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

The 2016 Harley-Davidson Sportster Forty-Eight Dark Custom appeals to riders seeking aggressive, minimalist style with proven cruiser performance. Known for its blacked-out aesthetic, low 710mm seat height, and nimble handling thanks to its compact 1,520mm wheelbase, this bike excels in urban riding and custom customization potential. Its modest 250.8kg weight and accessible ergonomics make it ideal for both experienced cruiser enthusiasts and newer riders transitioning to larger machines.

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General information

CategoryCustom / cruiser
Year2016
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
Torque96.00 Nm (9.8 kgf-m or 70.8 ft.lbs) @ 3500 RPM
Power66.60 HP (48.6 kW) @ 6000 RPM
Engine detailsEvolution® engine
Engine typeV2, four-stroke
Capacity:1201.25 ccm (73.30 cubic inches)
 
 

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
Rear SuspensionTwin shocks
Front SuspensionTelescopic fork
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.
Power/weight ratio0.2655 HP/kg
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc260.0 kg (573.2 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

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

2016 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 2016 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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