The KEEWAY RKR250 was launched last night, bringing a new contender into the lightweight sportbike ring.

It was launched during the MForce Top 68 Dealers Gala Dinner, held at the Taizhou Sheraton Hotel. As the name suggests, the event honoured the top 68 motorcycle dealers in Malaysia who carry the brands distributed by MForce Bike Holdings Sdn. Bhd., such as ARIIC, Benda, CFMoto, Keeway, Morbidelli, and Motomorini.

Highlights of the KEEWAY RKR250

• Powered by a 249.3c, DOHC, 8-valve, parallel-twin.
• It produces 31.5 hp @ 10,500 RPM, and 22.5 Nm @ 9,500 RPM.

• The engine is mated to a slipper clutch and 6-speed transmission.
• The bike’s frame is a diamond type which uses the engine as a stressed member.

• Seat height is a low 770 mm.
• Its front suspension utilises 40mm USD forks with 100 mm of travel.

• The rear suspension features a monoshock with a Pro-Link.
• Brakes feature a 320mm floating disc up front with a 4-piston caliper, while the rear has a 240mm disc with a 1-piston caliper.

• The fuel tank carries 12 litres of unleaded.
• Keeway claims a curb weight of just 165 kg.

• Electronic rider assistance systems include dual-channel ABS, traction control system (TCS), and tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
• There is a 5-inch TFT display.

• Lighted switchgear.
• LED lighting.
• Type-A and Type-C charging ports.

Interestingly, the model was first shown off in January this year, along with its pricing but had not been available yet, possibly undergoing testing.

Fast forward to last night, it now wears a performance exhaust muffler complete with a carbon fibre end cap and heat shield.

As with MForce’s objective in providing an opportunity for Malaysian enthusiasts to enjoy the sport without mortgaging the house, the KEEWAY RKR250 carries a net selling price tag of just RM13,888 (not on-the-road), making it the most affordable multi-cylinder 250cc sportbike in the country.