A Harley that is perfectly sized for the Filipino.
StreettalkPh was recently given a rare chance to test ride the 2020 Harley-Davidson Sportster Forty-Eight. Just hearing the name triggers a myriad of emotions. Almost everyone in this planet reacts to the name, much more when they actually see one. And see one, we did. And we actually tested one! For 5 days!
Why “48”? Well, It’s that tiny teardrop-shaped tank that gave birth to that moniker. The “peanut” tank was originally introduced on Harley-Davidson’s 1948 125 model, hence the name. The rest was history.
Unlike the typical high-end Fat Bob and Street Glide motorcycles, the “48” is a bit compact in size and sits closer to the ground. But don’t let that fool you, it still packs a 1200cc (73.4ci) 57hp, Air-Cooled Evolution V-Twin Engine, the powertrain legendary for it’s massive low end torque, which is quite a handful, especially if you are used to smaller displacement bikes. And unlike other makes, the 48 shows its power right off the bat.
The Ride
Before setting off, familiarization with the controls is important. The Start button, signal lights and horn button location placement are different from other makes. Notable that the side mirrors are placed under the handlebar—so wearing a full face or modular helmet means that you have to tilt your head down to look as the lower face protection obstructs the view. An open face helmet is recommended.
With the wide 130/90/B 16 front tires and big 49mm fork, maneuvering at low speeds is a chore; the heavy load makes it difficult to park or reversing, but the heft is very advantageous at cruising speeds. Bumps and potholes pose no significance as the 48 is very stable as it glides through them as if they didn’t exist. Rear tires are bigger at 150/80/B 16s.
Since the 48 is a cruiser, the riding position is a bit inclined but relaxed, with the foot controls placed more forward. Grasping the handlebar provides the body support when the rider is pushed backwards by the wind.
(Photo: Light Stroked Images)
The 48 is actually quite easy to operate, you just have to learn the technique involved. Since this is a torque monster, you do not have to rev high when shifting. 1,200 rpm is enough for gear changes. There is a thin line between engine bog down and over revving; the trick here is the “half clutch”, releasing the clutch lever halfway results in smoother acceleration without the danger of sudden burst of speed or engine stall (thanks to the slipper clutch). Even if the 48 is geared for high speed, the engine low revs can take it. In city driving, you will never see revs above 2000rpm– or 3rd gear.
(Photo: Light Stroked Images) 
(Photo: Light Stroked Images) 
(Photo: Light Stroked Images)
With this in mind, we managed to ride the 48 in Edsa traffic. The ride was enjoyable, despite the heat abovementioned. The narrow handlebars enabled the 48 to lane split between cars, and the wide tires and firm suspension gave confidence even on fast turns. Oh, yeah, the 48 managed to out accelerate all other motorcycles with just a blip on the gas.
Disadvantages
The low ride height, while advantageous in traffic, also means the lower frame of the 48 is more prone to scrapes from road humps. Exhaust heat is felt in the rider’s right leg in standstill traffic. The discomfort is real, but the heat quickly dissipates when you are in motion again. This is why you should use the proper gear when riding.
The cockpit is composed of only one gauge. The electric speedometer is combined with a digital tachometer and odometer. There isn’t even a fuel gauge for the 15-liter tank, just low fuel and oil warning lights.
Well, for a true Harley Davidson enthusiast, these come with the territory.
Price as tested
The price of the the 2020 Harley-Davidson Sportster Forty-Eight is actually more affordable today at PHP850,000 for the Vivid Black variant.
Add PHP20,000 for the River Rock Denim Gray and Performance Orange colors. (Featured model)
Go ahead, live the dream. Own a Harley Davidson Motorcycle
Specifications
- AIR-COOLED, EVOLUTION® 73.4 cu in (1200cc)
- FUEL SYSTEM: Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
- Transmission: 6-speed
- Torque: 73 FT-LB (99Nm)
- Power: 57hp
- WEIGHT: 545 LB.
- SEAT HEIGHT, LADEN: 26.2 IN
- EXHAUST: Black, staggered exhaust with slash-cut mufflers
Harley Davidson of Manila
1008 Epifanio de los Santos Ave, San Juan, 1502 Metro Manila
30th street cor 3rd avenue, Unit GF1 Shangri-La at the Fort, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, 1634 Metro Manila
Visit: harley-davidsonofmanila.com.ph
