Yamaha RX 100 is an iconic 2-stroke motorcycle, which was launched by Yamaha India in the year 1985 through its collaboration with Escorts Limited. The bike is considered to be the best 100cc bike ever produced on a mass scale. This is because RX 100’s lightweight body and high power output resulted in a high power to weight ratio. Its two-stroke engine delivered quick acceleration, making it particularly popular among racers.
Yamaha initially exported RX 100 motorcycles from Japan to India. However, Escorts commenced manufacturing RX 100 in India in the year 1990, with some parts imported from Japan. RX 100 featured a retro design, complete with round headlamp, sleek fuel tank and chrome accents. It became hugely popular in India in the 1980s and 90s, particularly among youngsters seeking a powerful and affordable bike. RX 100 still holds a cult status among motorcycle enthusiasts.
Current Status in India
Yamaha RX 100 is not banned in India. However, Yamaha discontinued the production and sales of RX 100 in March 1996. Existing models of RX 100 are legal to own and ride in India. But these motorcycles must be properly registered, insured and pass regular pollution under control checks. In fact, RX 100 is widely favoured by collectors, with well-maintained models fetching high prices.
Introduction of Bharat Stage or BS emission norms by the Government of India in the 1990s was the main reason behind Yamaha’s decision to discontinue the production of RX 100. RX 100, being a 2-stroke motorcycle, failed to meet the stricter BS emission norms and had to be phased out. Yamaha was required to carry out certain complex modifications to meet the emission norms, which the company deemed impractical.
Moreover, the increasing demand for more fuel-efficient 4-stroke motorcycles made it economically unviable for Yamaha to invest in modifying RX 100, instead of launching new 4-stroke models.
Possibilities of a Re-launch
In July 2022, Yamaha stated that it intends to re-launch RX 100 in India in a new avatar. However, the company stated that it had no plans to re-launch RX 100 before 2026, owing to the presence of multiple other models in the pipeline till 2025.
As per industry experts, re-launching RX 100 would be very difficult for Yamaha. Major reason, as per experts, is that RX 100 is required to be converted to a 4-stroke engine, since 2-stroke motorcycles are banned in India. Consequently, its engine would fall in the high-capacity category, thereby increasing costs and pricing. Thus, affordable pricing won’t be a factor anymore and the customers are more likely to opt for bikes with bigger engines in the same price bracket.
