For most bike lovers in India, the Yamaha RX 100 is not just a motorcycle. It’s a feeling. A loud, two-stroke roar. A head-turner on the street. A piece of 90s history that refuses to grow old. And now, there’s fresh talk. The RX 100 is coming back.
Yamaha has confirmed that it is indeed working on bringing back the iconic RX 100. And no, it’s not just a nameplate. This return means a completely fresh package. But with one clear aim – to carry the soul of the original.
Why Was the RX 100 So Loved?
Let’s rewind a bit. When Yamaha launched the RX 100 in India in 1985, it instantly clicked. This bike had something special.
It had a clean look. Slim body. Light weight. Sharp headlight. And that raw two-stroke punch. It was fast, crisp, and gave an adrenaline rush at just the twist of a throttle.
Young riders loved its aggressive nature. Mechanics loved its simplicity. Racers loved its potential. The RX 100 quickly earned a cult status. Even today, finding a well-kept RX 100 on the road brings back strong nostalgia.
The Two-Stroke Legend
The original RX 100 was powered by a 98cc, two-stroke engine that delivered close to 11 PS of power. On paper, that may sound modest. But in real life, the bike felt like a pocket rocket.
It had a 4-speed gearbox. The powerband was narrow, but intense. It hit 0-60 kmph in under 7 seconds. For a small capacity bike, that was wild back then.
The sound from its exhaust was unmistakable. Loud, sharp, and exciting. There was no traction control. No fuel injection. No ABS. Just pure riding.
Why It Disappeared
As emission norms tightened and two-strokes came under fire, Yamaha had to stop producing the RX 100. It was discontinued in 1996. The RXG, RX 135, and RXZ followed but none hit the same magic.
The end of the RX 100 was not about its popularity. It was about laws. It simply couldn’t meet the new emission standards.
Still, the RX 100 lived on through modified versions, restored classics, and second-hand markets. Riders held on to their bikes, some even passing them down generations.
Yamaha Wants to Bring It Back
The buzz around the RX 100’s return isn’t new. Fans have been asking for it for years. Yamaha India has finally responded. Their Chairman, Eishin Chihana, recently confirmed that they are working on a new RX 100.
This version will be modern, refined, and compliant with current laws. But the brand wants to keep the essence of the original alive.
This won’t be a bike with just a sticker saying “RX 100.” Yamaha is clear. They want it to be true to the RX 100 name. That means sharp performance, raw styling, and a compact feel.
What We Expect in the New RX 100
Let’s be real. The two-stroke magic is gone. Today’s rules don’t allow it. So the new RX 100 will most likely get a four-stroke engine.
But it needs to be fast. It can’t just be another commuter. Yamaha might use a 125cc or 150cc engine with enough punch to make it stand out.
We expect:
- Lightweight frame
- High-revving engine
- Telescopic front forks
- Dual shock rear setup
- Retro styling with round headlamp and chrome accents
Fuel injection is a must. Disc brakes too. It’ll meet BS6 Phase 2 norms. And maybe even future EV standards if Yamaha goes electric.
But they’ll keep the frame slim. The riding position upright. The stance aggressive. Aimed squarely at young riders and RX fans alike.
Retro Is the New Cool
The return of the RX 100 is coming at the right time. Retro-styled bikes are trending. From Royal Enfield to Honda, every brand is cashing in on nostalgia.
But the RX 100 is not like others. It’s smaller. Nimbler. More raw. And unlike REs that focus on cruising, the RX was all about zipping through city roads.
If Yamaha nails the performance and price, they can hit a sweet spot. A modern-day RX that doesn’t compromise on thrill. And that would shake up the market.
Will It Compete With New Bikes?
In today’s market, the new RX 100 could slot somewhere between a sporty commuter and a stylish retro. Maybe in the league of:
- TVS Raider 125
- Bajaj Pulsar NS125
- Honda SP 125
- Hero Xtreme 125R
But the RX 100 has a brand legacy that none of these bikes can match. If priced around ₹1 lakh to ₹1.2 lakh, it could be a solid hit.
RX 100 Electric? Is That Possible?
It’s still unclear if Yamaha will explore an electric variant. But with the market shifting fast, an RX 100 styled EV could be possible in the future.
A compact electric bike with the design of the RX 100 would appeal to a different audience. Urban riders looking for style, speed, and zero emissions.
Though purists may prefer petrol, the younger crowd might be open to an RX 100 EV. But Yamaha hasn’t confirmed anything on that front yet.
Still a Dream for Many
Even after all these years, the RX 100 is a dream bike. People still search for used models. Some spend lakhs restoring old ones. It’s not just about speed. It’s about the feeling it gives.
And now, with Yamaha planning its return, that dream is inching closer to reality. The only hope is they don’t water it down. Keep it loud. Keep it exciting. Keep it RX 100.
FAQs About the RX 100 Return
Is the RX 100 officially coming back?
Yes. Yamaha has confirmed that a new RX 100 is in development. They are working on a modern version that carries the legacy forward.
Will it have a two-stroke engine?
No. The original two-stroke setup can’t meet current emission norms. The new RX 100 will be four-stroke, likely 125cc or higher.
What will the design be like?
Expect a retro-inspired design with modern touches. Round headlamp, slim tank, possibly chrome parts, and clean body lines.
When will it launch?
Yamaha hasn’t given a launch date yet. But the bike is expected by late 2025 or early 2026.
How much will it cost?
No official pricing yet, but it could be in the ₹1 lakh to ₹1.2 lakh range, depending on the engine and features.
Will it still be fun to ride?
That’s the key. Yamaha knows RX fans expect a punchy, lightweight bike. If they get the tuning and design right, it’ll still be a blast.