Yamaha Unveils Legendary RX 100 and RD 350 Bikes at Its Stunning Pavilion at Auto Expo 2025

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Yamaha Motor India made a grand splash at the Bharat Mobility Expo 2025, held at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, by celebrating 40 years of their iconic motorcycles in India. The brand unveiled the legendary Yamaha RX 100 and Yamaha RD 350, drawing enthusiasts and visitors alike. With the theme ‘Aspirations Unveiled’, Yamaha brilliantly showcased a blend of its illustrious past and futuristic ambitions. Let’s dive into the detailed features, legacy, and specifications of these iconic models.

A Legacy Revived

Yamaha RX 100: A Timeless Icon

The Yamaha RX 100 has been synonymous with speed, performance, and reliability since its debut in the 1980s. This sleek, lightweight motorcycle became an instant favorite among enthusiasts for its unique sound, power delivery, and nostalgic charm. Though production ceased in March 1996, its legacy continues to thrive, especially among collectors and custom builders.

Yamaha RD 350: The Performance Beast

Introduced in the 1970s, the Yamaha RD 350 redefined high-performance motorcycling in India. Licensed and produced by Escorts Group under the name Rajdoot 350, this motorcycle captured the hearts of thrill-seekers. It remains a cult classic, with its distinctive powerband, exhaust note, and sheer riding thrill.

Heart of the Beast: Engine and Performance

Yamaha RX 100

  • Engine: 100 cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine
  • Power: 11 bhp @ 7,000 rpm
  • Torque: 10.39 Nm @ 6,500 rpm
  • Transmission: 4-speed gearbox

This setup delivered unmatched acceleration and agility, making the RX 100 the go-to choice for urban riders and racers alike. Yamaha’s showcase at the expo promises a revival of this lightweight powerhouse with potential modern tweaks.

Yamaha RD 350

  • Engine: 347 cc, two-stroke, parallel-twin engine
  • Power (India-spec):
    • High Torque Version: 30 bhp
    • Low Torque Version: 27 bhp
  • Transmission: 6-speed gearbox

With a top speed exceeding 140 km/h, the RD 350 was the ultimate performance machine of its time. Its dual-cylinder setup ensured thrilling rides, further enhanced by Yamaha’s signature handling capabilities.

Specifications at a Glance

FeatureYamaha RX 100Yamaha RD 350
Engine100 cc, single-cylinder347 cc, parallel-twin
Power11 bhp27-30 bhp (India-spec)
Torque10.39 Nm32 Nm
Gearbox4-speed6-speed
Top Speed~90 km/h~140 km/h
BrakesDrum (Front & Rear)Drum (Front & Rear)
SuspensionTelescopic fork (Front)Telescopic fork (Front)
Tyres18-inch wheels18-inch wheels

Top Features

Yamaha RX 100

  1. Lightweight Design: Compact and nimble for city commutes.
  2. Iconic Exhaust Note: A distinctive sound that defined an era.
  3. Reliable Performance: Low maintenance and consistent power delivery.

Yamaha RD 350

  1. Dual Cylinders: Two-stroke twin-cylinder powerplant for unmatched acceleration.
  2. Performance-Oriented Handling: Perfect balance for cornering and straight-line stability.
  3. High Torque Versions: Versatile for both enthusiasts and daily riders.

Technology and Safety

Advanced Additions at the Expo

While staying true to their original designs, Yamaha teased potential enhancements such as:

  • Digital Instrumentation: Modern digital-analog meters.
  • Enhanced Braking Systems: Disc brakes for added safety (possible modern variant).
  • Improved Suspension: Updated telescopic front forks and rear suspension.

These upgrades are aimed at aligning these classics with contemporary safety and technology standards.

Customization Options

Yamaha has hinted at a range of customizations for both models, including:

  • Color Variants:
    • RX 100: Pearl White, Midnight Black, and Vintage Red.
    • RD 350: Metallic Blue, Jet Black, and Racing Red.
  • Accessories: Retro-styled mirrors, custom exhausts, and modern grips.
  • Seat Customization: Options for single-seat or cushioned dual-seat designs.

Dimensions and Build

DimensionYamaha RX 100Yamaha RD 350
Wheelbase1,245 mm1,325 mm
Ground Clearance136 mm145 mm
Kerb Weight103 kg155 kg
Fuel Tank Capacity10.5 liters16 liters

Ride and Handling

Both bikes are known for their exceptional ride quality:

  • RX 100: Lightweight and nimble, ideal for city rides.
  • RD 350: A stable yet powerful ride, suited for highways and spirited drives.

The expo showcased the bikes in dynamic setups to emphasize their legendary handling characteristics.

Market Positioning and Competition

The revival of the RX 100 and RD 350 positions Yamaha in a unique niche:

  • Target Audience: Retro enthusiasts, collectors, and young riders seeking nostalgic yet performance-oriented machines.
  • Competitors:

Pricing and Variants

While official prices are yet to be announced, speculated costs are:

  • RX 100: ₹1.25-1.5 lakh (ex-showroom)
  • RD 350: ₹3.5-4 lakh (ex-showroom)

Both models are expected to be available in limited numbers, enhancing their exclusivity.

Conclusion

Yamaha’s presentation of the RX 100 and RD 350 at the Bharat Mobility Expo 2025 marks a milestone in India’s motorcycling history. These iconic models celebrate Yamaha’s 40 years in the country, showcasing the brand’s legacy and its vision for the future. With nostalgic appeal, modern upgrades, and a strong market position, the RX 100 and RD 350 are set to ignite passion among enthusiasts and collectors alike.

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