Harley-Davidson Sportster Forty-Eight 2020 — Specifications

The Sportster Forty-Eight has all the makings of a little rascal. Shadowy, stocky, stripped-down, the machine is eager to stir things up, but not necessarily to be stirred up. However, Harley-Davidson didn't build its reputation on suspension components. This revisited 1200 Forty-Eight should improve handling. How? By grafting on a 49 mm fork with cartridges and a pair of adjustable preload springs. Nothing exceptional, but let's commend the gesture; especially if it improves everyday performance. More substantial, both visually and technically, this front end required the installation of larger aluminum fork legs. A small design touch allows for a few more calendar turns. New spoked wheels, a redesigned and more comfortable seat.

Since 2014, the Sportster 48 has been equipped with the HD Smart Security System, enabling keyless starting and ABS as standard. Quite a few braking modifications were also made that year. Calipers bite on a larger front disc (300 mm) but unchanged at the rear (260 mm). The aluminum master cylinder has been changed for less friction and more feel. The Sportster also welcomed a new electrical system, redesigned controls with a switch on the left to navigate the screen of the new instrument cluster. Note also the evolution of the exhaust and oil tank.

Genesis: What a strange name for a Sportster? Just two words that sound like an old Elvis record, with delicate rubber scents, a little taste of rebellion and the fumes of a bad Chicago morning. Like its little cousin 883 Iron, the 1200 Sportster Forty Eight doesn't like to be disturbed when it comes to giving the street a thrill. Vintage and bobber in style, chewing on a past cigar with a dark look on the horizon, this H-D production would give you kickbacks to the shins if you looked at it crosswise. For now, it seems to be quietly waiting for its coffee, remembering the year 1948.

That's the explanation for its designation. Everything is contained in its tank, the "peanut" model, with a capacity of 7.95 liters, created in 1948, just after the war. Low, dark, both long and compact, this Harley is particularly aimed at young bad boys, those who swear only by the essentials. For them, the 48 will set down its coffee cup and let the rebel approach.

This front tire is disorienting. It seems to crush the asphalt, finely held on a 16-inch rim. With its 130 mm circumference, it is almost as plump as the rear chubby tire. Convinced by the black, the Sportster 48 has enveloped itself in it. Fork tubes, engine casings, engine, wheels, fenders, frame, oil tank, handlebars, controls... they are all as dark as night. Consequently, exhaust pipes, valve covers, and pushrods are illuminated. The care for detail snakes from the handlebars to the rear. The threatening front end can be distinguished from its shortened fender held by a lacquered bracket, the rear (the seat is single-seat) is remarkably clean with the headlight-turn signal combination integrated into the end of the fender, as on the Iron and the Nightster. Being authentic but different – you can feel it all the way to the rearview mirrors, mounted in a reversed position, further individualizing the silhouette.

Introductions are made? The 48 has brewed its coffee, its large pushrod twin can take care of you. For it, everything is about big torque and expertly dosed vibrations. It won't sleep, and neither will you!

M.B - Manufacturer photos