In the annals of Indian motorcycling history, few bikes have left as indelible a mark as the Yamaha RX100.
This iconic two-stroke wonder, which ruled the roads from the 1980s to the early 2000s, has long been the stuff of legend among motorcycle enthusiasts.
Now, as we approach 2025, Yamaha has resurrected this cult classic with a modern twist.
The new Yamaha RX100 pays homage to its predecessor while embracing contemporary technology and design. Let’s delve into what makes this reborn legend a talking point in the motorcycling world.
A Nostalgic Design with Modern Flair
The new Yamaha RX100 strikes a delicate balance between nostalgia and modernity in its design.
Exterior Highlights
Classic Silhouette: The bike retains the iconic slim profile and sleek lines of the original RX100, instantly recognizable to aficionados.
Round Headlamp: A classic round headlamp adorns the front, now featuring LED technology for improved visibility and energy efficiency.
Fuel Tank: The teardrop-shaped fuel tank closely resembles the original, complete with knee recesses for a comfortable riding position.
Seat Design: A long, flat seat reminiscent of the original model, but with improved cushioning for modern comfort standards.
Exhaust System: While no longer a two-stroke, the exhaust is designed to evoke memories of the original, with a sleek, upswept design.
Color Options
Yamaha offers the new RX100 in a range of colors that blend nostalgia with contemporary tastes:
Classic Black
Torque Blue (a nod to Yamaha’s racing heritage)
Cherry Red
Vintage Silver
Each color scheme is carefully crafted to enhance the bike’s retro-modern aesthetic.
Performance: A Modern Heart with a Classic Soul
While the original RX100 was famed for its peppy two-stroke engine, the new model embraces modern four-stroke technology to meet current emission norms while still delivering an exhilarating ride.
Engine Specifications
Engine Type: 149cc, Air-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 2-valve
Power Output: 12.4 PS @ 7,500 rpm
Torque: 13.6 Nm @ 6,000 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Performance Highlights
The new RX100’s engine is tuned to provide a riding experience that echoes the spirit of the original:
Quick Acceleration: While not matching the explosive acceleration of the two-stroke original, the new RX100 offers brisk acceleration, capable of 0-60 km/h in about 5 seconds.
Top Speed: With a top speed of approximately 110 km/h, the new RX100 is well-suited for both city riding and highway cruising.
Fuel Efficiency: Unlike its fuel-hungry predecessor, the new model delivers an impressive fuel efficiency of around 45-50 km/l under mixed riding conditions.
Chassis and Suspension: Blending Old-School Feel with Modern Stability
The new Yamaha RX100 is built on a chassis that aims to recreate the nimble handling of the original while incorporating modern safety standards.
Frame and Suspension
Frame: Single downtube chassis, offering a good balance between rigidity and flexibility
Front Suspension: Telescopic forks
Rear Suspension: Twin shock absorbers with 5-step adjustable preload
This setup allows for agile handling in city traffic while providing a comfortable ride over various road conditions. The suspension is tuned to offer a slightly firm ride, reminiscent of the original RX100’s responsive feel.
Braking System: Modern Safety for a Classic Design
Safety is a key focus in the new RX100, addressing one of the main concerns of the original model:
Front Brake: 240mm disc with single-piston caliper
Rear Brake: 130mm drum brake
ABS: Single-channel ABS as standard
This braking setup ensures excellent stopping power and improved safety, especially in emergency braking situations or on wet roads.
Technology: Classic Looks, Modern Features
While maintaining its retro aesthetics, the new RX100 incorporates modern technology to enhance the riding experience:
Semi-Digital Instrument Cluster: A blend of analog and digital displays, featuring a classic speedometer paired with a digital display for odometer, trip meter, and fuel gauge.
LED Lighting: Full LED lighting system including headlight, taillight, and turn indicators for improved visibility and energy efficiency.
USB Charging Port: A discreetly placed USB port for charging mobile devices on the go.
Engine Kill Switch: A modern safety feature not found in the original model.
These features ensure that the new RX100 remains practical for everyday use while retaining its classic charm.
Riding Experience: Recreating the Magic
The essence of the original RX100 lay in its riding experience – light, nimble, and exhilarating. Yamaha has gone to great lengths to recreate this feeling in the new model.
Ergonomics and Comfort
Riding Position: The new RX100 maintains an upright riding position, with a slight forward lean for a sporty feel.
Handlebar: Wide, slightly raised handlebars provide good leverage for maneuvering through traffic.
Footpeg Position: Mid-set footpegs strike a balance between comfort and sportiness.
Sound and Vibration
While the four-stroke engine can’t replicate the iconic sound of the two-stroke original, Yamaha has tuned the exhaust note to provide a satisfying, throaty sound that nods to its heritage. Vibrations are kept to a minimum, ensuring a smooth riding experience.
Market Positioning and Target Audience
The new Yamaha RX100 occupies a unique position in the market. It’s not just a commuter bike, nor is it a high-performance machine. Instead, it targets a specific niche:
Nostalgia Seekers: Riders who owned or aspired to own the original RX100 in their youth.
Retro Enthusiasts: Younger riders drawn to classic styling but wanting modern reliability and features.
Urban Commuters: Those looking for a stylish, efficient, and easy-to-ride bike for daily use.
Pricing and Variants
Yamaha offers the new RX100 in two variants:
RX100 Standard: ₹1,15,000
RX100 Deluxe: ₹1,25,000
(All prices are ex-showroom, Delhi)
The Deluxe variant includes additional features like a pillion backrest, chrome accents, and a tachometer in the instrument cluster.
Customization and Accessories
Recognizing the strong customization culture around the original RX100, Yamaha offers a range of official accessories for the new model:
Chrome fenders
Tinted flyscreen
Saddle bags
Custom paint options
Performance exhaust (for off-road use only)
These accessories allow owners to personalize their RX100, much like enthusiasts did with the original model.
Environmental Considerations
In line with modern environmental standards, the new RX100 incorporates several eco-friendly features:
BS6 compliant engine with reduced emissions
Improved fuel efficiency to reduce overall carbon footprint
Use of recyclable materials in various components
These initiatives ensure that the new RX100 meets current environmental regulations while still delivering an engaging riding experience.
The RX100 Legacy: Then and Now
The original Yamaha RX100 left an indelible mark on Indian motorcycling culture. It was more than just a mode of transport; it was a symbol of freedom, speed, and rebellion. The new model aims to capture this spirit while adapting to modern needs and standards.
Comparing Old and New
Performance: While the new model can’t match the raw acceleration of the two-stroke original, it offers a more refined and consistent power delivery.
Reliability: The four-stroke engine of the new model offers significantly improved reliability and lower maintenance requirements.
Efficiency: The new RX100 is far more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly than its predecessor.
Safety: Modern brakes, better tires, and the inclusion of ABS make the new model much safer to ride.
Future Prospects: Carrying the Legacy Forward
As we look towards the future, the new Yamaha RX100 represents more than just a nostalgic revival. It’s a bridge between generations of riders and a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, well-designed motorcycles.
Potential future developments could include:
Limited edition models celebrating milestones in the RX100’s history
Possible introduction of a larger capacity variant for enthusiasts seeking more power
Integration of more advanced tech features while maintaining the classic aesthetic
Yamaha RX100 : A Legend Reborn for a New Era
The new Yamaha RX100 is more than just a motorcycle; it’s a cultural icon reimagined for the modern age. It represents a delicate balance between honoring a beloved legacy and embracing the needs and standards of contemporary riders.
For those who remember the original, the new RX100 offers a chance to relive cherished memories with the benefits of modern technology.
For younger riders, it’s an opportunity to experience the essence of a legendary machine that shaped Indian motorcycling culture.
In bringing back the RX100, Yamaha has not just resurrected a model; they’ve reignited a passion. The new RX100 stands as a testament to the timeless appeal of a well-designed, fun-to-ride motorcycle. It proves that while technology and standards may change, the joy of riding never goes out of style.
As it hits the roads, the new Yamaha RX100 is poised to create its own legacy, building on the foundation laid by its iconic predecessor.
It’s not just a trip down memory lane; it’s a new chapter in the story of one of India’s most beloved motorcycles. The legend of the RX100 lives on, ready to inspire a new generation of riders and enthusiasts.