Yamaha RX 100 Returns: The Icon Reborn with a Modern Twist in 2025

By Muskan Kumari

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Yamaha

The name Yamaha RX 100 doesn’t just evoke memories—it stirs emotions. For many in India, it was the first love on two wheels, the bike that made them fall in love with speed, sound, and style. Now, after decades, Yamaha is all set to resurrect this iconic nameplate, and motorcycle lovers across the country couldn’t be more thrilled.

The 2025 Yamaha RX 100 aims to blend retro nostalgia with cutting-edge technology, bringing together the best of both worlds. In this blog, we’ll take a detailed look at everything we know (and expect) about this sensational comeback.


🔥 The Legacy of the RX 100: Why It Still Matters

First launched in India in 1985, the RX 100 quickly earned a cult following for its:

  • Lightweight design
  • Explosive 2-stroke engine
  • Signature exhaust note
  • Bulletproof reliability

It became the darling of college students, racers, and even stunt riders. Despite being discontinued in 1996 due to stricter emission norms, the RX 100’s legacy lived on through restorations, used markets, and loyal fan clubs.

Yamaha now plans to revive the RX 100 brand in 2025, but with a modern heart that respects today’s safety and environmental standards.


🚀 The Big Comeback: What’s New in the 2025 RX 100?

Unlike the original, which was powered by a 98cc 2-stroke engine, the new RX 100 will come with a 4-stroke, BS6 Phase 2-compliant engine. While Yamaha has not officially confirmed engine specs, insiders suggest it could get:

  • A 125cc or 150cc air-cooled engine
  • Fuel injection system
  • 5-speed gearbox
  • Power output around 11–13 HP
  • Mileage of 55–60 km/l

This modern iteration is expected to balance performance with fuel efficiency, making it an ideal everyday ride without losing the fun quotient.


🧠 Technology & Features: Classic Look, Modern Soul

While Yamaha wants to preserve the retro silhouette of the original RX 100, they’re also committed to ensuring the bike fits modern sensibilities.

Here’s what we can expect:

  • Round LED headlamp and tail light
  • Digital-analog instrument cluster
  • Single-channel ABS
  • Alloy or spoke wheel variants
  • Telescopic front forks
  • Rear twin shock absorbers
  • Electric start with kick start

Yamaha is rumored to offer multiple retro-inspired color options, including the iconic black-red and blue-white combos that made the original so popular.


🎨 Design: Vintage Vibes Meet Refined Finish

Expect the 2025 RX 100 to retain its:

  • Compact tank
  • Flat seat
  • Slim profile
  • Chrome accents on exhaust and mirrors

But it won’t be a carbon copy of the old bike. It will come with modern finishes, better paint quality, and improved ergonomics, while still giving you that unmistakable RX attitude.

This retro-modern fusion design could make the RX 100 a standout option in the commuter segment, especially for Gen Z riders looking for a touch of old-school cool.


💰 Expected Price and Launch Date in India

Although Yamaha hasn’t officially announced pricing, industry estimates suggest the RX 100 could be launched at a starting price of ₹1.20 lakh to ₹1.35 lakh (ex-showroom).

📅 Expected Launch Date: Late 2025 or early 2026
Yamaha has confirmed that they’re working on bringing back the RX 100, but the final version is still in development. The company wants to get the performance, emissions, and market positioning just right.


🏁 Target Audience: Who Will Love the New RX 100?

  1. Young Riders (18–25 years): Who want a lightweight, stylish bike with strong road presence.
  2. Old RX 100 Lovers: Who owned the original and want a dose of nostalgia.
  3. Collectors & Enthusiasts: Who appreciate iconic design with modern practicality.
  4. City Commuters: Who need a bike with decent mileage, punchy performance, and low maintenance.

This bike will be more than just transportation—it will be an emotion reborn for an entirely new generation.


🆚 Competition: Where Will RX 100 Stand?

The new Yamaha RX 100 will likely compete with:

  • TVS Raider 125
  • Bajaj Pulsar NS125
  • Hero Xtreme 125R
  • Honda SP 125
  • Royal Enfield Hunter 350 (for retro appeal, higher segment)

While these bikes focus on performance, design, or value, none carry the emotional and cultural legacy that RX 100 does. That nostalgia factor alone gives it a huge edge.


🌍 What Makes This Launch So Special?

In recent years, we’ve seen companies revive legends:

  • Royal Enfield brought back the Classic 350 in a modern avatar
  • Honda revived the CB350
  • Jawa and Yezdi made big comebacks

But none of them had the same underground cult status as the RX 100. Yamaha’s move could start a trend of reviving old-school machines with modern tech.

This is more than a bike—it’s a tribute to a generation, a way to reconnect India’s past biking glory with its present.


🛠️ Aftermarket Modding Potential: A Customizer’s Dream?

One of the biggest charms of the old RX 100 was how mod-friendly it was. The new RX 100 is expected to offer that same appeal with:

  • Easily replaceable body panels
  • Optional accessories from Yamaha
  • LED kits, saddle mods, and exhaust upgrades

Expect a wave of custom builds the moment the new RX 100 hits the road. From scrambler-style builds to cafe racer mods—possibilities are endless.


🏍️ Final Verdict: Should You Wait for the New RX 100?

YES, if you want:

  • A daily commuter with personality
  • Retro looks with modern performance
  • A piece of India’s biking history with today’s comfort
  • A unique motorcycle that turns heads

Maybe not, if you:

  • Need high touring performance or highway cruising power
  • Prefer fully faired sports bikes or adventure bikes

But if your heart says “RX,” no logic can stop that connection.


🗣️ Final Thoughts

The Yamaha RX 100 comeback is more than just a bike launch—it’s a cultural moment. For the older generation, it brings back memories of speed and freedom. For the new generation, it’s a fresh chapter written in retro ink.

With the right price, engine, and design balance, the 2025 RX 100 could become India’s most talked-about motorcycle revival ever.

So, are you ready to ride the legend again?

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