Cruisers

2021Harley-Davidson Forty-Eight

40 fields on record

The 2021 Harley-Davidson Forty-Eight is a lightweight custom cruiser powered by the iconic 1202cc Evolution V-twin engine, delivering 65 horsepower and strong low-end torque. Built for riders seeking classic style with modern reliability, it excels as an accessible entry point into the Harley cruiser lineup. Known for its minimalist design, nimble handling, and authentic bobber aesthetic, the Forty-Eight combines vintage appeal with contemporary fuel injection technology.

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

⇄ Compare with another bike ＋ Add to garage All model years

Other years 2021 2022

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail10%

Cornering35%

City riding65%

Daily riding55%

Touring30%

Two-up25%

Track10%

Best for: Built for short, stylish cruising and boulevard riding rather than outright performance or distance touring.
Built for: A classic bobber-styled Harley cruiser that delivers strong low-end torque, relaxed cruising feel, and unmistakable custom presence rather than outright speed.
Not ideal for: Not a good fit for riders seeking long-distance touring comfort, aggressive cornering ability, or off-road capability.

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

Will it fit you?

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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 2021 Harley-Davidson 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: 126 CO2 g/km
EPA Est. Fuel Consumption: 5.37 L/100km (43.8 US mpg)
EPA CO Emissions: 1.3 CO 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
Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
Valves per cylinder: 2
Lubrication system: Dry sump

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
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: 2.80 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, Midnight Crimson Red, Billiard Teal
Fuel Tank Material: Metal

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	2021	2022
Capacity	1202 cc	1202 cc
Dry weight	247 kg	247 kg
Seat height	665 mm	665 mm
Fuel capacity	7.9 L	7.9 L

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

Rider Reviews

5.0

★★★★★

Rider rating

MotorcycleDB

The 2021 Harley-Davidson Forty-Eight is a stunning motorcycle that offers a unique blend of retro style and modern performance. With its iconic peanut fuel tank, wide handlebars, and fat tires, this bike certainly stands out on the road. The 1200cc Evolution engine provides plenty of power, while the low-slung solo seat and slammed suspension make for a comfortable and confident ride. Whether you're cruising through city streets or hitting the open highway, the Forty-Eight delivers an exhilarating experience that is sure to turn heads.

Overall, the 2021 Harley-Davidson Forty-Eight is a fantastic choice for riders who are looking for a bold and distinctive bike with impressive performance. Its combination of classic design elements and cutting-edge technology make it a standout in the world of motorcycles. With its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and unmistakable style, the Forty-Eight is a machine that truly embodies the spirit of the Harley-Davidson brand. If you're in the market for a motorcycle that is as much a work of art as it is a mode of transportation, the 2021 Forty-Eight is definitely worth considering.

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