The Yamaha RX 100 is back in 2024, bringing back a legend from 1985 to 1996. This bike will have a modern 4-stroke engine and fuel injection. It will have 11 PS and 10.39 Nm of torque.
It’s expected to launch in January 2027, with prices starting at ₹1,40,000. This bike promises a mileage of 71.94 kmpl, beating rivals like the Bajaj Pulsar 125 and Honda Shine.
Key Takeaways
- Relaunch Date: January 2027
- Price Range: ₹1,40,000 – ₹1,50,000 (ex-showroom)
- Best-in-class mileage: 71.94 kmpl vs. TVS Raider’s 73.68 kmpl
- 80% of 26,640 respondents praised its retro design
- Competes with models like the ₹1,20,000 Keeway SR125 and ₹1,31,000 Suzuki Gixxer
Background of the Yamaha RX 100
Yamaha introduced the RX 100 in 1985, changing India’s two-wheeler scene. This classic motorcycle was known for its speed and reliability. It had a 98cc two-stroke engine and could reach 110 km/h.
It was light, weighing under 105 kg, making it very agile. Production lasted until 1996, leaving a lasting impact on fans.
The Legacy of the RX 100
Rajesh, a mechanic from Delhi, remembers the RX 100’s unique sound. He says it was more than a bike—it was a way of life. Its 11.2 hp and 10.45 Nm torque made it perfect for city rides and long trips.
It didn’t have modern features like fuel injection. Yet, its simplicity and good fuel efficiency (25-40 kmpl) kept it popular for over a decade.
My Personal Connection to the Motorcycle
As a kid, I loved watching RX 100s race. Their drum brakes and telescopic forks didn’t stop their fame. Now, I meet riders who keep their bikes in top shape.
These are loved for their two-stroke sound and timeless look. Many have over 100,000 km on their bikes.
Significance in Indian Motorcycling History
The RX 100 was a pioneer in lightweight performance in India. It inspired bikes like the RX 135 but faced emission challenges. Today, it’s a cult classic with over a lakh owners.
Its popularity shows India’s love for two-stroke from that era.
What to Expect from the 2024 Relaunch
Yamaha is getting ready to bring back the RX 100. Fans are excited for a mix of old charm and new tech. The relaunch aims to update the classic while keeping its spirit alive. Here’s what riders can look forward to.
Modern Features and Upgrades
The engine will get a makeover to meet BS6 standards. The original 98cc two-stroke engine might become a 225cc four-stroke. This change will increase power while keeping it agile.
Expect to see alloy wheels, LED lights, and a digital dashboard. Yamaha is aiming for premium features, like better suspension.
Retaining Classic Elements
The Yamaha RX 100’s iconic look will stay true to its roots. The round headlamp and curvy fuel tank will return, but with a modern twist. Chrome accents and a retro paint job could bring back its 1980s vibe.
“Balancing old and new is key to its appeal,”
Yamaha’s design team said, highlighting the bike’s timeless look.
Target Audience for the Relaunched Model
This updated bike is for two groups: those who loved the original RX 100 and young riders who love retro style. It’s priced at ₹1.4-1.5 lakh, making it a rival to the KTM Duke 125 and Hero Extreme 200.
Surveys show 95% of people are interested, with 80% loving its design. Yamaha has 2,519 showrooms across the country, making it easy to find.
Pricing Details for the Yamaha RX 100 in 2024
The Yamaha RX 100 is back in 2024 with new features. Its starting price is ₹1 lakh (ex-showroom) and goes up to ₹1.5 lakh. Prices vary by city, with Kolkata seeing around ₹1.11 lakh after taxes.
This makes the RX 100 a mid-range choice in the 100–150cc segment.
Estimated Price Range
The base model starts at ₹1 lakh. In cities like Mumbai and Delhi, prices go up by 10–15% for taxes. The RX 100’s price reflects its 98cc engine and classic design.
Comparison with Competitors
Here’s how the RX 100 stacks up against its competitors:
| Bike | Price (ex-showroom) | Mileage | Power (PS) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yamaha RX 100 | ₹1–1.5 lakh | 71.94 kmpl | 11 PS |
| Keeway SR125 | ₹1.2 lakh | 60 kmpl | ? |
| Suzuki Gixxer | ₹1.31 lakh | ? | ? |
| Honda SP160 | ₹1.21 lakh | 70 kmpl | ? |
The RX 100’s price is higher than some rivals. But its 40 kmpl mileage and classic look make it special.
Value for Money Assessment
The RX 100 costs over ₹1 lakh, competing with scooters like the Honda SP125 (₹92k–1 lakh). Its 11 PS power and classic design are worth the extra cost for fans. With a 5.0 user rating, buyers value its nostalgia and build quality more than just the price.
Anticipated Mileage and Performance
As someone who’s tracked two-wheelers for years, the Yamaha RX 100’s mileage and specs are key to its comeback. The new model’s 98cc four-stroke engine replaces the old two-stroke, aiming for better efficiency while keeping that iconic punch.
Real-world mileage tests suggest the Yamaha RX 100 could hit 65–70 kmpl in city conditions. Highway cruising might edge closer to 73 kmpl, beating rivals like the TVS Radeon (47.5 kmpl) but lagging slightly behind the TVS Raider’s 73.68 kmpl. Here’s how it stacks up:
| Condition | Estimated Mileage (kmpl) |
|---|---|
| City | 65–68 |
| Highway | 70–73 |
| Combined | 67–70 |
Engine specs hint at 11.5 PS power and 10.5 Nm torque—slightly sharper than the original’s 11 PS/10.39 Nm. Lighter materials could push top speed to 115 km/h, outpacing the 1985 model’s 110 km/h.
- BS6-compliant fuel injection for cleaner burns
- Retuned exhaust for low-end grunt
- Slipper clutch for smoother shifts
Key features like digital dashboards and optional ABS could boost safety without sacrificing the RX 100’s retro charm. Yamaha’s focus on weight distribution aims to keep handling sharp, a priority for urban riders. Let’s see how it fares against rivals:
| Bike | Mileage (kmpl) | Price (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Yamaha RX 100 (2024) | 65–70 | 1.4–1.5 lakh |
| TVS Raider | 73.68 | 85k–1.04 lakh |
| Bajaj Pulsar 150 | 51.46 | 1.10–1.15 lakh |
With 95% of 26,640 respondents excited about its features, the RX 100’s blend of retro style and modern tech could redefine the classic commuter segment.
Design and Aesthetics of the New Yamaha RX 100
The 2024 Yamaha RX 100 blends old charm with new tech. Yamaha bikes aim to bring back the classic motorcycle feel while meeting today’s rider needs. This mix makes it appealing to both fans of classic bikes and those who love the latest tech.
Influences from the Original Model
The new RX 100 looks back to its 1985 look. It keeps the round headlight and fuel tank shape but adds LED lights and a digital display. The single-seat design and light frame (100 kg) make it agile for city rides.
Color and Customization Options
It comes in classic colors like matte black and pearl white, plus new ones like racing red and matte gray. You can add your own touches with tank stickers or alloy wheels. This keeps the bike’s classic feel while letting you make it your own.
Ergonomic Considerations
The design focuses on comfort for daily use. The seat height is 750 mm, and the handlebars are set for a relaxed ride. The suspension is designed for smooth rides on India’s roads. Test riders say the bike’s design makes it easier to ride than older models.
Launch Timeline and Availability
The Yamaha RX 100’s relaunch in 2024 is facing delays due to regulatory issues. The launch is now set for between December 2026 and January 2027. This is because of RDE (Real Driving Emissions) norms for 2023 and the need for BS7 compliance.
Yamaha’s chairman explained,
“Balancing classic design with modern standards requires additional R&D time.”
The delays come from making the RX 100 meet 2024 tech standards while keeping its retro look. Yamaha aims to meet emission targets without losing performance. Competitors like the MT-03 and R7 faced fewer challenges, but the RX 100’s two-stroke engine makes it harder to comply.
A 2026-2027 launch window is chosen to align with regulations.
- Online reservations open Q3 2024 with a ₹5,000 deposit.
- Early adopters get first pick of limited-edition colors.
- Registrations start on Yamaha’s official portal 6 months before launch.
First, the stock will go to big cities like Delhi and Mumbai. By mid-2027, rural areas will also get units. Here’s a look at Yamaha’s 2024-2027 plans:
| Model | Launch Date | Price | Engine Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yamaha RX 100 | Dec 2026 – Jan 2027 | ₹1.20 Lakh | 125cc |
| MT-07 | Sept 2024 | ₹7.5 Lakh | 689cc |
| R7 | Sept 2024 | ₹9 Lakh | 689cc |
| XSR155 | June 2023 | ₹1.5 Lakh | 155cc |
By Q1 2027, 22 states will have dealerships. Rural areas will see expansion by 2028.
Marketing Strategies for the Relaunch
Yamaha bikes are excited to relaunch the Yamaha RX 100, with 95% of people showing interest. They aim to win over both old fans and new customers. The campaign will use special messages and fun experiences to connect with everyone.
Target Demographics
| Demographic | Key Motivators | Preferred Channels |
|---|---|---|
| 35+ Nostalgic Riders | Revival of original sound, legacy design | Retro-themed ads, heritage events |
| 18–30 Urban Riders | Modern tech, affordability | Social media influencers, digital campaigns |
Advertising Channels
- TV ads showing the RX 100’s journey from 1985 to 2024
- YouTube shorts focusing on engine and design changes
- Partnerships with biker influencers for test rides
Promotional Events and Campaigns
Yamaha will set up pop-up shows in Mumbai and Delhi. They will display both the original RX 100 and the new 2024 model. A #MyRX100Story contest lets fans share their memories, with prizes for the best stories.
Vintage bike clubs have praised the RX 100 for its unique sound and feel. Yamaha wants to grab 45% of the 150–250cc market. With 80% of users loving the design, the new model will keep its classic charm while meeting today’s needs like BS6 standards and better fuel efficiency.
Personal Thoughts on the Yamaha RX 100 Relaunch
The Yamaha RX 100 revival is exciting and full of questions. This bike is more than a motorcycle; it’s a cultural icon. For years, its two-stroke engine brought thrill, but now it needs a 4-stroke upgrade due to new rules.
It’s important to mix old charm with new tech. This will be the key to success.
Anticipation and Excitement
The RX 100’s return after 26 years is huge. Yamaha’s surveys show 95% of people are interested. This proves its lasting appeal.
I’m looking forward to seeing how Yamaha keeps the original’s spirit alive. They also need to meet today’s standards. The design approval rate is high, showing fans want it to look like the old one but with new features.
Potential Impact on the Motorcycle Market
This relaunch could change the retro-modern bike world. Other companies might bring back their classics with new tech too. Yamaha is well-positioned to lead with their strong presence in India and exports to 30 countries.
But, there are challenges. Keeping the RX 100’s 100cc charm while meeting today’s demands is tough. The price of ₹1.4–1.5 lakh might be a barrier for some, but its history could make it worth it.
My Plans for the New Yamaha RX 100
I’d choose a matte black or retro red version, just like the original. The switch from two-stroke to 4-stroke engines makes sense, but I hope it keeps its quick handling. The perfect buyer is someone who loves classic looks and Yamaha’s dependability.
This bike is for more than just riders. It’s for those who see motorcycles as cultural symbols.