Yamaha Says No To 100-125cc Bike Launches In India, But There’s A Surprise

Quick News Highlights:

• Yamaha reportedly confirms it won’t launch new 100-125cc motorcycles in India

• It’s been said that the focus remains on premium scooters above 125cc and motorcycles above 150cc

• A new 300+cc platform reportedly under development - could be a range of liquid-cooled, single-cylinder motorcycles 

It’s reported that Yamaha has officially ruled out any plans to return to the 100-125cc motorcycle segment, despite it being the largest in India’s two-wheeler market. The company’s focus is reportedly firmly on premium and performance-oriented two-wheelers, and not the commuter segment.

Brand Statement

Speaking to a publication, Ravinder Singh, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Yamaha Motor India, stated that Yamaha’s customer base is made up of young riders who are drawn to style, performance, and aspirational products. In contrast, the 100-125cc buyers are more concerned about practicality and affordability - a direction that no longer fits Yamaha’s brand identity in India.

Saluting The Saluto’s Services

Yamaha was once present in this segment with models like the Saluto 125 and the Saluto RX 110. Both were positioned as fuel-efficient commuter motorcycles aimed at budget-conscious buyers. However, these models were eventually discontinued a few years ago due to poor sales and also due to the company’s shift in its focus away from commuter bikes and toward premium products. Even the brand’s entire 110cc scooter lineup was replaced with 125cc scooters when the BS6-emission norms kicked in 2020.

What Next?

Looking ahead, we think Yamaha is now preparing to expand into the “300+cc” segment. It is also reported that this is meant for Yamaha R15 and MT15 owners looking to upgrade. By this logic, it seems safe to assume that the upcoming Yamaha bikes will have a 300cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine as this configuration will ensure a balance of performance and reasonable price point. That’s exactly what Yamaha is aiming for - something the R3 and MT-03 couldn’t provide. 

Auto Expo

Singh hinted that Yamaha is evaluating big bikes but acknowledged the challenge of pricing for Indian consumers. Global models like the Yamaha MT-07, R7, Tenere 700, and more were showcased at Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 (Auto Expo 2025) - as part of Yamaha’s broader premium lineup. But for India, the near-term focus is reportedly on the locally developed 300+cc-class motorcycles.

Interesting Fact

Despite its decision to stay out of the domestic commuter segment, Yamaha will continue manufacturing 100-125cc bikes at its Indian plants for export to more than 50 countries, including regions in Africa, Latin America, Europe, and ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations).

Source