The Yamaha RX100 is a motorcycle that went on to become an institution in India, synonymous with nostalgia, speed, passion, and really many more things.
Inaugurated in 1985, the two-stroke machine quickly went on to become a phenomenal cultural phenomenon, widely appreciated for its lightning-fast acceleration and very light weight, not to speak of a very proud engine note.
Though the variant was done to death in the mid Nineties, primarily as emission norms tightened, it still stands as one of the greatest legends to ever touch the hearts of motorcycle enthusiasts.
Now, after a couple of decades of talk and official hints, the rumor is once again rampant with enthusiasm – this time, it is over re-launched Yamaha RX100 and enthusiasts eagerly await to see how the revival will happen for this classic in a new avatar.
Yamaha finally confirmed that they are working on reviving the RX100 nameplate but with a difference: the new version will conform to the emission norm, carry contemporary features and yet still hope to capture the spirit of the original.
Let us try to dig into the details surrounding the so eagerly awaited relaunch of Yamaha RX100 to understand what it will promise in terms of design, engine, and performance, and how Yamaha plans to remain true to the essence of a classic while adapting it to a market that has changed now.
Legacy of the Original RX100
Before we talk about the impending relaunch, let us know how the RX100 is a legend of motorcycles in the motorcycling world.
Launched in the mid-80s, Yamaha RX100 created a niche for itself very early by dint of its light frame and sensitive engine.
Powered by a 98cc two-stroke engine generating approximately 11 horsepower, RX100 was known for its blistering performance at a time when most bikes were sluggish in comparison.
The RX100’s two-stroke engine gave a feeling that was simply exciting with its snappy throttle response and cutting through traffic without any problem.
With its affordability, this bike quickly attracted performance-seeking riders who did not want to spend more.
The bike also earned a reputation to be entirely reliable with a robust engine which would withstand even the toughest conditions without losing its punch.
Not just a performance machine, the RX100 became a status symbol and style icon. Simple yet elegant with its slender fuel tank, flat seat, and chrome accents.
The loud, distinctive exhaust note became a signature trait so that even from afar, it became instantly recognizable.
Even until today, the RX100 enjoys a cult following with enthusiasts frequently restoring old models and modifying them to keep the legacy alive.
Expectations from the Second Edition of Yamaha RX100
After several years of rumors, Yamaha finally confirmed its plan to reservice the RX 100. But unlike the revamp for takeoff, it is much more significant in terms of updates on it.
On the other hand, though Yamaha looks forward to upholding the soul of the classic RX100, its new edition would decidedly bring along some level of modern standards.
1. Design: A Retromodern Hybrid
Yamaha will expect its designers to walk this tightrope between the overall retro charm of the original RX100 and still many of the modern elements that have been incorporated into the motorcycle.
Considering the clear trend of mass-produced motorcycles, the new RX100 will likely feature several elements taken directly from its predecessor, for example, the round headlamp and skeletal bodywork and also the classic shape of the fuel tank.
However, to be able to compete with the old-school charm, it will also have modern touches such as LED lighting, a digital instrument cluster, and perhaps a semi-digital speedometer.
The original theme of the chrome accents can be rekindled, and spoke wheels are possible, while alloy wheels might not be such an alien proposition for higher variants to appeal to more modern sensibilities.
It is going to be generally more svelte and small as per the moniker of the lightweight ethos of the RX100.
2. Engine: A Four-Stroke Upgrade
This is where things will change the most-all because the heart and soul of the new RX100 lies in this powerplant.
Finally, owing to stringent emission norms, Yamaha will not employ two strokes like the original RX100 engine.
A four stroke, fuel injection engine with help the new RX100 meet BS6 (Bharat Stage VI) Emission norms, and probably provide the right mix of performance and economic sense.
Power figures, in absolute terms, won’t thrill, but Yamaha will probably optimize this new engine to just give the perfect blend of performance and economic sense.
Almost rumor has it that the engine would either be a 125cc unit or a 150cc, which would definitely make the RX100 competitive with some bikes in the commuter and lightweight sports categories.
Yamaha can borrow the platform of that Yamaha FZ or MT-15 which are known to have smooth power delivery and reliability but will, in this case, sport a different tune to recapture the nimble spirit of the original RX100.
3. Performance: Keeping the Spirit Alive
With the new RX100 boasting of a four-stroke engine, Yamaha’s going to hang on to the same light and agile character that made so many fall in love with the original.
The motorcycle probably is going to come at 100-120 kg, which will allow the easy maneuverability even when riding through busy city traffic or offering scorching acceleration.
Expect Yamaha not to focus all of its attention on providing good quick throttle response and nimble handling – it’s the two things that defined the character of the RX100.
The four-stroke version won’t make raw power compared to the original two stroke, but this should be enough grunting for any new rider as well as veteran enthusiasts.
Yamaha will probably target at the output level of 12-14 horsepower, offering its blend of sporty performance combined with practicality in everyday driving.
Also, the new RX100 could promise upgraded suspension and braking systems, such as a disc brake at the front and a drum brake at the back, thereby making safe driving easier and better in all senses.
4. Features: Modern Conveniences
The new Yamaha RX100, which is going to be bestowed upon the modern rider, is certainly going to be loaded with a few features contemporary to the era.
As mentioned above, the motorcycle could feature LED headlamps and tail lamps, giving better visibility as well as longevity.
Another key feature that is likely to be there is ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) – at least in the single-channel format – for the motorcycle, thus increasing the safety and meeting with the present day requirements.
Other features like USB charging ports and Bluetooth connectivity may be incorporated to attract younger buyers, who are tech-savvy, and digital instrumentation can be incorporated.
Various color schemes or special edition variants could be provided by Yamaha to remember and pay tributes for the unique color palette that the original RX 100 was marked for.
Position and Competition
The revivified Yamaha RX100 will most probably be positioned as a premium commuter motorcycle or a light street motorcycle and talk to a very broad spectrum of riders – younger consumers in pursuit of a stylish bike with the promise of deliverance – and older enthusiasts who are nostalgic about the good old days and the original RX 100, respectively.
In the competition scenario, the latest RX100 will have rivals in Honda CB Shine, TVS Raider, and Hero Glamour, which are already making a big space in the commuter segment.
But Yamaha can well focus on the nostalgic appeal of RX100 and position it as a unique offering with a mix of retro design and modern performance.
Challenges Ahead
While the excitement for the relaunch is palpable, Yamaha has tons of work ahead to recreate the magic of the original RX100.
While the two-stroke at the heart of RX100’s identity can no longer be used due to strict environmental regulations, Yamaha will have to ensure that this new, four-stroke engine delivers enough performance satisfactorily without losing the high-revving lightness of the original.
Another point to consider is that the market of motorcycles has changed a lot since the time of RX100, and many options are now available in the market.
Yamaha should keep this in mind while balancing affordability with features wherein the new RX100 will be as accessible to the target audience and must still give a premium feel.
Relaunch of the Yamaha RX100 promises to be one of the most happening events in the Indian motorcycle industry.
There is tremendous expectation as Yamaha gets ready to bring back a modernized version of this iconic RX100.
The new RX100 will surely capture both the hearts of classic enthusiasts and new ones with the balance of what seems to be retro design, modern performance, and the contemporary features it is bound to include.
Though the future RX 100 might miss that raw, two-stroke thrum, it is nice to have Yamaha focus on capturing the crux of the bike while it was transformed to meet the requirements of modern regulations and market needs.
This iconic motorcycle once again will roar down Indian streets, albeit this time with a different kind of tune.
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