2018 Harley-Davidson Forty-Eight Special (XL1200XS)│First Ride and Review
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 6 ก.ย. 2024
- Matt Laidlaw Rides the new Forty-Eight Special for the first time and weighs-in with his opinion and recommendations for people that are looking to purchase this Motorcycle.
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They are a great urban bike. The heavier the traffic, the more fun they are. Split the lanes at traffic lights, up to the front line. Lights turn green, plant it and leave everybody else behind. Been riding Harley's since 1991 and my other bike is a Ultra Limited. These Sportie's are just so much fun, the torque to weight ratio is ridiculous.
I'm gearing up to purchase my first Harley in a week or two, and your videos have been the most helpful resource by far. So thank you for all of the great videos and hard work. Cheers from Missouri.
Matt, I just feel to say that your videos are by far the very best available worldwide. Please continue 💫
Thank you for the motivation sir.
Great review! I like my 48 Special. I've had many other bikes over the last 50 years. The Sportster fits my riding needs right now. I like the fat tire and the looks of the classic peanut tank. The AMF stripes grew on me.
Standard 48 with the Tall boy handle bars..done and perfect!
i actually like the regular 48 over the special. looks meaner. i like it so much i bought it. i feel the chrome belongs more on a softtail.
I'm 5'11", the 2016 48 was my starter bike. It was definitely the perfect starter bike for me, but you outgrow it fast, specially because of that tiny gas tank. I'm trying to upgrade to a softail slim soon
i am olde school biker, I agree, I really love the AMF like paint. I owned several AMF bikes. loved them all.
I had my test drive today,...…. on this model,... and i think i am in love....
I wish they kept the same paint schemes for these as the regular 48
I got the black Iron 1200 the other day. This is the sportster that I've been waiting for since I didn't get the Nightster when the came out. It looks old school. Flash back to the '70's. All it is, is a 48 with an 883 front end. I'm really enjoying the bike. I enjoy the mid. controls because I have an inseam of about 27" in jeans. I also can stand up a little to ease bumps in the road. I can even stand up with the mini apes like on a dirt bike to give my ass a little relief. New seat is ordered. I tilted the mini apes forward a little so I'm not setting directly on my tail bone. I'm getting about 50 mpg right now and expect that to get better as the motor wears in. I got about 107 miles in before the gas light came on and it only took about 2 gallons of gas with 114 miles on the odo. Going to do a stage 1 as soon as I get a turner. Looking for an easy tuner that doesn't cost 400 dollars since all I'll put on is a pair of slip ons and K&N air filter. 5 gears is all I will ever need since 4th will get me to about 55 around 3k rpm. A little back ground on myself. I'm 64. I've been riding for over 40 years. My first Harley was a new '77 AMF. Yes it was a peace of crap. I also own a 2017 SGS that I really enjoy. I opted for the Harley sportster instead of the Indian Scout because dealerships are every where and the available after market products. The sportster is Harley in the raw.
Great honest review. After riding a touring land barge for years I bought a xl1200c, sold the rolling couch and loving the little piglet. Just an engine, two wheels and a seat, all I need and nothing I don’t.
Took the same route ! Baggers are nice , but not fun . Sportsters are a hoot !!!
Just got one....amazing bike...amazing look...just perfect!
Do you still have your 48? I just watched a video about one and saw your comment I'm thinking of buying one so I thought I'd ask how nice are they
I don’t understand why they would put a smaller tank on a 1200 cc makes no sense. They should’ve use the 883 tank. It’s bigger and longer to fill that gap.
I like the 48 special over the iron 1200 I just don’t like the wind screen to much soa want a be for my liking. If I was in the market for a new sporty I would get the 48 special love your review videos.
When I lived in Oz ( frim 1980 --- 2005), we used to call the Sportster, a Skirtster, meaning a girls bike, what a totally unfair analogy. The more I see of the Sportster the more I like them, I would but one in an instant, if the missus let me get a 2nd Harley. Great vlog as per usual Matt🖒😎
The tank that should’ve been on that special is off of the 883 iron should be on that 1200 iron
At 4:36, I always wondered what that was for. Thank you for showing us
Thanks for this forty-eight special review, Matt. I now decided that I want this bike badly.
On the regular 48 or the special between the top of the seat and the gas tank, I do not like that gap the tank needs the size of a tank as the 883 otherwise it just doesn’t look right on the bike
Amazing video. Professionally done, you covered every possible thing. This video is rich in great solid information technical people are looking for. Great job on this video.
I just finished the video, thank you again for your honest opinion. I still like the look of the Iron 883 with the blacked out look. Not a fan of the AMF paint graphics. I demoed both the iron 1200 & the 48 special. I am 5’8 and had a hard time with the lean angle on the Iron 883 and 1200. I would opt for the Iron’s only because of the large fuel tank.
Should have shown how you look on the bike for sizing reference.
I was set on the iron 1200 now idk I like the 48special a lot too minus the chrome.. I'm 6'1 what would you guys recommend? Thinking the forward controls would be more comfortable
Very detailed and honest review
And that was cool man you need to make a a film on Windy days on a freeway for me it's not very safe to be on the freeway when the wind blowing real real hard thank you for your show that you had on to take care
The AMF colors reappearing just as the Motor Co is in dire straits again. Coincidence?....
Na, they aren't in dire straights just down a bit
I wish the 48's looks won't change in the next 10 yrs so I can buy it again. The style is perfect for me.
10 years? The bike will be completely different or not available at all. 2020 I predict things will completely change for the Sportsters.
Love the look of the new 48 special how to 79 Sportster AMF not a bad bike but now they make the best motorcycles in the world take care Matt thank you
I just want the 48 to own and piss around the town with.
Not sure what Harley to get for the big road trips...🤔
This machine looks great!!
Matt the seat on the 2018 street bob is about as worthless as that seat. Why can't harley offer a good seat on the bike from the start, the bikes cost enough to include it? For most of us, Its all about comfort and not trying to empty the persons wallet before they leave the dealership.
Wish they would go back to the spoke wheels on the 48.
I'm going to have to take a ride on one of these. Love to know if the Street Bob wheels would fit it. Really needs the spokes to look period correct. Put those on it and call it a '74.
My fave Harley!
Hey Matt. Got my 2018 Custom 1200 last month. Just before the Iron and 48 Special were released. Only put 300 miles on it. Weather was bad for awhile. I find it rides Softer than the 2015 XG750. And the Power, Release the clutch and hang on. My 140 pounds feels like I'm going to be left behind. Like a Cartoon Character. What you said about the Forward Controls, At only 5' 4", Its not really a problem. XL has a shorter frame. My only real disappointment is, The Rear Turn Signal location. Had to get the relocate kit put on so I can add bags. Now I ran into a problem. Two holes on each side. 8 and 10mm from the old location. Bout a set of Plugs. Only the ones listed for the 8mm holes fit. The 10mm plugs are too small. I miss the 1200T. Would've been my next choice. Just change the mini floorboards to pegs. Trying to make mine look like a custom 1200T.
Nice man, yea putting bags on there can be a pain. Relocating the rear signals on that bike sucks. Yes, the 1200cc Sportsters have plenty of giddy-up especially out of the hole etc. Torque is just right. Enjoy
Thanks Matt. Mine is Black Tempest. First one to hit my area. Had the dealer install the Relocate Kit. Took about 4 hours. And call to Tech Support. Already changed the headlamp bulb to a H4 LED. Installed my Lithium battery. Saved about 8 pounds. A pair of FireBrand Loose Cannons. Have an Arlen Ness intake to put on as well. Later project. As well as an Accel Coil and wire set. The only problem I'm having is, Backing into the garage. Because of the driveway. Like backing up a couple of steps. Thinking about trying some adobe blocks. Using them as lowering kit. My legs are short. So I get better knee bending. And a stronger push.
Another good, honest review, with pros, cons, and options. I always liked the look of the 48, maybe with some taller, chiseled bars. Not really digging the bars on the Special, kinda like the Road King Special - they just don't have any personality IMO. I thought a 48 would be a great second bike coming off a Limited, but I don't know - it's really small!
Coming off a Limited? Yea, you gotta really evaluate what you're gonna use it for. For non-Freeway it would be a good bop around town bike.
meet u in the early 90,s is your dad still alive , i had to see him to get a price on spme panhead bare heads u look like u got a new set up. atl,ga,
My sporty has been under a cover since Oct. Thanks for posting.
Get that thing out and ride!
I'm 5'8 and would go for mids. I've never owned a bike with a belt drive. How often do you have to adjust them. Solo Cafe racer seat is very nice.
I honestly come here as my main resource for learning about particular Harley models other then online articles, not only does it help that ur in the industry but I do believe u make honest and fair assessments good and bad. You also explain things very well and make it easier for people like me the normal enthusiast (not expert gearheads) to understand. Your style is developing really well too. I saw a comment here or maybe the iron 1200 video, the dude suggested getting a gimbal or something to hold the camera... I agree that would be a plus...it’s not that it’s worse quality when holding by hand but it would give it that extra something that u feel you may be missing and your viewers will notice and appreciate...other than that YOU DA MAN! and I wish laidlaws was closer to me because I definitely would have bought my fxdb from you
Thank you! Your comment is appreciated. Yes, I need it get a gimbal next. It’s on the gear list.
Do you guys add that decal at 4:51?
How do you feel about that Matt? I think I draw the line at the license plate frame - thankfully that's not on paint but putting a Decal on the motorcycle is not cool in my opinion.
I like that decal too. Thinking the same thing when I saw it.
Why are they going with the AMF paint jobs is it because they're going to sell to Japan again?
dude i bought a softail because of your video. would have bought it from you cause i live in cocoa beach fl, love it. its my 45th bike.
45th?!!?! Nice! I appreciate the credit my friend. Enjoy!
Hi Matt, Love your vids! Quick question for you. I have a 2019 48. I've been thinking about switching to the Tallboy bars. How will the taller bars affect handling? Will they make the bike easier or more difficult to handle, especially while cornering? Thanks!
Man are these bikes sweet!
All Harley's are COOL and better than most just look and ride one but bigger feels better to us old men!!
At 5 ft 10 even , should I do forward controls? I've always ridden dirt bikes so I'm use to being on top of my controls. Thoughts anyone?
Yes! I am roughly the same height as you and I love them. Very comfortable and a great riding position for better road feel.
You think this bike would be a good fit for someone that’s 5’5?
That song got me hyped, awesome. And that paint scheme is really nice, HD has nailed it, that retro, minimalist thing is so classy. While Yamaha is putting dumb green wheels and Honda (cars now) makes the equally dumb looking and absolutely over the top Civic R Harley is putting class. Lets hope millenials can appreciate it.
Also the chrome, yes! more... more... more... more... screw climate regulation that don´t help to solve a problem most likely doesn´t even exist to begin with, lets get some chrome back on the cars and bikes, its beautiful.
SO true about different bikes for different riding types. ALSO if you are tall, just dont get a sportster. im lucky, im short and I ride manly in town, so I LOVE my sporty. its still the most fun hd made
Do you think me being 5ft 10 and 210 pounds that I would be comfortable on this bike?
@@mikeessary4925 test drive and find out.
Tank is too small and imo they should put fuel guages on Sportsters.
So here's a question, is the Forty-Eight Special supposed to replace the discontinued '72? I'm 6'10, I've never contemplated sitting on a Sportster at all for fear of looking like a baboon riding a warthog... Yesterday I saw a '72 and was amazed at how much bigger it seemed than a normal Sportster (and I LOVED the straight pipes!) is the FES supposed to take over that slot and is it the same size?
where can I purchase the white gloves the guy on the 48 special is wearing? I love them!!!
The only thing good about the AMF days were the paint jobs, LOL. As always great video keep up the comparisons makes good topics. Come on Harley give me a reason to buy a new bike, like a new CVO Pro Street Breakout, YES!
Dudes been guitaring in the background for 9 mins
Thanks for making all these videos with detail..👍🏻 48 S is cool I like it.. Matt I notice they have Michelin tires no more Dunlop? I imagine the Michelin are a way better tire.
Some nice hardbags would look sick on one of these
I OWN THIS MOTORCYCLE AND ITS WAY RAD!!
AMF colors? Yeah…let's harken back to the days when we sucked. Great idea.
Bought one the other day...now just waiting for it to be ready. How long does PDI generally take when the bike comes in?
Solid, thorough review Matt. Thanks again
how tall are the bar?
Like 6- 8 inch rise
Great vids as always Matt! Thank you so much. As a new rider myself these are great. Any recommendations for a 6'3'' guy like me on these bikes?
At 5'8" with a 29 inseam, would the regular Sportster 48 be better fitting for my size than the 48 Special with it's high handlebars?
LIONS 67 I'm a 5'4" woman and I have this exact 48 special and it fits me fine.
Thank you for the response, this helps. I assumed the 48 Special was for riders who were taller.
I was looking to buy a 48, but the dealer gave me a price that seemed way too high over the MSRP.
I'm 5'7 and I put 10" apes on my 48 and it works great honestly could have went 12s
out of curiosity, I am a taller guy as well at 6'5''. I have been looking at this and the iron 1200 as a starter bike but hearing you say that you don't fit the bike well being only an inch taller than me has become a concern. but I also don't feel comfortable with the idea of getting a bigger bike. I do like the fat bob, but the 114 seems like it may be a little overboard as a starter. what would you suggest?
Hey Matt. Great vid bro. I bought my 48 w you guys back in 2016 and man i love it. It's a daily rider to and from work 29 miles each way. So i fill up the following morning[only work n home] if that makes sense. I can actually go to work come home then go to work them fill up at work area. Monterey park to van nuys. Okay so a question and ive been doing some research n shopping. I want to swap my stock handlebars to mini apes. What would be the ballpark estimate on doing that there w you guys(whats up Ty, thanks for installing my new www)? Thanks in advance Matt.
Matt do you think the Sportster engine will be revamped in the near future?
Good for back moutain roads like those in Santa Cruz mountains?
Yea, definitely. I haven't ever ridden those road though. It's a fun canyon carver though
I can't believe they stop making the 48 who's making these decisions someone that works at Anheuser-Busch. 😂
Matt as always great review. I know you are 6’7” you make these bikes look like little pedal bikes lol
6'6'' haha yea. Too tall.
I’m 5 ‘5 is that too short for the forward controls . I had a 883
Yea, I wouldn’t recommend forward controls at your height
I'm a 5'4" woman and own this exact 48 Special. I love the forward controls and they fit me fine.
Hello guys!
First I tell you that I'm beginner.
I want to buy a bike with a good view. I am not very well versed in technical characteristics, so appearance plays a role in my choice. The fat front wheel and the forward pedal in 48 I like, looks like a chopper. Not going to drive with a traffic light, İ need a pure pleasure to drive.
Today is the last day of discounts in the our store, I have to make a choice.
What do you advise me to choose?
Is it worth paying 16k usd for 48 special 2018?
@@TheTightSqueeze + transportation + taxes + smth else...
Yes, more expensive than states )
I'm only 17 now, and i would love a Harley when i get 18 (actually i would love to have one right now). Aside from Sportsters, i would like a Street Bob. I never rode a bike before. What would you recommend? Good review as always.
Unknown Myths get a used sportster if you get the custom with wide glide bars you’ll have the same look half the price. I wouldn’t get brand new as a first bike get one you wouldn’t mind if you dump it go take a rider edge or msf corse to learn how to ride well
Thanks, i'll keep that in mind. You mean the 1200 Custom, right?
But yeah, obviously i'm not gonna blindly go riding without first learning how to ride.
Hi Matt, i've got the 2016 "regular" forty eight. I'm inlove with these tall boy bars. would i need to change my cables and brake lines to install them? or would they fit on the factory cables/lines?
I have changed handlebars before. The lines definitely might be too short. Only way to know is do some measurements or buy the new handlebars and match them up on your bike to see.
thanks for all your info very helpful
What's the name of your gloves them shits dope
I don't understand why HD is putting these stupid AMF style graphics on the tanks. That specifically is why I wouldn't get the Iron 1200.
Kinda reminds me of a 78 Low rider
There the regular 48 I would still swap out exhaust pipes they’re ugly
Do you guys rent bikes there?
Beautiful Bike !!!
The small fuel tank just makes NO sense to me.
pretty good review thanks!
A comprehensive review as usual Matt but something is missing... The CVO beard!!! It´s gone!?!? Replaced by AMF skin? Talking about the dark ages;)
Keep em coming sir!
Haha. Yea, I've gotten some hate. I think I'll start growing it back.
Way to go sir.
Hehe. I was a kid in AMF days. I love it....AMF...Harley Davidsons, badminton rackets and really crappy golf balls. Was yuck. Terrible marriage. But, at least AMF carried the brand through possible extinction. Folk don't often think of that. Nostalgia, these old vids. Enjoy them though. Makes me glad I didn't dump a bunch of $$$ on a new 1200 with customization at the time only to move on to a big twin and dump a bunch more into that for the same thing. The cost of a Harley is not the purchase, it is the modifications...they never ever end...almost like a gambling addiction. Gotta beware and be careful with the $$$.
At 6 foot 6 it looks like you're riding on a mini bike.
With higher handlebars when you want to flip the mirrors under
I PLAY A DRINKING GAME EVERY TIME @mattlaidlaw MENTIONS HIS HEIGHT. LOLS
Haha, sorry man. I get asked that damn question in every video though. Maybe i'll just stop saying it
Super cool video bravo
Thank you!
good first bike?
Yes. Pretty good. Watch my video “is Harley Davidson a good beginner bike”
Matt, i want to ask, i want to get into the Harley world. I've been riding for 6 years with my Ninja 650r. I think the 48 would be something i'd like. But i'm 5' 6'', 140 lbs, and asian. it feels like i'd need to get tattooed up and wear a leather vest. Is that true?
Also 5'6", 140 lbs here. The 48 Special fits like a glove - just perfect. Traded in my Softail Slim, as I don't need the heavy cruiser.
Masterbate to Sons of Anarchy every morning and you'll be good.
Can send to Indonesia
Sounds like my snowblower
These bikes do wheelies
Front tire too tall - they need to increase the rim size and decrease tire profile as well as give us 200 mm rear tire instead of 150 mm, they need to stop supplying bikes with candle light and replace them with LED lights this is 2018 not 1900.
The engine size should have been 103ci for the S model.
Those stock exhaust pipes on the regular 48 literally sounds like shit
Is that a minibike!!
No, and its not a traveling couch either...
Would rather hear the bike run not loud music.
That’s why I give a variety of both in my videos.
Now Harley’s quality of bikes are good... for a price💰