The return of the Yamaha RX100 is a throwback to the old days, but with a new twist
If you rode a bike in the 80s or 90s, or saw your dad, uncle or a friend ride an RX100, you know it wasn’t just a motorcycle, it was an emotion. First college rides, long evening rides with friends, revving up empty streets with a peppy sound, one name always shines through these memories: the Yamaha RX100. Now Yamaha is preparing to bring back that legendary name in a new form. The question is, will the new model be able to rekindle the same old magic or will it be a completely different experience that combines old flavor with modern needs.
Below we’ll talk about the new Yamaha RX100 2025 in detail. Design, engine, performance, mileage, price, possible features, everyday usability and what to consider before buying, all these aspects will be explained in a simple and conversational way so that you do not have any confusion while making a decision.
Why was RX 100 special and why people still remember it
When this bike was launched in 1985, it created a buzz among the youth. Its light weight, quick engine, clear feedback on the handlebars and that loud but composed sound, all these made it stand out from the crowd. It was easy to turn in the city streets, it felt lively even on the highway despite its limited power, and maintenance was simple. Many people’s first memorable motorcycle ride of their life happened on this bike. That is why its name still has the same familiarity.
After several decades, Yamaha is bringing this name back. Keeping in mind the changing rules, new technology and expectations of today’s users, the company wants to combine the old charm with modern confidence, so that the new generation can also adopt it with the same pride.
The design and styling remind of the old days, but the finish is modern
The biggest attraction of the new RX One Hundred is its retro look. Yamaha has tried to ensure that the identity of the old bike does not fade. A round headlamp can be given in the front which immediately gives a classic feel. The profile of the seat has been kept straight and long so that sitting and getting down is comfortable and the pillion also gets enough space. The shape of the fuel tank is said to be kept simple and composed like the old model so that the grip of the knees feels natural and the images of the old days float in the eyes as soon as the bike is seen in the parking. The chrome finish on the silencer will give the same shiny old touch, while the new LED lamp on the tail section will give modern safety and clear visibility.
In terms of wheels, the option of spoke wheel is possible in some variants and alloy in some. Spoke wheels strengthen the retro look and the tyre profile is better for bad road usage, while alloy wheels are easy to maintain and offer the advantage of tubeless tyres in case of a puncture. The instrument cluster is expected to be primarily analogue to retain the classic needle-moving experience, but there could be a small digital section for the trip meter, fuel information and some warnings to suit everyday needs. Colours are expected to include some classic options like black, red and blue, as well as dual-tone and matte finish options to appeal to the new generation. Special attention has been paid to the quality of paint and graphics so that they retain their shine over time.
Engine and performance now with a refined four-stroke
The old model was based on a two-stroke engine, which cannot be used due to today’s emission standards. So the new model will come with a modern four-stroke engine. The buzz is that the engine volume could be around two hundred and twenty-five cubic centimeters, which will give power between twenty to twenty-two brake horsepower and torque balanced in real world terms. Fuel injection will ensure smooth starts even at low temperatures, linear throttle response and stable performance even when the altitude or weather changes. The gearbox is expected to be a five-speed gearbox, with first and second gears short for city traffic and fourth and fifth set for a comfortable cruise on the highway. Top speed is expected to be around 120 kmph, which is adequate for this segment, according to the company’s tuning.
The most interesting aspect is the sound. The old tune of the two-stroke may not return, but Yamaha has said that the exhaust note will be special. This could mean that the sound will be quiet and deep at idle and as the rpm goes up, a clean, energetic note will emerge that will be pleasant to the ear and make the bike stand out in the crowd. This is not an easy task, as the sound has to be limited according to the rules, yet mature tuning can do a lot.
Ride and handling are light, agile and reliable
The original attraction of the RX name was its agility. The new model will try to carry that forward. To keep the weight under control, materials will be chosen for the frame and panels that are strong as well as light. The steering geometry will be set in such a way that it is easy to turn at low speeds and maintain stability at high speeds. The combination of telescopic forks in the front and twin shock absorbers in the rear will give comfort along with the old style. To ensure that the bike absorbs the shock on small potholes and speed breakers, the balance of springs and dampers will be kept such that it is neither too stiff nor too soft. There will be a lot of adjustments in the braking setup.
A balanced package with at least a disc in the front and a drum in the rear instead of a disc and a drum in the rear can be considered practical, and the option of dual channel ABS is possible in higher variants so that reliability is maintained even on slippery roads in the rain.
The seating position will be kept according to everyday use. The handlebar will not be too low so that there is no pressure on the wrists, and the footpegs should be slightly backward so that the body balance is comfortable while leaning the bike on the turn. The density of the seat foam can be kept such that the body gets less tired even in a ride of more than half an hour, and the grab rail for the pillion should be strong and easy to hold.
Features are adequate according to modern needs, but far from being too showy
Yamaha has indicated to give simple and useful features instead of making this bike too high-tech. Both electric start and kick start are expected so that there is no worry even if the battery is weak. If a small digital trip meter and fuel information are available along with the analog speedometer, then it becomes easy to keep track of the daily distance and fuel. The tail lamp is almost certain to be LED, the headlamp could be LED in some variants and halogen in others to create variation in prices. Engine cut off when the side stand is engaged is very useful for safety and it would be wise to include it. There is also talk of getting USB charging port in some variants so that the phone can be charged on the way. The tyres will be tubeless so that in case of a puncture, the air will be released slowly and you can reach a safe place. Overall, the package will be one that strikes a balance between old and new.
Mileage and fuel efficiency satisfactory in real world
The new four stroke engine will naturally be more economical than the old two stroke bike. The actual mileage in city use is expected to be around thirty five to forty. This figure is considered good for an engine of this capacity. If you maintain a steady speed, shift up gears quickly, keep the tyre pressure right and avoid sudden braking and fast acceleration, the average comes out to be better. If you commute to work five days a week and ride 30 kms a day, the difference in monthly fuel costs is not too much compared to a smaller, less powerful bike, while you gain the added performance and stability. This balance makes the modern RX practical for everyday use.
Tentative picture of price, variants and availability
Based on market buzz, it is believed that the new model could be offered in two to three variants. The base variant would be the one with a classic look and some essential modern features. The mid-spec variant could get some additional features like a different colour, better finish, possibly LED headlamps and some cosmetic upgrades. The upper variants could get more chrome, alloy wheels, an upgraded form of ABS and special colour schemes. Prices are expected to start from around Rs 1,40,000 and go up to Rs 1,60,000 (ex-showroom). The final prices will vary depending on the city and tax regime, so it is best to get a clear idea from the showroom in your area at the time of launch. The launch is expected to be by the end of the year, so the eager ones will have to wait a little longer, but once the test rides begin, the picture will become clear.
For whom this bike will be best
If you are a college student and want a bike that stands out in the crowd, is easy to handle and can also give assurance to the family, then this can be a good option. If you are a working professional and commute within the city every day, as well as go out for short distances on weekends, then you will like its combination of seating position, light weight and adequate power. If you have been an old-school RX owner and are now looking for a reliable, regulatory compliant and modern look, then this bike will act as an emotional and practical bridge. This bike can also be suitable for women, as the weight is under control, the height is not too much and the throttle response is going to be smooth.
Potential competitors and advantages of the new RX
There are many names in the retro styling segment. Some models come with heavy body and big engine but it becomes difficult to handle in the city. Some models are light and fast, but lack the retro identity. The advantage of the new RX is that it combines the spirit of the old Yamaha with modern utility. It will not be too heavy so it will not tire you in everyday life, and it will not be too weak so that you can remain confident on the highway. This balance makes it special.
What to feel during the test ride
Do not judge by looking at the glitz and glamour in the showroom. Make the test ride like your daily route. See if the clutch works lightly at slow speeds or your fingers get tired. If there is a jerk when you twist the throttle in first and second gear. Does the bike stop in a straight line when you press the brake or does the tail move slightly. Do you get clear feedback from the front when you lean a little on a turn. How is the condition of the back and shoulders after sitting on the seat for half an hour? How far can the headlamp light be seen clearly in the evening? These small experiences will decide whether this bike is right for your height and the roads of your city or not.
Maintenance, Service and Long Term Cost
Yamaha has a good network in tier two and three cities along with big cities. Regular service intervals include changing engine oil, cleaning air filter, chain lubrication and tension adjustment, blackout, etc.
