The first 2016 Harley-Davidson models we were able to hop aboard during the press launch in Portland, Oregon were the Forty-Eight and Iron 883 Sportster.

A route running the gamut from pot-hole ridden urban streets to winding, sweeping high speed hillside highways around the Portland area were a great testbed for the all new suspension that is the standout feature on both models.

Both models feature re-engineered suspension with emulsion coil-over shocks with new front cartridge forks with the Forty-Eight receiving very robust 49mm forks. Nitrogen gas-charged shocks resist oil aeration and feature an internal valve stack with 36mm pistons and high-performance oil to provide superior compression and rebound damping control that reacts quickly to small bumps and keeps the tires in contact on uneven road surfaces. Progressive-rate spring pre-load is adjustable by a threaded collar using a spanner that stows under the seat.Tuned to complement the shocks, the stout forks feature a calibrated piston and valve stack and progressive rate springs for consistent feel throughout the compression and extension range of the suspension. The triple-rate spring and oil lock allows the forks to resist wheel hop under hard braking.

Well, how do they perform? Quite superbly simply put. Yes, that good. The stock suspenders are on par with high end suspension fork and shock kits. The front and rear units provided very progressive and confidence inspiring dampening that handled an eclectic mix of riding situations with nary a “clang” of bottoming out , blowing through the travel or excessive brake dive. Good stuff that really puts the “Sport” in Sportster. The front end on the Forty-Eight felt especially flex free and planted due to it’s 49mm tubes and newly designed fork trees. These new units accentuate the already nimble and flickable nature of the Sportster line. The 50mm of range of pre-load on the shocks ensure adjustability for a wide range of riders and riding conditions.

Both models also feature stylishly new seating options that work well in retaining the rider in the saddle yet are still comfortable.

Look for a more in depth review of both when we are able to get some more saddle time.

Forty-Eight Features

-Emulsion technology rear shocks with 50 mm range of pre-load adjustability and an under-seat, rear shock suspension adjustment wrench

-Front forks with cartridge dampening technology

-Fork brace and massive triple clamps

-Optimized seat design for all-day comfort, minimalist style

-Split 9-Spoke Cast Aluminum wheels in gloss black with Machined highlights

-Open design sprocket

-Blacked-out belt guard

-Turn signal mounts off upper triple

-Chrome exhaust shields with unique cutouts to show off blacked-out mufflers

-Paint color options including Hard Candy Custom™ color

-Retro-mod tank graphics

Iron 883 Features

-Emulsion technology rear shocks with 50 mm range of pre-load adjustability and an under-seat, rear shock suspension adjustment wrench

-Front forks with cartridge dampening technology

-Optimized solo seat design with filler components for all-day comfort and Bobber tuck and roll style

-Three paint color options selected for urban practicality and one Hard Candy Custom™ color

-Eagle and Iron Shield graphics

-Bullet-hole design details in exhaust header shield, blacked-out belt guard, and front fender trim

-Black, 9-Spoke Cast Aluminum wheels with Machined highlights, 19-inch front, 16-inch rear

-Blacked-out floating brake rotor

-Blacked-out, stamped, air cleaner cover

-Blacked-out mufflers and muffler shields

For more info: h-d.com

The Iron 883 Sportster

The all new rear suspension on both models work fantastic

The Forty-Eight Sportster

Stout 49mm forks are new for the Forty-Eight model

9 Spoke Mags that are a nod to the past classic stylings of H-D