Yamaha RX100 - The Ultimate Yamaha Machine

Whenever we talk about the bikes in India, one name we can never forget to discuss and that name is “Yamaha RX 100”. Though it has not got the looks, but undoubtedly, it has the true riding comfort and pickup. It is equipped with 98cc, 2-stroke air cooled engine and was manufactured between 1985 and 1996 in India and Japan.

The Evolution

In 1983, Escorts Ltd. (India) collaborated with Yamaha Motor Corp. (Japan) to launch “Rajdoot 350”. During that time, Ind-Suzuki (TVS Motors) introduced the 8.25 bhp AX100, which made makers of Rajdoot realize to succeed in the market they need to focus on smaller displacement bikes at a lesser price point. Thus, Yamaha RX 100 came into being. The company launched the first model in late 1985. The first lot of bikes was introduced in Cherry red, Peacock blue-green and Black colours. These bikes were CKDs and were assembled in India. The gearbox was covered just above the gear shift lever and “Made in Japan” was embossed on it. Accidentally, the speedometer of these bikes had the lettering “Rajdoot” engraved on them, which was replaced by Escorts and then later by Yamaha. But still, there were few parts, which had the Rajdoot embossed on them instead of Yamaha or Escorts, which was later rectified. After a year, the bike underwent few changes and was upgraded from 6V electrical system to 12V electrical system. Later on, the company introduced three more colours, but the bike remained unchanged for the next 11 years.

The Facts

Yamaha RX100 was amongst the most reliable smaller displacement bikes of that time. It was a tough competition to all the bikes of its reign. During that time, there were many who could not believe its raw power, therefore rumoured that it has a bigger engine. Many of the race authorities and conductors went on to double check the engine to make sure that it was a 100cc. This was the time when racers recognised the potential of RX100 on dirt and drag races. People started making various modifications in the bike to extract the maximum out of it during the races.

The Performance

This little machine had the wonderful handling, which makes it an ideal commuter. The gear ratios and torque curves were so well tuned that it can go as low as 10 kmph in the 4th gear without giving any pain to the engine. The RX100 had something for everyone:

• A racy and noisy engine for the power hungry people
• A reliable ride for the family man
• Modern style statement (back then) for youth

Specifications: 

Engine: 2-stroke, air cooled, single cylinder
Displacement: 98cc
Gearbox: 4-speed constant mesh
Induction: Reed Valve
Ignition: Capacitor Discharge Ignition
Output: 11 Ps at 7500 rpm (as per workshop manual)
Chassis: Double cradle frame
Acceleration: 0-60 kmph in 7 seconds
Top Speed: 100 kmph

The Legacy

Strict emission norms forced the makers to pull the plug of one of the best 100cc bikes ever built. The production of the bike lasted till March 1996. The next model was 132cc RXG, which had the faulty ignition system and was replaced by the automakers without any cost. Later, the company introduced RX135, which was actually a revamped RXG. Going forward, the company came up with many other models, but none got the similar response from the bike lovers as for the RX100. In the year 2003, the company launched the final variant of the RX series. It was 4-speed RX135 with a catalytic silencer, sporty fuel gauge and speedometer, but again, it failed to impress.

Last talk

The newest bike from the series is 12 years old, which could not repeat the success of RX100. The little peppy engine of RX100 completely justify the old slogans “Born to Lead” and “Ahead of the 100s”. This is by far the best 100cc motorcycle ever made, which can easily challenge the new age 4-stroke bikes.