A motorcycle from as modern times (the 80s) that quickly morphed into a symbol of size, performance and panache, this two stroke gem of a machine was launched in 1980s. Launched long after the 1970s, even today, decades after the RX-100 was retired many an Indian veteran bike enthusiast remembers with fond nostalgia this motorcycle. But, what is this machine that entices so?
Alright, let’s take a look at the story of Yamaha RX100, and why it is still a work of art that continues to stand the test of time.
The Legend Begins
Yamaha RX100 was introduced to India in 1985 and it made an immediate impact. When most motorcycles around were all about fuel efficiency and functionality, the RX100 managed to provide one thing only and that was sheer power, exhilarating riding performance. The 11 hp was courtesy of a 98cc, two-stroke engine — pretty impressive for that era. It was light and well, fast to put you in one gear in a hurry, the perfect machine for young riders looking for thrills.
Design and Styling
Design of RX100 was most classic. This is ignorant, and sleek in a no-nonsense style showing a small fuel tank wide headlamp and small thin silhouette. Smaller size of the bike coupled with a lightweight frame made it incredibly nimble both through city streets and paved highway. So it is not surprising that the RX100 in looks and design was a perfect marriage, it still gets a lot of stares even today.
One of the most unique aspects of the RX100 was its exhaust howl. The sound of the two-stroke engine was a screeching, shimmery wail that only bike fans could love. This signature sound was what made the RX100 so recognizable and lovable in my opinion.
Performance and Riding Experience
The Yamaha RX100 was nice on the eyes, and underneath the hood it actually delivered!! Its 98 cc engine would deliver quick acceleration and top around 100 km/h on a 4-Speed gearbox. The bike was superpowered for its size and made for good riding. Whether you were flying down the streets or heading out for some open road preaching, RX100 was a blast.
With two-stroke engine you had to keep petrol and oil at certain ratio, which might sound a downside but it added a bit to the character of the bike. The RX100 was quick and comfortable over their suspension setup, pretty much every road. It was a bike you rode occasionally and you pushed the limits on every mile.
The Aftermath of Culture and Legacy
Yamaha RX100 was not just a motorcycle, its a pure cultural element of a time…. for young riders it was (too often) meant as a status symbol and it was definitely associated with rebellion and freedom. The bike appeared in multiple Bollywood films which further popularized it within popular culture. For many RX100s, owning one was about age; the signature piece of growing up.
The RX100, even after it was discontinued in 1996 due to updated emission regulations, had one hell of a legacy. Despite all of this, enthusiasts have been gathering to reminisce on some well-worn RX100s and keep the traditional ethos alive. At this day, RX100s that are kept quite well are hot sought and fetch a premium over used bike market.
Relevance of RX100 Past and Present
As the world moves towards four-stroke and all the whispers of advanced technology, Yamaha RX100 pops up as a reminder of time when not much had changed has remained unchanged. It was an age motorcycles where nothing more than the pure joy of riding and touch of mechanics. Simple as it is, both in performance and design is what will see the RX100 continue reigning in great motorcycle halls of fame.
To the kids of the 80s and the 90s the RX100 is nothing less than a part of their past. Younger riders too can find it nostalgic in a good way — the Yamaha RX100 may be out of production but its legacy lives on and continues to attract new two-stroke fans.
Conclusion
Yamaha RX100 is not just a motorcycle but time-less legend I guess. Its performance, design and cultural legacy has made it an iconic symbol in the world of motorcycling for as long as people have loved riding. Whether you have ridden RX100 before (a nostalgia attack for the seasoned rider) or are just arriving at Harley-Davidson (a new age rider), there is no denying the irrepressible charm of this great beast. Yamaha RX100 will always be and iconic sport bike that brought fun,adrenaline and freedom to many riders..拶
