If you got it, why not flaunt it? So we took our new 2018 Harley-Davidson Sportster Forty-Eight Special to iconic Cook’s Corner in Southern California to snap some shots of the newest Sportster for you folks. Back in 2010, Harley-Davidson introduced the XL1200X Forty-Eight model , and eight years later the newest version still retains that tiny 2.2-gallon peanut tank. This year, it does gain a more muscular front end with forged aluminum triple clamps and a 49mm fork, all topped off with 7.25-inch-high Tallboy bars.

Related Video: 2018 Harley-Davidson Forty-Eight Special Dyno

The 2018 Forty-Eight Special arrives in three color options: Vivid Black, Wicked Red, and Billiard White, with ours rolling in Billiard White. The new Forty-Eight Special comes equipped with the reliable 1,200cc Evolution motor, paired with a five-speed transmission. Starting price is $11,299 for Vivid Black, with color options starting at $11,649.

Jordan (6 feet tall) fits comfortably behind the Tallboy bars and forward controls.

Jeff Allen

The Forty-Eight Special is equipped with chrome heat shields and engine covers.

Jeff Allen

The 1,200cc Evolution engine looks sharp with all that chrome!

Jeff Allen

The Forty-Eight Special is rocking Split nine-spoke cast aluminum wheels in Gloss Black.

Jeff Allen

Jordan heading toward some twisties out past Cook’s Corner in sunny Southern Cal.

Jeff Allen

The authentic bold ’70s-inspired tank graphic and badge take us back to yesteryear.

Jeff Allen

Jordan heading into the twisties grinding down those feelers!

Jeff Allen

“Authentic bold ’70s-inspired tank graphic and badge shows the bike’s retro roots.”

Specifications

ENGINE:	Air-cooled Evolution
BORE:	3.5 in.
STROKE:	3.8 in.
DISPLACEMENT:	1202cc (73.4ci)
COMPRESSION RATIO:	10:01
FUEL SYSTEM:	Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
EXHAUST:	Black staggered exhaust w/ slash-cut mufflers