Harley-Davidson Introduces Two New Sportster Models
Fans of factory-built customs now have two new Sportster models to choose from – the Iron 1200 and Forty-Eight Special.
Harley’s Sportster lineup is already vast, chock full of factory custom offerings. But now they’re adding two more to the crowded group as the legendary motorcycle maker works to expand their offerings by 100 bikes by 2027. Both of the new rides, the Forty-Eight Special and Iron 1200, carry on a recent trend of building a Sportster for everyone.
According to H-D, “these new high-bar Sportsters combine throw-back styling trends from the custom-bike scene with the solid foundation of the Sportster platform and the punchy performance of the Evolution 1200 V-Twin engine.” It’s a win-win combination, as more and more bikers (especially those new to the scene) seek out custom-looking bikes straight from the dealership floor.
Of course, the Sportster is the perfect platform for that treatment. “Since its inception, the Sportster has offered the perfect combination of size, power and character that makes it appealing to so many different riders,” said Brad Richards, Harley-Davidson V.P. of Styling & Design. “A Sportster is a relatively easy bike to strip down and reinvent. What we’ve done to create the new Iron 1200 and Forty-Eight Special is what Sportster owners have been doing with their own bikes for generations.”
Both bikes are easily distinguished by their unique tank graphics, with styling that’s a throwback to the ’70s. Both use the 1202cc Evolution 1200 V-Twin for power. And both ride on a narrow chassis with twin-shock rear swing arm suspension and nine-spoke cast wheels.
The Iron 1200 comes with satin-black Mini Ape handle bars, a gloss black speed screen, and fast-back Café Solo Seat. The bike is otherwise mostly blacked out. Which just draws more attention to the old school, multi-colored graphics on the 3.3-gallon tank.
The Forty-Eight Special has a burlier front end, thanks to its 130mm front tire framed by 49mm forks. The handlebars are 7.25-inch high Tallboys, which look great combined with a smaller 2.2-gallon “peanut” Sportster fuel tank. You’ll also find quite a bit more chrome on the engine than the blacked-out Iron 1200.
Sure, you could easily replicate either of these new Sportster models in your own garage with basic tools. But being able to buy the custom bike of your choosing straight from the showroom floor certainly has its appeal. Especially for those just looking to pick up their first bike!
