Cruisers

2019Harley-Davidson Sportster Forty-Eight

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The 2019 Harley-Davidson Sportster Forty-Eight is a lightweight cruiser designed for riders seeking classic styling with accessible handling. Known for its low seat height, nimble maneuverability, and iconic dark aesthetic, it excels as an entry-point to Harley ownership while delivering authentic cruiser character in a compact package.

Capacity: 1202.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 247.0 kg
Seat height: 665 mm
Power: 65.0 HP (47.4 kW) @ 6000 RPM

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What’s new for the 2019 Harley-Davidson Sportster Forty-Eight

vs the 2018

Spec	2018	2019
Torque	96.0 Nm (9.8 kgf-m or 70.8 ft.lbs) @ 3500 RPM	99.0 Nm (10.1 kgf-m or 73.0 ft.lbs) @ 3500 RPM
Seat height	710 mm (28.0 inches)	665 mm (26.2 inches)
Compression	9.7:1	10.0:1

Other years 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering40%

City riding65%

Daily riding55%

Touring30%

Two-up20%

Track10%

Best for: Built for short blasts, boulevard cruising, and style-focused riding rather than outright speed or long-distance touring.
Built for: A stripped-down, fat-tired custom cruiser that delivers punchy low-end torque, a thumping air-cooled V-twin soundtrack, and bold Dark Custom styling.
Not ideal for: Not a good fit for riders seeking sport-bike agility, off-road capability, or a comfortable two-up long-distance tourer.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to us

Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 665mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2019 Harley-Davidson Sportster Forty-Eight, with a cramped knee angle of around 70 degrees and an upright riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 750 mm or under — Short Kings →

Find bikes that fit your height →

Range and running costs

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Units

Currency

Fuel per litre

Riding a year

Based on the maker's published fuel consumption and tank size. Real-world figures depend on how and where you ride, and the last litres of a tank are reserve. Prices shown greyed are examples - type your own.

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 1202.0 ccm
Power: 65.0 HP (47.4 kW) @ 6000 RPM
CO2 Emissions: 114 CO2 g/km
Torque: 99.0 Nm (10.1 kgf-m) @ 3500 RPM
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Fuel consumption: 4.90 litres/100 km (20.4 km/l)
Power/weight ratio: 0.2632 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 88.9 x 96.8 mm
Compression: 10.0:1
Cooling system: Air
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Lubrication system: Dry sump

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Belt
Clutch: Multi-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1495 mm
Overall length: 2164 mm
Seat height: 665 mm
Dry weight: 247.0 kg
Wet weight: 252.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 7.90 litres
Ground clearance: 110 mm
Oil capacity: 2.60 litres

Chassis & suspension

Front suspension: Telescopic fork
Rear suspension: Twin shocks
Rake (fork angle): 30.2°
Trail: 135 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc. Dual-piston. Optional ABS.
Rear brakes: Single disc. Single-piston. Optional ABS.
ABS: Optional
Front tyre: 130/90-B16
Rear tyre: 150/80-B16

Other

Color options: Vivid Black, Wicked Red Denim, Industrial Gray, Rugged Gold Denim, Blue Max, Scorched Orange/Black Denim

Specs last verified against published sources: October 2026.

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted

Specification	2013	2015	2017	2018	2019	2020
Capacity	1201 cc	1201 cc	1201 cc	1201 cc	1202 cc	1202 cc
Dry weight	251 kg	251 kg	247 kg	247 kg	247 kg	247 kg
Seat height	660 mm	660 mm	710 mm	710 mm	665 mm	665 mm
Fuel capacity	8 L	7.9 L	7.9 L	7.9 L	7.9 L	7.9 L

Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.

Rider Reviews

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MotorcycleDB

The 2019 Harley-Davidson Sportster Forty-Eight is a powerful and stylish motorcycle that offers a unique riding experience. With its classic design and powerful engine, this bike is perfect for both urban riding and long highway cruises. The Sportster Forty-Eight features a 1200cc Evolution engine, providing plenty of torque and responsiveness for an exhilarating ride. Its low-slung design and aggressive stance make it stand out on the road, while its comfortable riding position ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Overall, the 2019 Harley-Davidson Sportster Forty-Eight is a fantastic motorcycle that delivers on both style and performance. Whether you're a seasoned rider or new to the world of motorcycles, this bike is sure to impress with its power, handling, and iconic Harley-Davidson heritage. With its timeless design and powerful engine, the Sportster Forty-Eight is a great choice for those looking for a high-quality and reliable motorcycle for their next adventure.

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