Ageism?
Even though many consider Sportsters to be entry-level Harleys, this model doesn't cut many corners when it comes to fit and finish. Most parts are metal rather than plastic, and seams and flanges are kept to a minimum. Some will love the mirrors hanging under the bars, but I struggled to get used to the odd positioning.
Overall, the Forty-Eight brings nothing new to the table, but like most Sportsters, it's a fun ride-especially if that ride goes from stop light to stop light. Some might even argue it's the most attractive model in the Sportster line (if you don't count the XR1200). What we can applaud is what the Forty-Eight offers: accessible performance with good looks at a low price, which begins at $10,499
MSRP in Vivid Black.
Kudos to Harley for successfully reaching its target demographic, but man, I never felt so old as when I rode the Forty-Eight.
| SPECIFICATIONS |
|
2010 H-D forty eight |
| MSRP |
$10,499-$10,789 |
| COLORS |
Black, Silver, Orange |
| ENGINE |
| TYPE |
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin |
| DISPLACEMENT |
1200cc (113ci), |
| BORE X STROKE |
88.9mm x 96.82mm |
| VALVE TRAIN |
Pushrod-operated OHV |
| COMPRESSION |
9.7:1 |
| FUEL SYSTEM |
EFI |
| TRANSMISSION |
Five-speed, multiplate wet clutch |
| FINAL DRIVE |
Belt |
| CHASSIS |
| OVERALL LENGTH |
88.6 in. |
| WHEELBASE |
59.8 in. |
| WET WEIGHT |
567 lbs. |
| SEAT HEIGHT |
26.8 in. |
| RAKE/TRAIL |
29.9-degree/4.7 in. |
| FRONT TIRE |
MT90B16 |
| REAR TIRE |
150/80B16 |
| FRONT BRAKE |
292mm dual hydraulic discs, dual-piston calipers |
| REAR BRAKE |
292mm hydraulic disc, single-piston caliper |
| FRONT SUSPENSION |
39mm fork, 3.6 in. travel |
| REAR SUSPENSION |
Dual dampers, preload adjustable, 1.6 in. travel |
| FUEL CAPACITY |
2.1 gallons |