Market Segment:
Cruiser / Custom Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson owners, independent mechanics, motorcycle enthusiasts.
Key Competitors:
Indian Scout, Triumph Bonneville, various Japanese V-twins.
Vehicle Identity:
Iconic styling, V-twin rumble, rider-focused experience.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and technicians with detailed, accurate repair information.
Engine:
Full disassembly, assembly, tuning, troubleshooting
Transmission:
Disassembly, assembly, clutch, gear selection, troubleshooting
Fuel System:
Fuel injection (EFI) system, throttle body, fuel pump, injectors, diagnostics
Electrical System:
Ignition system, charging system, lighting, starter, battery, wiring diagrams, sensors
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, caliper service, rotor replacement, bleeding procedures
Suspension:
Front fork service (oil change, seal replacement), rear shock absorber replacement
Chassis And Frame:
Frame inspection, component mounting, steering head bearing service
Bodywork:
Fender removal/installation, tank removal/installation, seat service
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, belt adjustments
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (where applicable via diagnostic port)
Repair:
Component replacement, overhaul procedures, torque specifications
Installation:
Aftermarket accessory installation guidance (general principles)
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to full engine rebuilds and electrical diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Evolution V-Twin
Displacement:
1200cc (73.4 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
3.5 in x 3.8125 in (88.9 mm x 96.8 mm)
Valve Train:
Overhead Valves (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 67 hp @ 5750 rpm (Estimates vary by source)
Torque:
Approx. 71 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (Estimates vary by source)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
91 octane (or higher) unleaded gasoline recommended
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 (or equivalent API SG, JASO FD, certified 20W50)
Oil Capacity:
3.0 US qt (2.8 L) with filter change
Crash Test Ratings:
Motorcycles typically do not undergo standardized crash testing like automobiles.
Braking System:
Dual-piston front caliper with 300mm disc, single-piston rear caliper with 260mm disc.
ABS:
Optional on some models, check VIN or specific vehicle for availability.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED taillight, standard turn signals.
First Service:
1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months
Subsequent Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months
Belt Tension Check:
Every 2,500 miles (4,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically around 10,000-20,000 miles (16,000-32,000 km)
Engine Oil Viscosity:
20W50
Transmission Oil Viscosity:
SAE 50
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Harley-Davidson Formula + (or equivalent SAE 50)
Primary Chain Case Oil Capacity:
1 US qt (0.95 L)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, brake pads, tires, fork seals, drive belt.
Potential Electrical Quirks:
Wiring harness connections, battery charging issues (depending on maintenance).
Engine Performance Tuning:
Manual covers stock configurations; performance tuning (ECU remapping, exhaust upgrades) may require specialized knowledge not fully detailed in a base manual.
Brand Origin:
United States, founded 1903.
Sportster Lineage:
The Sportster line is one of Harley-Davidson's longest-running model families, originating in 1957.
Forty Eight Introduction:
The Forty-Eight model, with its distinctive peanut tank and fat front tire, was introduced in 2010, drawing inspiration from classic 1948 models.
Manufacturing Location:
United States
Motorcycle Awards:
The Sportster line, including the Forty-Eight, has consistently been praised for its styling and iconic status within the motorcycle community.
Customer Satisfaction:
Generally high among owners who appreciate the classic styling and riding experience.
Manual Accuracy:
Based on factory service procedures and technical information used by authorized dealers and mechanics.
