I always thought it was strange how some of the hard-core Harley guys look down on the Sportster, calling it a "girl's bike." I for one think it's actually by far the best-looking Harley Davidson one can buy, and possibly one of the best looking production bikes made. And that's coming from a sport bike fan.
Hard core Harley guys are just people with emotional disorders. All motorcycles are fun and all of them have a use. It’s like people who are bias towards guns, nobody thinks to ask themselves if maybe they should own a whole bunch of different ones😂 Quite frankly, when I see someone on a 800 pound bagger all I see is a total moron because anyone who knows anything about motorcycles knows weight is the enemy. I love the Softails but Sportsters are just flat out fun!
I have a 2018 48 that I bought 2 months ago, with only 2.1 kmiles. Only mod is a better flow exhaust. I decided to test (risky) what distance could I reach with that peanut tank, with Premium gas. Commuting from town to town, 90% on twistie roads and 10% inside town, not faster than 65 mph, without stops. Refuel light appeared with 106 Miles. When It turns on, you still get 0,66 gallons, so I kept riding until I reached 130 Miles. Refueling, 1,98 gallons got in tank. I was impressed! I love the riding position, sound, style, handling, engine response, speedo position, even the vibration of It. For me, It is so gratifying to NOT have mirrors screwing my view. And for my size (I'm short and light), the mirrors position and seat aren't a problem. But I really agree that the suspension isn't as smooth as It could be, even with the improvements HD made in rear suspension after 2016. This bike put me some smiles ...
So many preconceptions about Sportsters. I have a 2007 XL883L and have ridden it all over the place. I live in northern Indiana and have taken it as far as Kansas City (twice). There is a guy that does the Iron Butt Rally on a 2006 XL1200C. 11k miles in 11 days. People, ride the bike and see for yourself that it's quite capable of long trips. People ride these things all over the country all the time. Your only limitation is your own mind.
That is a good looking bike, but for my preference I would opt for the Iron 1200. The tank is just too small. Also I prefer mid controls and the skinnier front tire on the Iron. I do like what they did with the front turn signals and I like the paint/decal design better on the 48. I don't think I have ever found a comfortable seat on any new bike.
Well said. Great review. Very spot-on. I just picked one up; and for the very reasons you stated. My Forty-Eight shares garage space with my FXR. I totally get what you said, "anyone trying to make this bike what it isn't; is going to fail miserably." This bike IS a fun, bar hoppin, zippity-zip bike. AND ... "Help me Rhonda" is a cool cruisin song. I'll update this comment when I remember my continuous song/s that bounce in my head while riding. Thanks readin'.
I have a 2021 Sportster 48. I replaced the seat to a 2 seater that has a little bit of a lip and I tell you... the difference in comfort is huge. Before the change it felt like when I would hit the throttle and the bike would take off... without me lol. But with the new seat I don't get that awkward feeling. I added some large saddle bags that fit great with the new seat. Last I changed out the mirrors with longer arms flipping them to the top. Just those 3 changes have made this a much better ride so I ride it to work everyday to save gas! This has been a great first bike, just started riding a few months ago.
It appeared that your suspension was set a 3 dots, that’s the factory setting. There is a wrench under the seat that you can use to adjust the settings. If you choose 4 or 4.5 dots you will find that your ride will be much smoother.
@@grayghost1423 Yes, they have quite a selection of shocks at RevZilla they say will fit the 2022 Forty-Eight I was looking at but my bike is just starting to break in @ 900 miles and I’m satisfied with the way it is for now.
Thank you for the video. I'm in-between this 48 and a Street Bob. I don't know that I will have the funds for the SB, but want the long cruise. Want the bid power too and maybe the wind screen.. Love the look of this bike, and you answered questions I had. Thanks again.
I love my 2013 HD XL1200C. I have it set up for light touring with bags and shield. I can do 200+ miles without it killing me. I have upgraded the suspension however.
Awesome video as usual brother. Thanks for the great review. Also thanks for taking the time to talk to me about a good cruiser motorcycle. Much appreciated 🤙
The Help me Rhonda is you're on the fence about this bike and yearning for more! But the bottom line is what you're used to and want this bike with it's differences is a bike you can adapt to. One a side note if the bike had standard up mirror's and a 3.5 galon tank you would look down as most rider's and feel you're sitting on a bigger bike ! Maybe the 85 Roadster tank with Speedo and RPM cluster on the tank would be sharp with a 2 up seat would sweeten this bike, Then you wouldn't need Rhonda so much.
I used to have a Forty-Eight. I now understand that mine just needs a taller handlebars and I would probably be happier and more comfortable, and still have the bike.
Sorry you didn’t learn that earlier. A set of mini-apes would have don’t the trick. That’s one of the reasons I like the Softail Street Bob so much. Do you still have a bike?
@@trippontwowheels Hi Tripp! I traded in my 48 last year for a 2022 RGS Vivid Black with all the options in it. With my new RGS I installed a new Handlebars LED Turn Signals Seats Decals SlipOns. Im happy so far with my RGS. I do not miss my 48 tho but I am looking for a smaller bike right now. I realized that two bikes would be ideal - one big one small.
Got mine turning up next week. 2020 bike via HD dealer. Has the standard exhausts which sound toilet. So at least I know what mods to do... HD seem to bow to things like the EU. I dont.
Fun ride along ! I think the Iron and the 48 look good. They both seem to have alot of rockerbox noise.. My wife had the 2020 Iron 883 and was ready to move up to a bigger bike, so I let her fall for the 2021 Streetbob 114ci.. For a seasoned or more experienced rider, its a great ride. But for a newer rider, its alot of motorcycle. IMO - HP & Torque are impressive. The bike felt a bit topheavy to me, although I ride a very low 2003 Dyna.. So anyway, I picked her up a 2009 XL1200L and spent a few weeks giving it a great STG 1 Tune and complete going through and fitting the seat/bars/controls to her.. She feels great again, and it does ride well at the 60-70 speeds. Quiet engine, except exhaust tone, thats just loud enough..
Great post Free Swimmer and it sounds like you’ve got a very lucky wife! What did you end up doing with the Street Bob? Ride safe and hope you subscribe. -Tripp
@@trippontwowheels Yes subscribed.. please do the same.. About the Streetbob.. It was just sold today, and I had to make up some $ difference. No point in having it sit in garage and making payments and keeping insured.. Cut the losses.. Unfortunately, another life lesson..
Everybody has their own opinion on Harley's some people don't like Sportsters some people like baggers personally I think Sportsters are the greatest bikes Harley has ever built I own several Sportsters and would not trade them for anything Sportsters are a iconic bike anyway just my opinion for what it's worth
Tripp, you touched on the one issue that has got my fanny in a pinch. 1.) The 1200cc translates into (what?) in the way of "cubic inches". 73 ci, thank-you for getting that detail out! 2.) What is the difference between the 48 models and the 1200 Sportster? Hope to hear from you soon!🏍️👍🐻 I'm 5'9" tall, 29"inseam, and, I tip the scale at 275lbs. Would this bike be able to haul my Tex-@$$ sized "back porch" around without a problem? Doug🏍️🤓
@@trippontwowheels Tripp, thanks for the speedy response. Being a "newb" in the motorcyclng world, I would like to know the right route to go in the path of MC ownership. This is a great help in the right direction. Doug🏍️👍🤓🧸⭐⭐⭐🐻
@@douglasradowick508 Doug, I’d love to help you with any questions you may have. The MC world can be a bit overwhelming at the beginning to say the least.
I've noticed that the Forty-Eight has a 0 to 120 mph speedometer, my 2011 European spec Iron 883 has a 0 to 130 mph speedometer, strange that the speedo on the 883 has 130 mph and 1200 has 120 mph.
@@trippontwowheels Right now I have a 2017 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic LT I bought new in 2018. I had a 1700 Vaquero at the same time but noticed I always grabbed the 900 unless I was going on a 500 plus mile ride mostly on freeway. So I sold the Vaquero so I could put a 2nd car in the garage 🙂.
I always thought it was strange how some of the hard-core Harley guys look down on the Sportster, calling it a "girl's bike." I for one think it's actually by far the best-looking Harley Davidson one can buy, and possibly one of the best looking production bikes made. And that's coming from a sport bike fan.
Hard core Harley guys are just people with emotional disorders. All motorcycles are fun and all of them have a use. It’s like people who are bias towards guns, nobody thinks to ask themselves if maybe they should own a whole bunch of different ones😂
Quite frankly, when I see someone on a 800 pound bagger all I see is a total moron because anyone who knows anything about motorcycles knows weight is the enemy. I love the Softails but Sportsters are just flat out fun!
Hard core bikers never see it coming when a sportster rider has been banging his ol lady until she's quaking like a duck.
It's just old biker humor. Sportsters are girls' bikes, and Big Twins are La-Z-Boys.
I have a 2018 48 that I bought 2 months ago, with only 2.1 kmiles. Only mod is a better flow exhaust. I decided to test (risky) what distance could I reach with that peanut tank, with Premium gas.
Commuting from town to town, 90% on twistie roads and 10% inside town, not faster than 65 mph, without stops.
Refuel light appeared with 106 Miles. When It turns on, you still get 0,66 gallons, so I kept riding until I reached 130 Miles. Refueling, 1,98 gallons got in tank. I was impressed!
I love the riding position, sound, style, handling, engine response, speedo position, even the vibration of It. For me, It is so gratifying to NOT have mirrors screwing my view. And for my size (I'm short and light), the mirrors position and seat aren't a problem.
But I really agree that the suspension isn't as smooth as It could be, even with the improvements HD made in rear suspension after 2016.
This bike put me some smiles ...
Your post of this bike is very detailed. Thanks.
I have had mine about 2 weeks. Great bike. I think I will do 13" rear shocks before I do anything else though.
So many preconceptions about Sportsters. I have a 2007 XL883L and have ridden it all over the place. I live in northern Indiana and have taken it as far as Kansas City (twice). There is a guy that does the Iron Butt Rally on a 2006 XL1200C. 11k miles in 11 days.
People, ride the bike and see for yourself that it's quite capable of long trips. People ride these things all over the country all the time. Your only limitation is your own mind.
💯
As a sportster lover, this is one gorgeous bike. The color is beautiful too.
This blue is a beautiful on a Sportster.
That is a good looking bike, but for my preference I would opt for the Iron 1200. The tank is just too small. Also I prefer mid controls and the skinnier front tire on the Iron. I do like what they did with the front turn signals and I like the paint/decal design better on the 48. I don't think I have ever found a comfortable seat on any new bike.
Well said. Great review. Very spot-on. I just picked one up; and for the very reasons you stated. My Forty-Eight shares garage space with my FXR. I totally get what you said, "anyone trying to make this bike what it isn't; is going to fail miserably." This bike IS a fun, bar hoppin, zippity-zip bike. AND ... "Help me Rhonda" is a cool cruisin song. I'll update this comment when I remember my continuous song/s that bounce in my head while riding. Thanks readin'.
I have a 2021 Sportster 48. I replaced the seat to a 2 seater that has a little bit of a lip and I tell you... the difference in comfort is huge. Before the change it felt like when I would hit the throttle and the bike would take off... without me lol. But with the new seat I don't get that awkward feeling. I added some large saddle bags that fit great with the new seat. Last I changed out the mirrors with longer arms flipping them to the top. Just those 3 changes have made this a much better ride so I ride it to work everyday to save gas! This has been a great first bike, just started riding a few months ago.
Just bought one such a good bike I'm stoked
It appeared that your suspension was set a 3 dots, that’s the factory setting. There is a wrench under the seat that you can use to adjust the settings. If you choose 4 or 4.5 dots you will find that your ride will be much smoother.
Have you looked into changing your shocks?
@@grayghost1423 Yes, they have quite a selection of shocks at RevZilla they say will fit the 2022 Forty-Eight I was looking at but my bike is just starting to break in @ 900 miles and I’m satisfied with the way it is for now.
@@roberhor I figured you had one when you caught the 4 dots. I can't decide on which ones, probably going for Legends Revo.
Thank you for the video. I'm in-between this 48 and a Street Bob. I don't know that I will have the funds for the SB, but want the long cruise. Want the bid power too and maybe the wind screen.. Love the look of this bike, and you answered questions I had. Thanks again.
I love my 2013 HD XL1200C. I have it set up for light touring with bags and shield. I can do 200+ miles without it killing me. I have upgraded the suspension however.
Awesome video as usual brother. Thanks for the great review. Also thanks for taking the time to talk to me about a good cruiser motorcycle. Much appreciated 🤙
Any time my friend! Thanks for your support. 🙂
@@trippontwowheels 👍🤙🤙🤙👍
The Help me Rhonda is you're on the fence about this bike and yearning for more! But the bottom line is what you're used to and want this bike with it's differences is a bike you can adapt to. One a side note if the bike had standard up mirror's and a 3.5 galon tank you would look down as most rider's and feel you're sitting on a bigger bike ! Maybe the 85 Roadster tank with Speedo and RPM cluster on the tank would be sharp with a 2 up seat would sweeten this bike, Then you wouldn't need Rhonda so much.
I really like the teal paint! Thanks for sharing!
Hey Double D! Good to see you.
I used to have a Forty-Eight. I now understand that mine just needs a taller handlebars and I would probably be happier and more comfortable, and still have the bike.
Sorry you didn’t learn that earlier. A set of mini-apes would have don’t the trick. That’s one of the reasons I like the Softail Street Bob so much. Do you still have a bike?
@@trippontwowheels Hi Tripp! I traded in my 48 last year for a 2022 RGS Vivid Black with all the options in it. With my new RGS I installed a new Handlebars LED Turn Signals Seats Decals SlipOns. Im happy so far with my RGS. I do not miss my 48 tho but I am looking for a smaller bike right now. I realized that two bikes would be ideal - one big one small.
@@rolandjosef7961 Congrats Roland! How are you liking the Road Glide and where are you from?
@@trippontwowheels I like my RGS for long rides. But overkill if I want to go to Starbucks or Grocery or Gas station. I am from KY.
I think it comes to mind because that’s how your lower plumbing feels being vibrated on a sporty
I bought a 2022 Forty Eight and enjoy it a lot. It is very fun zipping around the country back roads. Stage 1 really wakes the bike up in my opinion.
Congrats DMC! Which tuner and exhaust did you go with?
Got mine turning up next week. 2020 bike via HD dealer.
Has the standard exhausts which sound toilet. So at least I know what mods to do...
HD seem to bow to things like the EU. I dont.
Fun ride along ! I think the Iron and the 48 look good. They both seem to have alot of rockerbox noise.. My wife had the 2020 Iron 883 and was ready to move up to a bigger bike, so I let her fall for the 2021 Streetbob 114ci.. For a seasoned or more experienced rider, its a great ride. But for a newer rider, its alot of motorcycle. IMO - HP & Torque are impressive. The bike felt a bit topheavy to me, although I ride a very low 2003 Dyna.. So anyway, I picked her up a 2009 XL1200L and spent a few weeks giving it a great STG 1 Tune and complete going through and fitting the seat/bars/controls to her.. She feels great again, and it does ride well at the 60-70 speeds. Quiet engine, except exhaust tone, thats just loud enough..
Great post Free Swimmer and it sounds like you’ve got a very lucky wife! What did you end up doing with the Street Bob? Ride safe and hope you subscribe. -Tripp
@@trippontwowheels Yes subscribed.. please do the same.. About the Streetbob.. It was just sold today, and I had to make up some $ difference. No point in having it sit in garage and making payments and keeping insured.. Cut the losses.. Unfortunately, another life lesson..
Love my 48. Put fuel meter in tank and gauge.
The 48 is a great bike, just not for my needs. Thanks for your comment Kam! Ride safe and hope you subscribe. -Tripp
Where’s the follow up videos for Sportster barn find Tripp?
I got a 2013 48 and I can’t see anything when the mirrors are on top.
Great video, if I’m picking up a Harley I’ll need a comfortable ride! I have my Ducati for fun.
Thanks much Jesse. Which Ducati do you have? Ride safe and hope you subscribe. -Tripp
Hey Tripp,that 48 is a good looking bike Brother, good video brother 👊🏼😎
Darned thing is gorgeous in my opinion. I’m glad you liked the video! 🙂
@@trippontwowheels it is man 💯
Everybody has their own opinion on Harley's some people don't like Sportsters some people like baggers personally I think Sportsters are the greatest bikes Harley has ever built I own several Sportsters and would not trade them for anything Sportsters are a iconic bike anyway just my opinion for what it's worth
And for the most part, I share your opinion. Ride safe Scott!
Another great video man, well done.
Thanks Luis! Appreciate it brother!
Mirrors can be adjusted.
Good review! Thank you!
Thanks John!
Looks good for a handy bike for around town !
That it would be fantastic at. Thanks for your comment Sikander. Ride safe and hope you subscribe. -Tripp
On your unbiased opinion, which is better overall, HD 48 or Indian Scout Sixty?
Indian Scout 60
Tripp, you touched on the one issue that has got my fanny in a pinch.
1.) The 1200cc translates into (what?) in the way of "cubic inches". 73 ci, thank-you for getting that detail out!
2.) What is the difference between the 48 models and the 1200 Sportster? Hope to hear from you soon!🏍️👍🐻 I'm 5'9" tall, 29"inseam, and, I tip the scale at 275lbs. Would this bike be able to haul my Tex-@$$ sized "back porch" around without a problem? Doug🏍️🤓
Honestly, I’d go with neither. Find yourself a good used Twin Cam Softail, or if the budget permits, a used M8 Softail. Good luck!
@@trippontwowheels Tripp, thanks for the speedy response. Being a "newb" in the motorcyclng world, I would like to know the right route to go in the path of MC ownership. This is a great help in the right direction. Doug🏍️👍🤓🧸⭐⭐⭐🐻
@@douglasradowick508 Doug, I’d love to help you with any questions you may have. The MC world can be a bit overwhelming at the beginning to say the least.
I've noticed that the Forty-Eight has a 0 to 120 mph speedometer, my 2011 European spec Iron 883 has a 0 to 130 mph speedometer, strange that the speedo on the 883 has 130 mph and 1200 has 120 mph.
They will do around 110.
Just bought my first bike... a 2020 48.... and I'm 47 did i make a mistake?
I'm 47 just got me 2021 sporter 48
@@jeromedsnut3845 how u feel? I'm thinking about get it
Appreciated this. Thanks
Glad you liked it Dave! Where are you from? -Tripp
@@trippontwowheels Tucson, Arizona
Great city! I love that area. What do you ride Dave?
@@trippontwowheels Right now I have a 2017 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic LT I bought new in 2018. I had a 1700 Vaquero at the same time but noticed I always grabbed the 900 unless I was going on a 500 plus mile ride mostly on freeway. So I sold the Vaquero so I could put a 2nd car in the garage 🙂.
Fuel Comsumtion??
Would you say this is a good beginner, to and from work bike?
How far away is work?
@@trippontwowheels about 3 miles.
@@dmitriciccarelli4082 It should be perfect then!
I would not waste my money on a new one would buy a good used Evo Sportster
My thoughts exactly.
It's perfect for an old man. Me.
That's not a girl's bike and it's in a good price range I'm not spending $ 20,000 and up on a motorcycle.
Help me Rhoda Ya!
Help me rhonda and harley all American.
Hey Tripp
Hey Jaman!’