connected” and “coupled” are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections or couplings. It is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the specific devices, methods, applications, conditions, or parameters described and/or shown herein and that the terminology used herein is to describe embodiments by way of example and is not intended to be limiting of the claimed invention. Hereinafter in the following description, various embodiments will be described. For purposes of explanation, specific configurations and details are outlined to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will also be apparent to one skilled in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without the specific details. Furthermore, well-known features may be omitted or simplified in order not to obscure the embodiment being described.

[0037] Reference will now be made to the exemplary embodiments of the disclosure accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, same numerals will be used to refer to the same or like parts. Embodiments of the disclosure are described in the following paragraphs with reference to FIG.1 to FIG.5. In Figures. 1 to 5, the same element or elements which have same functions are indicated by the same reference signs.

[0038] Referring to FIG.1 and 2 in conjunction, a two-wheeled vehicle (100) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. The two-wheeled vehicle (100) referred to herein, embodies two-wheeled scooter or moped and interchangeably referred to as “the vehicle (100)”. Alternatively, the vehicle (100) may embody any other ridden vehicles such as all-terrain vehicles and the like, without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. In forthcoming paragraphs, the vehicle (100) and the configuration of the same is elucidated. Although the description elucidates various body parts of the vehicle, in the corresponding figures reference is made only to those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having benefit of the description herein.

[0039] The two-wheeled vehicle (100) in accordance with the embodiment of the present disclosure may embody a saddle type riding vehicle or a scooter/a moped. The vehicle comprises a front-end assembly (200) and a rear end assembly (300). The front-end assembly (200) forms the front portion of the vehicle (100). The rear end assembly (300) defined the rear portion of the vehicle (100). In case of the scooter/moped, a foot board (202) may be defined between the front-end assembly (200) and the rear-end assembly (300) and the footboard (202) provides footrest for rider riding the vehicle (100).

[0040] The vehicle (100) includes a body frame [not explicitly seen in the figures]. The body frame is concealed within one or more cover panels (104) defining profile of the vehicle (100). The body frame comprises a head tube [not shown] and a main tube/down frame [not shown] one end of which is connected to the head tube. The down frame may extend in a rearward and downward direction from the head tube. The down frame may run substantially parallel to the ground. The down frame includes a vertical portion, a curved portion and a horizontal portion. The substantially vertical portion may extend in a downward direction from the head tube. The horizontal portion of the down frame may extend from the substantially vertical portion in a rearward direction. A cross member may be may be connected to the down frame on an end opposite to the end connected to the head tube. The cross member is disposed in a width direction or lateral direction of the vehicle. The cross member, the down frame and the head tube defines the front-end assembly (200) of the vehicle (100). Further, the body frame may include a right seat rail and a left seat rail, each extending upward and rearward from either ends of the cross member. In an embodiment, rear end of the left seat rail and the right seat rail may define a curve and both the right seat rail and the left seat rail may be connected by a bracket. The left seat rail, the right seat rail and the bracket may be a unitary structure. In some instances, the left seat rail, the right seat rail and the bracket may be assembled and joined together by joining process including mechanical and/or thermal joining process.

[0041] The front-end assembly (200) of the present disclosure among other components/features described above includes a front ground engaging member (109), a steering mechanism (108). The front ground engaging member (109) may be operatively connected to the steering mechanism (108). The steering mechanism (108) may be rotatably mounted on the head tube and the front ground engaging member (109) may be secured to a plurality of front forks (not shown). The steering mechanism (108) includes a handlebar (108a). The handlebar (108a) may be configured to be rotated by the rider to steer the vehicle (100). The front-end assembly (200) may further include a leg shield (204). The leg shield (204) encloses a portion of the steering mechanism (108) and the head tube. In an embodiment, the front-end assembly (200) of the vehicle (100) may also comprise a lock device for actuation of handle lock and/or an ignition lock of the vehicle (100).

[0042] The front-end assembly (200) of the vehicle (100) further include a dash assembly (not shown). The dash assembly comprises a display unit. The display unit displays information about the vehicle (100) to the rider. The display unit may further include a plurality of visual indicators (not shown) to indicate various functional parameters relating to the vehicle (100). The dash assembly may comprise additional components such a, LCD, GPS, graphical user interface (GUI) etc, without limiting the scope of the invention. The front-end assembly (200) may further comprise additional components such as rear-view mirrors (114), headlamp/head light (113) [refer FIG.1], front fender (above the front ground engaging member (109)), a plurality of blinkers (112) [as evident from FIG.1], etc.

[0043] The rear-end assembly (300) further includes a seat (102). The seat (102) may be supported by the body frame. Specifically, the seat (102) may be secured to the left seat rail and the right seat rail. The rear end assembly further includes a storage area (400), a rear ground engaging member (110), and a power unit (not shown). The seat (102) may provide seating for a rider and pillion of the vehicle (100). The storage area (400) may be provided under the seat (102) as apparent from FIG.2. The storage area (400) may be accessed by displacing the seat (102) between an open position (O) [refer FIG.2] and a closed position (C) [refer FIG.1]. The storage area (400) allows storage of small articles within the vehicle (100). In an embodiment, size of the storage area (400) provided in the vehicle (100) i.e., under the seat (102) may vary based on the type of the vehicle (100). In an embodiment, a seat locking mechanism may be provided along with the body frame to secure the seat (102) in the closed position (C). The seat (102) may be released to the open position (O) upon operating the seat locking mechanism with a matching key. In an embodiment, the seat locking mechanism may be provided between the left seat rail and the right seat rail. That is, the seat locking mechanism may be provide at a substantially central portion of the pair of seat rails and may be secured to a subframe (105) extending between the pair of seat rails.

[0044] The rear ground engaging member (110) is driven by the power unit. The power unit (not shown) may include an internal combustion engine and a transmission unit. In an embodiment, the power unit may also be an electric or traction motor without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure. The rear end assembly (300) further includes additional components such as suspension systems (not shown), taillights (301) [as apparent from FIGs 1 and 4a], rear grips also referred to as the grab rails (106) without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. The configuration and intricacies of the grab rail (106) will be elucidated in forthcoming paragraphs. The configuration of the grab rail (106) will be elucidated referring to the FIGs 3 and 4a and 4b in conjunction with FIGs 1 and 2.

[0045] Referring to FIG.3, it illustrates a perspective view of the grab rail (106) employed in the two-wheeled vehicle (100) of FIG.1 of the present disclosure. The grab rail (106) may also be referred to as grab handle and/or rear grips. The grab rail (106) may be secured to the rear end assembly (300) of the vehicle (100). In an embodiment, the grab rail (106) of the present disclosure may be mounted to at least one of the left seat rail and right seat rail or the subframe extending between the pair of seat rails. The grab rail (106) may be grasped by an occupant to support himself/herself during vehicle movement. In a preferred embodiment, the grab rail (106) may be substantially U-shaped and/or C-shaped when viewed from the plan view of the vehicle (100). However, the shape of the grab rail (106) should not be construed as a limitation of the present disclosure as the grab rail can be formed into various symmetric and asymmetric geometric shapes without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure. In a preferred embodiment, the grab rail (106) may be placed approximately bilaterally symmetric with respect to intermediate portion of the vehicle in width direction. The grab rail (106) may extend rearwardly defining an outwards appearance relative to the body frame of the vehicle (100). In an embodiment, the grab rail (106) may be made of forming process including but not limiting to forming of hollow tubes material. In another embodiment, the grab rail (106) may be made of other manufacturing process such as die casting, 3-D printing and the like. Further, the grab rail (106) may be made of at least one of metallic or non-metallic materials including composites. The manufacturing method/process and the material of the grab rail (106) should not be construed as a limitation of the present disclosure. Henceforth, configuration of the grab rail (106) will be elucidated.

[0046] The grab rail (106) of the present disclosure may be movably secured to the rear end assembly (300) of the body frame of the vehicle (100). The grab rail (106) may be defined with a first end (106a), a second end (106b) and a gripping portion (106d). In an embodiment, the first end (106a), the second end (106b) and the gripping portion (106d) may be a unitary structure. In another embodiment, the first end (106a), the second end (106b) and the gripping portion (106d) may be assembled together to define the grab rail (106) and may be joined together by joining process. The joining process include at least one of mechanical joining process or thermal joining process inclusive of fastening, welding and the like. In an embodiment, the gripping portion (106d) of the grab rail (106) may integrally extend in rearward direction from a rear end of the vehicle (100) [when mounted to the vehicle] and may arch towards the second end (106b) starting from the first end (106a). Thus, defining a substantially C-shaped or U-shaped structure. As illustrated earlier, the shape/structure of the grab rail (106) should not be construed as a limitation of the present disclosure. In a preferred embodiment, the grab rail (106) may be further defined with at least one mounting flange (106f).

[0047] Said at least one mounting flange (106f) may be defined on the first end (106a) and the second end (106b) of the grab rail (106). Each of the at least one mounting flange (106f) may extend inwardly [i.e., towards the substantially central portion of the body frame] in width direction of the vehicle (100). Each of the at least one mounting flange (106f) may be defined with one or more slots (A) [refer FIG.4b] and a provision (P) for pivoting [refer FIG.3] the grab rail (106). In an embodiment, the one or more slots (A) may be at least one of oblong shaped, oval shaped, rectangular shaped and the like without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. The function of the one or more slots (A) and the provision (P) will be elucidated in the forthcoming paragraphs. In an embodiment, the at least one mounting flange (106f) may be defined with a hook (L3) [apparent from FIG.5] on a surface facing the body frame. The hook (L3) may be configured to lock the grab rail (106) relative to the body frame of the vehicle (100). A locking unit (L) may be provided for locking the grab rail (106) relative to the body frame of the vehicle (100). In an embodiment, the seat locking mechanism itself may be configured to lock the grab rail (106) relative to the body frame. The locking unit (L) will be elucidated in the forthcoming paragraphs.

[0048] The grab rail (106) of said configuration as disclosed is employed in the vehicle (100) and may be movably mounted/secured to the body frame of the vehicle (100). The grab rail (106) may be movably secured to the left seat rail and the right seat rail of the vehicle (100). The grab rail (106) may be secured to left seat rail and the right seat rail towards the rear end of the vehicle (100). In an alternative embodiment, the grab rail (106) may be movably secured to the subframe (105) [apparent from FIG.3 and 4a] extending between the left seat rail and the right seat rail. In an embodiment, at least one of the first end (106a) or the second end (106b) of the grab rail (106) may be movably secured to the body frame. Remaining of the first end (106a) and the second end (106b) may be releasably secured to the body frame of the vehicle (100). The said configuration of the grab rail (106) may be configured to be displaceable between an engaged condition (E) and a disengaged condition (D) relative to the body frame upon displacing the seat (102) between the closed position (C) and the open position (O), respectively. The engaged condition (E) of the grab rail (106) is evident from FIG.1 and 4a. The disengaged condition (D) of the grab rail (106) is evident from FIG.2 and 4b. Here, when referring to “grab rail secured to the body frame” it should be understood that the grab rail (106) is secured to a part of the body frame which is the left/right seat rail or the subframe (105). Reference will be made to specific mounting locations in the forthcoming embodiments to increase intelligibility of the present disclosure.

[0049] The first end (106a) of the grab rail (106) may be connected to at least one of the left seat rail and the right seat rail of the body frame. In an embodiment, the first end (106a) may be either pivotally or swivelably connected to the at least one of the left seat rail and the right seat rail. In an embodiment, the first end (106a) may be pivotally connected to at least one of the left seat rail and the right seat rail by a hinge joint including knife hinge, barrel hinge, spring-loaded hinge etc. Likewise, the second end (106b) of the grab rail (106) may be releasably accommodated on remaining of the at least one of the left seat rail and the right seat rail. According to the present disclosure, the first end (106a) of the grab rail (106) may be movably connected to the left seat rail of the body frame. The second end (106b) may be releasably connected to the right seat rail of the body frame. In another embodiment, the first end (106a) may be connected to an end of the subframe (105) proximal to the left seat rail. Likewise, the second end (106b) may be releasably secured to an end of the subframe (105) proximal to the right seat rail. The first end (106a) of the grab rail (106) may be configured to facilitate movement of the second end (106b) selectively between the engaged condition (E) and the disengaged condition (D) relative to the body frame of the vehicle (100). The first end (106a) being pivotally/swivelably connected to the left seat rail/the subframe (105) allows the grab rail (106) to pivot about the point of connection to displace the second end (106b) between the engaged or the disengaged condition (E and D). In the engaged condition (E) of the grab rail (106) corresponds to the second end (106b) being engaged with the right seat rail. The one or more slots (A) defined on the second end (106b) of the grab rail (106) may be received by a plurality of projections (106c) defined on the body frame in the engaged condition of the grab rail (106). The plurality of projections (106c) may be defined integral to the body frame or may be fastened to the body frame without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. In some embodiment, the one or more slots (A) may be defined on the body frame and the plurality of projections (106c) may be defined on the grab rail (106) without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, the plurality of projections (106c) may be defined on the subframe (105) on the end proximal to the right seat rail as apparent from FIG.3 and 4b. The plurality of projections (106c) may be adapted to retain and/or restrict the grab rail (106) in position during the operation of the vehicle (100).

[0050] As described, in the earlier paragraphs, the second end (106b) of the grab rail (106) may be configured to be selectively displaced between the engaged condition (E) and the disengaged condition (D). The grab rail (106) may be movable to the disengaged condition (D) from the engaged condition (E) by moving the seat (102) of the vehicle (100) to the open position (O) as apparent from FIG.2. Once the grab rail (106) is in the disengaged condition (D), accessories (111) such as the head gear can be accommodated on the grab rail (106) as apparent from FIG.1 and 4b. Once the accessory is accommodated in the grab rail (106), the grab rail (106) may be moved to the engaged condition (E) from the disengaged condition (D). In the engaged condition (E), the second end (106b) of the grab rail (106) may abut the body frame and the one or more apertures (A) may be received by the plurality of projections (106c). Subsequently, the grab rail (106) may be locked relative to the body frame by the locking unit (L) [as apparent from FIG.5] which will be elucidated henceforth.

[0051] Referring now to FIG.5, which illustrates a sectional view of the locking unit (L) configured to secure the grab rail (106) relative to the body frame. In an embodiment, the locking unit (L) may also be configured to lock the seat (102) of the vehicle (100) in the closed position (C) along with the grab rail (106). The locking unit (L) of the present disclosure may be enclosed within a housing (L4). The housing (L4) may be defined on the subframe (105) extending between the pair of seat rails. In an embodiment, the housing (L4) may be defined on a surface of the subframe (105) facing away from the seat (102). The housing (L4) may be configured to receive the hook (L3) of the grab rail (106). Also, the housing (L4) may be configured to accommodate a first latch member (L1) and a second latch member (L2). The first latch member (L1) may be disposed in a provision defined in the subframe (105) at a substantially intermediate portion. A first end of the first latch member (L1) may be configured to lock the seat (102) in the closed position (C) of the seat (102). The first end of the first latch member (L1) may protrude in a positive direction from the surface of the subframe (105) and may be accessible by an operator of the vehicle (100). The first end may be accessed by the operator to selectively operate the first latch member (L1) between the first position and the second position upon displacing the seat (102) to the open position (O).

[0052] The locking unit (L) may further include a second latch member (L2) configured to lock and release the hook (L3) of the grab rail (106). The locking unit (L) may be but not limiting to a snap lock. In an embodiment, the second latch member (L2) may be operatively connected to the first latch member (L1). In another embodiment, the second latch member (L2) may be operatively coupled to the first latch member (L1) via an intermediate link (I). The second latch member (L2) may be connected to a second end opposite to the first end of the first latch member (L1). The second latch member (L2) may extend substantially perpendicular to the first latch member (L1). In an embodiment, the second latch member (L2) may extend within the housing (L4) as apparent from FIG.5. An end of the second latch member (L2) opposite to the end connected to the second end of the first latch member (L1) may be configured to releasably receive a hook (L3) defined on the grab rail (106). The hook (L3) may be received and locked by the second latch member (L2) when the grab rail (106) is in the engaged condition (E). To displace the grab rail (106) to the disengaged condition (D), the first latch member (L1) may be operated to the second position from the first position. Operating the first latch member (L1) to the second position may displace the second latch member (L2) away from the hook (L3). Once the second latch member (L2) displaces away from the hook (L3), the grab rail (106) may be moved to the disengaged condition (D) provided that the seat (102) is in the open condition (O). The first latch member (L1) may then be released from the second position to the first position which in turn displaces the second latch member (L2) to the original position. In an embodiment, at least one of the first latch member (L1) and the second latch member (L2) may be spring biased towards the original position.

[0053] In an exemplary embodiment, to displace the grab rail 106 to disengaged condition (D), the seat (102) may be moved to open position (O). Upon moving the seat (102) to the open position (O), the locking unit (L) may be operated to release the grab rail (106). Initially, the second latch member (L2) may be holding the hook (L3) of the grab rail (106) in the engaged condition (E). To release the grab rail (106), it is necessary to operate the second latch member (L2) away from the hook (L3). The second latch member (L2) may be displaced by operating the first latch member (L1) of the locking unit (L). As described, the first latch member (L1) may be operated to the second position from the first position. Moving the first latch member (L1) from the first position to the second position consequently moves the second latch member (L2) away from the hook (L3). Moving the second latch member (L2) away from the hook (L3), enables the grab rail (106) to move to the disengaged condition (D). Once, the grab rail (106) is moved to the disengaged condition (D), the first latch member (L1) may be released to first position which in turn moves the second latch member (L2) to its original position. To lock the grab rail (106), the grab rail (106) may be moved to the engaged condition (E) from the disengaged condition (D). Once, the grab rail (106) is in the engaged condition (E), a slight force may be applied on the second end (106b) of the grab rail (106) to move it further into the housing (L4) of the locking unit (L). Moving the grab rail (106) further into the housing (L4) snap locks the hook (L3) relative to the second latch member (L2). Thus locking the grab rail (106) relative to the body frame.

[0054] In an embodiment, a resilient member (M) [refer FIG.5] may be disposed between at least a portion of the housing (L4) and the second latch member (L2). In an alternative embodiment, the resilient member (M) may be disposed between the second latch member (L2) and the first latch member (L1). The resilient member (M) may be at least one of coil spring, torsional spring and the like. Although, the locking unit (L) for locking the grab rail (106) is described, the configuration of the same should not be construed as a limitation of the present disclosure. The grab rail (106) may be locked in the engaged condition (E) by the seat (102) when in the closed position (C) without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0055] In an embodiment, the configuration of the grab rail (106) employed in the vehicle (100) ensures that the accessories (111) such as the head gear can be locked to the vehicle (100) without the need for carrying the same. Also, the configuration of the grab rail (106) is cost effective. The present disclosure provides the grab rail (106) that is simple in construction, along with being robust and compact. Advantageously, the grab rail (106) according to the present disclosure can be retrofitted to various vehicles. The configuration of the grab rail (106) of the present disclosure eliminates need of complex mechanism and/or components to receive and lock external accessories 111.

[0056] The various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. The present disclosure is not limited to the illustrated embodiments; rather, these embodiments are intended to disclose the subject matter of the disclosure fully and completely to those skilled in this art. In the drawings, like numbers refer to like elements throughout. Thicknesses and dimensions of some components may be exaggerated for clarity.

[0057] Herein, the terms “attached”, “connected”, “interconnected”, “contacting”, “mounted”, “coupled” and the like mean either direct or indirect attachment or contact between elements, unless stated otherwise.

[0058] Well-known functions or constructions may not be described in detail for brevity and/or clarity. As used herein the expression “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0059] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises…a”, “comprising”, “includes” and/or “including” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

[0060] While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the particular features of this disclosure, it will be appreciated that various modifications can be made, and that many changes can be made in the preferred embodiments without departing from the principles of the disclosure. These and other modifications in the nature of the disclosure or the preferred embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein, whereby it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the disclosure and not as a limitation.

EQUIVALENTS:
[0061] The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained with reference to the non-limiting embodiments in the description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein.
[0062] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of the embodiments as described herein.
[0063] Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles and the like that has been included in this specification is solely for the purpose of providing a context for the disclosure. It is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of these matters form a part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the disclosure as it existed anywhere before the priority date of this application.
[0064] The numerical values mentioned for the various physical parameters, dimensions or quantities are only approximations and it is envisaged that the values higher/lower than the numerical values assigned to the parameters, dimensions or quantities fall within the scope of the disclosure, unless there is a statement in the specification specific to the contrary.
, Claims:We claim:
1. A two-wheeled vehicle (100), the vehicle (100) comprising:
a steering mechanism (108);
a body frame; and
a seat (102) supported by the body frame, the seat (102) being displaceable between an open position (O) and a closed position (C); and
a grab rail (106), a first end (106a) of which is movably secured to the body frame, and a second end (106b) opposite to the first end (106a) is releasably secured to the body frame below the seat (102), the grab rail (106) being configured to be displaceable between an engaged condition (E) and a disengaged condition (D) relative to the body frame upon selectively displacing the seat (102) between the closed position (C) and the open position (O), respectively.

2. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1 comprises one or more cover panels (104) being configured to conceal the body frame, the body frame comprising:
a head tube configured to rotatably support the steering mechanism (108);
a down frame extending downward and rearward from the head tube;
a cross member disposed in a width direction of the vehicle (100) on one end of the down frame; and
a left seat rail and a right seat rail, wherein the left seat rail and the right seat rail extending upwardly and rearwardly from either ends of the cross member supporting the seat (102).

3. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the grab rail (106) includes a gripping portion (106d) extending between the first end (106a) and the second end (106b).

4. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the gripping portion (106d) integrally extends from the first end (106a) rearwardly from a rear end of the seat (102) and arching towards the second end (106b).

5. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1 and 3, wherein the first end (106a) of the grab rail (106) is at least one of pivotally and swivelably connected to the body frame.

6. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claims 1 and 3, wherein the second end (106b) of the grab rail (106) selectively displaceable between the engaged condition (E) and the disengaged condition (D) relative to the body frame about the point of pivot of the first end (106a).

7. The vehicle (100) as claimed in preceding claims, wherein the first end (106a) of the grab rail (106) is connected to at least one of the left seat rail and the right seat rail and is configured to facilitate movement of the second end (106b) selectively between the engaged condition (E) and the disengaged condition (D) relative to remaining of the at least one of the left seat rail and the right seat rail.

8. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the engaged condition (E) of the grab rail (106) corresponds to the second end (106b) being engaged with the at least one of the left seat rail and the right seat rail and the disengaged condition (D) corresponds to the second end (106b) being disengaged from at least one of the left seat rail and the right seat rail.

9. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein at least one of the first end (106a) and the second end (106b) is defined with one or more slots (A) configured to receive a plurality of lugs (106c) defined on the body frame in the engaged condition (E) of the grab rail (106).

10. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 9, wherein the one or more slots (A) is at least one of oblong shaped, oval shaped and rectangular shaped.

11. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the grab rail (106) is lockable relative to the body frame in the engaged condition (E) when the seat (102) is in closed position (C) and is displaceable to the disengaged condition (D) when the seat (102) is in open position (O).

12. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1 comprises a seat locking mechanism secured to the body frame and being configured to lock the seat (102) in closed position (C) relative to the body frame which in turn locks the grab rail (106) in the engaged condition (E).

13. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second portion (106b) of the grab rail (106) being configured to be locked relative to the body frame by a locking unit (L).

14. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the grab rail (106) is secured to the body frame such that the seat (102) partially overlaps the grab rail (106) in a plan view, the grab rail (106) being substantially at the same height as an upper surface of the seat (102).

15. A locking unit (L) for securing a grab rail (106) relative to a body frame of a two-wheeled vehicle (100), the locking unit (L) comprising:
a first latch member (L1) disposed on a subframe (105) extending between a left seat rail and a right seat rail of the two-wheeled vehicle (100), a first end of the first latch member (L1) configured to lock a seat (102) in a closed position (C) of the seat (102), the first latch member (L1) being selectively operable between a first position and a second position upon displacing the seat (102) to an open position (O) from a closed position (C); and
a second latch member (L2) connected to the first latch member (L1) on a second end opposite to the first end, the second latch member (L2) configured to releasably receive a hook (L3) defined on a grab rail (106) in an engaged condition (E) and configured to release the hook (L3) of the grab rail (106) upon operating the first latch member (L1) to the second position from the first position to displace the grab rail (106) to a disengaged condition (D)

16. The locking unit (L) as claimed in claim 15, wherein at least one of the first latch member (L1) and the second latch member (L2) is spring biased towards the second position.