For any motorcycling fan in India, the name **Yamaha RX100** strikes a chord. The RX100, which was first launched way back in 1985, had instant status as an icon.
Even until today, with decades passing by since it was withdrawn in the market back in 1996, nothing could match its position. Famous for the peppy performance of its two-stroke engine, light handling, and a distinct exhaust note, the RX100 could be considered as the ultimate choice in terms of riders who wanted to feel the combination of power and agility.
It literally was the epitome of a thrill and freedom. Bike Legend, says it came to symbolize the golden era of Indian motorcycling.
Recently, it was in the news that Yamaha plans to bring back its RX100 in a modern avatar-the news doesn’t fail to cheer up the fan following of Yamaha.
But in an age dominated by stringent emission norms and evolving customer preferences, can the RX100 make a comeback? This report runs through the history of Yamaha RX100, what makes it an icon, and what we expect if it does return in today’s market.
Legacy of Yamaha RX100 –
Yamaha RX100 was introduced to the Indian market when that of two-wheelers was in its infancy stage. The available motorcycles in the market were either underpowered or heavily built.
It marked a new revolution with the introduction of RX100 into the Indian market for the company. It is impressive to note that the 98cc air-cooled, two-stroke engine produced 11 horsepower, a figure that stood exceptional at its time.
With a light weight of just 103 kg, this bike was stiff and stood so lightly that it was manageable and easy to handle, making it all the more appealing to the masses.
The RX100 was not just a performance motorcycle, but it was a motorcycle that became an extension of the rider’s personality.
The sharp, almost minimalistic design with a distinctive fuel tank and signature chrome fenders gives it an unmistakable presence on the road. Its iconic ‘brap’ sound from the exhaust became so associated that many riders still remember the thump of that note as they zipped through city streets and highways.
In addition to bringing delight to the riding public, the RX100 also delighted street racers and modifiers. Its excellent standing as a performance machine was stamped out by both groups of fans.
Such dazzling acceleration and speedy performance at minimal weight created a triumphant rival in informal racing circuits. In short, the RX100 was not just another motorcycle; it was a legend.
Why Was Yamaha RX100 Discontinued?
Although the Yamaha RX100 was in great demand by the market, it was eventually phased out in 1996. The key reason for this process is stated to be the extreme tightening of emission norms in India.
Two-stroke engines were one of the primary reasons for its thunderous performance. Two-stroke engines are infamous for causing higher levels of pollution as opposed to that of four-stroke engines.
Emission standards were beginning to get a tad sterner in India, and Yamaha found it was quite challenging to keep the RX100 up-to-date with such changes in regulations.
The market was shifting more towards fuel efficiency and environmental-friendliness of four-stroke engines. Sooner or later, this was not something Yamaha could keep on ignoring. It made the very painful decision of discontinuing the RX100 altogether.
However, the legacy of RX100 did not really die. The bike maintained commanding resale values in the second market, and enthusiasts ensured the restoration of older models to their pristine glory.
Even after all these years, the RX100 remains a prized collection for those who are lucky enough to own it or ride one of its brethren during its heyday.
The Comeback: What’s in Store?
Rumors relating to the Yamaha RX100 revamp have been going on for a pretty long time, but latest reports say that Japanese manufacturers might just finally get the courage to bring back the legacy bike in India.
Reviving RX100 in today’s market, however, raise quite some concerns, mainly due to modern emission norms and expectations of the customers.
What can we then expect from a new generation Yamaha RX100?
1. Four-Stroke Engine with Modern Tech
Given the BS6 emission norms of today, Yamaha might not want to look for the revival of a two-stroke engine that made RX100 a superstar. The motorcycle would likely sit on a more modern four-stroke engine.
That might be a bit disappointing for purists who would be missing all the raw, aggressive performance put in by the original RX100. This would make the bike sound-fuel efficiency and emissions compliant.
Yamaha might give it the 150cc or 125cc engine, depending on how it intends to place the bike in the market. Yamaha already has an assortment of successful 125cc and 150cc models like the Yamaha FZ-S and Yamaha R15 and the RX100 could share its engine with either one of these.
What will be important is that it should be able to achieve some fine balance between the power and torque figures to get that performance-oriented feel back in the original RX100.
2. Retro-Inspired Design with Modern Features
One of the most exciting aspects of a relaunch potential RX100 is that Yamaha can once again catch up on a blend of retro design and modern technology.
Expect the minimalist sharp lines which actually defined the original RX100 to be retained for the relaunched version. Classic touches, which may include chrome fenders, round headlamps, and sleek fuel tanks are rumoured to return as well.
On the other hand, with new conveniences added such as LED lighting, a digital instrument cluster, and possibly even Bluetooth connectivity to attract today’s tech-savvy rider.
The weight construction will probably stay; however, employing better materials and the better process of building to ensure that it can last and indeed meet standards as far as safety is concerned.
3. Better Handling and Suspension –
The original RX100 was so loved for its agility, and a modern version would have to be kitted out with several inputs about the advancements in suspension and braking systems.
The new RX100 will probably sport telescopic front forks and a rear monoshock that would ensure better ride ergonomics for a smooth comfort feel.
Braking power will be improved with disc brakes at least at the front, if not both wheels, along with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) for safety reasons.
4. Pricing and Positioning
The company cannot afford to leave it behind if Yamaha brings back the RX 100 at a competitive price. The 125cc to 150cc market is already overcrowded with big players like Bajaj Pulsar 125, Honda CB Shine SP, and TVS Apache RTR 160.
Yamaha’s new RX 100 could thus be marketed as a premium retro commuter targeting the sentiments of history but also a performer in busy current day’s traffic.
Expecting the price would be in the range of ₹1 lakh to ₹1.25 lakh (ex-showroom), depending on the features and the displacement, it would most surely push it into the premium bracket, but for the niche enthusiast equipped with nostalgia, who needs a practical day-to-day motorcycle, it would find its market.
Challenges in the Modern Market –
The Yamaha RX 100 will not be easy to revive. The biggest challenge there will be meeting emission norms and retaining the feel and performance that made the original so popular.
The two-stroke engines are now passé, and while Yamaha can recapture the aesthetics of the RX100, it will be hard to capture the feel of the original motorcycle’s engine.
Therefore, the customer preferences of today differ. Today, he expects fuel-injection, digital displays, and more in a motorcycle when compared to the years of the 1980s, when none of these existed.
Yamaha will have to find a middle path between retro appeal and functionality to make the RX100 meaningful in the market today.
An added threat will be competition. Although the RX100 name still carries huge amounts of value, Yamaha will be competing head-to-head with the likes of Royal Enfield (with their Classic 350 and Hunter 350) as well as Jawa motorcycles, and even Honda, who have all rolled out modern-retro models targeting the same market.
Conclusion: Is It Worth a Return?
The RX100 concept has a lot of excitement within each and every corner of India’s motorcycling community. Since one of the most iconic motorcycles in the history of the country, the RX100 is a model that few can claim to match in terms of its popularity.
A modern day RX100 will not only increase the nostalgia for the older riders but also get it to the young generations as it is one of the legend brands.
While there are certain hurdles, Yamaha still has the scope to launch the RX100 as a retro styled performance commuter with an attractive design based on strong benevolent lines and proper usage of even day-to-day modern elements.
And if executed well, the RX 100 can once again be a symbol of freedom, speed, and thrill on Indian roads, just like it did nearly four decades back.
All focus now lies in the house of Yamaha with an official declaration still in the offing. Will the RX100 roar back to life, or will it continue to remain a creature of the past? Only time will tell as one thing is sure: the RX100’s legacy doesn’t fade with time.