The legendary Yamaha RX100 is back — but not just as a nostalgic revival. This time, it’s roaring into the Indian market with a modern twist, earning a new title: “The Father of Bullet.” With a powerful 225cc engine, a top speed of 120 km/h, and a design that stays true to its roots, the all-new Yamaha RX100 is set to redefine the segment for classic motorcycles. Even more surprising? It’s the most affordable bike in its class.
Let’s explore everything you need to know about the Yamaha RX100’s grand return – its pricing, specifications, features, performance, and why it’s creating waves among both old-school riders and young speed enthusiasts.
The Icon Returns: Yamaha RX100 – A Legacy Reimagined
The original Yamaha RX100 was launched in India in the mid-1980s and quickly earned a cult following for its raw power, light frame, and throaty two-stroke engine note. It became an icon on Indian roads, loved for its acceleration and distinctive style. For decades, riders have waited for its comeback.
Now, Yamaha has finally answered the call — bringing the RX100 back not just as a retro-inspired motorcycle, but as a powerful machine with modern performance. With a 225cc engine, this isn’t just a rebranded commuter bike. It’s built for power, speed, and nostalgia all rolled into one.
Why It’s Called “The Father of Bullet”
In a market long dominated by Royal Enfield’s Bullet when it comes to retro styling and road presence, the new RX100 is entering with an attitude. It’s been dubbed “The Father of Bullet” because it offers:
- More power in a smaller, lighter frame
- Higher top speed (120 km/h vs 110 km/h of classic Bullet)
- Aggressive pricing and better fuel efficiency
- A classic-meets-modern look that appeals to all generations
Yamaha has targeted Royal Enfield’s domination head-on by launching a bike that balances heritage, performance, and affordability — a bold move that has stirred the market.
Engine and Performance: A 225cc Powerhouse
The biggest upgrade to the Yamaha RX100 is its new 225cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine. This engine is tuned for both torque and top-end performance, delivering around:
- 22 HP of power
- 19 Nm of peak torque
- Top speed of 120 km/h
This powertrain ensures a thrilling ride experience while maintaining Yamaha’s traditional focus on reliability and smoothness.
The engine is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission, with well-spaced gear ratios that offer quick acceleration as well as comfortable highway cruising. Whether you’re weaving through traffic or taking long weekend rides, this bike has the engine to handle it all.
Mileage and Fuel Efficiency
Despite the jump in power, the new RX100 remains efficient. Yamaha has focused on keeping the fuel economy between 35 to 40 km/l, which is highly respectable for a bike with 225cc displacement.
Thanks to fuel injection technology and weight optimization, it achieves a great balance between performance and mileage – an important factor for Indian buyers.
Retro-Modern Design: The RX100 Look Reimagined
Yamaha has made sure that the new RX100 captures the soul of the original model. From its classic round headlamp to the boxy fuel tank, chrome elements, and minimalist tail section, everything screams vintage — but with a modern twist.
Key design highlights include:
- Round LED headlamp with DRL
- Teardrop-shaped fuel tank with vintage decals
- Flat single-piece seat
- Chrome-finished exhaust and side mirrors
- Classic spoked wheels or alloy options depending on variant
- Modern digital-analog instrument cluster
The new RX100 respects its legacy while adding the tech and finish of a modern motorcycle, making it equally appealing to retro lovers and tech-savvy youth.
Features & Technology
While the RX100 is styled like a vintage motorcycle, Yamaha has added modern tech to enhance convenience and safety.
Key Features:
- LED Headlamp and Tail-lamp
- Digital-Analog Speedometer
- USB Mobile Charging Port
- Bluetooth Connectivity (Top Variant)
- Side Stand Engine Cut-Off
- Dual-channel ABS
- Front and Rear Disc Brakes (Optional Drum Variant Available)
These features ensure the RX100 doesn’t just look good — it also meets the expectations of today’s tech-aware riders.
Comfort and Ride Quality
Built on a new frame inspired by the older RX100 but reinforced for the new engine, the bike remains lightweight and agile.
- Kerb weight: Around 135 kg
- Seat height: 790 mm
- Ground clearance: 175 mm
The RX100 offers a comfortable upright riding posture, ideal for city commutes and long rides. Suspension duties are handled by telescopic forks at the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear, tuned for a soft yet stable ride over rough Indian roads.
Exhaust Note: That Iconic Roar is Back
One of the defining characteristics of the RX100 was its signature exhaust note. Yamaha has paid special attention to bring back the same throaty, raspy sound, this time tuned for a four-stroke engine.
It’s not just about nostalgia — it’s about creating an emotional connection with riders. The new RX100 promises to be audibly distinct, turning heads wherever it goes.
Price in India: Most Affordable 225cc Bike
Perhaps the most attractive part of the new RX100 is its pricing. Yamaha has strategically positioned the RX100 as the most affordable bike in the 200–250cc segment.
Expected Price Range (Ex-showroom, India):
- Base Variant: ₹1.45 lakh
- Mid Variant (Disc, ABS): ₹1.55 lakh
- Top Variant (Bluetooth, Alloys, Dual-ABS): ₹1.65 lakh
This aggressive pricing undercuts several competitors like the Royal Enfield Classic 350, Jawa 42, and Honda CB350, while offering a sportier ride and unique styling.
Variants and Color Options
Yamaha is offering the new RX100 in three variants, each tailored to different rider preferences. Buyers can choose between:
- Spoke or alloy wheels
- Single or dual-channel ABS
- Standard or Bluetooth-enabled dashboard
Color options include:
- Classic Black
- Vintage Red
- Chrome Blue
- Matte Grey
- Special Edition Yellow-Black (inspired by original RX100)
This wide range of choices ensures that every rider finds their perfect style.
Yamaha RX100 vs Competitors
| Feature | Yamaha RX100 | Royal Enfield Classic 350 | Jawa 42 | Honda CB350 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 225cc | 349cc | 293cc | 348cc |
| Power | 22 HP | 20.2 HP | 27 HP | 20.8 HP |
| Weight | 135 kg | 195 kg | 172 kg | 181 kg |
| Mileage | 35-40 km/l | 35 km/l | 30 km/l | 35 km/l |
| Price (Starting) | ₹1.45 lakh | ₹1.93 lakh | ₹1.98 lakh | ₹2 lakh |
The RX100 wins in power-to-weight ratio, pricing, and nostalgic appeal, making it a unique offering.
Who Should Buy the Yamaha RX100?
The new Yamaha RX100 is ideal for:
- Young riders looking for performance and style on a budget
- Old-school enthusiasts who want a modern version of a classic
- Commuters who need a balance between speed, efficiency, and affordability
- Touring beginners wanting a lightweight, reliable retro bike
Its blend of power, aesthetics, and pricing makes it a no-compromise machine.
Final Verdict: Yamaha RX100 Is the Comeback King
The all-new Yamaha RX100 is more than just a re-launch — it’s a statement. By offering a 225cc engine, 120 km/h top speed, retro styling, and unbeatable pricing, Yamaha has crafted a motorcycle that lives up to the legacy while meeting modern expectations.
With this launch, Yamaha hasn’t just brought back a bike. They’ve brought back a legend — and they’ve done it in a way that challenges the norms of the retro segment.
For those who’ve waited, the RX100 is back. And it’s bolder, faster, and louder than ever.