2017 Harley-Davidson Forty-Eight (XL1200X)│Review & Test Ride

A Detailed Walk-through of the 2017 Harley-Davidson Sportster Forty-Eight. Buyer's guide to help you make an informed decision when buying this or another Harley-Davidson. Get the right bike for your riding needs. Test Ride and Walk-around performed by Matt Laidlaw of Laidlaw's Harley-Davidson in Baldwin Park, CA
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[@OnPointFirearms]

I love the Forty Eight. Had this exact bike (2017) bought brand new back in December after my 99 Sporster crapped out. Had it for one month and then my brother in law from San Diego came to town, laid it down at 50mph and totaled it in my neighborhood. And that's how I ended up with my Lowrider S FXDLS. True story. Never letting someone ride my bike. Never.

[@MattLaidlaw]

OnPointFirearms sounds like you learned the hard way. Hopefully you had good insurance. Thanks for the comment.

[@OnPointFirearms]

I have good insurance from AllState, but I didn't want it to hit by perfect record. So I just sacked up and bought a new bike. The brother-in-law is paying me back on the easy time payment plan. It might take until 2050, but he says he's good for it. FML. ;)

[@StreetGlideJeff]

OnPointFirearms ...wow, crazy story brother. I used to have a 1999 Sporty 1200 and i loved that bike..Great all around bike. I now ride a 08 Street Glide, but i feel for your loss, i had a family member drop a Harley of mine ride in front of me. Doesnt matter anymore, never let anyone ride your scoot, esoecially family members. LMAO, its all good brother.. Harleys forever..enjoy your Lowrider, nice bike too!

[@zibanibaruti6943]

I love the Forty Eight. Had this exact bike (2017) bought brand new back in December after my 99 Sporster crapped out. Had it for one month and then my brother in law from San Diego came to town, laid it down at 50mph and totaled it in my neighborhood. And that's how I ended up with my Lowrider S FXDLS. True story. Never letting someone ride my bike. Never. REPLY

[@rolandjosef7961]

@@zibanibaruti6943 I love the Forty Eight. Had this exact bike (2017) bought brand new back in December after my 99 Sporster crapped out. Had it for one month and then my brother in law from San Diego came to town, laid it down at 50mph and totaled it in my neighborhood. And that's how I ended up with my Lowrider S FXDLS. True story. Never letting someone ride my bike. Never.

[@charlessalde8707]

The most clear/comprehensive explanation of the 48 including the pros/cons, just a great job....

[@mariuss.6607]

48 72 and 883 are the best looking Harleys in my opinion.

[@dennissutton3767]

Marius S. the new 2018 HD line sucks! Except for the sportster

[@NameGoesHere341]

i always thought Quinn was good looking

[@cameronthornley6888]

V ROD BOI

[@WillP-sn8mz]

Agree

[@markdean4255]

If I was a dog…..these bikes give me a red one!

[@derekobrien3743]

Thanks for putting in all the hard work! I just bought my first Harley a couple months ago and you have been one of the best resources on youtube for learning about the new and old models.

[@impromptucaferacer]

This is going to be a long one. I own one 2017 HD Forty Eight (and several other bikes) and this is my 8 months ownership review: I bought it without riding it first. I paid for it and got it, as simple as that. I wanted a Forty Eight so bad to fill the spot next to my T100 Bonneville that I never wondered what’s like to actually ride one. _"It’s a Harley, how bad can it be?”_ . Well, it’s not bad and it’s not good either. It’s different. My first impression was: _“goddam, this is so brutal!”_ . The first fifty yards my rear wheel went sideways on a couple of rain droplets. _“Ok, this beast acts poor on wet surfaces”_ . It took me minutes to discover that it is one of the most unrefined bikes I’ve ever rode in my life. It’s shaky and wobbly, idling at any giving stop light it will shake the fillings out of your mouth so the good thing is nobody will notice if your butt is freezing in cold weather. It is also heavy, or shall I say “steely”? Yes, “steely" is the proper word for it ‘cause that’s exactly what you’re holding in between your legs: it might look puny and harmless but in reality you're sitting on a machine that feels like a ton of good old American steel. The mileage you get with your peanut tank is ridiculous. Basically it’s shit so plan your trip wisely. They say 100 miles with a full tank? More likely 80-90, and only if the wind is blowing from your rear. If you’re in San Francisco, always keep a gas station in your sight. Comfort is inexistent. Just forget about it. Who need’s it anyways? Comfort is for pussies. ABS and all, brakes are a laugh comparing to both my BMW’s. Its brakes are shit comparing to anything in my garage probably, on a par perhaps with my 1938 BMW R35. You need a lot of skill to make an elegant and safe stop with the damn thing. First you estimate where you wanna do it, so the countdown begins and (heavily relying on your experience) you’re guessing the exact moment to initiate all the necessary manoeuvres in order to actually avoid a collision. Whenever you'll manage to pull this off you'll feel better and better about yourself. I confess, my bad, I should’ve never compared it to any other modern motorcycle. Don’t compare HD with anything. Don’t do it, it is unfair both to you and to Harley. Apples and oranges. Especially Harley 48 which is a fucking unique motorcycle. And dangerous... Have I mentioned it before? It is fucking dangerous. Like many others who brought the word in the comment section below I cannot agree more, make no mistake, this bike is definitely not a beginner’s bike; it’s gonna bite you hard if you take it lightly and if you fail to pay attention at what you’re doing. On the good side, oh, there is a good side... I’m 170 lbs and 6’2” and I don’t feel bad at all sitting in its saddle, or shall I say on top of the spring “frying pan” (my later added aftermarket upgrade in order to turn it into a proper period bobber). Some of my friends appreciate that I look quite cool on my American stallion but I don’t give a fuck on what anybody says, it's my pony and I like to ride it. I can easily reach the handlebar, rather too easy in my opinion so one week ago I’ve decided to complicate my life even more by opting for a dragbar - better looks, more aggressive stance. Also, HD 48 scores “biggly" with its incredible good looks. What else? Ah, yes, it is remarkably fast, it’s torque is massive _(in second gear you can easily reach 60mph in a couple of seconds and you'll rarely think about getting into third gear and never in forth while riding in town but always remember this: "Shitty Brakes, man, Shitty Brakes!” shout it out loud ‘cause you owe it to yourself and to your loved ones)_ What else... hmmm oh, yeah, it is surprisingly good at lane splitting, it is highly manoeuvrable in heavy city traffic, its overall behaviour is surprisingly nimble given it’s fat front tire, the auto turn off flashing signal works like a charm...have I mentioned that it’s absolutely gorgeous? If I only had a dollar for every man or woman who turned his/her head for a second look. Some say that _“life begins outside your comfort zone”_ . Well, if this is true, oh man, embrace for impact ‘cause on a Harley 48 you’re gonna crap you’re pants out of your life, especially doing 80 mph. It is scary like hell, I don’t care who you are. It’s easily comparable to an out of your body experience. If fright is an aphrodisiac, buckle up boys and get ready for a treat ‘cause Harley 48 is gonna give you a bonner of epic proportions. Bottom line, my conclusion is this: if you’re a hardcore anarchist who doesn’t give a flying fuck about real jobs, government, groceries, frappuccinos, comfort, mortgages, luggages, passenger, long trips, commitments, well, think just about anything conventional and meaningful to a normal human being or, on the contrary, if you’re nothing like that but you’re looking for a superb badass fun machine for your garage, Ladies and Gents, look no further, this is it. Buy one and you’ll never regret it. I don’t. But only as a second bike. The other one should definitely be an R 1200 GSA. Just sayin

[@BananaKing67]

impromptucaferacer fuck this is funny as hell hahaha

[@MattLaidlaw]

This just increased the value of my video by 25%. Thank you

[@tenncutt]

From a guy who bought a brand new 1974 Sportster (Bill Chaney HD} and took off the front brake, welded on a hardtail (American Chopper Enterprises) and put straight pipes on it, you make it sound awesome! Me and my girlfriend went everywhere on that thing. Now 46 years later she is still my wife and I am watching cool sportster videos in the Docs office parking lot waiting for my beautiful wife. That thing you get in your pants from a Sportster is called a BONER! Not a BONNER! I know, I got one watching this video and reminiscing. Y'all don't know what Sportster vibration is, you rubber mount pussies! No I don't really have a boner. I use to ride my 4 Speed beast for 500 or 600 miles no prob. San Fran to LA. Yes 4 Speed! Great video. I like that 48. Did I mention my raked triple tree? Took my license test on it too.

[@Doogerauoy]

I'm 5'6 and the forward controls on my 48 is not a problem.

[@blueracer66]

Yep. I'm 5'7" and I find the forward controls to be perfect.

[@paulallen-01]

Same here !! I was just about to say that

[@wvrebel76]

I had an 08 custom with forwards. And im 5.6. And i thought they where perfect.

[@69FOSTER]

I'm 5'8" and I test rode a 2018 48 and loved it, BUT, my concern was that I was leaning forward with my arms fully extended. I felt stretched out, but I only rode for about 1/4 mile. My question: does the forward lean get uncomfortable after a few miles or is the riding position something I'd get used to?

[@rodolfosabater7781]

My friend is 5'5 and he doesnt have any problem

[@XKV0814]

my 48 will be delivered today..48 white 2020..thanks to this channel.helps me with my decision

[@sithlordwassabi7346]

Awesome review! I've been dreaming of getting a 48 since I was in 10th grade (2010), and I have just graduated college now entering my career. I am getting closer to my dream! Thanks for the awesomely detailed review and test drive. Best 48 review I have found in my past 7 years of day dreaming lol

[@robertraquedan6767]

Always wanted to upgrade to a 48. Finally picked one up last week after my R6 was stolen from work. I'm 5'6", when riding, my legs are straight as an arrow but comfortable enough to change gears and brake. The ride is not the greatest when on rough surfaces. I love this bike!! Looks awesome and feels good. Can't wait to modify the intake and exhaust!,

[@grayghost1423]

Reading this 5 years later and you answered 2 questions, it was 2016 when the fork tubes were updated and you can flip the mirrors. Thanks Matt, the last of the Mohicans!

[@KingGameReview]

This and the Fat Bob are the best looking new Harleys in my opinion... I'll hold on to my 06 Super Glide for now, though - it's still a great bike.

[@KingGameReview]

Yeah - I really like it. If I do anything - I'd like to get a first-gen Fat Bob style rear fender (the bobtail style). I like that a lot.

[@cosmiccharlie8294]

Harley really nailed the styling on this one.

[@thomascarpenter7415]

Thanks Matt for taking one for the team ! Riding that cast iron seat !!

[@brenthill3241]

Old guy here. The ride begins at 12:40 and he takes it in traffic up to about 40 mph. Before that it's fluff that could be covered in three minutes if his style of talking was faster and didn't put you to sleep. Don't be misled. A Sportster any Sportster even the old 900 cc bikes is no ones beginner bike. If you go in with that mentality you'll end up wrapped around a tree. I use to ride my friends 82 1000 cc Sporty on the highway and it was more comfortable than my 81 1340 Superglide. I'm 5'11 and my friend was 6'2. His Sporty had the mid controls . My friend later installed additional forward pegs but he rode it for a year without complaining even with the mids. The Sporty would punch through a trucks crosswind at 80 mph as if it wasnt even there. It would also launch aggressively and blast along the freeway even with the two of us over 400 pounds cruising 75 without the slightest strain from the mill. Loaded up with camping gear around a back rest and a three gallon tank your good for 160 miles at highway speed though I would recommend a larger tank if you can get one. Even with the old 35 mil front forks and three inch wide tire it's great in corners and sweepers. I can only imagine how much those beautiful new forks and wide tire would stick. Would have loved to see a test on that. The Sportster is like no other bike . It's the one and only do everything bike from dirt to street to track depending on how it's set up. It's often somewhat maligned and ignored because it's used to bring people in to view the more expensive bikes but a well maintained Sporty can be your first and last bike.

[@groover4293]

Brent, how true you are mate. I have a 95 XLH1200 and it's a amazing bike. I just love to weave through the city traffic up to the traffic lights and give it a gut full. The torque to weight ratio is masively ridiculous. Just wondering how better the fuel injected Sportie is. People who say there a girls bike have never ridden one. Oh, I'm a old guy as well and my other bike is a Ultra. Yin and Yang.

[@majorlifts]

Brent Hill the best comment on Sportsters I've ever read true and to the point, made more sense than this video.

[@waynemosteller9970]

Brent Hill, totally correct. My pockets are not deep enough for keeping two Harleys. :-( My old lady got into riding million, so traded my 2010 XL1200C for a Dyna Switch back. The FLD is a good bike, without a doubt. Much more comfortable for the two of us, but, I still miss that 1200C! If my pockets were deeper, I'd have 'em BOTH in my garage!

[@BorderlineAlaska]

Brent Hill May not seem like a beginners bike to you but most sportsters are slow turds, they are a beginners bike, period.

[@srs_lol]

Brent Hill d

[@kellytorres51]

FYI I’m 5’6 on a good day and I ride my 48 without issue.

[@bill770]

Got a 22' 48 and I love it! Perfect for a beginner and great for an experienced rider, and plenty of power!

[@blueracer66]

I have the 2016 Harley Davidson Forty-Eight XL1200X (pretty much this bike) and I am 5'7" and I have no issues with the forward controls (3:21). Great video, by the way! I think this is the most comprehensive video about the 2016-2017 Forty-Eight. Thank you for sharing it!

[@Juammpy81]

I was just wondering about that since I’m 5’7” as well. I’m debating between the iron 883 and the forty-eight. I’m glad I saw your comment. Thanks and ride safe.

[@blueracer66]

@@Juammpy81 48 is the way to go if you're getting a Sportster. 🤙🏽

[@Juammpy81]

@@blueracer66 this is the confirmation I was waiting for. Thanks brother!

[@KingGameReview]

I liked the spoked wheels better. I feel like it fit the classic look.

[@geraldscott4302]

Spoked wheels mean tube type tires which mean you will be completely stranded by a simple flat tire that would be no big deal with tubeless tires.

[@ProjectFairmont]

Prolly the best review in terms of presentation and. Comprehension I have seen on the 48.

[@georgesampara1074]

Matt, i love your detailed and honest opinion. Forty Eight is my favourite HD irrespective of some negative points. Thank you for your work👍😊

[@ka-bar5060]

My first bike was a new '97 1200 Custom. I loved that bike, but errornously thought it was a "starting Harley" and then upgraded to a '00 Super Glide followed by a total of over 20 years of Big Twins across the Dyna, Softail and Touring families. They were great for longer trips especially the Road King, but as I've grown older I am wanting a Sporty once again. That young man's ego is gone. Now I understand and appreciate the Sportster for what it is. That small peanut tank is perfect for rolling around during the day, and honestly by the time you are ready for a fill up the break and stretch is perfect. I'm not trying to paint it with rose-colored glasses, but honestly after almost 25 years of riding the Evo Sporty is a hell of a bike that as you stated can be personalized to infinity. It will truly suck when the Company finally stops making them. Luckily there are Sporty's everywhere. I am seriously considering buying a 2022 version to have since we all know that some time soon H-D will discontinue them.

[@MrEdwardBloom]

I loved this video. Thorough, for moderate and clueless riders and nothing but angles of the gorgeous bike.

[@chrisdroste3296]

I got the forty-eight right before they revised everything; and i loved it til i rode it and then i kinda didn't anymore tbh. The grey metallic pearl or whatever H-D calls is had me in love; i even liked how the underslung mirrors once you were used to them gave a better view behind imo because my shoulders and arms wern't blocking the the view. but the rake with that fat tire and the peg position was CONSTANTLY discouraging me from taking the bikes through turns. Even mild rights i'd scrape peg, and while the fat front made for a better ride, for me it just slowed down all my inputs. Definitely ride before you buy, I loved to look and be on the bike but in the end the FatBob wound up being a FAR more satisfying bike to live with out there. Thanks Matt for another great, level-headed look at your stock!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Chris Droste Thank you for the great perspective from an owner.

[@Steve-vm1fi]

Completely agree about the whole "harley has a completely different feel". I had a 48 and I wanted a new bike. The natural progression is to go to a Dyna but first I wanted to ride as many non-Harley bikes as I could so I rode them all. Japanese, British, German, Indian, etc and nothing gave me that feeling of being on a Harley.

[@justsayin3784]

Great review as usual, Matt. Love the fourty-eight! I'm partial to touring bikes, but if I had to choose which non-touring bike to own, it would be the fourty-eight without a doubt. The good thing about these bikes is, their price point on the used market makes them an attractive addition as a stable mate to someone who has a touring bike.

[@HarleyBreakoutGuy]

My wife's first bike was a new 2013 Harley 72 it had forward control but she had no problem being only 5'8".

[@jbob2176]

This is the best looking Sportster in my opinion, thanks for showing it off.

[@robshepherd3263]

Really is

[@0616ko]

Another great review Matt. The limited fuel range would be hard to live with but what a nice motorcycle. Thanks.

[@markdean4255]

5’6 you can ride this bike comfortably, my friend has one of these and has no problem, fits him well. Disregard the guy saying 5’9, great video!

[@whiskeythrottleracing]

Matt you're right about Harleys having a whole new layer of experience. They have personality. I would love to ride the 48 on short commutes to work and around town. It would be perfect for that.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Agreed! Thanks for the comment.

[@PurelyScientific]

I had been watching your videos trying to decide what bike to get as my first Harley. Just bought this bike today, waiting for it to be delivered. I get home from the dealership and you finally did a video on it! Great video, hit all the points that were the reasons for my purchase. If I wasn't on the other side of the country in NJ I would have bought the bike from you. Keep up the good work!

[@MattLaidlaw]

PurelyScientific Thank you and enjoy the Bike. Congrats.

[@WodanKlaaschOften]

Unfortunately I can't afford to buy one, so I'm renting one next week to do some back-road touring. It seems I'll be stopping to get gas 3 times a day, but I couldn't care less. Thanks for this great video, it got me all excited for next week!

[@MikeJones-gu1rg]

On a side note, my Dad and 2 uncle's bought new 1980 FLH's from your (grandfather?) with consecutive serial numbers. Sadly they are all gone now, but I remember riding on back with Dad on his. They also had kilometer readout on them rather than miles. I wish I could have bought one of them!

[@bucknutz2879]

Matt, as usual, awesome review. Best on you tube in my opinion. I'd still love to see you do a XL883L review.

[@justindhitchcock1806]

Have a 2017 sportster 883 superlow loaded very happy with it I like the bigger bikes but the sportster is financially right for me I like your videos very cool

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thank you!

[@jmackinjersey1]

I am so freaking glad that Harley finally put something over the frame between the tank and seat. I could not stand to see it like it used to be with the frame just sticking out like an unfinished barn build. In fact, it looks like the rest of the bike has been cleaned up a lot. I'm only looking at it on my phone, and will look closer later on my computer, or maybe even go to the dealer, since they are down the street from me, and get an up close look and compare to an older bike.

[@galildog]

Will make a nice retirement bike for a old Hard Corps Marine. great info and well done. Semper-Fi.

[@muammarhawarii7967]

RON MAGNUM well done averyone wkwkw nice bike

[@ninjako6255]

Your videos are always great and I enjoy your commentary very much! Whenever I need info about HD I look up your videos! Thank you!

[@HJ-sn5gt]

Cool to see your Dad still riding and riding a sport bike too!

[@MattLaidlaw]

H J It was a dual sport. I think it was a KLR.

[@chadmartin6334]

Great Video as Always!! My Wife picked up a 2016 48 for her first Bike and she loves it!!

[@tyo7034]

Hey Matt really appreciate all your videos. I am curious on your take between the 48 and the roadster. Like the forward foot controls on the 48 but definitely the small gas tank is going to be an issue.

[@javaughnreid9819]

I’m 5’9 and I’m a skinny dude about weight about 130 and this bike fits me perfectly

[@MrSokkermasta]

Hey man I love your reviews. Probably the best ones I have found out there!! Your review on the iron convinced me in my choice when it came time to get it! Thanks man!

[@MattLaidlaw]

883 infinity Thanks for sharing. I'm glad I could help.

[@robtbomba3491]

Would like to see the tank slightly longer and maybe fatter by 1/2" all around, hopefully reach 3 gals or more, as long as it wouldn't be too noticeable. Bike looks great right out of the crate

[@sandking9918]

I just bought the same bike 2 weeks ago, and i get a tons of looks. Fun bike to have

[@sergeymalitsky7688]

By far the best channel about HD! Thanks for the great review!

[@greygoose4x46]

I agree 100 percent that the sportster is not a great " beginners bike " I loved my iron and bought it when I was 20, in 2010 same year the 48 came out ... I wanted the 48 bad but couldn't justify the extra money at the time ... great review

[@Stevo736]

These really are a beautiful bike, Harley Davidson definitely got the look spot on.

[@seeteasea5497]

I am looking to get a bike and these videos are awesome for the information that they provide for someone who is looking to move into the Harley world and don't know everything about them. Great to see how they perform and hear that great sound, they look awesome in LA, don't think they'll look the same over here in Scotland! Love the videos Matt, keep them coming!!!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Chris Connelly Thank you for watching my friend. My ancestors are from Scotland. Laidlaw is a Scottish name.

[@seeteasea5497]

Matt Laidlaw wow thanks for the reply, got nothing but admiration for what you do with these videos. Wasn't sure of this bike until I watched this video and now I'm almost completely sold on it, even with the limited range. Just lucky Scotland is so small. Be safe chief

[@Holly1960-]

Love this Retro WWII look!!! Similar feel to the "Great Escape, Steve McQueen Bike," Blacked out . Basically, This bike is Boss !!!✔🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸 Thanks Matt !!!

[@scottliegel855]

Hey thanks brother,, we'll probably get there couple days early, make sure you ask about that 10%,.

[@dengara1]

Hey Matt thank you for the review I know I bugged you about it and really glad you got around to getting it up on here... this really helped with my decision on getting the bike ... I will be paying you guys a visit soon ... thanks again for the in-depth look at this 48 ...

[@MattLaidlaw]

THEBIGBADWOLF You're welcome. Glad I could help. See you soon.

[@xslickii]

I have that exact same bike just 2016 my height is at 5,6 and the forward controls are just fine

[@blueracer66]

Yep. I have the same bile. I'm 5'7" and I find the forward controls to be perfect.

[@69FOSTER]

@@blueracer66 I'm 5'8'' with a 30" inseam and the foot controls are comfortable. Upper body position is OK, not perfect because I'd like to be a little more upright, but not uncomfortable at all.

[@LimitedSpectrum]

I lust after this bike. I got my first Harley in 2005, 1200XLC. It's cool and all, but THIS is my perfect bike. I wish I could trade!

[@dansmusic5749]

I sure hope they do right by the next generation of this bike. The Harley feel is SO important.

[@superbuggg7187]

Another home run Matt. Keep up the great work.

[@greggschnelker4445]

Great illustration of the showing and information of the Sportster 48 ... you didn't miss a thing. good looking bike!, VERY INFORMATIVE!

[@cxns155]

Great content, great attitude. Keep it up brother. If I'm ever in the area, definitely stopping by the shop. Stay up!

[@conardwilliamson2366]

Yea love the sportster have a 2014 48 and 2013 72 model and have the 2018 street bob and the 2005 deluxe had the glides great bikes but love the sportsters had a few in my time

[@collincratty8777]

My first bike was an 06' sporty. I loved it. I like the way the 48 looks. It looks like a Fat Bobs lil brother. I would definitely have to put a bigger tank on, but like you said there's a ton of options for customizing. Great video as always.

[@johnhall4445]

Probably the best spokesman for Harley Davidson in the country!

[@DarthVader-1701]

Matt can you make a review and ride for the Sportster 1200 Custom (XL1200C)?

[@Hogdriver88]

Matt I think guys were just messing with you, wanting to see a 6'7 guy on a Sporty. That said, I'm glad you did it. I love that 48 and it would be a perfect around town second bike, though I'm leaning more toward the larger Softail Slim. Definitely in need of pipes, otherwise it sounds like a sewing machine. Another good, honest, calm review listing pros as well as cons (from a dealer, no less). I'd buy from you any time. Be careful out there - that knucklehead blasted right thru the yield sign...

[@zookskustomz]

Hi Matt, first off i watch all the videos you upload. They are a great learning tool for not only HD's whole line up, but new changes being made.... So thanks... I do see that your Dad wears what looks like the same helmet as you and that looks to be a on/off road maybe Suzuki? Nothing wrong with that at all, its 2 wheels.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Yea, it may have been a Suzuki. We have tons of motorcycles coming and going at all times. The helmet is definitely different though.

[@craigpennington1251]

This bike would be outstanding with the same style tank but with 4.5gallon capacity. That way you can actually get some where without refueling.

[@danmurphy1994]

Where has this guy been?! I thought all bike journalists were sub par until now. Excellent breakdown man, finally a channel I can rely on for motorcycle reviews!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Dan Murphy Thank you. Hopefully I can continue to get better from here.

[@danmurphy1994]

Matt Laidlaw I'm being honest in saying I wouldn't change much, you've nailed it. I've seen many channels mess up a good thing by changing things. Plus, I imagine this audience doesn't like change,(I know I don't as it pertains to these bikes) Harley riders 😂😂. I haven't owned one yet but am aspiring to do so as my first motorcycle. (Ridden many, never owned any bike though.) I have a buddy in LA who's lookin at bikes too, I'll tell him to check out Laidlaw's

[@20Radman07]

ANOTHER GREAT articulate, neutral (IMO) pov review. Tells it like it is. Thank you.

[@akdrumster]

Glad I happened upon this video Matt. Recently & regrettably sold my '13 Dyna ST to lighten the shipping load (due to residence relocation few states over), and been eyeing the 48 for awhile. Figured I'd get one shortly upon settling down, but now semi-concerned w/r/t the small tank; in the event I hook-up w other riders looking to do a road trip. IDK, may elect to get another Big V-Twin.

[@MattLaidlaw]

If you’re coming from a dyna and you want to do road trips you won’t be happy with a 48.

[@rodolfosabater7781]

The price of that in the states is equivalent to the price of the street 750 here in the Philippines... it just looks awesome matt

[@mezmorizedauto1]

Awesome!! One of my Dream bikes! Like the sport cruisers and sports bikes! Love the style of this bike!

[@glennsmooth]

I have the 2014. Love the bike but didn't realize it didn't have abs. I think it should be a mfg. requirement/law just like cars. Swap out the pipes for short shots, leds all around. I even added a legend air ride rear suspension and it made the ride so much more comfortable over potholes as well as better cornering clearance. It can be slammed or lifted while riding.

[@MikeJones-gu1rg]

Matt, your reviews are excellent! Thanks for doing them.

[@ojaym9769]

My 2020 pretty well looks the same. A fun bike for sure.

[@MattRatcliffeBrisbane]

Unreal looking ride, would love to own one!

[@zrxgrim]

hah "There's my Dad" tremendous. Good video as a FLTRU owner you answered the questions I had, not surprised.

[@paulallen-01]

I’m 5’ 6” And the forward controls have never been on problem

[@chadernest1471]

Love the fat tire fronts. Always want one of these as a city ride.

[@chaltaloma]

Great Review and Have Been Following Your Videos For Only a Few Weeks...Start The H-D Rider Academy in 2 Weeks and am Torn Between The 883 iron and The 48(am Now Leaning Towards the 48 Now) Thanks Matt For All Your Knowledge and insight....BTW Why Did You Not Have Lunch at King Taco LOL.....Will Stop Bye after i Graduate From Rider Academy as i Live Here in SOCAL.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Nice man. Good luck with the class. Thanks for watching and stop by our shop any time. 👍🏻

[@Teckenburg]

very well explained. overall very nice to listen to. Dankeschön from Germany!

[@rolandosantaana8200]

Mine is a 2015 and I brought her all the way to Ohio from NYC!! Went to Pennsylvania, Maryland and Jersey!! Dude I ride!!

[@dr.pastrami5272]

Did the seat kill you?

[@davidwyatt940]

Great review. Unintentional hilarity @ 22:16 ; Racing stripes and a freaking spoiler on a Ford Contour. Couldn't see if it had spinners though...

[@atq42]

Thanks Matt, awsm review. Been waiting for this long time nt much out there in full detail great job uve covered evrythn & best of all uve answered all my questions😊👍 nw i hv to set sm thngs right & get this bike😀... Just a suggestion Matt, it would look nice if u could set up a camera externally to show hw u look whn riding the bike😊 Thank u

[@jamesfairmind2247]

Great review with useful info re the 16 model for buying used. Can anybody tell me what the largest replacement gas tank is that you can get for a sportster?

[@FlyingGentile]

Can't wait for your 2018 review!

[@Blueseas4Joe]

I am impressed so there are still real men left in Ca? Soo far you guys are the only thing Ca has to be proud of. Keep up the good work and ride on.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Blueseas4Joe Thanks man.

[@APR944]

Thanks man! This is an awesome informational vid. Very well done. XX

[@santiismaldi8223]

Anthony P. Ramirez ll 7gjgiho

[@richardharsey5664]

nice review but im 5' 7" and i feel bunched up quite a bit on mine

[@bodieb1233]

Very professional job. I've gotta admit I love the sportster ? Miss mine but for a while I've been on a deuce which is great. Anyway really nice job good info and really professional. Thanks

[@luiyis4687]

Nice Video!!! thanks for all information you give us!!!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Luiyi S you're welcome !

[@stefanie9645]

Gals are also watching this and considering a sportster, just FYI ... specifically a 1200 custom. I was wanting a triumph, but I think I’m going with the Harley Custom 1200. First bike.

[@imdartson3679]

I'm 5'7 and my sportster has forward mounted controls. I feel like my right leg wants to fly off the peg at highway speeds. Maybe its because I'm short, or maybe its because I'm 120 pounds, but overall its very comfortable. I tuck the tip of my right shoe under the rear brake lever. Probably not super safe, but it works out well. Hope this helps you shorter riders out there thinking about this subject.

[@imdartson3679]

Oh, and Matt is 100% correct about the character of these bikes. Sportster is an around town shitkicking bike. Long highway rides will wear you out.

[@blueracer66]

I'm 5'7" and I find the forward controls to be perfect. I'm 175 lbs though. I have the same bike but I am chaning the gas tank to a 3.3 gal peanut tank and a Le Pera seat. It's up to you to make it your bike so it works with you..

[@1jrlord17]

Really like your reviews on the different models. The rides are great too!! Do you have a review on the Superlow XL1200T Sportster?

[@MattLaidlaw]

James Lord thank you. Thanks for watching. I don't have a review on that bike. It's not a very popular bike so I probably won't review it. Sorry.

[@tornikejanikashvili1228]

i`m in love with forty eight < 3

[@TBONESIDEOFLIFE]

great work as always matt, love sharing these videos and your time and views on these machines and the passion you have for them. makes the family thing a living one as well. take care brother and be safe! 😎

[@bebop2599]

With so many gas stations around, running out of fuel is never really a problem in the modern world. Even some third world countries have fuel for sale on every street corner. Seriously, if you want a heavier bike laden with fuel, upgrade the fuel tank. It ain’t hard. However, if you like blasting away from traffic lights and enjoy lane splitting, beating the traffic, the authentic 48 provides a very good feel good factor. The 48 is simply a stunning looking bike and is amazingly nimble. If you want an emotional attachment to a bike that has gobs of soul chuck a set of free flow pipes on it or slip on’s on, the noise completely transforms the sensation of riding it. With new pipes, the sound is incredible and almost sounds like WW2 fighter plane. Gears are very positive when you shift. Mirrors are great, as is the back brake. Sure, 6th gear would be nice. Characterful vibrations are felt but the joy of riding it far exceeds all that, especially when you custom modify stock seat to gel. Really, there’s not much to dislike other than tuning it for even better performance, including high flow air filter for increased induction sound. Riding hard the fuel light comes at about 56 miles, easy riding about 70 miles. One thing for sure is you'll be on first name basis with your local gas station cashier. It's a good bike and comes as a blank canvas for all sorts of modifications to personalise it. Long may it stay in the Harley line up.

[@geekinginandout]

Thanks Matt.

[@SuperSynoptic]

Thanks much, nice presentation.

[@gilbertoliveras397]

hey Matt u have very great videos and I just watched ur video on great places to ride in SoCal but I was wondering if u were planning on doing a review on the 2017 V-rod Muscle.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Gilbert Oliveras probably not. If the Vrod sticks around for the 2018 model year then I will do one.

[@christian31Eagles]

The crushed ice denim forty eights are really nice

[@MattLaidlaw]

Christian Cole I like that color a lot too. It's too bad we don't sell many of them.

[@dannestor1875]

Bought this bike this past Sunday !

[@MattLaidlaw]

Dan Nestor congrats man.

[@rtsowet]

Congrats....I just bought one today. First HD. Delivery tomorrow....my day off.....YEAH!!!

[@danjodrey7969]

at some point you should compare the 48 to the 1200 custom sportster. would be an interesting comparison

[@MattLaidlaw]

dan jodrey yea that would be.

[@jmackinjersey1]

dan jodrey, different tank and spoke wheels, and a two up seat.