Harley-Davidson Sportster Forty-Eight Dark Custom - 2015 Specifications and Reviews

The 2015 Harley-Davidson Sportster Forty-Eight Dark Custom appeals to riders seeking authentic, minimalist cruiser styling with manageable performance. Built on a short 1,520mm wheelbase with aggressive 30-degree rake, it delivers responsive handling and nimble maneuverability in an accessible package. Known for its blacked-out aesthetic, low-slung seat, and aggressive stance, this bike combines retro appeal with modern fuel injection and six-speed transmission for practical everyday riding.

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General information

CategoryCustom / cruiser
Year2015
ModelHarley-Davidson Sportster Forty-Eight Dark Custom
 
 

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)
DrivelineChain, 57/38 ratio primary drive
Transmission type,final driveBelt
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemAir
Fuel systemInjection. Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Bore x Stroke88.9 x 96.8 mm (3.5 x 3.8 inches)
Compression9.7:1
Torque107.12 Nm (10.9 kgf-m or 79.0 ft.lbs) @ 4000 RPM
Engine detailsAir-cooled, Evolution®
Engine typeV2, four-stroke

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

WheelsBlack, Laced Steel
Rear brakesSingle disc. Optinal ABS. Dual-piston.
Front brakesSingle disc. Optional ABS. Dual-piston.
Rear tyre150/80-B16
Front tyre130/90-B16
Trail107 mm (4.2 inches)
Rake (fork angle)30.0°

Physical measures and capacities

Oil capacity2.60 litres (0.17 quarts)
Fuel capacity7.95 litres (2.10 gallons)
Wheelbase1,520 mm (59.8 inches)
Ground clearance100 mm (3.9 inches)
Overall length2,255 mm (88.8 inches)
Seat height710 mm (28.0 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc259.9 kg (573.0 pounds)
Dry weight250.8 kg (553.0 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 optionsVivid black, Amber Whiskey, Hard candy Big Red Flake, Hard Candy Cancun Blue Flake, Charcoal Pearl

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

65 hp
Peak Power
5.8s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track10%
City65%
Cornering35%
Daily Riding55%
Touring30%
Passenger25%

Rider Profile

Best ForSuited to riders from intermediate levels up who want an easy-going, low-slung cruiser rather than a beginner-only or expert-only machine.
PurposeBuilt primarily as a stylish, stripped-down urban cruiser for short rides and boulevard cruising rather than outright speed or distance touring.
Rider FitThe very low seat height and forward-set footpegs make it approachable for shorter riders, though the low ground clearance and limited lean angle demand a relaxed, upright riding style.
CharacterA gritty, blacked-out custom cruiser with big torque off the line, a thumping air-cooled V-twin soundtrack, and classic Harley drag-style attitude.
Not Ideal ForNot a good fit for riders seeking sharp cornering ability, off-road capability, or long-distance touring comfort with a passenger.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

2015 Harley-Davidson Sportster Forty-Eight Dark Custom 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 2015 Harley-Davidson Sportster Forty-Eight Dark Custom, 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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