The Yamaha RX 100 is back, and it’s making waves in the biking world like never before. Once celebrated as a cult classic, this motorcycle has returned with a modern twist—yet still carrying the same raw power and charm that made it legendary. Riders across India remember the old RX 100 for its roaring engine and unbeatable street presence. Now, Yamaha is relaunching the RX 100 as the “Father of Bullet,” packing a 225cc engine and delivering a top speed of 120 km/h, all at an affordable price point.
But what makes this bike so special? Is it just nostalgia, or does the new RX 100 really have what it takes to dominate the streets again? Let’s dive deep into its features, specifications, price, and why it continues to capture the imagination of bikers young and old.
The Legacy of Yamaha RX 100
The Yamaha RX 100 is not just a motorcycle—it’s an emotion for generations of riders. Originally launched in the 1980s, it quickly became a youth icon, thanks to its light body, raw acceleration, and signature two-stroke exhaust note. Unlike many modern bikes that rely on complex electronics, the RX 100 was known for its simplicity and durability.
Over the years, it developed a cult following, with many still restoring and riding the old RX 100s on Indian roads. Even today, it is not uncommon to find enthusiasts hunting for original RX 100 models, treating them like prized possessions.
The relaunch of the Yamaha RX 100 is therefore more than just a new product—it’s the return of a legend. It symbolizes a bridge between past and present, giving young riders a taste of the same adrenaline rush that older generations cherished.
Why is it Called the ‘Father of Bullet’?
You might wonder, why call the Yamaha RX 100 the “Father of Bullet”? After all, the Royal Enfield Bullet is known for its heavyweight dominance. The reason is simple—the RX 100, despite being lighter, was feared and respected on the streets just as much as the Bullet.
Where the Bullet won riders with its thumping sound and macho presence, the RX 100 won hearts with its unmatched pickup, agility, and raw street performance. Many bikers in the past often joked that the RX 100 could “outrun a Bullet” when it came to acceleration.
With the new 225cc engine and 120 km/h top speed, Yamaha is positioning the RX 100 once again as a direct rival to Royal Enfield. And considering its affordability, it may just dethrone the Bullet in popularity among the youth.
Engine and Performance: 225cc Beast
At the heart of the new Yamaha RX 100 lies a 225cc single-cylinder engine, engineered to deliver both power and efficiency. Yamaha has tuned the engine to give riders a thrilling yet smooth experience, making it ideal for both city rides and long highway cruises.
The bike churns out impressive horsepower and torque, ensuring quick acceleration and effortless overtaking. Whether you’re riding through traffic or cruising at high speeds, the RX 100 promises a performance that’s hard to match in its segment.
Specifications Table – Yamaha RX 100 Engine
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 225cc, Single-Cylinder, 4-Stroke |
| Maximum Power | ~20-22 HP (expected) |
| Maximum Torque | ~18-20 Nm (expected) |
| Cooling System | Air-Cooled |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection (FI) |
Top Speed and Riding Experience
Speed has always been part of the RX 100’s DNA. The new model carries forward that tradition with a top speed of 120 km/h. For a bike in this price range, that’s remarkable performance.
Riders can expect quick throttle response, stable handling, and minimal vibrations, even at higher speeds. Yamaha has worked on balancing comfort and thrill, ensuring that the RX 100 appeals to both speed lovers and daily commuters.
The lightweight frame further enhances its ride quality, making sharp turns and city traffic easier to navigate. Imagine it as the sprinter of the bike world—quick off the line, nimble on its feet, and always ready to race.
Design: Retro Meets Modern
One of the most exciting aspects of the Yamaha RX 100 relaunch is its design. Yamaha has beautifully blended retro elements with modern upgrades. The classic round headlamp, slim fuel tank, and minimalist body styling are inspired by the original RX 100.
At the same time, modern touches like LED lights, digital-analog instrumentation, and sporty alloy wheels give it a contemporary look. It’s like wearing a vintage leather jacket with brand-new sneakers—old-school charm with today’s comfort.
This balance makes the bike appealing to both older enthusiasts who crave nostalgia and younger riders looking for something stylish and unique.
Features and Technology Upgrades
Unlike the original RX 100, which was barebones, the new version comes with a host of modern features to meet today’s biking standards. Some of the key upgrades include:
- Digital-Analog Speedometer – Retro look with modern display.
- LED Headlamp and Tail Lamp – Brighter and more efficient.
- Tubeless Tyres – Safer and easier to maintain.
- Alloy Wheels – Strong, lightweight, and stylish.
- Dual-Channel ABS – Ensuring better safety during braking.
- Smartphone Connectivity (expected) – For navigation and call alerts.
These features make the new RX 100 a complete package—not just fast and stylish, but also practical for everyday use.
Yamaha RX 100 Price and Variants
Affordability is one of the strongest selling points of the Yamaha RX 100. While exact prices may vary depending on the region, the bike is expected to be launched in the ₹1.25 lakh – ₹1.50 lakh range (ex-showroom).
This pricing makes it significantly cheaper than Royal Enfield models, giving budget-conscious riders a powerful alternative without compromising on performance.
Variants are likely to include standard and premium editions, with differences in paint schemes and added features.
Mileage and Fuel Efficiency
Even with its powerful 225cc engine, the Yamaha RX 100 manages to balance performance with decent mileage. Riders can expect around 35–40 km/l, depending on road conditions and riding style.
This makes it suitable for both city commuters and long-distance riders. Yamaha’s fuel-injection technology ensures efficient combustion, which means more kilometers for every drop of fuel.
Safety Features and Braking System
Yamaha has equipped the RX 100 with advanced safety features to meet modern demands. The dual-channel ABS ensures better control during emergency braking, while disc brakes at both ends provide confident stopping power.
The frame has been strengthened to improve stability, and the suspension system has been tuned for Indian roads, making it reliable for both smooth highways and bumpy city rides.
Yamaha RX 100 vs Royal Enfield Bullet
The most talked-about comparison is, of course, with the Royal Enfield Bullet. While the Bullet is heavier and has a larger 350cc engine, the RX 100 counters with its agility, affordability, and performance-to-weight ratio.
The RX 100 is like a panther—light, fast, and flexible—while the Bullet is like an elephant—powerful but heavy. Both have their charm, but for riders looking for speed, affordability, and style, the RX 100 may just come out on top.
Yamaha RX 100 vs Other 200cc Bikes
Apart from the Bullet, the RX 100 will also compete with bikes like Bajaj Pulsar 220, TVS Apache RTR 200, and Hero Xtreme 200S.
Compared to these, the RX 100 offers a unique mix of retro charm and modern features. While Pulsar and Apache focus heavily on sportiness, the RX 100 brings nostalgia with performance, setting it apart in the 200cc category.
Who Should Buy the Yamaha RX 100?
The new RX 100 is designed for a wide range of riders:
- Young Enthusiasts – Looking for speed and style at an affordable price.
- Old-School Bikers – Who loved the original RX 100 and want to relive the magic.
- Daily Commuters – Who need a balance of mileage, comfort, and performance.
- College Students – Who want a bike that stands out from the crowd.
If you want a machine that’s thrilling yet practical, the RX 100 is a perfect choice.
Availability and Booking Details
Yamaha is expected to open bookings both online and offline soon after the official launch. Customers can register at authorized Yamaha dealerships or via the company’s website. Delivery timelines will likely depend on demand, which, given the hype, is expected to be massive.
Public Reaction and Market Expectations
Even before its official release, the Yamaha RX 100 has created massive buzz in the biking community. Social media is filled with discussions, speculations, and excitement about its return.
Experts believe it could become one of Yamaha’s best-selling bikes in India, especially since it fills the gap between budget commuters and premium motorcycles.
Final Verdict on Yamaha RX 100
The Yamaha RX 100 is more than just a motorcycle—it’s a legend reborn. With its 225cc engine, 120 km/h speed, retro-modern design, and affordable pricing, it has all the ingredients to rule Indian roads once again.
If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a bike that delivers thrill, nostalgia, and practicality in one package, the RX 100 is your answer.
FAQs
1. What is the top speed of the new Yamaha RX 100?
The Yamaha RX 100 offers a top speed of around 120 km/h, making it one of the fastest bikes in its segment.
2. What is the engine capacity of Yamaha RX 100?
The new RX 100 is powered by a 225cc single-cylinder engine.
3. Is Yamaha RX 100 affordable compared to Royal Enfield Bullet?
Yes, with a price range of ₹1.25–1.50 lakh (ex-showroom), it is far more affordable than the Bullet.
4. What mileage does the Yamaha RX 100 give?
The bike is expected to deliver 35–40 km/l, depending on riding conditions.
5. When will Yamaha RX 100 bookings open?
Bookings are expected to open shortly after the official launch, both online and at Yamaha dealerships.