Yamaha RX 100 : If any one motorcycle defined the 90s and spirit of the Indian youth at that point of time, it had to be the Yamaha RX 100!
With its red-hot pickup, edgy design and distinctive sound of a two-stroke, the RX 100 has found a place in Indian biking history.
Now, after years of rumors, Yamaha is in fact preparing to bring back this iconic bike — with a twist.
RX 100 is back but is in a modern attire with new 100 cc “dhakad” engine which is a combination of performance, fuel economy and day to day engineering.
The shift isn’t simply nostalgic, of course. Yamaha is hoping to appeal to both old school fans and a new generation of riders who want something cool yet practical.
Here is a deep-cut dive into what we know so far and have learned (and what to expect) from this modern RX.
Design: Traditional profile with modern technologies
The thing that attracted many fans to the original RX 100 was its no-bullshit, street-ready design. The slim fuel tank, round headlamp, up-right riding posture and smooth body panels were its characteristics.
Rumors suggest the motorcycle will feature a similar retro look, but will be incorporated with contemporary parts- an LED headlight, new switches, maybe a sem-digital console and better new-gen suspension.
It may look retro, but the fit, finish and function will be very much of 2025, meaning that it should still look good in the future instead of looking like a relic from the past.
Engine: New Dhakad 100cc Engine
The original RX 100 was powered by a high-revving 98cc two-stroke engine, the reason why it was legendary in the first place, for how fast it was for its size, but thanks to modern emission norms, that’s old-school tech now.
The relaunch is bringing a BS6-compliant 100cc four-stroke motor from Yamaha. It may not roar like the original but is being developed for spirited city performance.
What makes this new engine “dhakad” is not just its reliability: It will also be tuned for fuel economy and refinement.
The RX 100 was claimed to return a fuel efficiency of close to 69 kmpl and it had the potential of becoming one of the most frugal motorcycles in the entry-level segment. Pair that with low maintenance, and you have a functional daily ride with a retro coating.
Performance & Handling: Born in the City
The new RX 100 is likely to be an urban performer with its small frame, upright gearbox and tractable engine.
Whether navigating traffic or cruising along backroads, the bike’s agility promises to make it a top pick for commuters looking for both control and comfort.
While we can’t expect Yamaha to be big on top speed as long as the 100cc engine is concerned, we can now expect some punch in the 100cc commuter for the city commutes at least — especially when they have the might of Yamaha tuning backing it.
Audience: Generation Crossover
Yamaha is obviously targeting two types of customers — one, the older folks who had ridden the RX 100 and had lusted for it when they were younger and two, the younger kids who are looking for something with a little more zing than a standard 100 cc commuter.
For the relaunch, Yamaha is marrying emotion with function, nostalgia with need.
Assuming it is priced below ₹1 lakh, the RX 100 will become very accessible and bring a lot of excitement to the cut-throat commuter segment.
Pros of the Upcoming RX 100
Heritage Appeal: The RX 100 name is still revered and can give some enthusiasts a lump in their throats.
Great Mileage: 69 kmpl expected – for daily riders, this is a boon.
Light & Contemporary: So easy to ride, park and manoeuvre around city streets.
Vintage Style, Modern Guts: Retro charm combined with modern features.
Reason of purchase: Low maintenance costs and high resale value.
Cons of the Upcoming RX 100
The Absence of 2-Stroke Soul: The characteristic soundtrack and rawness can be missed by fans.
Not Quite Ready For The Road: 100cc isn’t going to cut it for freeway tourers.
High Bar to Clear: Trying to match a legend can create premature hype.
Challenging Competition: Rides amidst the competition posed by Hero Splendor, Honda Shine and Bajaj Platina.
Niche Enthusiast Appeal: Not necessarily for the pragmatic sect.
Yamaha RX 100 Impressions: Revival or Reinvention?
The Yamaha RX 100 isn’t just being relaunched, but reinvented. It may not provide quite the same buzz as that original 2-stroke motor, but the new RX 100 delivers something even more valuable: timeless style, contemporary usability and everyday efficiency.
For that, for many, this won’t just be a motorcycle; it’ll be a memory reborn on two wheels.