The iconic Yamaha RX 100 is making a triumphant comeback in 2025, and motorcycle enthusiasts across India are buzzing with excitement. This legendary bike, which once ruled Indian roads before ending production in 1996, is set to capture hearts once again with its perfect blend of retro charm and modern engineering.

As someone who’s been following the developments closely, I can tell you that the rebirth of the RX 100 is not just another product launch – it’s the revival of a cultural icon that defined an era of motorcycling in India.

With its launch just around the corner, the 2025 Yamaha RX 100 promises to deliver an exhilarating riding experience while honoring its heritage.

From its enhanced engine performance to its classic-yet-contemporary design, this bike is poised to shake up the motorcycle market. So, let’s dive into what makes the reborn RX 100 a machine worth waiting for, including its powerful features and expected on-road pricing.

Launch Timeline and Expected Pricing

The much-anticipated Yamaha RX 100 has already been launched on January 15, 2025, according to some reports, while others suggest it will hit the market between March and April 2025.

This slight discrepancy in reported launch dates indicates the high level of anticipation surrounding this iconic motorcycle’s return.

When it comes to pricing, the 2025 Yamaha RX 100 is positioned as a premium offering in the commuter segment. The ex-showroom price is expected to range between ₹80,000 and ₹1.50 lakh, depending on the variant.

For on-road pricing, you’ll need to factor in additional costs like registration, insurance, and road tax, which typically add 15-20% to the ex-showroom price. This means the on-road price could range from approximately ₹95,000 to ₹1.80 lakh.

This pricing strategy places the RX 100 in a competitive position against rivals like the Honda Unicorn, Honda SP 125, Bajaj Freedom, Bajaj Pulsar 150, and Hero Glamour XTEC.

While it might seem premium for a commuter bike, the RX 100’s legendary status and enhanced features justify the price point for enthusiasts who understand its historical significance.

Engine Performance and Specifications

Powerful Heart: The Engine

One of the most significant changes in the 2025 RX 100 is its engine. While the original RX 100 was powered by a 98.2cc two-stroke motor, the new model is receiving a substantial upgrade. Reports vary on the exact specifications, with some sources indicating a 150cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine producing around 16.5 bhp, while others suggest a more powerful 225.9cc engine capable of generating 20.1 bhp and 19.93 Nm of torque.

What’s certain is that Yamaha is moving away from the original two-stroke engine to a more environmentally friendly four-stroke, fuel-injected powertrain. This modern engine will comply with current emission standards while attempting to capture the spirited performance that made the original RX 100 legendary.

The transmission system has also been upgraded, with the 2025 model featuring a 6-speed manual gearbox compared to the 4-speed transmission of the original. This additional gear ratio allows for better power delivery across different riding conditions, from city commuting to highway cruising.

Impressive Fuel Efficiency

Despite the increased power, the 2025 RX 100 doesn’t compromise on fuel efficiency. Various reports suggest impressive mileage figures ranging from 60 km/l to as high as 80 km/l. This remarkable efficiency makes the RX 100 an economical choice for daily commuting while still delivering the thrilling performance that riders expect.

With a fuel tank capacity of 10 liters (similar to the original), the new RX 100 could potentially offer a range of 600-800 kilometers on a single tank – perfect for both city riding and longer weekend trips.

Design and Features: Classic Meets Contemporary

The 2025 Yamaha RX 100 strikes a delicate balance between honoring its heritage and embracing modern design elements. Yamaha has wisely retained the iconic silhouette that made the original RX 100 instantly recognizable – the teardrop-shaped fuel tank, sleek side panels, and round headlamp remain defining characteristics.

However, the new model incorporates several contemporary touches to meet the expectations of today’s riders. LED lighting replaces the original halogen setup, providing better visibility and a more premium look. The instrument cluster has evolved from the purely analog display of the original to a hybrid digital-analog setup that offers more information while maintaining a classic aesthetic.

Enhanced Comfort and Handling

The 2025 RX 100 features significant improvements in the suspension department. The front telescopic fork and rear swing arm (adjustable to 5 positions) provide a comfortable ride while maintaining the agile handling that the RX 100 was known for.

This suspension setup effectively absorbs road imperfections, making the bike suitable for India’s varied road conditions.

Another notable upgrade is in the braking department. While the original RX 100 featured drum brakes front and rear, the 2025 model is expected to come with disc brakes on both wheels, with optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) for enhanced safety.

This modern braking system provides significantly improved stopping power, addressing one of the few criticisms of the original model.

Feature	Original RX 100	2025 RX 100
Engine	98cc two-stroke	150-225cc four-stroke
Power Output	11 PS @ 7500 rpm	16.5-20.1 bhp
Torque	10.39 Nm @ 6500 rpm	13.9-19.93 Nm
Transmission	4-speed manual	6-speed manual
Braking	Drum brakes (front & rear)	Disc brakes with optional ABS
Lighting	Halogen bulbs	LED system
Instrument Cluster	Analog	Hybrid digital-analog
Fuel Efficiency	Not specified	60-80 km/l
Weight	Not specified	Approximately 135 kg
Expected Price (Ex-showroom)	Original price not comparable	₹80,000 – ₹1.50 lakh

Modern Technology and Convenience Features

Digital Integration

The 2025 Yamaha RX 100 embraces technology with features that would have been unimaginable in the original model. The digital speedometer provides clear information about speed, fuel level, gear position, and trip data. Some reports suggest that higher variants might even include Bluetooth connectivity, allowing riders to pair their smartphones for navigation and call notifications.

The lighting system has been completely updated with LED technology throughout, including the headlight, tail light, and turn signals. These bright, energy-efficient lights ensure that the RX 100 is both visible to other road users and capable of illuminating the path ahead effectively.

Practical Enhancements

For added convenience, the bike is expected to include modern amenities like tubeless tires, which significantly reduce the risk of sudden deflation in case of a puncture. Alloy wheels replace the wire-spoked wheels of the original, providing better stability and a more contemporary look.

The ergonomics have been carefully considered as well, with a slightly more upright riding position that balances comfort for city commuting with stability for longer journeys. Whether you’re navigating urban traffic or embarking on a weekend adventure, the 2025 RX 100 promises a comfortable and engaging riding experience.

Conclusion

The 2025 Yamaha RX 100 represents a thoughtful revival of a beloved motorcycle icon. By combining classic design elements with modern technology and performance, Yamaha has created a bike that honors its heritage while meeting the expectations of contemporary riders. The powerful engine options, enhanced safety features, and improved comfort make it a compelling option for those seeking a motorcycle with character and capability.

Whether you’re a nostalgic rider who remembers the original RX 100 with fondness or a younger enthusiast attracted to its timeless design and modern features, the 2025 model offers something special. It’s not merely a reproduction of a classic but rather a reinterpretation that acknowledges how motorcycling has evolved while celebrating what made the original so special.

As the 2025 Yamaha RX 100 prepares to hit Indian roads, it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of thoughtfully designed motorcycles that balance style, performance, and practicality. In a market increasingly dominated by aggressive styling and cutting-edge technology, there’s something refreshingly authentic about a motorcycle that embraces its heritage while still looking forward.

FAQs About the 2025 Yamaha RX 100

1. Will the 2025 Yamaha RX 100 have the same two-stroke engine as the original? No, the 2025 RX 100 will feature a four-stroke, fuel-injected engine instead of the original two-stroke carbureted engine. This change is necessary to meet current emission standards while still delivering exciting performance.

2. When exactly will the 2025 Yamaha RX 100 be available in dealerships? While some reports indicate the bike was launched on January 15, 2025, others suggest it will be available between March and April 2025. It’s advisable to check with your local Yamaha dealership for the most accurate information.

3. How does the expected performance of the 2025 RX 100 compare to the original model? The 2025 RX 100 will likely offer more power than the original, with estimates ranging from 16.5 bhp to 20.1 bhp compared to the original’s 11 PS. However, the character of the power delivery will be different due to the switch from a two-stroke to a four-stroke engine.

4. What is the expected on-road price of the 2025 Yamaha RX 100? While ex-showroom prices are expected to range from ₹80,000 to ₹1.50 lakh, the on-road price (including registration, insurance, and road tax) could be approximately ₹95,000 to ₹1.80 lakh, depending on the variant and location.

5. Will the 2025 RX 100 maintain the iconic sound of the original? Due to the change from a two-stroke to a four-stroke engine, the 2025 RX 100 will have a different exhaust note compared to the original. However, Yamaha is likely to tune the exhaust system to provide a distinctive sound that pays homage to its predecessor while complying with current noise regulations.

2025 Yamaha RX 100 coming soon with powerful features, know on road price