Yamaha RX100: When you think of Indian motorcycling legends, one name always springs to mind — the Yamaha RX100. Legendary for its ultra-lightweight design, ferocious two-stroke engine, and distinctive exhaust note, the bike was more than just a motorcycle — it was a statement of purpose.
Introduced in 1985, the RX100 reigned supreme on our roads until the late 90s achieving cult status. Now, after a long silence, rumors of its return have rekindled interest among older fans and younger riders alike.
Here’s a closer look at what made the RX100 iconic — and at what we might expect if Yamaha really is raising it from the dead.
Yamaha RX100 A History Based on Simplicity and Speed
The old Model RX100, it was a tech showoff, it was no showoff in those days, you didn’t max all the best tech into the shell or any fancy design. It was an honest machine — no fuss, no frills. But beneath that spartan bodywork was a powerful, 98cc, air-cooled, two-stroke engine that could embarrass many more powerful bikes on the street.
Its knife-edged throttle response, snappy acceleration and iconic engine noise endeared it to college students, racers and wheelie-happy daredevils.
And at under 100kg, it felt nimble and alive. The clutch was featherweight, the gearsticks snicked into place with a satisfying crunch and the acceleration was immediate. In a time before fuel injection or ABS, the RX100 made you feel everything – the road, the engine, the adrenaline.
Why the RX100 Could Have a Comeback in 2025
Even though Yamaha officially killed RX 100 by the year 1996 in view of strict emission norms, the name itself never ceased to exist from the memory of motorcycling entertainment of India.
In 2024, Yamaha announced that it may relaunch the RX100 nameplate in 2025 or 2026 albeit in a thoroughly modern avatar.
It won’t be a two-stroke, of course — that date is ancient history by now. The new iteration is expected to be powered by a 100–125cc, fuel-injected, four-stroke motor which will conform to the BS6 Phase 2 norms.
But Yamaha reports that it does not want to lose the original spirit: lightweight, quick, stylish and attainable.
It could have some retro looking bits and may have some resemblance to the original — the headlamp, bare body panels and flat seat — but is likely to come with modern features like an LED headlamp, digital console and could even get single-channel ABS for safety.
What You Can Expect from Today’s Models
While nothing has been confirmed, what the reborn RX100 could include:
Front brakes: Discs with ABS
Digital/analog instrument display
LED headlamp and taillight
Torquey engine designed for active urban riding
Lightweight rolling chassis to keep the agility of the original
The emphasis will likely be on daily rideability, retro design and affordability — a vehicle that appeals to both baby boomers and Gen Z riders searching for an iconic yet practical ride.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
My thologyBranding’s Legendary Brand Recall and Emotional Value
Light and ideal for beginners
Vintage looks with contemporary performance
Easy to own & to maintain
Probable high mileage (65-70 km/l expected)
Perfect for urban riding and the rare joy ride
Cons:
May not be as wildly exciting as the raw boned 2 Stroke RX100
On the other hand, power output might be timid by current measures.
Not comfortable for long distance touring
Some might not be fans of the retro design
Stiff competition from motorcycles such as TVS Raider, Hero Xtreme 125R
Yamaha RX100 THE VERDICT: Back by Popular Demand or Just Another Name?
If Yamaha manage to straddle that line between nostalgia and modern expectations with the upcoming RX100, it stands a chance of being a runaway success once again. It won’t be the same beast it was in the ’80s, but that’s all right — times have changed.
With retro bikes still en vogue again, from Royal Enfield to Jawa, there’s space in the market for a light, punchy, retro commuter with a fabled badge.
The RX100, which you either rode or probably heard stories about riding it, seems like more than just another bike launch when it returns. You’re getting reacquainted with something special — a machine that got you hooked on riding in the first place.