Motorcycles

2016 H-D Sportster Forty-Eight Preview

Sporty 48 ups the ante for 2016

August 27, 2015

We've loved the Sportster since we first saw it in 2010. I think it is one of, if not the best looking model of the H-D lineup. Especially this year with the new 49mm forks, big old triples and the killer new tank graphic. The 48 is a versatile, comfortable and powerful cruiser that as at home in the city as it is cruising down an open rural highway. And with this year's upgrades, it just got a lot more comfortable.

New for 2016

Emulsion technology rear shocks with 50mm range of pre-load adjustability and an under-seat, rear shock suspension adjustment wrench
Front forks with cartridge dampening technology
Fork brace and massive triple clamps
Optimized seat design for all-day comfort, minimalist style
Split 9-Spoke Cast Aluminum wheels in gloss black with Machined highlights
Open design sprocket
Blacked-out belt guard
Turn signal mounts off upper triple
Chrome exhaust shields with unique cutouts to show off blacked-out mufflers
Paint color options including Hard Candy Custom color
Retro-mod tank graphics

Sportster Forty-Eight	SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions
Length	85 in. (2159 mm)
Seat Height	27.3 in. (693 mm)
Fuel Capacity	2.1 gal. (7.9 L)
Dry Weight	538 lbs. (244 kg)
Powertrain
Engine	Air-cooled, Evolution
Displacement	73.4 cu. in. (1202 cc)
Engine Torque	70.8 ft. lbs. @ 3500 RPM (96 Nm @ 3500 RPM)
Transmission	5-speed
Wheels/Tires
	Black, Split 9-Spoke Cast Aluminum with Machined Highlights
Front	Scorcher “31” 130/90B16 73H
Rear	Scorcher “31” 150/80B16 77H
Color Options
Solids: Vivid Black	NEW Billet Silver; Velocity Red Sunglo; NEW Olive Gold
Hard Candy Custom Colors	Hard Candy Cancun Blue Flake; NEW Hard Candy Gold Flake