YAMAHA RX 100: In what can only be described as the most anticipated motorcycle comeback of the decade, Yamaha Motor India has officially confirmed that the legendary RX 100 will return to Indian roads in late 2025, rekindling memories for countless enthusiasts while introducing a new generation to what many consider the definitive cult motorcycle of India.
The announcement comes after years of speculation and rumors about the possible revival of this iconic two-wheeler that dominated Indian roads during the 1980s and early 1990s. First launched in November 1985 and discontinued in 1996 due to stringent emission norms phasing out two-stroke engines, the RX 100 has maintained an almost mythical status among motorcycle aficionados.
A MODERN INTERPRETATION OF A LEGEND
While staying true to its heritage, the 2025 RX 100 has undergone significant modernization to meet contemporary requirements. Yamaha engineers have faced the monumental challenge of preserving the motorcycle’s legendary character while incorporating necessary updates.
“We understand the immense responsibility of reviving such an iconic model,” said Takahiro Yamamoto, Head of Product Development at Yamaha Motor India. “Our team has spent four years perfecting a motorcycle that honors the original’s spirit while meeting today’s standards. The new RX 100 isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about bringing that magical riding experience to a new era.”
PRICING AND AVAILABILITY
According to industry sources, the 2025 Yamaha RX 100 will be positioned as a premium offering in the 100-125cc segment, with prices expected to range between ₹1,40,000 and ₹1,50,000 (ex-showroom). While this represents a significant premium over conventional 100cc commuter motorcycles, enthusiasts believe the price reflects the model’s heritage status and specialized engineering.
The motorcycle is scheduled for a phased launch beginning in October 2025, with metropolitan cities receiving the first allocation of units. Yamaha dealerships have already begun accepting unofficial booking inquiries, reporting overwhelming interest despite the motorcycle being months away from showroom floors.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
In perhaps the most significant departure from the original, the 2025 RX 100 will feature a modern 100cc four-stroke fuel-injected engine rather than the iconic two-stroke motor that defined the original. This change was unavoidable given current BS6 emission standards.
However, Yamaha claims to have achieved something remarkable with the new powerplant. While output figures haven’t been officially released, company representatives suggest the motorcycle will produce approximately 10.5 horsepower and 9.5 Nm of torque—impressive figures for a modern 100cc engine.
Special attention has been paid to the motorcycle’s exhaust note, with Yamaha engineers utilizing advanced acoustic engineering to create a distinctive sound signature that, while not replicating the original two-stroke’s characteristic ring-ding, delivers a unique and emotionally evocative soundtrack.
PERFORMANCE AND HANDLING
The motorcycle’s lightweight construction—expected to be approximately 105 kg—should translate to exceptional power-to-weight ratio for its class. Early test riders report acceleration that, while different in character from the original RX 100, delivers comparable excitement with rapid throttle response and eager revving characteristics.
Handling remains a priority, with the 2025 model featuring a tubular double-cradle frame similar in concept to the original, though thoroughly modernized with contemporary metallurgy and manufacturing techniques.
The suspension setup includes telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers—a deliberate design choice that favors the original’s aesthetic over modern monoshock setups, though these components incorporate advanced damping technologies.
FUEL EFFICIENCY
One area where the new RX 100 significantly outperforms its predecessor is fuel efficiency. While the original two-stroke engine was notorious for its thirsty nature, delivering approximately 40-45 km/l under normal riding conditions, the 2025 model is expected to return 60-65 km/l thanks to its modern four-stroke architecture and electronic fuel injection.
This improvement addresses one of the few criticisms of the original motorcycle, making the new model more practical for everyday use while maintaining performance characteristics.
DESIGN AND FEATURES
Visually, the 2025 RX 100 remains remarkably faithful to the original’s silhouette. The distinctive fuel tank shape, side panels, and overall proportions have been preserved, though subtly modernized. LED lighting replaces the original’s incandescent bulbs, while a digital-analog hybrid instrument cluster adds contemporary functionality while preserving classic aesthetics.
“We’ve approached the design with tremendous respect for the original,” explained Hiroshi Nakamura, Chief Designer. “Our guiding principle was ‘evolution, not revolution.’ Every visual element has been carefully considered to honor the motorcycle that generations of Indians have loved.”
Notably, Yamaha has resisted the temptation to over-modernize the motorcycle with unnecessary tech features. There’s no Bluetooth connectivity, riding modes, or other digital distractions—a decision that has resonated well with purists during early focus group testing.
CULTURAL IMPACT AND EXPECTATIONS
The significance of the RX 100’s return extends beyond mere product specifications. For many Indian motorcyclists, the original represented a cultural touchstone—a symbol of freedom, performance, and mechanical simplicity in an increasingly complex world.
“The RX 100 wasn’t just a motorcycle; it was a phenomenon that changed India’s motorcycling landscape forever,” noted veteran automotive journalist Rajesh Menon. “Its return represents a significant moment in Indian motorcycling history, bridging generations of enthusiasts.”
Social media has exploded with anticipation following the announcement, with the hashtag #RX100Returns trending nationwide. Vintage RX 100 owners report increasing interest in their motorcycles, with values of well-maintained examples climbing approximately 30% in the past month alone.
MARKET POSITIONING AND COMPETITION
The 2025 RX 100 enters a market significantly different from the one the original dominated. Today’s Indian motorcycle market is more segmented, sophisticated, and competitive than ever before.
Industry analysts suggest the revived RX 100 will create its own niche rather than competing directly with conventional 100-125cc offerings. Its primary appeal will be to enthusiasts seeking a characterful riding experience rather than those prioritizing practicality or value.
“Yamaha isn’t positioning this as a mass-market product,” explained market analyst Priya Sharma. “This is a specialized offering for those who understand and appreciate the model’s significance. We expect demand to significantly outstrip supply for at least the first year of production.”
THE ROAD AHEAD
As anticipation builds toward the official launch, Yamaha has hinted at expanded plans for the RX lineup, suggesting that successful reception of the RX 100 could lead to additional heritage models receiving similar contemporary reinterpretations.
For now, however, all eyes remain on the imminent return of a motorcycle that defined a generation of Indian motorcycling—reimagined for 2025 but carrying the soul of 1985.
The legend returns. And for countless enthusiasts across India, October 2025 can’t come soon enough.
This article uses information from multiple industry sources and represents the most current information available as of April 2025. Final specifications, features, and availability may vary.