Here’s a full overview of Yamaha RX 100 — particularly relevant if you’re thinking to buy a second-hand one (in India / Bengaluru / nearby). I cover its history, specs, pros/cons, and what to check when buying used.
✅ What is the RX 100 — background & specs
- The RX 100 was manufactured by Yamaha Motor Company (distributed in India by Escorts Limited) from 1985 to 1996.
- It’s a 98 cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder, two-stroke engine bike — a reed-valve, 4-speed, constant-mesh gearbox, with multiplate wet clutch.
- Power & performance (as per workshop/manual specs): ~11 PS @ 7500 rpm, torque ~10.4 Nm @ 6500 rpm.
- Top speed: about 100–110 km/h (some sources quote 110 km/h as top) under good condition.
- Other specs: dry/kerb weight ~ 103 kg, fuel tank ~ 10–10.5 litres, tyres wire-spoked (front 2.50×18, rear 2.75/3.00×18), drum brakes front and rear.
- Suspension & chassis: telescopic front fork, twin rear shocks, double-cradle frame.
- Fuel efficiency (when in good tune): many owners report ~30–40 km/l (though as a 2-stroke it’s less “efficient” than modern 4-stroke bikes).
Why RX100 was loved / became iconic
- For its time, RX 100 had a fantastic power-to-weight ratio and zippy acceleration — good in city traffic and fun for enthusiasts.
- Its compact, nimble frame made it easy to handle, maneuverable in tight/streety Indian roads.
- Culturally, RX 100 became a “youth bike” — stylish, minimalistic, and symbol of performance + freedom.
🔄 For Second-Hand / Used RX100 — What’s the Situation Now
- Since production stopped in 1996 (due to stricter emission norms targeting two-stroke engines), any RX 100 you find now will be used / vintage / collector’s item.
- There is still a demand among enthusiasts/collectors, which sometimes pushes up prices.
- Typical market values (as of recent years) vary widely depending on condition, originality, restoration, and demand: from ₹50,000 – ₹1,00,000 for stock/functional bikes; fully restored or rare-condition ones may command ₹1,20,000 – ₹2,50,000+.
But there’s a caveat: lower-priced ones (very cheap) are often “projects” — needing full restoration, missing parts, or even just frames.
What to Check If You’re Buying a Second-Hand RX100
Because RX 100 is old and spare-parts/maintenance can be tricky, you’ll need to carefully check:
- Engine health & originality: Many old RXs have had their 2-stroke engines “rebored” because of wear on cylinder walls — that’s normal restoration but check how much was done. Too many rebore or a “resleeved” engine may lose authenticity/ performance.
- Matching engine & chassis numbers, and proper paperwork (RC, registration, taxes, PUC, etc.) — especially important for road legality.
- Original parts vs aftermarket / modified parts: Originals (tank, exhaust, headlamp, console, seat, tyres) give better value. Modified or missing parts reduce value and may complicate maintenance.
- Condition of tyres, brakes, suspension, frame (for rust or damage) — after decades, lots of wear & tear is possible.
- Cost of restoration & upkeep: If it’s a “project bike”, you may need to invest ₹15,000–₹50,000 (or more) depending on parts needed, painting, engine work etc.
- Suitability for your use: RX 100 is vintage. It’s more suitable for nostalgic rides / occasional use or as a collector’s bike — daily commuting might be impractical compared to modern bikes.
Also note: Because of its two-stroke engine and emission norms, in some places authorities may impose restrictions or stricter scrutiny on old 2-stroke vehicles.
Pros & Cons of Buying a Used RX100 Today
✅ Pros
- Retro / vintage charm — owning a piece of Indian biking history, with iconic looks & sound.
- Light weight + nimble handling — fun to ride, especially in city traffic or for short joyrides.
- For dedicated bike-enthusiasts: great as a restoration / customization / collector project.
- Potential to appreciate in value if kept in good/original condition, because demand among enthusiasts remains.
Cons / Cons to be aware of
- Maintenance & spare-parts availability can be a challenge. Especially original parts will be rare.
- Engine wear — many old bikes would’ve been overused, rebuilt, or modified. Performance may not be as crisp without proper restoration.
- Lower practicality: 2-stroke, older braking & suspension, drum brakes — not ideal compared to modern bikes for daily commuting / long rides.
- Paperwork hassles — if documents (RC, pollution certificate etc.) aren’t proper, legal or resale issues may arise.
- Restoration cost and time: to bring back to decent or original shape can be significant.
What’s My View — Is Buying an RX100 Still Worth It (in 2025)?
If you are a bike enthusiast / collector / somebody who values vintage charm, then yes — a well-checked, properly restored RX 100 can be a great buy. It’s a piece of history, good for occasional rides, nostalgia, maybe city cruising, or as a collectible.
However, if you are looking for a reliable daily commuter (especially in a city like Bengaluru), I’d generally recommend going for a modern 4-stroke bike. RX 100’s old school 2-stroke engine, maintenance needs, and parts scarcity make it less ideal for heavy everyday use.
If you want — I can also check what is the going price range for used RX 100s specifically in Bengaluru (or Karnataka) — can help you get a realistic idea.
Do you want me to fetch that for you now?
