US20070261904A1 - Snowmobile Rider Positioning - Google Patents
Snowmobile Rider Positioning Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20070261904A1 US20070261904A1 US11/745,287 US74528707A US2007261904A1 US 20070261904 A1 US20070261904 A1 US 20070261904A1 US 74528707 A US74528707 A US 74528707A US 2007261904 A1 US2007261904 A1 US 2007261904A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- seat
- snowmobile
- disposed
- frame
- distance
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 239000000725 suspension Substances 0.000 claims description 10
- 230000005484 gravity Effects 0.000 abstract description 150
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 6
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000002485 combustion reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000006835 compression Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007906 compression Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000446 fuel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62K—CYCLES; CYCLE FRAMES; CYCLE STEERING DEVICES; RIDER-OPERATED TERMINAL CONTROLS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR CYCLES; CYCLE AXLE SUSPENSIONS; CYCLE SIDE-CARS, FORECARS, OR THE LIKE
- B62K5/00—Cycles with handlebars, equipped with three or more main road wheels
- B62K5/02—Tricycles
- B62K5/05—Tricycles characterised by a single rear wheel
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62J—CYCLE SADDLES OR SEATS; AUXILIARY DEVICES OR ACCESSORIES SPECIALLY ADAPTED TO CYCLES AND NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, e.g. ARTICLE CARRIERS OR CYCLE PROTECTORS
- B62J1/00—Saddles or other seats for cycles; Arrangement thereof; Component parts
- B62J1/12—Box-shaped seats; Bench-type seats, e.g. dual or twin seats
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62J—CYCLE SADDLES OR SEATS; AUXILIARY DEVICES OR ACCESSORIES SPECIALLY ADAPTED TO CYCLES AND NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, e.g. ARTICLE CARRIERS OR CYCLE PROTECTORS
- B62J1/00—Saddles or other seats for cycles; Arrangement thereof; Component parts
- B62J1/28—Other additional equipment, e.g. back-rests for children
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62J—CYCLE SADDLES OR SEATS; AUXILIARY DEVICES OR ACCESSORIES SPECIALLY ADAPTED TO CYCLES AND NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, e.g. ARTICLE CARRIERS OR CYCLE PROTECTORS
- B62J35/00—Fuel tanks specially adapted for motorcycles or engine-assisted cycles; Arrangements thereof
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62M—RIDER PROPULSION OF WHEELED VEHICLES OR SLEDGES; POWERED PROPULSION OF SLEDGES OR SINGLE-TRACK CYCLES; TRANSMISSIONS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR SUCH VEHICLES
- B62M27/00—Propulsion devices for sledges or the like
- B62M27/02—Propulsion devices for sledges or the like power driven
Definitions
- Conventional snowmobiles 110 share a common construction: they combine features and elements so that the rider (driver) 26 sits in a generally upright position in a location toward the rear of the snowmobile 110 . When seated in this fashion, the rider 26 sits a considerable distance behind the center of gravity 146 of the snowmobile 110 , which is located at or in proximity to the axis of the forward-most axle 144 of the drive track 120 .
- a snowmobile having a frame, a seat disposed on the frame, first and second seat positions defined by the seat, an engine disposed on the frame in front of the seat, a drive track disposed below the frame and connected operatively to the engine for propulsion of the snowmobile, a forward-most drive track axle disposed on the frame, two skis disposed on the frame, a steering device having a steering position, and a steering shaft operatively connecting the two skis to the steering device for steering the snowmobile.
- the steering position is disposed forward of the forward-most drive track axle.
- the first seat position is disposed less than 590 mm behind the forward-most drive track axle.
- the second seat position is disposed behind the first seat position by between 315 mm and 365 mm.
- FIG. 5 illustrates a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
- the snowmobile 410 has a long frame 414 and a 136 inch drive track 20 .
- FIGS. 12A through 12E illustrate several alternative seats having first seat sections 650 ′, 750 ′, 850 ′, 950 ′, 1050 ′, second seat sections 650 ′′, 750 ′′, 850 ′′, 950 ′′, 1050 ′′, and support pieces 660 , 760 , 860 , 960 , 1060 .
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Transportation (AREA)
- Automatic Cycles, And Cycles In General (AREA)
Abstract
A snowmobile positions riders close to the center of gravity of the snowmobile, reduces jostling forces, and improves the comfort and ridability of the snowmobile. The snowmobile has a steering position on a steering device that is disposed forward of the forward-most drive axle and center of gravity of the snowmobile. A steering shaft, which operatively connects the steering device to the skis, forms an angle of less than 45 degrees with vertical. The seat may have seat positions for one, two, or three riders, the first seat position being disposed less than 590 mm behind the forward-most drive track axle. The seat may be divided into two sections, the second seat section being removably attached to the frame behind the first seat section. The back of the seat and the rearward-most seat position may be disposed behind the back end of the snowmobile's frame.
Description
- This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/877,188, filed on Jun. 11, 2001, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/472,134, filed on Dec. 23, 1999, both of which are incorporated herein by reference. Through U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 09/877,188 and 09/472,134, this application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/167,614, filed on Nov. 26, 1999, which is incorporated herein by reference. This application also claims the benefit of priority to Canadian Patent Application No. 2,256,944, filed on Dec. 23, 1998, which is incorporated herein by reference.
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention relates generally to the overall design and construction of a snowmobile, and more particularly to a design of a snowmobile that improves the driver's control over the snowmobile and the riders' comfort.
- 2. Description of the Related Art
- Conventional snowmobiles 110 (
FIG. 1 ) share a common construction: they combine features and elements so that the rider (driver) 26 sits in a generally upright position in a location toward the rear of thesnowmobile 110. When seated in this fashion, therider 26 sits a considerable distance behind the center ofgravity 146 of thesnowmobile 110, which is located at or in proximity to the axis of theforward-most axle 144 of thedrive track 120. - When the
snowmobile 110 encounters a bump as it travels over the ground, it naturally tends to pivot about its center ofgravity 146. Accordingly, the further therider 26 is positioned from the center ofgravity 146 of thesnowmobile 110, the more strongly therider 26 will feel each bump. This occurs because thesnowmobile 110 acts as a lever that amplifies the magnitude of the forces transferred from bumps on the ground to therider 26. - As illustrated in
FIG. 1 , the positions of the handlebars, seat, and footrests of aconventional snowmobile 110 relative to its center ofgravity 146 place thedriver 26 far behind the center ofgravity 146 of thesnowmobile 110. Consequently, therider 26 experiences significant forces as thesnowmobile 110 traverses each bump. When a second rider (passenger) 28 sits on thesnowmobile 110 behind thedriver 26 in a second seat (2-up rider positioning), thepassenger 28 is positioned even farther away from the snowmobile's center ofgravity 146 and experiences even more uncomfortable jostling when thesnowmobile 110 encounters a bump. - While it would be desirable to add a third seat to accommodate a second passenger (third rider), it has not been done because the riders are positioned so far back on the
conventional snowmobile 110, that a third rider, who would be positioned even farther rearward on a third seat, would experience prohibitively large jostling forces. - Accordingly, while the positioning of the driver and passenger on the conventional snowmobile is entirely adequate for enjoying the sport of snowmobiling, a need has arisen for a snowmobile where the driver's and passenger's positions are improved to minimize the effect on the riders of the snowmobile's movement over uneven terrain.
- In addition, a desire has developed for a snowmobile that may comfortably accommodate two passengers in addition to the driver (3-up rider positioning).
- The present invention improves upon the conventional design by repositioning the riders on the snowmobile and redesigning the layout of the snowmobile to minimize the effect of the snowmobile's movement on the driver and passenger(s) as they pass over uneven terrain. This improvement facilitates the addition of a third seat for a third rider, who experiences a reasonably comfortable ride.
- As would be understood by a person skilled in the art, a snowmobile has a center of gravity without the rider. It should be understood that in the context of the present invention it is assumed that the snowmobile is in running condition and is full of fuel.
- In one aspect of the present invention, a snowmobile is provided with a frame, a seat disposed on the frame, first and second seat positions defined by the seat, an engine disposed on the frame in front of the seat, a drive track disposed below the frame and connected operatively to the engine for propulsion of the snowmobile, a forward-most drive track axle disposed on the frame, two skis disposed on the frame, a steering device having a steering position, and a steering shaft operatively connecting the two skis to the steering device for steering the snowmobile. The steering shaft is disposed over the engine at an angle of less than 45.degree. from vertical. The first seat position is disposed less than 590 mm behind the forward-most drive track axle. The second seat position is disposed behind the first seat position by between 315 mm and 365 mm.
- The snowmobile may also include a third seat position disposed behind the second seat position by between 285 mm and 370 mm.
- The seat may comprise first and second seat sections. The second seat section is removable and a cargo space may be provided below the second seat section.
- According to another aspect of the present invention, a snowmobile is provided having a frame, a seat disposed on the frame, first and second seat positions defined by the seat, an engine disposed on the frame in front of the seat, a drive track disposed below the frame and connected operatively to the engine for propulsion of the snowmobile, a forward-most drive track axle disposed on the frame, two skis disposed on the frame, a steering device having a steering position, and a steering shaft operatively connecting the two skis to the steering device for steering the snowmobile. The steering position is disposed forward of the forward-most drive track axle. The first seat position is disposed less than 590 mm behind the forward-most drive track axle. The second seat position is disposed behind the first seat position by between 315 mm and 365 mm.
- According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a snowmobile is provided having a frame, an engine disposed on the frame, a drive track disposed below the tunnel and connected operatively to the engine for propulsion of the snowmobile, two skis disposed on the frame, a steering device disposed on the frame and operatively connected to the two skis for steering the snowmobile, and a seat disposed on the frame such that a back end of the seat extends behind a rearward-most portion of the frame.
- According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a snowmobile is provided having a frame, an engine disposed on the frame, a drive track disposed below the tunnel and connected operatively to the engine for propulsion of the snowmobile, two skis disposed on the frame, a steering device disposed on the frame and operatively connected to the two skis for steering the snowmobile, and a seat disposed on the frame such that a seat position defined by the seat is disposed behind a rearward-most portion of the frame.
- In still another aspect of the present invention, a snowmobile is provided with a frame, a seat disposed on the frame, a seat position defined by the seat, an engine disposed on the frame in front of the seat, a drive track disposed below the frame and connected operatively to the engine for propulsion of the snowmobile, a forward-most drive track axle disposed on the frame, two skis disposed on the frame, a steering device having a steering position, and a steering shaft operatively connecting the two skis to the steering device for steering the snowmobile. The steering shaft is disposed over the engine at an angle of less than 45.degree. from vertical. The first seat position is disposed less than 590 mm behind the forward-most drive track axle.
- Other aspects of the present invention will be made more apparent in the description that follows.
- Various exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the following drawings, wherein like reference numbers denote like features, in which:
-
FIG. 1 is a side view illustration of a conventional snowmobile; -
FIG. 2 is a side view illustration of a snowmobile according to a first embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 3 is a side view illustration of a snowmobile according to a second embodiment of the present invention; -
FIGS. 4A and 4B show side views of a snowmobile according to a third embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 5 is a side view illustration of a snowmobile according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention; -
FIGS. 6A and 6B show side view illustrations of a snowmobile according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 7 is a side view illustration of a snowmobile according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 8 is a table comparing various dimensions of conventional snowmobiles and snowmobiles according to the present invention; -
FIGS. 9A, 9B and 10 show the dimensions of a standard rider; -
FIGS. 11A through 11D show the operation of a cover according to either the third or fifth embodiment; and -
FIGS. 12A through 12E show alternative seat and support arrangements for either the third or fifth embodiment. - Throughout the description of the various embodiments of the present invention, reference will be made to various elements, the construction of which is readily known to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, an exhaustive description of each and every component is not provided. Components that are similar to components in other embodiments will be referenced by identical reference characters but with different prefix digits.
- The inventors of the present invention realized that it is possible to improve the construction of a snowmobile to alter the positioning of the riders to considerably improve the handling and ride of the snowmobile. By shifting the steering device of the snowmobile forward, the centers of gravity of the riders are likewise shifted forward and closer to the center of gravity of the snowmobile. As a result, the riders experience significantly less jostling when the snowmobile encounters uneven terrain. Moreover, the driver is able to maintain better control over the snowmobile.
- In addition, by moving the positioning of the first and second riders forward, the inventors of the present invention have been able to add a third seat for a third rider behind the second rider, while avoiding the prohibitively large forces that a third rider would have experienced on a conventional snowmobile.
-
FIG. 8 compares various dimensions of the embodiments of the present invention andconventional snowmobiles 110. Reference characters A-N and represent variables and are commonly defined herein. With respect to distances, the positive direction is backward relative to the direction of travel of the snowmobile. Horizontal distances are measured when the unloaded (riderless) snowmobile is positioned on level ground. Some of the dimensions will not apply to all of the embodiments. SeeFIGS. 1, 2 , 3, 4A and 7. - Distance A is measured horizontally from the axis of the forward-most drive axle to the center of gravity of the unloaded snowmobile. Distance B is measured horizontally from the steering position to the center of gravity of the unloaded snowmobile. Distance C is measured horizontally from the center of gravity of the unloaded snowmobile to the center of gravity of a first rider (driver). Distance D is measured horizontally from the center of gravity of the unloaded snowmobile to a seat position of the first rider (driver). Distance E is measured horizontally from the center of gravity of the first rider to a center of gravity of a second rider. Distance F is measured horizontally from the seat position of the first rider (driver) to a seat position of a second rider (first passenger). Distance G is measured horizontally from the center of gravity of the second rider to the center of gravity of a third rider (second passenger). Distance H is measured horizontally from the second seat position to a third seat position. Distance I is measured horizontally from the center of gravity of the unloaded snowmobile to a combined center of gravity of the snowmobile and first rider. Distance J is measured horizontally from the center of gravity of the unloaded snowmobile to a combined center of gravity of the snowmobile, first rider, and second rider. Distance K is measured horizontally from the center of gravity of the unloaded snowmobile to the combined center of gravity of the snowmobile and first through third riders. Distance L is measured horizontally from the steering position to a rearward-most seat position. Distance M is measured horizontally from the back end of the frame of the snowmobile to the back end of the second seat section. Distance N is measured horizontally from the back end of the frame of the snowmobile to the rear-most seat position. Angle is measured between vertical and an angular position of a steering shaft of the snowmobile. Lengths A-N are measured in millimeters. While
FIG. 8 discloses the most preferred dimensions for each embodiment, the range of lengths for each dimension according to the present invention shall be understood to be preferably within 25 mm of the stated dimension, more preferably within 15 mm of the dimension, and even more preferably within 5 mm of the dimension. - To facilitate comparison of the present invention to the
conventional snowmobiles 110 inFIG. 8 , several additional aspects of theconventional snowmobile 110 must be identified. As shown inFIG. 1 , the steeringshaft 136 operatively connects thesteering device 132 to theskis 116. Thesteering device 132 has asteering position 134, which is defined in the same manner as in the below embodiments. The driver (first rider) 26 has a center ofgravity 127, which is located slightly forward of his torso because his arms and legs extend forward of his body while riding thesnowmobile 110, and sits in aseat position 152. Similarly, the first passenger (second rider) 28 has a center ofgravity 129, and sits in aseat position 154. A combined center ofgravity 170 of thesnowmobile 110 and thefirst rider 26 is located behind the center ofgravity 146 of thesnowmobile 110 without riders. A combined center ofgravity 172 of thesnowmobile 110 and first andsecond riders gravity 146 of thesnowmobile 110 without any riders. -
FIG. 2 illustrates a first embodiment of thesnowmobile 10. Thesnowmobile 10 has aforward end 11 and arearward end 13 that are defined consistently with the travel direction of thesnowmobile 10. Thesnowmobile 10 includes a body 12 (i.e., the exterior upper portions) and aframe 14. Amotor 17, such as an internal combustion engine, is carried by theframe 14 at theforward end 11. In addition, twoskis 16 are attached to theforward end 11 of theframe 14 through asuspension system 18. It should be noted, however, that a single centered ski would also work with the invention. Adrive track 20 is disposed underframe 14 and is connected operatively to theengine 17 for propulsion of thesnowmobile 10. - At the
front 11 of theframe 14, thesnowmobile 10 includesfairings 22 that enclose theengine 17 to protect it and to provide an external shell that can be decorated so that thesnowmobile 10 is aesthetically pleasing. Typically, thefairings 22 comprise a hood and a bottom pad (neither of which have been individually identified in the drawing figures). A windshield (not shown) may be connected tofairings 22 near theforward end 11 ofsnowmobile 10 in front of asteering device 32 to lessen the force of the air on the first rider (driver) 26 when thesnowmobile 10 is moving. - A straddle-
type seat 50 is disposed on theframe 14 behind theengine 17. Theseat 50 has afirst seat position 52, which is defined as a portion of theseat 50 that is adapted to support a center of a weight distribution of thefirst rider 26 on theseat 50. Because snowmobiles typically have elongated straddle seats and are adapted to permit riders to sit in a variety of front-back positions, numerous seat positions will exist on any straddle seat. The inventors of the present invention define the term “seat position” to point out particular positions on the snowmobile that are adapted to function as the seat position for a standard rider. -
FIGS. 9A, 9B and 10 illustrate the various dimensions of a standard rider of the type depicted throughout the drawings. The standard rider is a 50th percentile North-American adult male. All lengths inFIGS. 9A, 9B and 10 are in centimeters. The middle of each set of three dimensions represents the standard rider. The standard rider weighs 78 kgs. and has the body build illustrated inFIGS. 9A, 9B and 10. The dimensions of the standard rider are a “ruler” by which the dimensions of the various embodiments of the snowmobile of the present invention are measured.Riders - The
steering device 32, such as a handlebar, is positioned at the forward end of thesnowmobile 10 above theengine 17. Thesteering device 32 has asteering position 34, which is defined by a center of a portion of the steering device adapted to be held by the hands of therider 26. Thesteering position 34 is defined when theskis 16 are positioned straight-forward. For example, if thesteering device 32 comprises handlebars (as illustrated inFIG. 2 ), thesteering position 34 is the center of the grips of the handlebars. - While the
steering device 32 is shown in the various figures as a handlebar, thesteering device 32 should not be limited to just this particular construction. It would be understood by those skilled in the art that anysuitable steering device 32 may be used for thesnowmobile 10. For example, thesteering device 32 could be a steering wheel or a yoke of the type used in aircraft. In accordance with the above definition of thesteering position 34, if thesteering device 32 is a steering wheel or yoke, thesteering position 34 is the center of the steering wheel or yoke. - Moreover, the positioning of the
steering device 32 above theengine 17 also should not be considered to be limited to the position illustrated inFIG. 2 . As would be understood by those skilled in the art, depending on the particular arrangement of elements for thesnowmobile 10, it is possible that thesteering device 32 could be positioned higher or lower than shown inFIG. 2 without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. - A steering
shaft 36 operatively connects thesteering device 32 to the twoskis 16 and is disposed over theengine 17 at an angle from vertical. The inventors altered the positioning of the axis of the steeringshaft 36 so that it is more steeply sloped than steeringshafts 136 inprior art snowmobiles 110 having steering shafts over the engine. According to the present invention, and as illustrated inFIGS. 2 and 8 , the angle is less than 45.degree. More preferably, angle lies between about 25 and 40.degree. Even more preferably, angle lies between about 30 and 35.degree. Most preferably, angle is about 33.degree. - There are several reasons to have a small angle. For example, the small angle is preferred because it facilitates placement of the
steering position 34 in a position forward of that for theconventional snowmobile 110. The forward position of thesteering position 34 moves the riders' 26, 28 positions closer to the center ofgravity 46 of thesnowmobile 10 and improves the comfort ofriders rider 26 is more directly applied to steer thesnowmobile 10 when angle is small. - Because the
steering device 32 is shifted forward, relative the to theconventional snowmobile 110, thesteering position 34 is disposed in front of the center ofgravity 46 by a distance B. According to the first embodiment of the present invention shown inFIG. 2 , distance B is greater than 0 and preferably between 105 mm and 155 mm. More preferably, distance B is between 115 mm and 145 mm. Even more preferably, distance B is between 125 mm and 135 mm. Most preferably, distance B is about 130 mm. In contrast, thesteering position 134 of theconventional snowmobile 110 is behind the center ofgravity 146 of the snowmobile (seeFIGS. 1 and 8 ) such that distance B for conventional snowmobiles are −160 mm for long frames and 240-mm for short frames. Long and short frames will be described later. - A
drive track 20, which is operatively connected to theengine 17, is positioned below theframe 14. Thedrive track 20 is a continuous belt that runs around a number of axles including aforward-most axle 44. The continuous belt has a 136 inch circumference in the first embodiment illustrated inFIG. 2 though the invention is in no way limited to a snowmobile with a particular belt size. Theforward-most drive axle 44 is disposed behind thesteering position 34 by a distance calculated as distance B minus distance A. According to the present invention, theforward-most drive axle 44 is disposed behind thesteering position 34. Preferably, the distance is between 40 mm and 90 mm. More preferably, the distance is between 50 mm and 80 mm. Even more preferably, the distance is between 60 mm and 70 mm. Most preferably, the distance is about 65 mm. In contrast, the steering positions 134 on conventional snowmobiles are positioned behind theforward-most drive 144 axle by 270 mm (seeFIGS. 1 and 8 ). - Two footrests are positioned on either side of
seat 50 to accommodate the feet of theriders frame 14. The footrests may be disposed in a horizontal orientation, or alternatively, in an angled orientation. - An
adjustable backrest 92 is attached to theseat 50 near the back end of theseat 50. Various embodiments of thebackrest 92 are described throughout the specification, where preferred. As would be understood by those skilled in the art, thebackrest 92 need not have only the construction shown or be located in the position depicted. In fact, thebackrest 92 need not be provided at all. - The
first seat position 52 is located behind theforward-most drive axle 44 by a horizontal distance calculated as distance D plus distance A. According to the present invention, this distance is less than 590 mm and preferably between 540 mm and 590 mm. More preferably, this distance is between 550 mm and 580 mm. Even more preferably, this distance is between 560 mm and 570 mm. Most preferably, this distance is about 565 mm. In contrast, thefirst seat position 152 inconventional snowmobiles 110 is a much larger 905 mm behind the forward-most drive axle 144 (seeFIGS. 1 and 8 ). - A
second seat position 54 is disposed on theseat 50 behind thefirst seat position 52 and is adapted to accommodate a second rider 28 (first passenger) behind the driver 26 (first rider). As therider 26 is positioned closer to the center ofgravity 46 of thesnowmobile 10 than on aconventional snowmobile 110, the ride for thesecond rider 28 on thesnowmobile 10 is improved because thesecond rider 28 is also disposed closer to the center ofgravity 46 of the snowmobile 10 (by comparison with asecond rider 28 on a conventional snowmobile 110). Thesecond seat position 54 is disposed a distance F behind thefirst seat position 52. According to this embodiment, distance F is between 315 mm and 365 mm. Preferably, distance F is between 325 mm and 355 mm. More preferably, distance F is between 335 mm and 345 mm. Most preferably, distance F is about 340 mm. Consequently, thesecond seat position 54 of thesecond rider 28 is most preferably about 840 mm behind the center ofgravity 46 of snowmobile 10 (distance D plus distance F). As illustrated inFIG. 8 thefirst seat position 152 on a conventionalshort frame snowmobile 110 is 875 mm behind the center ofgravity gravity 146 of a conventional long frame snowmobile 110 (distance D). As the position of thesecond rider 28 relative to the snowmobile's center ofgravity 46 is similar to a position of a first rider (driver) 26 of aconventional snowmobile 110 relative to the conventional snowmobile's center ofgravity 146, thesecond rider 28 on thesnowmobile 10 of the present invention experiences forces similar to the forces experienced by thedriver 26 of aconventional snowmobile 110. - In this embodiment, the first and second seat positions 52, 54 are disposed on the
seat 50, which comprises an integral seat unit. Theintegral seat unit 50 may be rigidly mounted to thesnowmobile 10 or it may be removably mounted. - A center of
gravity 70 of the combined weight of thesnowmobile 10 andrider 26 is disposed behind the center ofgravity 46 of thesnowmobile 10 without a rider. A center ofgravity 72 of the combined weight of thesnowmobile 10 and tworiders gravity 46. Thefirst rider 26 has a center ofgravity 27, which is positioned slightly forward of the rider's 26 torso because the rider's arms and legs are in a forwardly-extending position. Similarly, thesecond rider 28 has a center ofgravity 29. - As illustrated in
FIG. 8 , the centers of gravity of theriders snowmobile 10 are positioned closer to the center ofgravity 46 ofsnowmobile 10 than inconventional snowmobiles 110. The center ofgravity 27 of thefirst rider 26 on thesnowmobile 10 is preferably between 325 mm and 375 mm behind the center ofgravity 46 of thesnowmobile 10, more preferably between 335 mm and 365 mm behind the center ofgravity 46, even more preferably between 345 mm and 355 mm behind the center ofgravity 46, and most preferably about 350 mm (distance C) behind the center ofgravity 46. In contrast, the center ofgravity 127 of thefirst rider 26 on aconventional snowmobile 110 is disposed behind the center ofgravity 146 of theconvention snowmobile 110 by 645 mm for long frames and 725 mm for short frames. - The center of
gravity 29 of asecond rider 28 on thesnowmobile 10 is disposed behind the center ofgravity 46 of thesnowmobile 10 by a distance calculated as distance C plus distance E. This distance is preferably between 695 mm and 745 mm, more preferably between 705 mm and 735 mm, even more preferably between 715 mm and 725 mm, and most preferably about 720 mm. In contrast, the center ofgravity 129 of a second rider 128 on aconventional snowmobile 110 is disposed behind the center ofgravity 146 of theconventional snowmobile 110 by 1015 mm for short frames and by 1095 mm for long frames. -
FIG. 3 illustrates a second embodiment of the present invention. Thesnowmobile 210 of the second embodiment has ashorter frame 214 than theframe 14 of thesnowmobile 10 of the first embodiment. Theframe 14 preferably has a length of about 1913 mm. Theframe 214 preferably has a length of about 1493 mm. The difference in length between the long frame and the short frame is approximately 420 mm. The long frame provides for two permanent seats and a larger cargo space. In addition, the long frame is simpler and less expensive to manufacture than the short frame as it has less moving parts, and less parts in general, than the short frame. Theshorter frame 214, however, provides thedriver 26 with the feeling that the snowmobile is lighter and more maneuverable than a snowmobile having the long frame. The short frame also reduces the polar moment of inertial of the snowmobile about the vertical axis. The short frame also provides a tail landing for the snowmobile (i.e., the short frame provides more space for a rear idler wheel to travel higher upon compression of the rear suspension). It should be appreciated that theframe 14 and theframe 214 may have lengths that differ from the preferred embodiments discussed above. - In the second embodiment shown in
FIG. 3 , a 121inch drive track 220 is illustrated instead of the 136inch track 20 of thesnowmobile 10 of the first embodiment. Theshort frame 214 and the 121inch drive track 220 reduce the rotational inertia ofsnowmobile 210 and consequently improve its handling performance. As a result of these differences, some of the dimensions are correspondingly altered as shown inFIG. 8 . - A steering
shaft 36 operatively connects theskis 16 to thesteering device 32. The axis of the steeringshaft 36 forms an angle with vertical that is the same as the orientation described in relation to the first embodiment illustrated inFIG. 2 . As in the first embodiment, the angular position of the steeringshaft 36 permits placement of thesteering position 34 in a position forward of that for theconventional snowmobile 110, which moves the positions of theriders gravity 246 of thesnowmobile 210 and improves the comfort of theriders - Because the
steering device 32 is shifted forward relative toconventional snowmobiles 110, theforward-most drive axle 244 is disposed behind thesteering position 34 by a distance calculated as distance B minus distance A. According to the present embodiment, this distance is positive. Preferably, the distance is between 40 mm and 90 mm. More preferably, the distance is between 50 mm and 80 mm. Even more preferably, the distance is between 60 mm and 70 mm. Most preferably, the distance is about 65 mm. In contrast, the steering positions 134 onconventional snowmobiles 110 are positioned behind theforward-most drive axle 144 by 270 mm (seeFIGS. 1 and 8 ). - A
first seat position 252 is defined on theseat 250 behind theforward-most drive axle 244 by a horizontal distance calculated as distance D plus distance A. While this distance is always positive, it is preferably between 540 mm and 590 mm. More preferably, this distance is between 550 mm and 580 mm. Even more preferably, this distance is between 560 mm and 570 mm. Most preferably, this distance is about 565 mm. In contrast, thefirst seat position 152 inconventional snowmobiles 110 is a much larger 905 mm behind the forward-most drive axle 144 (seeFIGS. 1 and 8 ). - A
second seat position 254 is disposed a horizontal distance F behind thefirst seat position 252. According to this embodiment, distance F is between 315 mm and 365 mm. Preferably, distance F is between 325 mm and 355 mm. More preferably, distance F is between 335 mm and 345 mm. Most preferably, distance F is about 340 mm. - Like the
seat 50 of the first embodiment, theseat 250 may comprise an integral seat unit that may either be rigidly mounted to thesnowmobile 210 or may be removable. Alternatively, theseat 250 may include more than one section. - A center of
gravity 270 of the combined weight of thesnowmobile 210 andrider 26 is disposed behind the center ofgravity 246 of thesnowmobile 210 without a rider. A center ofgravity 272 of the combined weight of thesnowmobile 210 and tworiders gravity 246. Thefirst rider 26 has a center ofgravity 227, which is positioned slightly forward of the rider's 26 torso because the rider's arms and legs are in a forwardly-extending position. Similarly, thesecond rider 28 has a center of gravity 229. - The centers of
gravity 227, 229 of theriders snowmobile 210 are positioned closer to the center ofgravity 246 ofsnowmobile 210 than in conventional snowmobiles 110 (see distances C and E inFIG. 8 ). The center ofgravity 227 of thefirst rider 26 on thesnowmobile 210 is preferably between 295 mm and 345 mm behind the center ofgravity 246 of thesnowmobile 210, more preferably between 305 mm and 335 mm behind the center ofgravity 246, even more preferably between 315 mm and 325 mm behind the center ofgravity 246, and most preferably about 320 mm behind the center ofgravity 246. - The center of gravity 229 of a
second rider 28 on thesnowmobile 210 is disposed behind the center ofgravity 246 of thesnowmobile 210 by a distance calculated as distance C plus distance E. This distance is preferably between 665 mm and 715 mm, more preferably between 675 mm and 705 mm, even more preferably between 685 mm and 695 mm, and most preferably about 690 mm. -
FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate a third embodiment of the present invention. Like thesnowmobile 210 of the second embodiment, thesnowmobile 310 has ashort frame 314 and a 121inch drive track 320. - As with the previous embodiments, the axis of the steering
shaft 36 forms an angle with vertical that is less than 45 degrees. As in the first embodiment, the angular position of steeringshaft 36 permits placement ofsteering position 34 in a position forward of that for theconventional snowmobile 110, which moves the positions of theriders gravity 346 of thesnowmobile 310 and improves the comfort of theriders - The
forward-most drive axle 344 is disposed behind thesteering position 34 by a distance calculated as distance B minus distance A. According to the present invention, the distance is positive. Preferably, the distance is between 40 mm and 90 mm. More preferably, the distance is between 50 mm and 80 mm. Even more preferably, the distance is between 60 mm and 70 mm. Most preferably, the distance is about 65 mm. In contrast, the forward-most drive axle on conventional snowmobiles is positioned in front of the steering position by 270 mm (seeFIG. 8 ). - The
seat 350 comprises afirst seat section 350′ and asecond seat section 350″. In this embodiment, thesecond seat section 350″ is removable. Acargo space 394, which is preferably plastic, is provided behind thefirst seat section 350′ beneath the secondremovable seat section 350″. As shown inFIGS. 11A through 11D , acover 395 can be attached over thecargo space 394 to enclose thecargo space 394 when thesecond seat section 350″ is not attached. Thecover 395 is hinged to thecargo space 394. One or more latches are provided to secure thecover 395 in a closed position. - A
first seat position 352 is defined on thefirst seat section 350′ behind theforward-most drive axle 344 by a horizontal distance calculated as distance D plus distance A. According to the present invention, this distance is less than 590 mm and preferably between 540 mm and 590 mm. More preferably, this distance is between 550 mm and 580 mm. Even more preferably, this distance is between 560 mm and 570 mm. Most preferably, this distance is about 565 mm. In contrast, thefirst seat position 152 inconventional snowmobiles 110 is a much larger 905 mm behind the forward-most drive axle 144 (seeFIGS. 1 and 8 ). - A
second seat position 354 is defined on thesecond seat section 350″ a horizontal distance F behind thefirst seat position 352. According to this embodiment, distance F is between 315 mm and 365 mm. Preferably, distance F is between 325 mm and 355 mm. More preferably, distance F is between 335 mm and 345 mm. Most preferably, distance F is about 340 mm. - A
support element 360 extends upwardly and rearwardly from theframe 314. Fasteners (not shown) are used to secure thesecond seat 350 to theframe 314 via thesupport element 360.FIG. 4B shows an enlarged side view of the removablesecond seat section 350″. - A
tunnel 314′ forms theback end 314″ of theframe 314. Thedrive track 320 is mounted below thetunnel 314′. Asnow flap 380 extends rearwardly behind theback end 314″. - As shown in
FIG. 4A , thesupport element 360 extends rearwardly beyond theback end 314″ of theframe 314 to structurally support thesecond seat section 350″ behind theback end 314″. Thesecond seat position 354 is disposed on the second seat section 350 a distance N behind theback end 314″ of theframe 314. For this embodiment, distance N is always greater than zero. Preferably, distance N is between 55 mm and 105 mm. More preferably, distance N is between 65 mm and 95 mm. Even more preferably, distance N is between 75 mm and 85 mm. Most preferably, distance N is about 80 mm. In contrast, the second seat positions 154 ofconventional snowmobiles 110 do not extend behind the back end of the frame because thesecond rider 28 would be prohibitively far away from the center ofgravity 146 of thesnowmobile 110.Conventional snowmobiles 110 position thesecond seat position 154 in front of the back end of the frame by 290 mm for long frames and 120 mm for short frames (seeFIGS. 1 and 8 ). - A rearward-most end of
seat section 350″ is disposed a distance M behind theback end 314″ of theframe 314. For this embodiment, distance M is always greater than zero. Preferably, distance M is between 205 mm and 255 mm. More preferably, distance M is between 215 mm and 245 mm. Even more preferably, distance N is between 225 mm and 235 mm. Most preferably, distance M is about 230 mm. In contrast, the rearward-most end of the seat ofconventional snowmobiles 110 is disposed in front of the back end of the frame by 50 mm for long frames and at the back end of the frame for short frames (i.e., 0 mm, seeFIG. 8 ). - A center of
gravity 370 of the combined weight of thesnowmobile 310 andrider 26 is disposed behind the center ofgravity 346 of thesnowmobile 310 without a rider. A center ofgravity 372 of the combined weight of thesnowmobile 310 and tworiders gravity 346. Thefirst rider 26 has a center ofgravity 327, which is positioned slightly forward of the rider's 26 torso because the rider's arms and legs are in a forwardly-extending position. Similarly, thesecond rider 28 has a center ofgravity 329. - As illustrated in
FIG. 8 , the centers ofgravity riders snowmobile 310 are positioned closer to the center ofgravity 346 ofsnowmobile 310 than the centers ofgravity gravity 146 inconventional snowmobiles 110. The center ofgravity 327 of thefirst rider 26 on thesnowmobile 310 is preferably between 295 mm and 345 mm behind the center ofgravity 346 of thesnowmobile 310, more preferably between 305 and 335 mm behind the center ofgravity 346, even more preferably between 315 and 325 mm behind the center ofgravity 346, and most preferably about 320 mm behind the center ofgravity 346. - The center of
gravity 329 of asecond rider 28 on thesnowmobile 310 is disposed behind the center ofgravity 346 of thesnowmobile 310 by a distance calculated as distance C plus distance E. This distance is preferably between 665 mm and 715 mm, more preferably between 675 mm and 705 mm, even more preferably between 685 mm and 695 mm, and most preferably about 690 mm. -
FIG. 5 illustrates a fourth embodiment of the present invention. Like thesnowmobile 10 of the first embodiment, thesnowmobile 410 has along frame 414 and a 136inch drive track 20. - As with the first embodiment, the axis of the steering
shaft 36 forms an angle with vertical that is less than 45 degrees. Similarly, the angular position of steeringshaft 36 permits placement ofsteering position 34 in a position forward of that for theconventional snowmobile 110, which moves the positions of theriders gravity 446 of thesnowmobile 410 and improves the comfort of theriders - The
forward-most drive axle 444 is disposed behind thesteering position 34 by a distance calculated as distance B minus distance A. According to the present invention, theforward-most drive axle 444 is disposed behind thesteering position 34. Preferably, the distance is between 40 mm and 90 mm. More preferably, the distance is between 50 mm and 80 mm. Even more preferably, the distance is between 60 mm and 70 mm. Most preferably, the distance is about 65 mm. In contrast, the steering positions 134 onconventional snowmobiles 110 are positioned behind theforward-most drive axle 144 by 270 mm (seeFIGS. 1 and 8 ). - Like the
seat 50 of the first embodiment, theseat 450 ofsnowmobile 410 comprises an integral seat unit that may either be rigidly mounted to thesnowmobile 410 or removable. Afirst seat position 452 is defined on theseat 450 behind theforward-most drive axle 444 by a horizontal distance calculated as distance D plus distance A. According to the present invention, this distance is less than 590 mm and preferably between 540 mm and 590 mm. More preferably, this distance is between 550 mm and 580 mm. Even more preferably, this distance is between 560 mm and 570 mm. Most preferably, this distance is about 565 mm. In contrast, thefirst seat position 152 inconventional snowmobiles 110 is a much larger 905 mm behind the forward-most drive axle (seeFIG. 8 ). - A
second seat position 454 is disposed on the seat 450 a horizontal distance F behind thefirst seat position 452. According to this embodiment, distance F is between 315 mm and 365 mm. Preferably, distance F is between 325 mm and 355 mm. More preferably, distance F is between 335 mm and 345 mm. Most preferably, distance F is about 340 mm. Consequently, theseat position 454 of thesecond rider 28 is most preferably about 735 mm behind the center ofgravity 446 of snowmobile 410 (distance D plus distance F). - A
third seat position 456 is added behind thesecond seat position 454 on theseat 450 in order to accommodate athird rider 30. The forward placement of thesteering position 34 permits athird rider 30 to ride thesnowmobile 410 without experiencing prohibitively large jostling forces. The center of gravity 431 of thethird rider 30 is positioned behind the center of gravity ofsnowmobile 410 by a distance calculated as distance C plus distance E plus distance G, which is preferably between 900 mm and 950 mm. The distance is more preferably between 910 mm and 940 mm. The distance is even more preferably between 920 mm and 930 mm. The distance is most preferably about 925 mm. In contrast, thesecond rider 28 on theconventional snowmobile 110 is positioned behind the center ofgravity 146 of theconventional snowmobile 110 by 1015 mm for a long frame and 1095 mm for a short frame (distance C plus distance E). Consequently, the third rider 30 (second passenger) onsnowmobile 410 is closer to the center ofgravity 446 of thesnowmobile 410 and experiences less jostling forces than a second rider 28 (first passenger) would normally experience on aconventional snowmobile 110. - A center of
gravity 470 of the combined weight of thesnowmobile 410 andrider 26 is disposed behind the center ofgravity 446 of thesnowmobile 410 without a rider. A center ofgravity 472 of the combined weight of thesnowmobile 410 and tworiders gravity 446 of theriderless snowmobile 410. A center ofgravity 474 of the combined weight of thesnowmobile 410 and threeriders gravity 446 of theriderless snowmobile 410. Thefirst rider 26 has a center ofgravity 427, which is positioned slightly forward of the rider's 26 torso because the rider's arms and legs are in a forwardly-extending position. Similarly, the second andthird riders -
FIG. 8 illustrates the relevant spatial relationships for the fourth embodiment and shows that the centers of gravity of theriders gravity 446 of the snowmobile than inconventional snowmobiles 110. - The center of
gravity 427 of thefirst rider 26 on thesnowmobile 410 is preferably between 220 mm and 270 mm behind the center ofgravity 446 of thesnowmobile 410, more preferably between 230 mm and 260 mm behind the center ofgravity 446, even more preferably between 240 mm and 250 mm behind the center ofgravity 446, and most preferably about 245 mm behind the center ofgravity 446. - The center of gravity 429 of a
second rider 28 on thesnowmobile 410 is disposed behind the center ofgravity 446 of thesnowmobile 410 by a distance calculated as distance C plus distance E. This distance is preferably between 590 mm and 640 mm, more preferably between 600 mm and 630 mm, even more preferably between 610 mm and 620 mm, and most preferably about 615 mm. - The center of gravity 431 of the
third rider 30 on thesnowmobile 410 is disposed behind the center ofgravity 446 of thesnowmobile 410 by a distance calculated as distance C plus distance E plus distance G. This distance is preferably between 900 mm and 950 mm, more preferably between 910 mm and 940 mm, even more preferably between 920 mm and 930 mm, and most preferably about 925 mm. - A horizontal distance H between the
second seat position 454 thethird seat position 456 is preferably between 285 mm and 335 mm. Distance H is more preferably between 295 mm and 325 mm. Distance H is even more preferably between 305 mm and 315 mm. Distance H is most preferably about 310 mm. A horizontal distance G between the center of gravity 429 of the second rider 428 and the center of gravity 431 of the third rider 430 is about the same as distance H for this embodiment (seeFIG. 8 ). -
FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate a fifth embodiment of the present invention. Like thesnowmobile 10 of the first embodiment,snowmobile 510 has along frame 514 and a 136 inch drive track 520. As in previous embodiments, the axis of the steeringshaft 36 forms an angle with vertical that is less than 45 degrees. Theforward-most drive axle 544 is disposed behind thesteering position 34 by a distance calculated as distance B minus distance A. According to this embodiment, theforward-most drive axle 544 is disposed behind thesteering position 34. Preferably, the distance is between 40 mm and 90 mm. More preferably, the distance is between 50 mm and 80 mm. Even more preferably, the distance is between 60 mm and 70 mm. Most preferably, the distance is about 65 mm. - Similar to the
seat 350 of thesnowmobile 310 of the third embodiment,seat 550 is formed by afirst seat section 550′ and asecond seat section 550″. Thesecond seat section 550″ is removable. When thesecond seat section 550″ is removed, a cover 395 (as illustrated in FIGS. 11A-D and discussed with respect to the third embodiment) may be used to cover a cargo space 594 that is located beneath thesecond seat section 550″ and behind thefirst seat section 550′. - A first seat position 552 is defined on the
first seat section 550′ behind theforward-most drive axle 544 by a horizontal distance calculated as distance D plus distance A. According to the present invention, this distance is less than 590 mm and preferably between 540 mm and 590 mm. More preferably, this distance is between 550 mm and 580 mm. Even more preferably, this distance is between 560 mm and 570 mm. Most preferably, this distance is about 565 mm. - A second seat position 554 is disposed on the
first seat section 550′ a horizontal distance F behind the first seat position 552. According to this embodiment, distance F is between 265 mm and 315 mm. Preferably, distance F is between 275 mm and 305 mm. More preferably, distance F is between 285 mm and 295 mm. Most preferably, distance F is about 290 mm. - A
third seat position 556 is positioned on thesecond seat section 550″ behind the second seat position 554 by a horizontal distance H, which is preferably between 320 mm and 370 mm. Distance H is more preferably between 330 mm and 360 mm. Distance H is even more preferably between 340 mm and 350 mm. Distance H is most preferably about 345 mm. - A
tunnel 514′ forms theback end 514″ of theframe 514. The drive track 520 is mounted below thetunnel 514′. Asnow flap 580 extends rearwardly behind theback end 514″. - As in the third embodiment, a
support element 560 extends upwardly and rearwardly from theback end 514″ of theframe 514 to provide support for thesecond seat section 550″. Thethird seat position 556 and back end of thethird seat position 556 extend behind theback end 514″ of theframe 514 by distances N and M, respectively. Distance N is always positive and preferably between 35 mm and 85 mm. Distance N is more preferably between 45 mm and 75 mm. Distance N is even more preferably between 55 mm and 65 mm. Distance N is most preferably about 60 mm. Distance M is always positive and preferably between 265 mm and 315 mm. Distance M is more preferably between 275 mm and 305 mm. Distance M is even more preferably between 285 mm and 295 mm. Distance M is most preferably about 290 mm. - A center of
gravity 570 of the combined weight of thesnowmobile 410 andrider 26 is disposed behind the center ofgravity 546 of thesnowmobile 510 without a rider. A center ofgravity 572 of the combined weight of thesnowmobile 510 and tworiders gravity 546 of theriderless snowmobile 510. A center of gravity 574 of the combined weight of thesnowmobile 510 and threeriders gravity 546 of theriderless snowmobile 410. Thefirst rider 26 has a center ofgravity 527, which is positioned slightly forward of the rider's 26 torso because the rider's arms and legs are in a forwardly-extending position. Similarly, the second andthird riders gravity 529, 531, respectively. -
FIG. 8 illustrates the relevant spatial relationships for the fifth embodiment and illustrates that the centers of gravity of theriders gravity 546 of thesnowmobile 510 than in theconventional snowmobiles 110. - The center of
gravity 527 of thefirst rider 26 on thesnowmobile 510 is preferably between 220 mm and 270 mm behind the center ofgravity 546 of thesnowmobile 510, more preferably between 230 mm and 260 mm behind the center ofgravity 546, even more preferably between 240 mm and 250 mm behind the center ofgravity 546, and most preferably about 245 mm behind the center ofgravity 546. - The center of gravity 529 of a
second rider 28 on thesnowmobile 510 is disposed behind the center ofgravity 546 of thesnowmobile 510 by a distance calculated as distance C plus distance E. This distance is preferably between 590 mm and 640 mm, more preferably between 600 mm and 630 mm, even more preferably between 610 mm and 620 mm, and most preferably about 615 mm. - The center of
gravity 531 of thethird rider 30 on thesnowmobile 510 is disposed behind the center ofgravity 546 of thesnowmobile 510 by a distance calculated as distance C plus distance E plus distance G. This distance is preferably between 935 mm and 985 mm, more preferably between 945 mm and 975 mm, even more preferably between 955 mm and 965 mm, and most preferably about 960 mm. - It should be noted that while the third and fifth embodiments include a removable back seat that simply attaches to the
support element - Furthermore, while the third and fifth embodiments illustrate particular embodiments of the
second seat sections support pieces FIGS. 12A through 12E illustrate several alternative seats havingfirst seat sections 650′, 750′, 850′, 950′, 1050′,second seat sections 650″, 750″, 850″, 950″, 1050″, andsupport pieces -
FIG. 7 illustrates a sixth embodiment of thesnowmobile 610. Thesnowmobile 610 of the sixth embodiment may have a short orlong frame 614 and asnow flap 680 extending from the back end of theframe 614. Thesnowmobile 610 has a 136inch drive track 620. - As with the previous embodiments, the axis of the steering
shaft 36 forms an angle with vertical that is less than 45 degrees. As in the first embodiment, the angular position of steeringshaft 36 permits placement ofsteering position 34 in a position forward of that for theconventional snowmobile 110, which moves the position of thedriver 26 closer to the center ofgravity 646 of thesnowmobile 610 and improves the comfort of thedriver 26. - The
forward-most drive axle 644 is disposed behind thesteering position 34 by a distance calculated as distance B minus distance A. According to the present invention, the distance is positive. Preferably, the distance is between 40 mm and 90 mm. More preferably, the distance is between 50 mm and 80 mm. Even more preferably, the distance is between 60 mm and 70 mm. Most preferably, the distance is about 65 mm. In contrast, theforward-most drive axle 144 onconventional snowmobiles 110 is positioned in front of thesteering position 134 by 270 mm (seeFIG. 8 ). - The
snowmobile 610 has aseat 650 configured for a single rider 26 (1-up rider positioning) that defines aseat position 652. Theseat position 652 is behind theforward-most drive axle 644 by a horizontal distance calculated as distance D plus distance A. According to the present invention, this distance is less than 590 mm and preferably between 540 mm and 590 mm. More preferably, this distance is between 550 mm and 580 mm. Even more preferably, this distance is between 560 mm and 570 mm. Most preferably, this distance is about 565 mm. In contrast, thefirst seat position 152 inconventional snowmobiles 110 is a much larger 905 mm behind the forward-most drive axle 144 (seeFIGS. 1 and 8 ). - As illustrated in
FIG. 7 , the center ofgravity 627 of therider 26 of thesnowmobile 610 is positioned closer to the center ofgravity 646 of thesnowmobile 610 than inconventional snowmobiles 110. The center ofgravity 627 of therider 26 on thesnowmobile 610 is preferably between 295 mm and 345 mm behind the center ofgravity 646 of thesnowmobile 610, more preferably between 305 mm and 335 mm behind the center ofgravity 646, even more preferably between 315 mm and 325 mm behind the center ofgravity 646, and most preferably about 320 mm behind the center ofgravity 646. - While the invention has been described with reference to the various exemplary embodiments outlined above, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation, component, or material to the teachings of the present invention without departing from its teachings as claimed.
Claims (20)
1. A snowmobile, comprising:
a frame;
a straddle-type seat disposed on the frame;
first and second seat positions defined by the seat;
an engine disposed on the frame in front of the seat;
a drive track disposed below the frame and connected operatively to the engine for propulsion of the snowmobile;
a forward-most drive track axle disposed on the frame;
two skis disposed on the frame;
a steering device having a steering position; and
a steering shaft operatively connecting the two skis to the steering device for steering the snowmobile, the first seat position is disposed less than 590 mm behind the forward-most drive track axle, the second seat position is disposed behind the first seat position by between 265 mm and 365 mm.
2. The snowmobile of claim 1 , wherein the steering shaft is disposed over the engine at an angle ε of between 25° and 40° from vertical.
3. The snowmobile of claim 1 , wherein the first seat position is disposed between 550 mm and 580 mm behind the forward-most drive track axle.
4. The snowmobile of claim 1 , wherein the second seat position is disposed behind the first seat position by between 325 mm and 355 mm.
5. The snowmobile of claim 1 , wherein the second seat position is disposed behind the first seat position by between 275 mm and 305 mm.
6. The snowmobile of claim 1 further comprising a third seat position on the seat, wherein the third seat position is disposed behind the second seat position by between 285 mm and 370 mm.
7. The snowmobile of claim 6 , wherein the third seat position is disposed behind the second seat position by between 330 mm and 360 mm.
8. The snowmobile of claim 1 , wherein the first and second seat positions are disposed on a singular seat unit.
9. The snowmobile of claim 1 , wherein the seat comprises first and second seat sections, the second seat section being removable, the first seat position being on the first seat section, and the second seat position being on the second seat section.
10. The snowmobile of claim 9 , wherein a cargo space is provided behind the first seat section beneath the second removable seat section.
11. The snowmobile of claim 6 , wherein the first, second, and third seat positions are disposed on a singular seat unit.
12. The snowmobile of claim 6 , wherein the seat comprises first and second seat sections, the second seat section being removable, the first and second seat positions being on the first seat section, and the third seat position being on the second seat section.
13. A snowmobile, comprising:
a frame including a tunnel;
an engine disposed on the frame;
a drive track disposed below the tunnel and connected operatively to the engine for propulsion of the snowmobile;
a forward-most drive track axle disposed on the frame;
two skis disposed on the frame;
a steering device disposed on the frame and operatively connected to the two skis for steering the snowmobile, the steering device having a steering position;
a steering shaft operatively connecting the two skis to the steering device for steering the snowmobile; and
a straddle-type seat disposed on the frame, wherein a back end of the seat extends behind a rearward-most portion of the frame; and
a front suspension system operatively connecting the two skis to the frame, wherein the front suspension system is one of an A-arm suspension system and a trailing arm suspension system.
14. The snowmobile of claim 13 , wherein the back end of the seat extends behind the rearward-most portion of the frame by between 205 mm and 255 mm.
15. The snowmobile of claim 13 , wherein the seat comprises first, second and third seating positions, the seat further comprising first and second seat sections, the second seat section being removable, the first and second seat positions being on the first seat section, and the third seat position being on the second seat section.
16. A snowmobile, comprising:
a frame;
a straddle-type seat disposed on the frame;
a seat position defined by the seat;
an engine disposed on the frame in front of the seat;
a drive track disposed below the frame and connected operatively to the engine for propulsion of the snowmobile;
a forward-most drive track axle disposed on the frame;
two skis disposed on the frame;
a steering device having a steering position; and
a steering shaft operatively connecting the two skis to the steering device for steering the snowmobile, wherein the seat position is disposed less than 590 mm behind the forward-most drive track axle.
17. The snowmobile of claim 16 , wherein the seat position is disposed between 550 mm and 580 mm behind the forward-most drive track axle.
18. The snowmobile of claim 17 , wherein the seat position is disposed between 560 mm and 570 mm behind the forward-most drive track axle.
19. The snowmobile of claim 16 , further comprising a front suspension system operatively connecting the two skis to the frame, wherein the front suspension system is one of an A-arm suspension system and a trailing arm suspension system.
20. The snowmobile of claim 16 , wherein the seat position is a first seat position, the seat further comprises second and third seating positions, the seat further comprising first and second seat sections, the second seat section being removable, the first and second seat positions being on the first seat section, and the third seat position being on the second seat section.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/745,287 US20070261904A1 (en) | 1998-12-23 | 2007-05-07 | Snowmobile Rider Positioning |
Applications Claiming Priority (6)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
CA2256944 | 1998-12-23 | ||
CA2256944 | 1998-12-23 | ||
US16761499P | 1999-11-26 | 1999-11-26 | |
US09/472,134 US20030201128A1 (en) | 1998-12-23 | 1999-12-23 | Snowmobile |
US09/877,188 US7213669B2 (en) | 1998-12-23 | 2001-06-11 | Snowmobile rider positioning |
US11/745,287 US20070261904A1 (en) | 1998-12-23 | 2007-05-07 | Snowmobile Rider Positioning |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/877,188 Continuation US7213669B2 (en) | 1998-12-23 | 2001-06-11 | Snowmobile rider positioning |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20070261904A1 true US20070261904A1 (en) | 2007-11-15 |
Family
ID=29424943
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/877,188 Expired - Lifetime US7213669B2 (en) | 1998-12-23 | 2001-06-11 | Snowmobile rider positioning |
US11/745,287 Abandoned US20070261904A1 (en) | 1998-12-23 | 2007-05-07 | Snowmobile Rider Positioning |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/877,188 Expired - Lifetime US7213669B2 (en) | 1998-12-23 | 2001-06-11 | Snowmobile rider positioning |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US7213669B2 (en) |
Cited By (12)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20090301830A1 (en) * | 2008-06-06 | 2009-12-10 | Kinsman Anthony J | Suspension systems for a vehicle |
US20090302590A1 (en) * | 2008-06-06 | 2009-12-10 | Kevin Van Bronkhorst | Vehicle |
USD631395S1 (en) | 2008-05-08 | 2011-01-25 | Polaris Industries Inc. | Utility vehicle |
US8897966B2 (en) | 2011-05-12 | 2014-11-25 | Carlos A. Saez | Methods and apparatus for variable reduced effort steering in electric steering systems |
EP2886436A1 (en) * | 2012-02-09 | 2015-06-24 | Polaris Industries Inc. | Snowmobile |
US9725023B2 (en) | 2015-05-15 | 2017-08-08 | Polaris Industries Inc. | Utility vehicle |
US10493846B2 (en) | 2007-05-16 | 2019-12-03 | Polaris Industries Inc. | All terrain vehicle |
US10766533B2 (en) | 2015-12-10 | 2020-09-08 | Polaris Industries Inc. | Utility vehicle |
US10946736B2 (en) | 2018-06-05 | 2021-03-16 | Polaris Industries Inc. | All-terrain vehicle |
US11286019B2 (en) | 2014-01-10 | 2022-03-29 | Polaris Industries Inc. | Snowmobile |
US11572110B2 (en) | 2018-01-10 | 2023-02-07 | Polaris Industries Inc. | Vehicle |
US11926265B2 (en) | 2019-07-26 | 2024-03-12 | Polaris Industries Inc. | Audio system for a utility vehicle |
Families Citing this family (15)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US7469764B2 (en) * | 1998-12-23 | 2008-12-30 | Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. | Frame construction for a vehicle |
US7213669B2 (en) * | 1998-12-23 | 2007-05-08 | Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. | Snowmobile rider positioning |
US6357543B1 (en) | 1998-12-31 | 2002-03-19 | Formula Fast Racing | Snowmobile construction |
US6755271B1 (en) | 2001-09-07 | 2004-06-29 | Polaris Industries Inc. | Snowmobile drivetrain |
US6796395B1 (en) | 2001-09-07 | 2004-09-28 | Polaris Industries Inc. | Snowmobile |
US7059440B1 (en) | 2001-09-07 | 2006-06-13 | Polaris Industries Inc. | Snowmobile |
CA2411311A1 (en) * | 2002-11-07 | 2004-05-07 | Arctic Cat, Inc. | Vehicle with inclined engine |
US7008014B1 (en) * | 2003-07-14 | 2006-03-07 | Polaris Industries Inc. | Adjustable storage seat for recreation and utility vehicles |
US7559576B1 (en) | 2004-07-07 | 2009-07-14 | Polaris Industries Inc. | Vehicle with adjustable steering |
CA2494292C (en) * | 2005-01-24 | 2009-11-10 | Ken Bowers | Articulated handlebar riser block for recreational vehicles |
US8430197B2 (en) * | 2007-02-01 | 2013-04-30 | Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha | Snow vehicle |
US8994494B2 (en) * | 2008-10-10 | 2015-03-31 | Polaris Industries Inc. | Vehicle security system |
EP3159249B1 (en) * | 2011-08-01 | 2019-10-16 | Polaris Industries Inc. | Snowmobile |
CA3024226A1 (en) | 2017-11-15 | 2019-05-15 | Arctic Cat Inc. | Snow vehicle |
US11332215B2 (en) | 2017-11-15 | 2022-05-17 | Arctic Cat Inc. | Snow vehicle |
Citations (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3734221A (en) * | 1971-06-04 | 1973-05-22 | R Labelle | Endless track vehicle |
US5042606A (en) * | 1990-02-26 | 1991-08-27 | Martin Philip T | Snowmobile ski locator |
US5660245A (en) * | 1994-02-18 | 1997-08-26 | Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha | Snowmobile |
US5992552A (en) * | 1996-01-22 | 1999-11-30 | Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha | Vehicle frame |
US6170589B1 (en) * | 1996-02-16 | 2001-01-09 | Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Snowmobile |
US7213669B2 (en) * | 1998-12-23 | 2007-05-08 | Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. | Snowmobile rider positioning |
Family Cites Families (25)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3583507A (en) | 1969-03-13 | 1971-06-08 | Wolfgang Trautwein | Snow vehicles |
US3583506A (en) | 1969-07-02 | 1971-06-08 | Kenneth W Preble | Combined auxiliary throttle and safety switch for snowmobile |
US3622196A (en) | 1970-01-14 | 1971-11-23 | Brunswick Corp | Windshield for snow vehicle |
US3627073A (en) | 1970-05-28 | 1971-12-14 | Larry L Grimm | Seat for powered vehicle |
US3734219A (en) * | 1971-08-11 | 1973-05-22 | Lapin Z | Steering system for snowmobiles and the like |
US3981373A (en) | 1975-05-23 | 1976-09-21 | Scorpion, Inc. | Unitary frame and engine support for snowmobile |
US4204582A (en) | 1977-04-05 | 1980-05-27 | Soest Gerrit J Van | Wheel conversion kit for snow vehicle |
US4204581A (en) | 1978-01-26 | 1980-05-27 | Saroy Engineering | Snowfoil ski-bob |
JPS5918083A (en) | 1982-07-20 | 1984-01-30 | ヤマハ発動機株式会社 | Small-sized snowmobile |
US4613006A (en) | 1984-02-06 | 1986-09-23 | Alvin Moss | Endless belt driven cycle |
US4699229A (en) | 1985-03-20 | 1987-10-13 | Suzuki Motor Company Limited | Endless articulated steel band vehicle for off-road services |
US4804198A (en) * | 1985-04-15 | 1989-02-14 | Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha | Vehicle with steering-controlled torsion bar stabilizer |
US4633964A (en) | 1985-12-23 | 1987-01-06 | Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha | Snowmobile |
JPS63219493A (en) | 1987-03-06 | 1988-09-13 | ヤマハ発動機株式会社 | Small-sized snowmobile |
US5474146A (en) | 1988-12-06 | 1995-12-12 | Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Snow vehicle |
JPH02274681A (en) | 1989-04-17 | 1990-11-08 | Honda Motor Co Ltd | Small snow car |
US5370198A (en) | 1992-09-25 | 1994-12-06 | Karpik; Gerard J. | Long travel suspension for tracked vehicle |
CA2251769C (en) | 1994-02-18 | 2001-12-04 | Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha | Snowmobile frame assembly |
US5564517A (en) | 1994-09-12 | 1996-10-15 | Levasseur; Gary R. | Snowmobile conversion frame kit |
JPH09193880A (en) | 1996-01-22 | 1997-07-29 | Yamaha Motor Co Ltd | Vehicle body front structure for snow vehicle |
US6086149A (en) * | 1997-10-10 | 2000-07-11 | Atherley; James | Light-weight snowmobile seat |
US5944380A (en) * | 1997-10-10 | 1999-08-31 | Atherley; James | Light-weight vehicle seat |
US6655487B2 (en) * | 1998-12-23 | 2003-12-02 | Bombardier Inc. | Front suspension with three ball joints for a vehicle |
US6651764B2 (en) * | 1998-12-23 | 2003-11-25 | Bombardier Inc. | Fuel tank for a recreational vehicle |
US6234263B1 (en) | 1999-01-21 | 2001-05-22 | A & D Boivin Design | Recreational vehicle |
-
2001
- 2001-06-11 US US09/877,188 patent/US7213669B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
2007
- 2007-05-07 US US11/745,287 patent/US20070261904A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3734221A (en) * | 1971-06-04 | 1973-05-22 | R Labelle | Endless track vehicle |
US5042606A (en) * | 1990-02-26 | 1991-08-27 | Martin Philip T | Snowmobile ski locator |
US5660245A (en) * | 1994-02-18 | 1997-08-26 | Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha | Snowmobile |
US5992552A (en) * | 1996-01-22 | 1999-11-30 | Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha | Vehicle frame |
US6170589B1 (en) * | 1996-02-16 | 2001-01-09 | Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Snowmobile |
US7213669B2 (en) * | 1998-12-23 | 2007-05-08 | Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. | Snowmobile rider positioning |
Cited By (22)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US10493846B2 (en) | 2007-05-16 | 2019-12-03 | Polaris Industries Inc. | All terrain vehicle |
US10974595B2 (en) | 2007-05-16 | 2021-04-13 | Polaris Industries Inc. | All terrain vehicle |
USD631395S1 (en) | 2008-05-08 | 2011-01-25 | Polaris Industries Inc. | Utility vehicle |
US9592713B2 (en) | 2008-06-06 | 2017-03-14 | Polaris Industries Inc. | Air intake system for a vehicle |
US7950486B2 (en) | 2008-06-06 | 2011-05-31 | Polaris Industries Inc. | Vehicle |
US8302711B2 (en) | 2008-06-06 | 2012-11-06 | Polaris Industries Inc. | Suspension systems for a vehicle |
US8613337B2 (en) | 2008-06-06 | 2013-12-24 | Polaris Industries Inc. | Air intake system for a vehicle |
US20090302590A1 (en) * | 2008-06-06 | 2009-12-10 | Kevin Van Bronkhorst | Vehicle |
US9010768B2 (en) | 2008-06-06 | 2015-04-21 | Polaris Industries Inc. | Suspension system for a vehicle |
US8079602B2 (en) | 2008-06-06 | 2011-12-20 | Polaris Industries Inc. | Suspension systems for a vehicle |
US20090301830A1 (en) * | 2008-06-06 | 2009-12-10 | Kinsman Anthony J | Suspension systems for a vehicle |
US8897966B2 (en) | 2011-05-12 | 2014-11-25 | Carlos A. Saez | Methods and apparatus for variable reduced effort steering in electric steering systems |
EP2886436A1 (en) * | 2012-02-09 | 2015-06-24 | Polaris Industries Inc. | Snowmobile |
US11505263B2 (en) | 2012-02-09 | 2022-11-22 | Polaris Industries Inc. | Snowmobile |
US11286019B2 (en) | 2014-01-10 | 2022-03-29 | Polaris Industries Inc. | Snowmobile |
US9725023B2 (en) | 2015-05-15 | 2017-08-08 | Polaris Industries Inc. | Utility vehicle |
US11752860B2 (en) | 2015-05-15 | 2023-09-12 | Polaris Industries Inc. | Utility vehicle |
US10766533B2 (en) | 2015-12-10 | 2020-09-08 | Polaris Industries Inc. | Utility vehicle |
US10926799B2 (en) | 2015-12-10 | 2021-02-23 | Polaris Industries Inc. | Utility vehicle |
US11572110B2 (en) | 2018-01-10 | 2023-02-07 | Polaris Industries Inc. | Vehicle |
US10946736B2 (en) | 2018-06-05 | 2021-03-16 | Polaris Industries Inc. | All-terrain vehicle |
US11926265B2 (en) | 2019-07-26 | 2024-03-12 | Polaris Industries Inc. | Audio system for a utility vehicle |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US20030201129A2 (en) | 2003-10-30 |
US7213669B2 (en) | 2007-05-08 |
US20010047900A1 (en) | 2001-12-06 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US7213669B2 (en) | Snowmobile rider positioning | |
US4198072A (en) | Wheeled vehicle | |
US6547027B1 (en) | All terrain vehicle | |
US6142253A (en) | Vehicle frame having a step-through opening particularly for a two-wheeler | |
US20050115754A1 (en) | Snowmobile with active rider positioning | |
US3776353A (en) | Three wheeled motor vehicle | |
EP0086603A2 (en) | Two-wheeled vehicles | |
US6749036B1 (en) | Snowmobile accessory attachment system and integrated snowmobile cargo rack | |
US7316284B2 (en) | Snow vehicle | |
US6796607B2 (en) | Quick release passenger seat with flexible grab handle | |
US7543669B2 (en) | Snowmobile and tunnel thereof | |
US20040035625A1 (en) | Ergonomic arrangement for a three-wheeled vehicle | |
US20060026744A1 (en) | Outfit for rider of riding type vehicle | |
JP2012502843A (en) | Motorized motorcycle or tricycle for carrying people and / or luggage | |
US7377347B2 (en) | Three-seat snowmobile with modular seat | |
US6923284B2 (en) | Side panel for a snowmobile | |
CA2350345C (en) | Snowmobile rider positioning | |
US20030201128A1 (en) | Snowmobile | |
US9469218B2 (en) | Seat for a vehicle | |
CA2510795C (en) | Snowmobile | |
US9346508B1 (en) | Side panel for a snowmobile | |
US7559576B1 (en) | Vehicle with adjustable steering | |
EP1674384A2 (en) | Seat for carrying children on bicycles or the like | |
US20040129473A1 (en) | Ergonomic arrangement for a three-wheeled vehicle | |
CA2411964C (en) | Snowmobile with active rider positioning |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: BOMBARDIER RECREATIONAL PRODUCTS INC., CANADA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:BOMBARDIER INC.;REEL/FRAME:019613/0499 Effective date: 20031218 Owner name: BOMBARDIER INC., CANADA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:FECTEAU, BERTHOLD, MR;GIROUARD, BRUNO, MR;REEL/FRAME:019613/0381;SIGNING DATES FROM 20010606 TO 20010607 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |