The Aprilia SXR 125 is a standout offering in the Indian two-wheeler market, blending Italian flair with practical functionality tailored for urban riders. Launched by Aprilia, a brand synonymous with performance and racing heritage, this scooter caters to those seeking a premium yet accessible ride in the bustling streets of India. Introduced as a more affordable sibling to the SXR 160, the SXR 125 retains the maxi-scooter styling that has made the SXR lineup distinctive, while delivering a performance suited for city commuting. With its bold design, peppy engine, and a host of features, it appeals to riders who value style, comfort, and efficiency. Positioned as a premium 125cc scooter, it competes with the likes of the Suzuki Burgman Street 125 and other sporty offerings in the segment, making it a compelling choice for those who want more than just a utilitarian ride.
Aprilia, under the Piaggio Group, has a rich legacy in motorsports and premium two-wheelers, and the SXR 125 reflects this heritage. Launched in 2021, it targets the growing demand for scooters that offer a balance between sportiness and practicality. The scooter’s CrossMax design philosophy—a blend of maxi-scooter aesthetics and sporty dynamics—sets it apart in a market dominated by conventional designs. Whether it’s weaving through traffic or making a statement on the road, the SXR 125 promises a riding experience that’s both engaging and comfortable. In this detailed exploration, we’ll dive into its technical specifications, variants, pricing across metro cities, and how it stacks up against its competitors.
Technical Specifications
The Aprilia SXR 125 is engineered to deliver reliable performance with a focus on urban usability. Below is a comprehensive table outlining its technical specifications, sourced from reputable platforms like BikeDekho and BikeWale, ensuring accuracy and relevance as of April 2025.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Single-cylinder, 4-stroke, air-cooled, 3-valve, SOHC, BS6-compliant |
| Displacement | 124.45 cc |
| Max Power | 9.61 PS @ 7500 rpm (approximately 9.48 bhp) |
| Max Torque | 10.19 Nm @ 5400 rpm |
| Transmission | CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection |
| Mileage | 40 kmpl (claimed, varies with riding conditions) |
| Top Speed | 93 kmph |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 7 liters |
| Length | 1960 mm |
| Width | 803 mm |
| Height | 1205 mm (excluding windscreen) |
| Wheelbase | 1361 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 161 mm |
| Seat Height | 775 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 129 kg |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic fork |
| Rear Suspension | Single hydraulic shock absorber |
| Front Brake | 220 mm disc with Combined Braking System (CBS) |
| Rear Brake | 140 mm drum |
| Tyre Size (Front) | 120/70-12 (tubeless) |
| Tyre Size (Rear) | 120/70-12 (tubeless) |
| Wheel Type | 12-inch alloy wheels with 5-spoke geometric pattern |
| Emission Standard | BS6 Phase 2 |
These specifications highlight the SXR 125’s capability as a well-rounded scooter, offering decent power, fuel efficiency, and a robust chassis for city and short highway rides.
Variants
The Aprilia SXR 125 is available in a single variant, keeping the lineup simple yet effective. Below is a table detailing the variant and its color options.
| Variant | Color Options |
|---|---|
| SXR 125 STD | Glossy Red, Matt Blue, Glossy White, Matt Black |
Unlike some competitors that offer multiple trims with varying features, Aprilia opts for a streamlined approach with the SXR 125, ensuring all units come equipped with the same premium features and styling.
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the Aprilia SXR 125 varies slightly across metro cities in India due to differences in RTO charges, insurance, and local taxes. The table below provides the ex-showroom and on-road prices (approximate) as of April 2025, based on data from BikeDekho and BikeWale.
| City | Ex-Showroom Price (INR) | On-Road Price (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 1,33,058 | 1,52,693 |
| Mumbai | 1,34,810 | 1,57,000 (approx.) |
| Bangalore | 1,34,620 | 1,68,777 |
| Chennai | 1,35,000 (approx.) | 1,60,000 (approx.) |
| Hyderabad | 1,34,810 | 1,60,316 |
The on-road price includes RTO, insurance, and other charges, making the SXR 125 a premium offering in its segment. Prices are subject to change based on dealership offers and regional variations.
About the Aprilia SXR 125
Design and Exteriors
The Aprilia SXR 125 is a visual treat, embodying the CrossMax design philosophy that blends maxi-scooter proportions with sporty elements. Its front fascia is dominated by a twin LED headlamp setup, flanked by sharp lines and a tall, tinted windscreen that not only enhances its bold look but also offers decent wind protection. The beefy apron, muscular rear panels, and upswept tail section give it a commanding road presence, distinguishing it from typical scooters in the Indian market. The 12-inch alloy wheels, featuring a geometric five-spoke pattern, add a touch of sophistication, while the wide 120-section tubeless tires ensure stability and grip.
The scooter’s side profile exudes a sense of length and stability, thanks to its 1361 mm wheelbase. Available in four striking colors—Glossy Red, Matt Blue, Glossy White, and Matt Black—the SXR 125 appeals to a wide range of aesthetic preferences. The carbon-look finish on the handlebar and fairings, along with sporty side graphics, further accentuate its dynamic character. Practical exterior features include extractable foot pegs for the pillion and distinctive mudguards that complement its premium build quality. The fit and finish are top-notch, reflecting Aprilia’s commitment to delivering a premium product that stands out in a crowded market.
Interiors and Ergonomics
While scooters don’t have traditional interiors like cars, the Aprilia SXR 125 offers a rider-centric layout that prioritizes comfort and convenience. The long, single-piece seat, with a height of 775 mm, is designed for both rider and pillion comfort, featuring double stitching for a premium feel. Its contoured shape ensures ample support during long rides, while the flat floorboard provides flexibility for placing small luggage or stretching out during commutes. The seat height is accessible for most Indian riders, making it easy to handle in stop-and-go traffic.
Under-seat storage is a highlight, offering enough space to accommodate a helmet or small bags, with internal illumination for nighttime accessibility. The apron-mounted glove box, though lockable, is relatively compact but useful for essentials like keys or a phone. The handlebar layout is intuitive, with controls within easy reach, and the carbon-look finish adds a sporty vibe. The SXR 125’s ergonomics strike a balance between an upright riding posture and slight forward lean, making it suitable for both city rides and occasional longer journeys.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Aprilia SXR 125 lies a 124.45 cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled, 3-valve engine that complies with BS6 Phase 2 emission norms. Producing 9.61 PS at 7500 rpm and 10.19 Nm at 5400 rpm, this fuel-injected powerplant is paired with a CVT gearbox, delivering smooth and linear acceleration. While it may not match the outright performance of larger maxi-scooters, it’s peppy enough for urban environments, reaching a top speed of 93 kmph. The engine is a refined unit, shared with the sportier SR 125 and Storm 125, but tuned differently to suit the SXR’s maxi-scooter character.
The SXR 125 excels in city traffic, offering quick throttle response and adequate power for overtaking. Its claimed mileage of 40 kmpl makes it reasonably fuel-efficient, though real-world figures may vary depending on riding style and conditions. On highways, it maintains stability up to moderate speeds, but the 125cc displacement limits its appeal for long-distance touring. The engine’s refinement, low NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) levels, and eco-friendly emissions make it a practical choice for daily commuters who also care about style.
Ride and Handling
The Aprilia SXR 125 is built on a single-cradle frame made of steel and molded sheet metal, providing a sturdy foundation for its 129 kg kerb weight. The suspension setup—telescopic forks at the front and a single hydraulic shock absorber at the rear—is tuned for a balance between comfort and sportiness. It handles most urban potholes and bumps with ease, though the ride can feel slightly firm on rougher terrain. The 12-inch wheels, smaller than the SR 125’s 14-inchers, are paired with wide tires that enhance grip and stability, making it agile in tight spaces.
Braking duties are handled by a 220 mm front disc and a 140 mm rear drum, supported by a Combined Braking System (CBS) instead of ABS. This setup ensures confident stopping power, particularly in city conditions, though some riders might miss the precision of ABS found on the SXR 160. The scooter’s handling is a strong suit, with a low center of gravity and a well-balanced chassis that inspires confidence during cornering or quick maneuvers. At 161 mm, the ground clearance is sufficient to tackle speed breakers and uneven roads without scraping.
Advanced Features
The Aprilia SXR 125 comes equipped with a suite of features that elevate its premium positioning. The full LED lighting system—including headlights and taillights—ensures excellent visibility and adds a modern touch. The digital instrument cluster is a standout, displaying essential information like speed, fuel level, trip meters, odometer, and real-time fuel efficiency. While it lacks smartphone connectivity or navigation—features found in competitors like the TVS Ntorq 125—it’s functional and easy to read.
Additional conveniences include a USB charging port for on-the-go device charging and a lockable glove box for secure storage. The under-seat storage, with its internal light, is a practical touch for urban riders. The windscreen, while primarily aesthetic, offers mild wind protection, enhancing comfort on longer rides. These features, combined with the scooter’s premium build, make it a compelling package, though the absence of Bluetooth connectivity might disappoint tech-savvy buyers.
Competitors Comparison
The Aprilia SXR 125 operates in a competitive segment, facing off against scooters like the Suzuki Burgman Street 125, TVS Ntorq 125, and Honda Activa 125. Here’s how it stacks up:
- Suzuki Burgman Street 125: Priced lower at around INR 95,000–1,00,000 (ex-showroom), the Burgman offers similar maxi-scooter styling but with a less powerful 8.7 PS engine. It’s more affordable and practical, with better fuel efficiency (around 50 kmpl), but lacks the SXR 125’s sporty dynamics and premium feel. The Burgman’s service network is also wider, making it a practical alternative for budget-conscious buyers.
- TVS Ntorq 125: Starting at INR 86,000–1,06,000 (ex-showroom), the Ntorq is a sporty rival with a 10.2 PS engine, offering superior performance. It boasts features like Bluetooth connectivity and navigation, which the SXR 125 lacks. However, its conventional design doesn’t match the SXR’s maxi-scooter appeal, and its ride quality is sportier but less plush.
- Honda Activa 125: Priced between INR 94,000–97,000 (ex-showroom), the Activa is the king of practicality, with a refined 8.3 PS engine and exceptional reliability. It offers better mileage (around 50 kmpl) and a vast service network but lacks the SXR 125’s style and premium features, catering more to utilitarian riders.
The SXR 125’s higher price (INR 1.33–1.35 lakh ex-showroom) reflects its premium positioning, but it may deter buyers who prioritize affordability or advanced tech over style and brand value. Its closest rival, the Burgman, offers a similar body style at a lower cost, while the Ntorq appeals to performance enthusiasts. The SXR 125, however, shines with its Italian design, road presence, and balanced performance, appealing to those willing to pay a premium for exclusivity.
Market Positioning and Verdict
In the Indian market, the Aprilia SXR 125 occupies a niche as a premium 125cc scooter, targeting riders who want a blend of style, comfort, and performance without stepping into the higher-displacement segment. Its pricing, hovering above INR 1.5 lakh on-road in metro cities, positions it as an aspirational product, competing with the likes of Vespa scooters and its own sibling, the SXR 160 (priced at INR 1.44 lakh ex-showroom). However, this premium pricing comes with trade-offs—limited service network, higher maintenance costs, and the absence of features like ABS or connectivity, which are increasingly expected in this segment.
For urban commuters, the SXR 125 offers a refined ride with ample storage, decent mileage, and a striking design that turns heads. Its 7-liter fuel tank ensures fewer stops at the pump, while the peppy engine handles city traffic with ease. However, its 129 kg weight and firm suspension might not suit everyone, especially on poorly maintained roads. Compared to the SXR 160, which costs just INR 11,000 more and offers more power (10.94 bhp), some might question the value proposition of the 125cc variant. Yet, for those seeking an entry into the Aprilia brand without stretching their budget too far, the SXR 125 delivers a compelling package.
In conclusion, the Aprilia SXR 125 is a bold statement in the 125cc scooter segment, marrying Italian aesthetics with practical usability. It’s not the most affordable or feature-packed option, but it excels where it matters—offering a premium riding experience with a distinctive identity. Riders who prioritize style and brand heritage over sheer practicality will find it a worthy companion, while those seeking value or advanced tech might look elsewhere. As of April 2025, it remains a unique choice in a market teeming with conventional scooters, proving that sometimes, standing out is worth the premium.
