2018 Harley-Davidson Forty-Eight Special
Harley’s newest retro-styled Sporty brings more attitude with a modern twist
If you've got it, why not flaunt it? We took our 2018 Harley-Davidson Sportster Forty-Eight Special to iconic Cook’s Corner in Southern California to snap some shots of the newest Sportster. Back in 2010, Harley-Davidson introduced the XL1200X Forty-Eight, and eight years later the newest version of that model still retains a tiny 2.2-gallon "peanut" gas tank. This year, the bike gained a more muscular front end with forged aluminum triple clamps and a 49mm fork, all topped off with 7.25-inch-high Tallboy handlebar.
Related Video: 2018 Harley-Davidson Forty-Eight Special Dyno
The 2018 Forty-Eight Special arrives in three color: Vivid Black, Wicked Red, or Billiard White, with ours rolling in white. The new Forty-Eight Special comes equipped with a fuel-injected, 1,200cc Evolution V-twin engine, paired with a five-speed manual transmission. The manufacturer suggested retail price for Vivid Black is $11,299, with color options starting at $11,649.
Our 6-foot-tall photo model fit comfortably behind the 2018 Harley-Davidson Sportster Forty-Eight Special's Tallboy handlebar and forward-mounted foot controls.
Jeff Allen
The Forty-Eight Special is equipped with chrome heat shields and engine covers.
Jeff Allen
The 1,200cc Evolution engine gleams with all its chrome.
Jeff Allen
The Forty-Eight Special rocks Split nine-spoke cast aluminum wheels in Gloss Black.
Jeff Allen
Sportster in profile heading toward some twisties past Cook’s Corner in sunny Southern California.
Jeff Allen
The 1970s-inspired gas-tank graphics are reminiscent of the days when The Motor Company was owned by American Machine and Foundry (AMF).
Jeff Allen
The lengthy footpeg feelers fitted to the Forty-Eight Special are first to touch down in the twisties.
Jeff Allen
Specifications
| ENGINE: | Air-cooled Evolution |
| BORE: | 3.5 in. |
| STROKE: | 3.8 in. |
| DISPLACEMENT: | 1202cc (73.4ci) |
| COMPRESSION RATIO: | 10:01 |
| FUEL SYSTEM: | Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) |
| EXHAUST: | Black staggered exhaust w/ slash-cut mufflers |
