Forty Eight Specifications

The Harley-Davidson Forty Eight is built around the 1202cc air-cooled Evolution V-twin engine - a motor with lineage stretching back to 1984 and arguably the most characterful unit in the Harley-Davidson catalogue at its price point. It produces 65.7 bhp at 6,000 rpm and 96 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm, paired to a five-speed gearbox. Those numbers look modest on paper, but the way that torque arrives - in a deep, lazy wave from very low revs - makes it genuinely addictive in Indian city traffic. Think of it less like a sportbike and more like a well-tuned diesel truck: effortless from idle.

Here are the key specifications at a glance:

Engine: 1202cc, air-cooled, 45° V-twin, ESPFI fuel injection Max Power: 65.7 bhp @ 6,000 rpm Max Torque: 96 Nm @ 3,500 rpm Gearbox: 5-speed manual Mileage (ARAI): 20 kmpl Fuel Tank: 7.9 litres Kerb Weight: 252 kg Seat Height: 710 mm Ground Clearance: 110 mm Wheelbase: 1,495 mm Braking: Dual Channel ABS, front and rear disc brakes Tyres: 130/90-16 (front), 150/80-16 (rear) - tubeless Frame: Mild steel, double-downtube

The 710 mm seat height is on the lower side for a big cruiser, which helps riders of average Indian height manage the bike at standstill. The 252 kg kerb weight is significant, but the low centre of gravity makes it feel lighter than that number suggests once you are moving. Dual Channel ABS is standard - essential for a bike of this weight and character.

One key caveat: the 7.9-litre tank is tiny for a 1200cc motorcycle. At 20 kmpl ARAI (real-world closer to 17-19 kmpl), your realistic range is around 130-150 km before refuelling. Plan your fuel stops accordingly, especially on any highway run outside major metros.