The Keeway SR125 marks the entry of the Hungarian motorcycle brand Keeway into the highly competitive 125cc segment in India, a market dominated by established players like Honda, Bajaj, and TVS. Launched in October 2022, this motorcycle blends retro-classic aesthetics with modern functionality, targeting urban commuters and enthusiasts who value style alongside practicality. Keeway, a subsidiary of the Chinese Qianjiang Group (which also owns Benelli), has positioned the SR125 as an affordable yet distinctive option in its Indian portfolio. With its old-school design—featuring a round headlamp, wire-spoke wheels, and a ribbed seat—it evokes nostalgia while incorporating contemporary features like LED lighting and a digital instrument cluster. Priced competitively, the SR125 aims to carve a niche in a segment where performance, mileage, and affordability are paramount.
Since its debut, the Keeway SR125 has garnered mixed reactions. While its unique styling and fuel efficiency have won praise, some users have flagged concerns about service network limitations and part availability, reflecting the challenges of a relatively new brand establishing itself in India. This detailed exploration covers the bike’s technical specifications, variants, pricing across metro cities, and an in-depth look at its features, performance, and competition, providing a comprehensive guide for potential buyers.
Technical Specifications
The Keeway SR125 is powered by a modest yet efficient 125cc engine, designed to balance performance with fuel economy. Below is a detailed breakdown of its technical specifications, presented in tabular format for clarity.
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Single-cylinder, 4-stroke, air-cooled, SOHC, BS6 Phase 2 compliant |
| Displacement | 125 cc |
| Max Power | 9.56 bhp @ 9000 rpm (BikeWale) / 9.83 PS @ 9000 rpm (BikeDekho) |
| Max Torque | 8.2 Nm @ 7500 rpm |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Fuel System | Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) |
| Mileage | 48.5 kmpl (user-reported, BikeWale) / 50 kmpl (claimed, BikeDekho) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 14.5 litres |
| Length | 1890 mm |
| Width | 790 mm |
| Height | 1050 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1285 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 160 mm |
| Seat Height | 780 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 120 kg |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic forks |
| Rear Suspension | Preload-adjustable twin shock absorbers (5-step adjustable) |
| Front Brake | 300 mm disc with Combined Braking System (CBS) |
| Rear Brake | 210 mm disc with CBS |
| Tyre Size (Front) | 110/70-17 (wire-spoke wheels, block pattern tyres) |
| Tyre Size (Rear) | 130/70-17 (wire-spoke wheels, block pattern tyres) |
| Frame | Single downtube frame |
| Top Speed | Approximately 100 kmph (claimed) |
These specifications highlight the SR125’s focus on lightweight construction and fuel efficiency, making it an appealing choice for city commuting.
Variants
The Keeway SR125 is available in a single variant in India, keeping the lineup simple and straightforward. Below is the variant table:
| Variant | Description |
|---|---|
| SR125 Standard | Single variant with three colour options: Glossy Black, Glossy Red, Glossy White |
Unlike some competitors that offer multiple variants with differing features (e.g., drum vs. disc brakes), Keeway has opted for a uniform configuration, ensuring all units come equipped with disc brakes and CBS as standard.
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the Keeway SR125 varies slightly across metro cities due to differences in RTO charges, insurance, and local taxes. Below is a table reflecting the on-road prices as of April 2025, sourced from BikeWale and BikeDekho:
| City | Ex-Showroom Price (INR) | On-Road Price (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 1,20,000 | 1,46,887 |
| Mumbai | 1,20,000 | 1,58,501 |
| Pune | 1,20,000 | 1,58,501 |
| Bangalore | 1,20,000 | 1,56,947 |
| Chennai | 1,20,000 | 1,57,224 |
| Kolkata | 1,20,000 | 1,55,392 |
The on-road price includes ex-showroom cost, RTO charges, and insurance, with EMI options starting at approximately INR 5,039 per month in Delhi (based on a 10% down payment and 10% interest rate over 3 years, per BikeWale).
About the Keeway SR125
Design and Exteriors
The Keeway SR125 stands out with its retro-inspired design, a deliberate nod to classic motorcycles of yesteryears. The bike features a round halogen headlamp with an LED DRL, complemented by round indicators and a minimalist tail light, all of which enhance its vintage appeal. The 14.5-litre teardrop-shaped fuel tank is a highlight, adorned with a chrome filler cap and available in three glossy finishes: Glossy Black, Glossy Red, and Glossy White. These colour options are uniformly priced, ensuring buyers can choose based on preference without cost implications.
The SR125 rides on 17-inch wire-spoke wheels wrapped in block-pattern tyres from Yuanxing, adding to its scrambler-like aesthetic while offering decent grip on varied surfaces. The single downtube frame is paired with telescopic forks at the front (with gaiters for a retro touch) and twin shock absorbers at the rear, adjustable for preload in five steps. This suspension setup provides a balance of comfort and stability, ideal for urban roads. At 120 kg, the bike’s lightweight construction aids maneuverability, while the 160 mm ground clearance ensures it can handle minor obstacles like speed bumps with ease.
Interiors and Ergonomics
While motorcycles don’t have “interiors” in the traditional sense, the Keeway SR125 offers a rider-focused layout that prioritizes comfort. The single-piece ribbed seat, finished in tan brown, is designed for both the rider and pillion, though some users note it’s slightly short for extended two-up rides. With a seat height of 780 mm, the SR125 is accessible to a wide range of riders, including those with shorter statures, making it a practical choice for daily use.
The handlebar is wide and upright, promoting a relaxed riding posture suited for city commuting. The footpegs are positioned to complement this ergonomic setup, reducing fatigue on longer rides. However, the lack of advanced features like adjustable levers or a cushioned backrest limits its appeal for those seeking premium ergonomics.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Keeway SR125 lies a 125cc single-cylinder, air-cooled, SOHC engine with electronic fuel injection (EFI), compliant with BS6 Phase 2 norms. This engine produces 9.56 bhp (or 9.83 PS, depending on the source) at 9000 rpm and 8.2 Nm of torque at 7500 rpm, mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. While these figures are modest compared to segment leaders like the Honda SP 125 (10.7 PS, 11 Nm), the SR125 prioritizes fuel efficiency over outright performance.
The bike’s top speed is claimed to be around 100 kmph, though real-world conditions may limit it slightly. Acceleration is adequate for city traffic, with smooth gear shifts aiding usability. However, some owners report the engine feels underpowered with a pillion or on inclines, a trade-off for its impressive mileage of 48.5-50 kmpl. The large 14.5-litre fuel tank—one of the biggest in its class—translates to a theoretical range of over 700 km, a significant advantage for commuters.
Advanced Features
The Keeway SR125 incorporates several modern features despite its retro styling. The fully digital instrument cluster displays essential information like speed, odometer, trip meter, and fuel level in a clear, colorful format. A side-stand engine cut-off enhances safety by preventing the bike from starting unless the stand is up, while the Combined Braking System (CBS) ensures balanced stopping power across both 300 mm front and 210 mm rear disc brakes. The oversized front disc is notable for a 125cc bike, offering confident braking, though it lacks ABS (not mandatory for this engine size under Indian norms).
LED lighting for the DRL, indicators, and tail light improves visibility and adds a premium touch, though the headlamp remains a halogen unit. Additional features like a hazard switch are practical for urban riding, but the absence of connectivity options (e.g., Bluetooth) or a USB charging port may disappoint tech-savvy buyers.
Ride and Handling
The Keeway SR125 excels as a city commuter thanks to its lightweight chassis and nimble handling. The telescopic forks and twin shocks absorb minor road imperfections well, though the suspension can feel firm on rough patches. The block-pattern tyres provide decent traction on dry roads and light off-road surfaces, aligning with its scrambler-inspired design. At 120 kg, the bike is easy to maneuver through traffic, and the low seat height boosts confidence for new riders.
However, high-speed stability is limited due to its light weight and modest power, making it less suited for highway cruising. The CBS-equipped disc brakes offer reliable stopping power, though some users report a hard clutch and notchy gear shifts, which could be a drawback in stop-and-go traffic.
Pros and Cons
The Keeway SR125 shines with its retro styling, fuel efficiency, and large fuel tank, making it a standout in the 125cc segment. Its lightweight build and accessible ergonomics cater to beginners and urban riders alike. However, limited service network, expensive spare parts, and underpowered engine are notable drawbacks, as highlighted by user reviews on BikeWale and BikeDekho. The brand’s nascent presence in India also raises concerns about long-term reliability and resale value.
Close Competitors
The Keeway SR125 competes in a crowded 125cc segment, facing off against established models that offer a mix of performance, features, and affordability. Here’s an in-depth comparison with its closest rivals:
Honda SP 125
- Engine: 124cc, 10.7 PS, 11 Nm
- Mileage: 60 kmpl (claimed)
- Price: INR 87,000-92,000 (ex-showroom)
- Key Features: Silent start with ACG, fuel injection, combi-brakes or CBS
- Comparison: The Honda SP 125 outperforms the SR125 in power and mileage, backed by Honda’s extensive service network and reliability. However, it lacks the SR125’s retro charm and larger fuel tank.
Bajaj Pulsar NS125
- Engine: 124.45cc, 11.99 PS, 11 Nm
- Mileage: 45 kmpl (user-reported)
- Price: INR 1,04,000-1,08,000 (ex-showroom)
- Key Features: Perimeter frame, sporty design, disc brakes
- Comparison: The Pulsar NS125 offers superior performance and a modern look, appealing to younger riders. Its mileage is lower than the SR125’s, and it misses the retro appeal.
TVS Raider 125
- Engine: 124.8cc, 11.38 PS, 11.2 Nm
- Mileage: 57 kmpl (claimed)
- Price: INR 95,000-1,03,000 (ex-showroom)
- Key Features: LED headlamp, digital cluster, ride modes
- Comparison: The TVS Raider 125 blends sportiness with efficiency, outpacing the SR125 in power and features like ride modes. Its contemporary design contrasts with the SR125’s classic vibe.
Yamaha FZ-X (Higher Segment Alternative)
- Engine: 149cc, 12.4 PS, 13.3 Nm
- Mileage: 45 kmpl (claimed)
- Price: INR 1,36,000-1,40,000 (ex-showroom)
- Key Features: Bluetooth connectivity, LED lights, single-channel ABS
- Comparison: Priced closer to the SR125’s on-road cost, the FZ-X offers more power and advanced features but sacrifices fuel efficiency and retro styling.
Market Positioning and Buyer Appeal
The Keeway SR125 occupies a unique space in the 125cc segment, blending retro aesthetics with practical features like a large fuel tank and decent mileage. Priced at INR 1,20,000 (ex-showroom), it’s more expensive than mainstream rivals like the Honda SP 125 or TVS Raider 125, positioning it as a premium alternative for buyers prioritizing style over raw performance. Its CKD (Completely Knocked Down) assembly in India justifies the higher cost to some extent, though it struggles against competitors with stronger brand recall and service infrastructure.
The bike appeals to urban commuters seeking a distinctive ride, as well as beginners drawn to its low seat height and lightweight build. However, its limited dealership network (shared with Benelli) and costly spares may deter buyers in smaller towns, where service accessibility is critical. Keeway’s plans to localize production (announced in late 2023) could lower costs and boost competitiveness, but as of April 2025, this remains a work in progress.
User Feedback and Real-World Experience
User reviews on BikeWale and BikeDekho paint a mixed picture. Positive feedback centers on the SR125’s stylish looks, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency, with owners appreciating its standout design in traffic. One user called it “the best-looking bike in this range,” while another praised its “huge 14-litre tank” for long rides. Conversely, criticisms include overheating issues, hard clutch, poor service experience, and expensive parts. A notable review warned, “Mother promise, please don’t buy Keeway SR125… it’s a total waste of money,” citing recurring issues and high maintenance costs.
These insights suggest the SR125 excels as a stylish commuter but falls short in reliability and after-sales support, areas where competitors like Honda and TVS have a clear edge.
Future Prospects and Brand Strategy
Keeway’s entry into India with the SR125 reflects a broader strategy to establish a foothold in the mid-size motorcycle market, leveraging its partnership with Adishwar Auto Ride India (Benelli’s distributor). The brand aims to expand its dealership network beyond the current 40+ outlets, targeting over 100 by late 2025. Local production of the SR125 and its sibling, the SR250, could reduce prices and improve spare part availability, addressing key pain points.
However, Keeway faces an uphill battle against entrenched players with decades of market presence. Its focus on unique styling and diverse offerings (from scooters to cruisers) could attract a niche audience, but building brand trust and service reliability will be critical for long-term success.
Final Thoughts!
The Keeway SR125 is a compelling option for riders seeking a retro-styled commuter with modern touches like LED lighting and a digital cluster. Its lightweight design, large fuel tank, and decent mileage make it a practical choice for city use, while its distinctive looks set it apart from the crowd. However, its modest performance, limited service network, and higher price compared to rivals like the Honda SP 125 and TVS Raider 125 temper its appeal. For buyers prioritizing style and willing to overlook after-sales challenges, the SR125 offers a unique proposition. As Keeway strengthens its presence in India, this bike could evolve into a stronger contender, but for now, it remains a bold yet imperfect entry into the 125cc fray.
