Riding through the misty hills of Coorg on a budget-friendly cruiser from China might not sound like a typical motorcycle enthusiast’s dream, but that’s exactly what makes it so special. The Keeway V-Cruise doesn’t wear the badge of a legacy brand, nor does it boast thunderous horsepower or a massive frame. But it rides in with charm, character, and just enough muscle to hold its own among bigger names. With its 125cc V-twin engine and vintage cruiser aesthetics, the V-Cruise feels like a bold statement in the sub-5000 euro segment.
And where better to put this statement to the test than the serpentine roads of Coorg, where tight corners, unpredictable gradients, and soul-stirring views offer a real-world test bench far removed from a showroom floor.
No Fear of High Speeds
Let’s not beat around the bush: 14 horsepower isn’t going to win any drag races. But on the curvy roads of Coorg, where tight hairpins test composure more than raw speed, the V-Cruise felt at home. With a redline at 8,500 rpm, and usable power available past 10,000 rpm in real-world riding, you’re encouraged to keep the needle dancing. Revving hard doesn’t feel abusive here, it’s almost the default state.
Even when climbing those long, sweeping bends up to Mandalpatti, the engine didn’t protest. Sure, you’ll find yourself shifting often, especially between third and fourth, but the gearbox is smooth, the clutch forgiving, and the throttle response sharp for a 125cc. Vibrations? Barely there, even as you hover well above 8,000 rpm. It’s this composure at high revs that keeps the riding fun and anxiety-free, even when you push the little V-twin to its limits.
Minimal Consumption Enables Long Ranges
Riding in Coorg isn’t about blasting through distances, it’s about flowing through scenery. But when your fuel light doesn’t even blink after a full day’s ride, it’s hard not to be impressed. The V-Cruise sipped fuel at an average rate of 2.7 liters per 100 kilometers during our spirited ride through misty coffee estates and sun-drenched clearings. That translated to a jaw-dropping 500 kilometers on a full tank.
The 15-liter tank, well-shaped and easy to grip with your knees, feels almost like overkill for such an efficient engine. If there’s one complaint, it’s that the low-fuel indicator isn’t particularly prominent, a minor quibble that only became noticeable once I started worrying if the bike had any limits at all.
Small Cruiser with Generous Tire Dimensions
Visually, the Keeway V-Cruise makes a solid first impression. The stance is aggressive without being overbearing, and a big part of that is thanks to the tire setup. A chunky 120/80-16 up front and a bold 150/80-15 in the rear give it a planted, mature look, and more importantly, a stable ride.
Handling through Coorg’s winding forest roads felt intuitive. The wide handlebar offers excellent leverage, making quick directional changes feel fluid. Cornering on dry roads was drama-free, with decent grip from the stock Chinese rubber. The USD fork up front soaked up mild bumps well, but the rear’s 4.2 cm of travel reminded me we weren’t on a Gold Wing. On rough patches or surprise potholes, the shocks transmitted a bit too much of the terrain straight into my lower spine.
Still, for a bike with this kind of footprint and cost, the ride quality was surprisingly composed, especially when compared to competitors in the same price range.
Functional Details with Small Eye-Catchers, ABS Missing
Let’s talk ergonomics and details, because this is where the Keeway V-Cruise punches way above its weight. The switches, levers, and bar-end mirrors have a refined, almost bespoke feel. The mirrors look great from the outside but aren’t the most functional, your own forearms will block the view more often than not.
The LED lighting setup at the front and rear is crisp and modern, and the round digital instrument cluster, though compact, is clear and stylish. The seating position is relaxed, with a slightly feet-forward stance and a low seat height of just 710 mm. Taller riders might feel a tad cramped, but at 5’10”, I found the setup just right for cruising.
What’s missing? ABS. While not legally required for 125cc bikes, its absence is still a mark against an otherwise well-equipped motorcycle. Thankfully, the braking performance, thanks to 300 mm and 240 mm disc brakes front and rear, is more than adequate, delivering solid stopping power with minimal effort.
And here’s a detail cruiser fans will love: the V-Cruise uses a belt final drive. Clean, quiet, and practically maintenance-free, it’s a rare feature at this price point and another nod to bigger American-style cruisers.
Technical Specification
| Component | Details |
| Engine | 125cc, Liquid-cooled 60° V-twin, 3 valves per cyl |
| Power | 14 hp (10 kW) @ 8,500 rpm |
| Torque | 14 Nm @ 6,500 rpm |
| Compression Ratio | 10.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 105 km/h |
| Transmission | 6-speed, wet clutch, belt final drive |
| Frame | Double-loop tubular steel |
| Front Suspension | 370 mm USD telescopic fork |
| Rear Suspension | Dual shock absorbers (42 mm travel) |
| Brakes (Front/Rear) | 300 mm / 240 mm single-disc |
| Tires (Front/Rear) | 120/80-16 / 150/80-15 |
| Wheelbase | 1,345 mm |
| Seat Height | 710 mm |
| Weight | 164 kg |
| Fuel Capacity | 15 liters |
| Fuel Consumption | 2.7–3.0 L/100 km |
| Max Range | Approx. 500 km |
| Price (incl. delivery) | €4,960 |
| Maintenance Intervals | 1,000 km first service, then every 5,000 km |
| Other | Digital dash, LED lighting, no ABS, bar-end mirrors |
Conclusion
The Keeway V-Cruise might not be a Harley, but it brings enough attitude, efficiency, and real-world usability to challenge what you expect from a 125cc cruiser. Through the foggy inclines of Coorg and under the approving nods of fellow riders, this mini Sportster earned its stripes.
It’s not a bike for breaking records, it’s for making memories. Whether you’re a B196 rider entering the world of motorcycles or someone seeking a second bike for casual rides with style, the V-Cruise offers a taste of the cruiser life without the bulk or the bill.
And as it rolled silently into the coffee-scented breeze of Coorg, one thing was clear: small doesn’t mean insignificant. Not when it rides this confidently, and definitely not when it feels this right.
What suspension does Keeway V-Cruise have?
It comes with a telescopic fork front suspension and twin shock rear for a smooth ride.
How’s the comfort level of Keeway V-Cruise?
The low seat height and relaxed ergonomics make it comfortable for cruising long distances.
How’s the handling on the V-Cruise?
Its low center of gravity and wide handlebars make it nimble and easy to maneuver, especially at lower speeds.
