We drove: Harley-Davidson Iron 1200 in Forty-Eight Special
Americans don't forget history and updated model Iron 1200 in Forty eight special reminiscent of the old days. First Sportster Namely, he drove on the roads back in 1957, but after the renovation this year, the memories revived a little. Of course, not with technology, but with form or especially graphic representation. We must not ignore the fact that despite being almost an entry-level model, the Sportster has been one of the most popular Harley-Davidson brands for decades when it comes to modifications and customization. An athlete can be a float or a chopper, a scaler and, of course, a racer in a cafe. The new graphic on the fuel tank is reminiscent of the 70s, but at the same time emphasizes the image of the fuel tank.
Iron Sportster 1200 This year it features a black engine, rims and an exhaust system with a slightly taller handlebar, a cafe racer style single seat and a minimalist visor. The name Iron 1200 already hints at a new engine - now this 1,2-liter V-Twin Evolution and offers 36 percent more torque (than the 883 Evolution), which of course ensures better acceleration from a standstill, easy overtaking while driving and last but not least, favorable cruising speed. The 12,5-litre fuel tank, as mentioned, is immortalized with new graphics, further accentuated by the black engine. The monotony with chrome is broken only by the engine mount and the upper part of the front fork, and everything else is black. The Iron 1200 comes with new nine-spoke wheels (19" front and 16" rear) and the transmission is belt driven. If desired, the owner can design a security system. Harley-Davidson Intelligent Safety System and of course the braking system with ABS.
On the other hand, the Forty-Eight Special is even more special in terms of design, and the connection between modernity and history is even stronger. For the same reason, the Forty-Eight Special is made for traditional, tasteful drivers.
On the one hand, massive tires with black rims and a massive front fork emphasize reliability, but chrome accessories quickly dissipate it. The Tallboy steering wheel was a pleasant surprise, as the name suggests that it is taller than usual. With a height of 18,4 cm, it provides an even more comfortable position on the motorcycle, and in combination with a new fuel tank, the appearance is of course significantly improved. When we mention the fuel tank – which is very nice in terms of design, but the shape requires a tax on size or volume – so there is still room for just under eight liters of fuel, which is good to know before the bike takes over. while driving. Compared to the Iron 1200, the Forty-Eight Special retains the combination of black and chrome that is, after all, a trademark of Harley-Davidson. So the exhaust pipes are also covered in chrome and the rears (mufflers) are again covered in black.
Interestingly, both motorcycles also turned out to be exactly as the Americans describe them. They are pleasantly maneuverable and powerful enough to drive even further than the nearest café. In the end, this is also possible thanks to the new seats, which, together with the new steering wheel, provide a comfortable driving position. It is clear that the vast majority of motorcyclists look at the Harley brand rather askance, but many simply because of some ailments of the past. The present is completely different. The bottom line is that the "kids" are also real harleys.
When one detail confuses you, another quickly surprises you. When you feel like you can go faster, the gauge view reassures you that you are already too fast. No, the Iron 1200 and Forty-Eight Special are meant to be enjoyed in every sense of the word. No excessive speed, no extra ballast and flawless driving
