Yamaha RX 100 – A Legendary Bike Going to Relaunch Soon!

The Yamaha RX 100 is a name that holds a special place in the hearts of motorcycling enthusiasts. It is not just a bike; it’s a symbol of a unique era in India’s motorcycle culture. Introduced in 1985, the RX 100 was a revolutionary product that brought Yamaha’s expertise in engineering to the Indian market, particularly for young riders who valued speed, style, and performance. In this article, we will explore the Yamaha RX 100 in detail, focusing on its technical specifications, history, performance, and why it continues to be remembered fondly by enthusiasts.

History and Legacy of Yamaha RX 100

The Yamaha RX 100 was a part of the RX series, which was Yamaha’s effort to build a reputation in the global motorcycle market, particularly in emerging economies. The RX series, including the RX 100, RX 135, and RX 135 4-speed, became famous for their lightweight design and powerful engines. Launched in the mid-1980s, the RX 100 instantly gained popularity in India, known for its speed, sleek design, and a distinct “two-stroke” engine sound that riders cherished.

When Yamaha first entered the Indian market, the RX 100 was designed to cater to the demands of young riders looking for a fast yet economical two-wheeler. It filled the gap between the smaller, slower commuter bikes and larger, expensive motorcycles. With a reasonable price tag and high-performance figures, the RX 100 became the first choice for many aspiring motorcyclists.

Despite being discontinued in the early 2000s, the RX 100’s legacy continues. Its iconic design and performance have made it a sought-after classic, and many RX 100 models are still being restored and cherished by enthusiasts today.

Technical Specifications of Yamaha RX 100

The Yamaha RX 100 came with a unique combination of power and lightweight design, making it a standout bike in the 100cc category. Let’s dive into the technical specifications that made this motorcycle special:

Engine and Performance

At the heart of the RX 100 was its 2-stroke, single-cylinder engine, which had a displacement of 98cc. The engine’s design focused on delivering high performance in a small package, making it suitable for both city commuting and long-distance rides.

  • Displacement: 98cc
  • Engine Type: 2-stroke, single-cylinder
  • Max Power: 11 bhp (approx.)
  • Torque: 9 Nm (approx.)
  • Fuel System: Carburetor, constant vacuum (UCAL BS29)
  • Cooling System: Air-cooled
  • Bore x Stroke: 50.0 mm x 52.0 mm

With a maximum power output of around 11 bhp and a torque figure of 9 Nm, the RX 100 could reach a top speed of approximately 100 km/h, which was considered extremely fast for a 100cc bike during its time. The engine’s reliability and power delivery made it a favorite for riders who craved speed without compromising on fuel efficiency.

Fuel Efficiency

Despite the powerful engine, the Yamaha RX 100 was fairly fuel-efficient for its time. The 98cc engine allowed the bike to provide a good mileage of 35-45 km/l, depending on riding conditions and maintenance. This made it a popular choice for daily commuters who needed a balance between performance and fuel economy.

Transmission

The RX 100 featured a 4-speed constant mesh gearbox, which was simple yet effective for its time. The smooth shifting transmission allowed riders to have a good grip on the power output, especially during highway cruising or overtaking maneuvers.

  • Transmission: 4-speed constant mesh
  • Gear Pattern: 1-N-2-3-4

The gearbox was designed for easy handling, making the RX 100 not only a fast bike but also one that could be easily controlled in both urban traffic and open highways.

Suspension and Brakes

The Yamaha RX 100’s suspension system was tailored for smooth rides on both city streets and rougher surfaces. It used Telescopic fork suspension at the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear. This setup offered a balanced ride, ensuring stability while maintaining comfort on bumpy roads.

For braking, the bike featured drum brakes on both the front and rear wheels, which were typical of motorcycles in this category during the ’80s. While disc brakes were not common on motorcycles of this segment back then, the RX 100’s drum brakes provided sufficient stopping power.

  • Front Suspension: Telescopic fork
  • Rear Suspension: Twin shock absorbers
  • Front Brake: Drum brake (90mm)
  • Rear Brake: Drum brake (110mm)

Dimensions and Weight

The Yamaha RX 100 was a lightweight motorcycle with a well-balanced chassis. It had a kerb weight of just 98 kg, making it extremely nimble and easy to handle. The compact design made it a perfect fit for riders who needed a practical yet stylish bike for daily commutes or weekend rides.

  • Length: 1,980 mm
  • Width: 730 mm
  • Height: 1,045 mm
  • Wheelbase: 1,275 mm
  • Ground Clearance: 140 mm
  • Kerb Weight: 98 kg
  • Fuel Tank Capacity: 10.5 liters

Design and Features of Yamaha RX 100

The Yamaha RX 100 is often remembered for its classic, timeless design. It had a sharp and aerodynamic body, which appealed to younger riders of the era. Yamaha paid attention to the details, making sure that the bike was not just about performance, but also about style.

Body Design

The Yamaha RX 100 sported an attractive, minimalistic design that made it stand out from other motorcycles in its class. The fuel tank had a simple, smooth finish with Yamaha’s iconic racing stripes. The tank’s size was compact but adequate, making the bike light and agile.

  • Headlight: Round, with a chrome finish
  • Tail Light: Minimalistic, with a sleek design
  • Handlebars: Low-set, sporty handlebars

Color Options

The Yamaha RX 100 was offered in several colors, including Black, Red, Blue, and Silver. Each color complemented the bike’s aerodynamic design, enhancing its aesthetic appeal.

Comfort and Ergonomics

The seat of the Yamaha RX 100 was designed to offer a comfortable riding experience for both short and long trips. It had a slightly sporty position, suited for performance riding, but still ensured enough comfort for daily use.

  • Seat Type: Two-piece, with a slim profile
  • Foot Pegs: Positioned well for comfort and control
  • Handlebar Position: Low and sporty, giving the bike a racing feel

Performance and Riding Experience

One of the standout features of the Yamaha RX 100 was its performance on the road. Whether cruising on highways or navigating through city traffic, the RX 100 delivered an impressive performance, thanks to its lightweight design and powerful engine.

Acceleration and Speed

The Yamaha RX 100 was capable of achieving 0-60 km/h in just a few seconds, making it one of the fastest bikes in its category. It could easily overtake larger motorcycles, thanks to its two-stroke engine‘s peppy performance. The maximum speed of approximately 100 km/h was remarkable, considering it was a 100cc bike.

Handling and Ride Quality

Due to its lightweight nature and low center of gravity, the RX 100 was easy to handle. Its low weight made it ideal for quick maneuvers and handling tight turns. Whether navigating city streets or taking sharp corners on country roads, the bike’s responsive suspension ensured stability and comfort.

Engine Sound

The unique engine sound of the Yamaha RX 100 was something riders would never forget. The two-stroke engine produced a distinctive, high-pitched sound that made the RX 100 stand out from the crowd. It was a sound that resonated with motorcyclists and still brings back memories of the golden era of motorcycles.

Why the Yamaha RX 100 Continues to Be Remembered

The Yamaha RX 100 is often considered a classic motorcycle that defined an entire generation of riders. Even years after its discontinuation, it continues to have a cult following. Here are a few reasons why the RX 100 remains so iconic:

  1. Nostalgia: For many riders, the RX 100 represents their first real motorcycle. It was a rite of passage for young enthusiasts who grew up in the 1980s and 1990s. Its sound, speed, and style created unforgettable memories.
  2. Affordability: The RX 100 was affordable compared to larger, more expensive bikes of its time. It provided high performance without a hefty price tag, making it accessible to a wide range of riders.
  3. Simplicity: The RX 100 was easy to maintain and repair, which made it popular in the pre-service center era. Many mechanics and enthusiasts still appreciate its simple design and mechanics.
  4. Timeless Design: The sleek and aerodynamic design of the RX 100 has aged well, and it continues to turn heads at vintage bike rallies. Its styling has inspired modern-day motorcycles and remains relevant even decades later.

Conclusion

The Yamaha RX 100 is much more than just a motorcycle; it is a part of India’s motorcycling history. Its lightweight design, powerful engine, and timeless appeal have made it a beloved icon among motorcycling enthusiasts. Despite its discontinuation, the legacy of the RX 100 lives on through restoration projects, vintage rallies, and in the hearts of riders who experienced its thrilling performance firsthand.

In the world of motorcycles, few bikes have left such an indelible mark as the Yamaha RX 100. It continues to be a symbol of performance, simplicity, and the spirit of adventure on two wheels. Whether you are restoring one today or simply reminiscing about the good old days, the RX 100’s place in the hearts of motorcyclists will never fade.

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