Yamaha enthusiasts are buzzing with excitement over persistent rumours of the RX100 relaunch in India around 2026, potentially joined by an RX350 variant drawing from the iconic RD350 legacy. The original RX100, a lightweight 2-stroke legend from the 1980s-90s, captured hearts with its peppy performance and distinctive sound, but modern emissions rules demand a fresh four-stroke approach.
RX100 Comeback Details
Yamaha’s chairman has acknowledged the RX100’s massive Indian fanbase and confirmed plans to revive the nameplate post-2026, though challenges like BS6 compliance have delayed it. Expect a reimagined model possibly based on the XSR 155 platform with updated styling, higher displacement for better torque, and features like digital displays—aimed at the 100-150cc performance segment. Pricing speculation hovers around ₹1 lakh ex-showroom, positioning it against crowded commuters while preserving the RX thrill.
Potential RX350 Variant
Whispers of an RX350 echo the RD350’s glory, with concepts featuring a 300-400cc four-stroke engine, retro aesthetics like speed block graphics, and modern LED lights on an MT-03 inspired chassis. This could target the mid-capacity cruiser or sport segment, blending nostalgia with reliable emissions-compliant power around 30-40 hp. No official confirmation exists, but YouTube renders fuel hopes for a 2026 debut.
Why the Hype Persists
Despite some sources calling RX100 revival unlikely due to market overcrowding in 100-125cc, viral videos and chairman quotes keep the dream alive amid Yamaha’s focus on premium bikes. A dual relaunch could shake up India’s two-wheeler scene, appealing to nostalgia-driven buyers seeking lightweight powerhouses over bland commuters. Official word remains pending, but 2026 watches closely.
Yamaha may relaunch the RX100 and RX350 in 2026 to capitalize on massive nostalgia among Indian riders for these 2-stroke icons, as confirmed by company leadership acknowledging the RX100’s enduring fanbase.
Nostalgia and Market Demand
The RX100, a lightweight performance commuter from the 1980s-90s, remains a cult favorite in India for its zippy 100cc engine and distinctive thump, with user expectations and social buzz driving revival calls. Yamaha’s chairman has hinted at post-2026 plans, adapting it to BS6 norms via a four-stroke redesign on platforms like the XSR 155 to meet pent-up demand in the 100-150cc segment.
Strategic Expansion Reasons
A relaunch fits Yamaha’s push into premium and retro segments amid India’s growing mid-capacity market, where bigger engines like a potential 300-350cc RX variant could echo the RD350’s legacy with modern tech. Despite past denials, recent rumours and renders signal competitive pressure to counter overcrowding in commuters by offering affordable thrill (₹1 lakh range) over bland rivals.
Emission Compliance and Innovation
Stricter BS6 rules ended original 2-strokes, but Yamaha eyes compliant updates with digital features and higher torque for urban use, boosting sales in a nostalgia-fueled market. This dual comeback could refresh the RX series, blending heritage with reliability to attract young buyers and loyalists.