The Yamaha RX100 isn’t just a bike—it’s a piece of Indian motorcycling history. Launched back in 1985, this lightweight two-stroke powerhouse captured the hearts of young riders with its raw speed and unforgettable roar. Even though production stopped in 1996, its cult following remains strong, with enthusiasts restoring classics and dreaming of a comeback. For anyone nostalgic about the golden era of biking or curious about what made it legendary, the RX100 story is full of thrills and timeless appeal.
Let’s explore why the Yamaha RX100 still matters today, from its specs to its enduring legacy on Indian roads.
The Rise of a Biking Icon
Back in the 1980s, Indian roads were dominated by basic commuters. Then came the Yamaha RX100, a collaboration between Yamaha and Escorts Group. It wasn’t just transport—it was excitement on two wheels. Weighing around 100 kg, it zipped through traffic and hit speeds that felt unbeatable for a 100cc bike. Riders loved its agility, making it perfect for city dashes or weekend adventures. Its popularity exploded, selling steadily until stricter rules forced its end.
What set it apart? Simple: power, lightness, and that signature two-stroke growl. It turned everyday rides into something special, especially for first-time owners.
Timeless Design That Never Ages
Exterior: Sleek and Aggressive
The RX100’s look screams classic cool. A compact frame with a teardrop fuel tank, round headlamp, and chrome accents gave it a sporty edge. Available in colors like cherry red, peacock blue, and black, it stood out without trying too hard. Spoked wheels and a single-piece seat kept it minimalist yet stylish. At 1965 mm long and 740 mm wide, it was nimble for tight Indian streets.
Even today, spotting a restored RX100 feels like time travel. Its design influenced countless customs, proving its retro charm endures.
Ergonomics: Rider-Friendly Simplicity
Comfort came from the upright posture and low 765 mm seat height, ideal for average Indian riders. The lightweight build made it easy to handle, whether solo or with a pillion. Suspension—telescopic forks up front and swingarm rear—soaked up potholes decently for its era. It wasn’t built for luxury, but for fun and reliability on real roads.
Engine and Performance: Pure Adrenaline
The RX100’s heart was its 98cc air-cooled two-stroke engine, pumping out 11 PS at 7500 rpm and 10.39 Nm torque. Paired with a 4-speed manual gearbox, it delivered instant throttle response—0-60 km/h in about 7.5 seconds. Top speed? Around 100-110 km/h, blistering for a 100cc back then.
Riders raved about the acceleration and that throaty exhaust note. It wasn’t the most refined, but the raw thrill made every twist of the wrist addictive. Fuel efficiency hovered at 25-30 km/l, solid for its punchy nature, though tuning could vary it.
Handling and Ride Quality
Thanks to the featherweight chassis, the RX100 cornered like a dream. Drum brakes front and rear provided adequate stopping power for city use, aided by the low weight. Ground clearance of 145 mm handled uneven roads well, though it wasn’t an off-roader.
On highways, stability was good up to its top speed, but it shone in urban chaos—quick maneuvers and easy parking. For its time, it set the bar for agile 100cc bikes.
Key Specifications at a Glance
Here’s a breakdown of the original Yamaha RX100 specs:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 98cc air-cooled, two-stroke, single-cylinder |
| Power | 11 PS @ 7500 rpm |
| Torque | 10.39 Nm @ 6500 rpm |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Top Speed | 100-110 km/h |
| Mileage | 25-30 km/l (real-world) |
| Weight | 100-103 kg |
| Brakes | Drum (front & rear) |
| Suspension | Telescopic forks (front), swingarm (rear) |
| Fuel Tank | 10.5 liters |
| Ground Clearance | 145 mm |
| Seat Height | 765 mm |
These figures made it a benchmark for performance in the entry-level segment.
Why It Was Discontinued
The RX100’s story ended in 1996 due to India’s tightening emission norms. Its two-stroke engine, while thrilling, produced higher pollutants than emerging four-stroke tech. Government rules under Bharat Stage standards made compliance tough and costly, leading Yamaha to shift focus. It wasn’t banned outright, but the shift to cleaner engines spelled the end for two-strokes like the RX100.
Successors like the RXG and RX135 tried to carry the torch but couldn’t match the original’s magic. Today, it’s a collector’s item, with modified versions keeping the spirit alive.
The Cult Legacy and Modern Buzz
The RX100’s fame went beyond roads—it starred in films like Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar and inspired songs. Racers loved modding it for drags, adding to its rebel image. Even now, clubs restore them, and sightings spark nostalgia.
Rumors of a 2025-2026 relaunch swirl, possibly with a 125-150cc four-stroke engine, retro styling, and features like LED lights or digital clusters. But Yamaha’s chairman notes recreating the two-stroke feel is tough. If it happens, expect prices around ₹1-1.5 lakh, blending old-school vibe with BS6 compliance.
Used Market: Owning a Piece of History
Can’t wait for a new one? Used RX100s are hot commodities. Well-maintained models from the 80s-90s fetch ₹50,000 to ₹1.5 lakh, depending on condition and mods. Rare, restored bikes can hit higher. Check platforms like OLX or Bikes4Sale, but inspect thoroughly—parts are scarce, and maintenance needs expertise. It’s not ideal for daily use due to emissions and reliability, but perfect for weekend joyrides or collections.
Why Riders Still Crave the RX100
Its magic? Unmatched power-to-weight, that addictive sound, and simple joy. It wasn’t perfect—no disc brakes or fancy tech—but it delivered pure fun. For many, it was their first taste of speed, fostering a lifelong love for biking. In a world of gadgets, the RX100 reminds us of raw, unfiltered riding.
Quick Highlights:
- Lightning acceleration from the two-stroke engine
- Featherlight handling for city and twisties
- Iconic design that’s eternally stylish
- Strong resale and collector value
- Emotional pull that’s hard to beat
FAQs About the Yamaha RX100
Q: Why was the Yamaha RX100 discontinued?
A: It was phased out in 1996 due to stricter emission norms that two-stroke engines couldn’t easily meet.
Q: What is the top speed of the Yamaha RX100?
A: Around 100-110 km/h in stock form.
Q: How much does a used Yamaha RX100 cost in India?
A: Prices range from ₹50,000 to ₹1.5 lakh, based on condition and year.
Q: Is the Yamaha RX100 good for daily commuting?
A: It can be if well-maintained, but parts scarcity and emissions make it better for occasional use.
Q: Will Yamaha relaunch the RX100?
A: Rumors point to a modern version by 2026 with a four-stroke engine, but nothing confirmed yet.