Harley-Davidson Sportster Forty-Eight - 2016 Specifications and Reviews

The 2016 Harley-Davidson Sportster Forty-Eight is a lightweight cruiser designed for riders seeking classic style with manageable handling. Its compact 710mm seat height and nimble 247kg dry weight make it ideal for shorter riders and those new to cruisers. Known for its minimalist retro aesthetic and approachable performance, it delivers authentic Harley character in an accessible package.

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General information

CategoryCustom / cruiser
Year2016
ModelHarley-Davidson Sportster Forty-Eight
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Exhaust systemChrome, staggered shorty exhaust with dual slash-cut mufflers
Greenhouse gases113.7 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Fuel consumption4.90 litres/100 km (20.4 km/l or 48.00 mpg)
Driveline57/38 ratio
ClutchMulti-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath
Transmission type,final driveBelt
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemAir
Lubrication systemDry sump
Fuel controlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
Fuel systemInjection. Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection
Bore x Stroke88.9 x 96.8 mm (3.5 x 3.8 inches)
Compression9.7:1
Torque96.00 Nm (9.8 kgf-m or 70.8 ft.lbs) @ 3500 RPM
Power67.05 HP (48.9 kW) @ 6000 RPM
Engine detailsEvolution® engine
Engine typeV2, four-stroke

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

WheelsBlack, Laced Steel
Rear brakesSingle disc. Single-piston. Optional ABS.
Front brakesSingle disc. Dual-piston. Optional ABS.
Rear tyre150/80-B16
Front tyre150/80-16
Rear SuspensionTwin shocks
Front SuspensionTelescopic fork
Trail132 mm (5.2 inches)
Rake (fork angle)29.6°
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Oil capacity2.60 litres (0.17 quarts)
Fuel capacity7.90 litres (2.09 gallons)
Wheelbase1,495 mm (58.9 inches)
Ground clearance110 mm (4.3 inches)
Overall length2,210 mm (87.0 inches)
Seat height710 mm (28.0 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Power/weight ratio0.2715 HP/kg
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc257.0 kg (566.6 pounds)
Dry weight247.0 kg (544.5 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
LightHigh beam, neutral, low oil pressure, turn signals, engine diagnostics, low fuel warning, low battery, security system (optional)
Instruments4-inch Speedometer mounted low and integrated into handlebar clamp electronic speedometer with odometer, time-of-day clock on odometer, dual tripmeter, LED indicator lights
StarterElectric
Color optionsOlive Gold, Velocity Red Sunglo, Hard Candy Cancun Blue Flake, Hard Candy Gold Flake, Vivid Black, Billet Silver

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 ForSuitable for beginner to intermediate riders who want a manageable, low-slung cruiser with classic V-twin character.
PurposeBuilt for short blasts, boulevard cruising, and style-focused riding rather than outright speed or long-distance touring.
Rider FitVery 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.
CharacterA 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 ForNot 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 Fit Visualizer

2016 Harley-Davidson Sportster Forty-Eight Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 710mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2016 Harley-Davidson Sportster Forty-Eight, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 degrees and an upright riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

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