Harley-Davidson Sportster Forty-Eight - 2015 Specifications and Reviews
The 2015 Harley-Davidson Sportster Forty-Eight is a lightweight cruiser that appeals to riders seeking classic styling with modern reliability. Known for its low-slung stance, minimalist design, and nimble handling, it excels as an entry-level Harley or urban commuter. Its 250kg dry weight and responsive 1200cc engine make it ideal for both new and experienced riders valuing maneuverability and stripped-down aesthetic appeal.
General information | |
| Category | Custom / cruiser |
| Year | 2015 |
| Model | Harley-Davidson Sportster Forty-Eight |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Exhaust system | Chrome, staggered shorty exhaust with dual slash-cut mufflers |
| Greenhouse gases | 113.7 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission) |
| Fuel consumption | 4.90 litres/100 km (20.4 km/l or 48.00 mpg) |
| Driveline | 57/38 ratio |
| Clutch | Multi-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath |
| Transmission type,final drive | Belt |
| Gearbox | 6-speed |
| Cooling system | Air |
| Lubrication system | Dry sump |
| Fuel system | Injection. Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) |
| Bore x Stroke | 88.9 x 96.8 mm (3.5 x 3.8 inches) |
| Compression | 9.7:1 |
| Torque | 96.00 Nm (9.8 kgf-m or 70.8 ft.lbs) @ 5750 RPM |
| Power | 67.05 HP (48.9 kW) @ 3750 RPM |
| Engine details | Air-cooled, Evolution® |
| Engine type | V2, four-stroke |
| | |
Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels | |
| Wheels | Black, Laced Steel |
| Rear brakes | Single disc. Single-piston. Optional ABS. |
| Front brakes | Single disc. Dual-piston. Optional ABS. |
| Rear tyre | 150/80-B16 |
| Front tyre | 150/80-16 |
| Trail | 107 mm (4.2 inches) |
| | |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Oil capacity | 2.60 litres (0.17 quarts) |
| Fuel capacity | 7.90 litres (2.09 gallons) |
| Wheelbase | 1,519 mm (59.8 inches) |
| Ground clearance | 99 mm (3.9 inches) |
| Overall length | 2,250 mm (88.6 inches) |
| Seat height | 660 mm (26.0 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Power/weight ratio | 0.2673 HP/kg |
| Weight incl. oil, gas, etc | 259.9 kg (573.0 pounds) |
| Dry weight | 250.8 kg (553.0 pounds) |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Light | High beam, neutral, low oil pressure, turn signals, engine diagnostics, low fuel warning, low battery, security system (optional) |
| Instruments | 4-inch Speedometer mounted low and integrated into handlebar clamp electronic speedometer with odometer, time-of-day clock on odometer, dual tripmeter, LED indicator lights |
| Starter | Electric |
| Color options | Hard Candy Big Red Flake, Hard Candy Cancun Blue Flake, Vivid Black, Amber Whiskey, Charcoal Pearl |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
65 hp
Peak Power
5.5s
0-60 mph
Best For
Track10%
City65%
Cornering40%
Daily Riding55%
Touring30%
Passenger20%
Rider Profile
| Best For | Suitable for beginner to intermediate riders who want a manageable, low-slung cruiser with classic V-twin character. |
| Purpose | Built for short blasts, boulevard cruising, and style-focused riding rather than outright speed or long-distance touring. |
| Rider Fit | Very low seat height and low center of gravity make it easy for shorter riders to handle, though limited ground clearance and suspension travel require a relaxed, upright riding style. |
| Character | A stripped-down, fat-tired custom cruiser that delivers punchy low-end torque, a thumping air-cooled V-twin soundtrack, and bold Dark Custom styling. |
| Not Ideal For | Not a good fit for riders seeking sport-bike agility, off-road capability, or a comfortable two-up long-distance tourer. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
Rider Reviews
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