Motorcycle

摘要

A motorcycle having improved ride and handling characteristics as a result of the configuration providing a substantial reduction in the elevation of the composite center of gravity of the motorcycle and the rider sitting thereon. The motorcycle (10) is configured so as to position the fuel tank (32) rearwardly of the engine (15) on the lowest portion of the frame (12) and the rider's seat (14) directly above the fuel tank (32) so as to be disposed at an elevation of not more than 20 inches above the road surface. The footrests (26) are positioned forwardly of and below the seat (14) to define a comfortable yet low profile riding position to minimise wind resistance. The rear swing arm assembly preferably employed on the motorcycle is horizontally disposed and extends rearwardly from a pivotal mounting (110) on the frame (12) along one side of the rear wheel and defines a protective housing (108) proximate its forward end for the shock absorber (106) which is pivotally mounted therein a horizontal disposition on a bell crank (140) mounting to provide an improved suspension system for the rear wheel (122) which, due to its in-line horizontal configuration, further lowers the composite center of gravity of the motorcycle.