New RX 100 : The motorcycling community in India is abuzz with excitement as Yamaha officially confirms the return of its iconic RX 100. After years of rumors and fan speculation, Yamaha Motor India’s top leadership announced in the capital that this much-loved motorcycle is making a grand comeback, blending the nostalgic charm of the 80s and 90s with the performance and safety of modern engineering.
This revival is more than just a product launch—it’s a cultural event for lakhs of Indian riders who grew up with dreams of owning an RX 100.
A Legend Reimagined
Launched in 1985 and discontinued in 1996, the original Yamaha RX 100 is a name that continues to echo through Indian motorcycling history. Its compact frame, two-stroke engine, and iconic exhaust note gave it a cult status. Today, even after nearly three decades off the market, it’s common to find mint-condition RX 100s fetching premium prices from collectors and fans alike.
At the official unveiling, Eishin Chihana, Chairman of Yamaha Motor India, remarked, “The Yamaha RX 100 was more than a motorcycle—it was an emotion. We’re bringing it back, retaining its original soul while updating it for today’s roads and riders.”
Old-School Charm Meets New-Age Technology
Yamaha has taken on the challenge of reviving a two-stroke legend in a four-stroke world. Due to current emission norms, the RX 100’s original 98cc two-stroke engine has been retired. In its place, Yamaha has fitted a newly developed 100cc air-cooled, single-cylinder four-stroke engine that delivers approximately 9.2 bhp and 8.7 Nm of torque.
While these figures are slightly lower than the original RX 100, Yamaha has fine-tuned the engine to deliver better mid-range performance and real-world efficiency. And yes, they’ve worked especially hard to retain a throaty exhaust note—a trademark loved by RX fans across generations.
Design That Pays Tribute to the Classic
Visually, the new Yamaha RX 100 stays true to its roots. It features a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, round headlamp, flat bench-style seat, and slim, retro-inspired side panels. Chrome accents and vintage Yamaha badging complete the tribute look.
Yet, modern touches have been seamlessly blended in. Expect:
- LED headlamp and taillamp, cleverly integrated within vintage-style shells
- A semi-digital instrument cluster with analog speedometer
- Disc brakes for enhanced safety
- Tubeless tyres on classic spoked wheels
This combination gives the RX 100 a timeless aesthetic while ensuring it doesn’t fall short on practicality and road-readiness.
Engineered for the Indian Rider
Built on a stronger, more durable steel chassis, the new RX 100 is made for Indian road conditions. The bike features telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers—upgraded from the original for better ride quality.
At just 117 kg kerb weight, it remains one of the lightest in the segment, giving it the nimbleness and agility that made the original a favorite for city riders and cornering enthusiasts.
Braking duties are handled by a 240mm front disc and a rear drum, providing reliable stopping power whether you’re navigating tight urban lanes or cruising rural highways.
Target Audience: From Gen X to Gen Z
The revived RX 100 is expected to attract three key groups:
- Nostalgic Gen X riders who want to relive their youth with a modern twist
- Young, style-conscious Gen Z buyers drawn to retro design and reliable performance
- Collectors and enthusiasts who want to own a reimagined legend, now with warranty and service support from Yamaha
This wide appeal, paired with Yamaha’s strong dealership and service network, is expected to make the RX 100 a top seller in the 100-125cc segment.
Expected Price and Availability
Yamaha has hinted at an ex-showroom price between ₹85,000 and ₹95,000, putting the RX 100 in direct competition with models like the Honda Shine, TVS Raider, and Hero Glamour XTEC. But with its heritage value, the RX 100 occupies a premium emotional space.
Production will begin at Yamaha’s Surajpur facility, with an initial rollout of 20,000 units in the first year. While official bookings are yet to open, many dealers across India have reported receiving unofficial pre-booking inquiries and even advance payments—a testament to the RX 100’s enduring fanbase.
Deliveries are expected to begin just before Diwali 2025, perfectly timed for the festive shopping season.
More Than a Comeback—A Cultural Revival
The return of the Yamaha RX 100 is about more than just horsepower or design—it’s about rekindling an emotional connection that Indian riders have carried for decades.
In a world of futuristic bikes with digital gimmicks, the RX 100 offers something different: authenticity. It’s a reminder that good design, a great ride, and a strong emotional story never go out of style.
As Yamaha boldly brings back a piece of India’s two-wheeled heritage, one thing is certain: legends like the RX 100 don’t die—they evolve.
