The biking world in India is buzzing again. After years of waiting and endless rumors, Yamaha has finally brought back the legendary RX100. Many fans are calling it the “Father of Bullet” because of its raw power, deep exhaust note, and that old-school charm that reminds everyone of the classic Royal Enfield thump – but in a lighter and more exciting package. This new version is not just a nostalgia trip; it’s a modern bike packed with punch. And the best part? It’s the cheapest 225cc bike you can buy right now.
A Quick Look Back
The original Yamaha RX100 ruled Indian roads from the 1980s to the mid-1990s. It was lightweight, super quick, and had that addictive two-stroke engine sound that made young riders fall in love with biking. It was affordable, fun, and felt like freedom on two wheels. Production stopped due to emission rules, but the love never faded. Now, in late 2025, Yamaha has relaunched it with big upgrades to meet today’s standards while keeping the soul alive.
Power and Performance That Thrills
At the heart of the new RX100 is a 225cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine. This four-stroke powerhouse delivers around 20-20.5 horsepower and nearly 19.5 Nm of torque. It’s a huge step up from the old 98cc motor, giving you strong acceleration right from low speeds. Twist the throttle, and it pulls hard – perfect for zipping through city traffic or cruising highways.
The bike can hit a top speed of 120 km/h easily, and Yamaha says it feels stable even at high speeds. Paired with a smooth 5-speed gearbox (some versions stick to 4-speed for that classic feel), riding it is pure joy. The exhaust has that deep, throaty growl – almost like a mini Bullet – which is why people are loving the “Father of Bullet” nickname. Despite the power, it promises decent fuel efficiency, around 40-45 kmpl, making it practical for daily use.
Design
Yamaha nailed the looks. The new RX100 keeps the iconic retro style: a round LED headlight, teardrop fuel tank with chrome accents, spoke wheels, and that famous RX badge. It’s muscular yet slim, just like the original. But they’ve added modern touches – a semi-digital instrument cluster, LED taillights, and a comfortable split seat for rider and pillion.
Handling is sharp thanks to the lightweight frame (under 120 kg). Front telescopic forks and rear twin shocks soak up bumps on rough Indian roads. Braking comes from a front disc (with single-channel ABS on higher variants) and rear drum, plus tubeless tyres for better safety and convenience.
Features That Impress
This isn’t a bare-bones bike. You get:
- Digital-analog console showing speed, fuel, and trip info
- LED lighting all around for better visibility
- Front disc brake and optional ABS
- Comfortable upright riding position
It’s built for both new riders and old fans who want thrill without complexity.
Price
The big surprise is the price. The new Yamaha RX100 starts at around ₹1.20-1.39 lakh ex-showroom, depending on the variant and state. On-road, it’s still under ₹1.60 lakh in most places. Compare that to a Royal Enfield Classic 350 (over ₹2 lakh) or other 200cc bikes, and this is the most affordable 225cc motorcycle in India. EMI options start low, with down payments as little as ₹15,000.
Why It’s Special
The RX100 isn’t just fast or cheap – it’s emotional. It brings back memories for older riders while offering modern performance to the young crowd. College kids, commuters, and even village riders are excited because it gives “big bike” vibes at half the cost. Lighter than a Bullet, quicker in traffic, and with that addictive sound, it’s set to create a new fanbase.