In the history of Indian motorcycles, very few models have made a lasting impact like the Yamaha RX100.

This well-known two-stroke motorcycle was sold in India from 1985 to 1996. It was not just a regular bike but became a symbol of power, style, and reliability. Even though it is no longer in production, many motorcycle enthusiasts still admire it. The Yamaha RX100 is remembered for its lightweight frame, quick acceleration, and smooth riding experience, making it one of the most loved bikes in the country.

Let’s take a closer look at the history, features, and long-lasting influence of the Yamaha RX100, a motorcycle that defined an entire era of biking in India.

How Yamaha RX100 Started

The Yamaha RX100 was introduced in India in November 1985. Before this, Yamaha faced challenges because the Rajdoot 350 did not perform well in the market. The company needed a new and better motorcycle to attract Indian riders.

At the same time, Suzuki’s AX 100 had already shown that small motorcycles could be successful in India. Seeing this, Yamaha decided to bring a bike that could meet the needs of Indian customers.

The RX100 was not a completely new model. It was based on the RX-S, which was an upgraded version of the RS100. However, the Indian version was specially designed for Indian roads. It had a stronger frame made with thick steel tubing and other small changes to make it more durable.

Powerful Engine

One of the biggest reasons for the Yamaha RX100’s popularity was its powerful engine. It had a 98cc, air-cooled, reed valve, two-stroke single-cylinder engine, which was advanced for its time.

The engine produced 11.2 horsepower at 7,500 rpm and 10.39 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. While these numbers may not seem high today, they were impressive in 1980s India. At that time, very few bikes offered this kind of performance.

The RX100’s engine was designed for quick acceleration and could reach a top speed of about 110 km/h. It was one of the fastest motorcycles in its category. The bike’s lightweight body, weighing just 103 kg, gave it an excellent power-to-weight ratio, making it easy to handle and fun to ride.

Simple and Stylish Look

The Yamaha RX100 had a design that was both stylish and practical. It had a clean and simple look, with a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, a flat seat, and minimal bodywork. This made the bike lightweight and easy to handle.

The classic features of the RX100 included a chrome-plated exhaust, a round headlamp, and a simple dashboard with basic meters. These elements gave it a timeless and elegant appearance.

The bike was available in different colors, including Peacock Blue, Cherry Red, Maroon, Metallic Black, and New Black. These color choices allowed riders to pick a style that suited them while keeping the bike’s iconic design intact.

Yamaha RX100 Technical Details

Here are the important specifications that made the RX100 a well-engineered motorcycle:

• Engine: 98.2cc, air-cooled, reed valve, two-stroke single-cylinder
• Bore x Stroke: 52.0 mm x 45.6 mm
• Compression Ratio: 6.8:1
• Gearbox: 4-speed constant mesh
• Fuel System: Carburetor
• Ignition System: Started with points ignition, later upgraded to CDI
• Front Suspension: Telescopic fork for better stability
• Rear Suspension: Swingarm with dual shock absorbers for a smooth ride
• Brakes: 130mm drum brakes on both front and rear wheels
• Tires: Front – 2.50-18, Rear – 2.75-18 for strong road grip
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 10.5 liters
• Bike Size: Length – 2,040 mm, Width – 740 mm, Height – 1,060 mm
• Wheelbase: 1,240 mm for good balance and handling

These features made the RX100 a well-built and high-performing bike, which is why it became so popular among Indian riders.

Smooth Ride and Strong Performance

The Yamaha RX100 was loved for its powerful performance. Its lightweight body and strong two-stroke engine gave it quick acceleration. Riders often recall the unique “braaap” sound of the exhaust and the excitement of feeling the bike surge forward with every twist of the throttle.

The RX100 was easy to handle in city traffic due to its light frame and responsive controls. At the same time, it remained stable at high speeds, making it a great choice for open roads. The four-speed gearbox was designed to match the engine’s power, allowing for smooth gear shifts and a seamless riding experience.

Even though fuel efficiency was not its main selling point, the RX100 still offered a decent mileage of 25 to 40 km per liter, depending on riding style and road conditions. This balance of power, speed, and reasonable fuel consumption made it a favorite among motorcycle lovers.

A Bike That Became a Legend

The Yamaha RX100 was not just a motorcycle; it became a cultural icon in India. For many young riders, it was a dream bike that represented speed, freedom, and excitement. It gained popularity not only on the roads but also in Bollywood movies, making it even more desirable.

One of the biggest reasons for its success was its affordability. Students, working professionals, and bike lovers all found the RX100 within their reach. Its unique exhaust sound made it easily recognizable, and it was a common sight on Indian roads.

A Favorite Among Racers

The RX100’s strong engine and quick speed made it a top choice for racing. Many riders modified their bikes with expansion chambers, tuned carburetors, and ported heads to get even more power.

In drag racing, specially tuned RX100s could complete a quarter-mile race in about 14 seconds, which was remarkable for a 100cc bike. This racing success made it even more popular among performance enthusiasts, strengthening its reputation as one of the best small-capacity motorcycles ever made.

Small Changes and New Models

During its production years, the Yamaha RX100 received a few small updates. One of the biggest improvements was the switch from a 6-volt to a 12-volt electrical system. This change allowed Yamaha to introduce a CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) system, which improved ignition timing and made the bike perform even better.

After the RX100 was discontinued in 1996, Yamaha introduced several new models to continue its legacy:

• Yamaha RXG (1996-1998): Designed for better fuel efficiency with improved primary and secondary gear reduction.
• Yamaha RX-Z (1997-2000): Came with a shorter wheelbase, a new chassis, and sportier body design.
• Yamaha RX 135 (1998-2005): Had different versions, including a 5-speed model and one with a catalytic converter to meet stricter emission rules.

Even though these bikes were good in their own ways, none of them could match the original RX100 in terms of popularity and love from riders. The RX100 remained special because of its raw power, lightweight design, and unmatched riding experience.

The Last Chapter

The production of the Yamaha RX100 ended in March 1996. The main reason for this was the strict emission rules in India. The two-stroke engine, while powerful and easy to maintain, produced more pollution compared to the newer four-stroke engines.

Yamaha tried to solve this issue by introducing newer models with better fuel efficiency and catalytic converters, but the end of two-stroke motorcycles in India was inevitable. As emission laws became stricter, Yamaha had no choice but to stop making the RX100.

A Classic That Lives On

Even though it has been out of production for more than two decades, the Yamaha RX100 is still highly respected by motorcycle lovers. Well-kept RX100s are now valuable collector’s items, often selling for much higher prices than when they were new.

One reason for its lasting popularity is its simple design, which makes it easy to repair and restore. Many RX100s are still running on Indian roads, carefully maintained by passionate owners who refuse to part with this legendary bike.

RX100’s Value in 2025

As of 2025, the price of a Yamaha RX100 depends on its condition and originality. Well-maintained or fully restored models can sell for anywhere between ₹80,000 to over ₹2,00,000. This high demand shows how much people still admire the RX100, even after so many years.

Why People Still Love the RX100

One big reason for the RX100’s lasting popularity is nostalgia. For many, this bike is a reminder of their younger days or a time when riding was simpler and more exciting. The RX100 is not just a machine; it holds emotional value for its owners.

Along with its sentimental appeal, the RX100’s strong performance and timeless design make it one of the most iconic motorcycles in India. This combination of history, reliability, and speed keeps it a legendary bike even today.

Will Yamaha Bring Back the RX100?

For years, there have been rumors that Yamaha might reintroduce the RX100. Although the company has not officially confirmed anything, the fact that people are still talking about it shows how much love the bike continues to receive.

If Yamaha ever decides to launch a new RX100, it will have to meet modern emission and safety standards. This means it will likely have a four-stroke engine instead of the old two-stroke version, along with fuel injection and ABS for better braking. While these updates would make the bike more eco-friendly and safe, Yamaha would have to ensure that the new model keeps the spirit of the original RX100—lightweight, fast, and fun to ride.

Yamaha RX100: A Motorcycle That Became a Legend

The Yamaha RX100 was not just a motorcycle; it was a revolution. It captured the hearts of an entire generation with its powerful engine, stylish looks, and affordable price. It became the favorite bike for many, earning its place as a true champion in India’s motorcycle history.

Even though its production lasted for a limited time, the RX100’s influence on Indian motorcycling remains strong. It set a new standard for performance and desirability, a level that many bikes after it have struggled to reach.

For those who rode it in its prime, the RX100 brings back memories of youthful excitement and adventure. For younger riders, it remains a legendary machine, representing an era when motorcycling was pure and thrilling.

As the world moves towards advanced motorcycles with fuel efficiency, digital features, and strict emission rules, the RX100 stands as a reminder of why people fell in love with bikes in the first place. It was raw, powerful, and thrilling to ride.

The legacy of the Yamaha RX100 lives on, proving that a well-made motorcycle can be more than just a machine—it can become a cultural icon.