2020 Harley-Davidson Forty-Eight Buyer’s Guide: Specs & Price

October 25, 2019

2020 Harley-Davidson Forty-Eight

Make no mistake, the 2020 Harley-Davidson Forty-Eight is all about making a statement. With forward foot controls and grips close to the upper triple-clamp, this motorcycle is all about projecting into the wind.

Fortunately, the wind doesn’t stand a chance against the 1202cc Evolution V-twin, as it has plenty of torque to poke a hole in the strongest of gusts.

Don’t worry about the fact that this Sportster’s ergonomics are more style than comfort, the two-gallon fuel tank will require frequent stops.

Handling is better than you might expect, with due credit going to beefy 49mm cartridge-style fork and short-travel emulsion-style shocks, as well as Michelin Scorcher 31 tires. As long as you don’t hit square-edged potholes in town, the Sportster suspension is adequate.

Be prepared to get positive reinforcement for your purchase, as the 2020 Harley-Davidson Forty-Eight gets plenty of approving nods and unsolicited favorable comments.

2020 Harley-Davidson Forty-Eight Specs

ENGINE

Type: Air-cooled Evolution V-twin
Displacement: 73.4ci (1202cc)
Bore x stroke: 3.5 x 3.8”
Maximum torque: 73 ft/lbs @ 3500 rpm
Compression ratio: 10:1
Valvetrain: Pushrods, 2vpc
Cooling: Air
Lubrication: Dry sump
Transmission: 5-speed
Primary drive: Chain
Final drive: Belt

CHASSIS

Frame: Tubular mild steel
Front suspension; travel: Non-adjustable 49mm cartridge-style fork; 3.6 inches
Rear suspension; travel: Adjustable-preload variable rate spring w/ nitrogen-charged emulsion-style shock; 1.6 inches of travel
Wheels: 9-spoke cast aluminum w/ machined highlights
Front wheel: 16 x 3.00
Rear wheel: 16 x 3.00
Tires: Michelin Scorcher 31
Front tire: 130/90 x 16
Rear tire: 150/80 x 16
Front brake: 300mm disc w/ dual-piston caliper
Rear brake: 260mm disc w/ dual-piston caliper
ABS: Optional ($795)