Of course, here is a full article about the Harley-Davidson Forty-Eight, written in the requested style and format.
The 2010–2022 Harley-Davidson Sportster Evolution 1200 (XL1200X Forty-Eight) is a cruiser-style motorcycle manufactured by Harley-Davidson. Introduced as part of the Sportster lineup, the Forty-Eight quickly became one of the most recognizable models in the family, distinguished by its aggressive, post-war bobber styling. It was built on the long-standing Sportster platform, utilizing the rubber-mounted 1200cc Evolution V-twin engine. Its production run spanned over a decade, cementing its place as an icon of the modern custom motorcycle movement before the air-cooled Sportster line was discontinued in many markets after 2022.
History and Development
The Forty-Eight was first released for the 2010 model year as part of Harley-Davidson’s “Dark Custom” series, which targeted a younger demographic. The model’s name is a direct homage to the year 1948, which saw the introduction of the classic 2.1-gallon (7.9 L) “peanut” fuel tank on the Harley-Davidson Model S. This iconic tank design became a central feature of the Forty-Eight’s aesthetic.
Upon its release, the Forty-Eight stood apart from other models in the Sportster family, such as the Iron 883 or the 1200 Custom. While sharing the same fundamental frame and powertrain, its key differentiators created a unique visual and riding experience. Unlike its contemporaries that often featured a larger 19-inch or 21-inch front wheel, the Forty-Eight was defined by its fat, 16-inch front tire, giving it a muscular, bulldog-like stance. This, combined with a low solo seat, forward-mounted foot controls, and under-bar mounted mirrors, established its identity as a factory-built bobber.
Design and Features of the Harley-Davidson Sportster Evolution 1200 (XL1200X Forty-Eight)
The design of the Forty-Eight remained consistent in its core principles throughout its production, focusing on a stripped-down, minimalist aesthetic.
Engine and Drivetrain
The heart of the Forty-Eight is the air-cooled 1200cc (73.4 cu in) Evolution V-twin engine. This powertrain is celebrated for its significant low-end torque, delivering a responsive and visceral riding experience characteristic of Harley-Davidson motorcycles. The engine was rubber-mounted to the frame, a feature introduced to the Sportster line in 2004, which substantially reduced the level of vibration transferred to the rider. Power was delivered to the rear wheel through a five-speed transmission and a clean, low-maintenance belt drive system.
Chassis and Styling
The Forty-Eight’s styling is its most defining characteristic. The low-slung profile is achieved through a combination of a slammed rear suspension and a low seat height, typically around 26 inches. This ergonomics, paired with forward foot controls, places the rider in an aggressive, “clamshell” posture.
The front end is dominated by a wide, 130mm front tire mounted on a 16-inch wheel, which contributes significantly to the bike’s powerful stance and handling characteristics. The small peanut fuel tank, while iconic, limited the motorcycle’s range, making it best suited for urban riding and shorter trips.
Model Year Updates
While the core design remained, the Forty-Eight received several key updates during its lifespan. The most significant changes came in 2016:
Suspension: The front forks were upgraded to more robust 49mm cartridge-style units, and the rear suspension was improved with new emulsion shocks featuring a screw-style preload adjuster. This addressed a common criticism of the earlier models’ harsh ride quality.
Wheels: The traditional laced (spoked) wheels were replaced with new 9-spoke cast aluminum “Mag” wheels, which were lighter and added a more modern look.
Aesthetics:** The 2016 update also included a new, more comfortable “tuck and roll” style seat, a different air cleaner cover, and redesigned exhaust shields.
In subsequent years, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) became a standard feature, enhancing rider safety. The final models produced in 2022 represented the most refined version of the motorcycle before the entire European and North American air-cooled Sportster platform was phased out in favor of the new Revolution Max engine-based models.
Specifications
| General | |
| Brand | Harley-Davidson |
| Model | Sportster |
| Model Class | XL1200X Forty-Eight |
| Model Year | 2021 (Representative Year) |
| Type | Cruiser / Bobber |
| Performance | |
| Max. torque | 73 ft-lb (99 N•m) / 3500 RPM |
| Size | |
| Length | 85.2 in. (2165 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 58.9 in. (1495 mm) |
| Seat height (laden) | 26.2 in. (665 mm) |
| Ground clearance | 3.9 in. (100 mm) |
| Curb weight | 556 lb. (252 kg) |
| Engine | |
| Type | Air-cooled, Evolution® V-Twin |
| Displacement | 1202 cc (73.4 cu in) |
| Bore × Stroke | 3.5 in. × 3.8 in. (88.9 mm × 96.8 mm) |
| Compression ratio | 10.0 : 1 |
| Fuel supplying system | Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) |
| Lubricating system | Dry-sump |
| Oil capacity | 2.8 qt (2.6 L) |
| Transmission | |
| Transmission type | 5-speed, manual gear shift |
| Clutch type | Wet, multi-disc, manual |
| Driving system | Belt drive |
| Primary reduction ratio | 1.500 |
| Final reduction ratio | 2.185 |
| Gear ratio | 1st: 9.315; 2nd: 6.653; 3rd: 4.948; 4th: 4.102; 5th: 3.517 |
| Chassis | |
| Tire size | Front: 130/90B16 73H; Rear: 150/80B16 77H |
| Rim size | Front: 16 in.; Rear: 16 in. |
| Capacity of fuel tank | 2.1 gal (7.9 L) |
| Fuel consumption | Approx. 48 MPG (4.9 L / 100 km) |
| Electric | |
| Battery | Sealed, maintenance-free, 12V |
| Headlight | Halogen |
| Tail light | Incandescent / LED combination |
| Suspension | |
| Front Suspension | 49mm telescopic fork |
| Rear Suspension | Emulsion shocks with screw preload adjustment |
| Front travel | 3.6 in (92 mm) |
| Rear travel | 1.6 in (41 mm) |
