In the buzzing world of Indian motorcycling, one machine continues to make headlines — not through new launches, but through passionate revivals.
The Yamaha RX135, a two-stroke icon of the late 1990s and early 2000s, is roaring back to life, thanks to a growing community of enthusiasts who are restoring and modifying this legendary bike. And the results? Eye-catching enough to stop traffic — literally.
The Legacy of RX135 Refuses to Fade
Long after its discontinuation, the RX135 remains deeply rooted in Indian motorcycling culture. Known for its unmistakable exhaust note, raw power, and light frame, it was once a favorite among college-goers and street racers alike. Though environmental regulations eventually brought production to a halt, the RX135 was never forgotten.
Now, two decades later, the revival wave is picking up serious pace.
A Surge in Rebuilds Across India
From Delhi’s narrow lanes to Kerala’s coastal roads, riders are hunting down rusty old RX135s and giving them a second life. Bike builders and hobby mechanics are transforming forgotten frames into head-turning machines with custom paint jobs, performance upgrades, and modern enhancements — all while preserving the bike’s original soul.
In many cases, owners are sourcing original parts from local markets, Facebook groups, and even from overseas collectors to retain authenticity. Others are blending old-school styling with new-age tech — digital instrument clusters, LED lighting, disc brakes, and custom seats are common additions.
Modified RX135s Stealing the Spotlight
What’s driving the trend is not just nostalgia — it’s also the sheer aesthetic appeal of the modified versions. Photos of RX135s with matte black tanks, chrome detailing, café racer styling, and mono-shock suspensions are going viral on Instagram and YouTube. Hashtags like #RX135Rebuild and #YamahaRXNation are seeing thousands of posts, many with before-and-after shots that showcase jaw-dropping transformations.
Several riders have even reported strangers approaching them at fuel stations or traffic signals just to ask if it’s really an RX135 — a testament to how the modified versions are blending heritage with innovation in a way that’s resonating with both old-school fans and Gen Z riders.
Passion Project or Investment?
For many rebuilders, the RX135 is more than just a motorcycle — it’s an emotional investment. Owners speak of memories riding pillion with their fathers, or learning to ride on one during teenage years. Some even see the rebuilds as a way to preserve motorcycling history, making their machines rolling tributes to a bygone era.
Interestingly, the rebuilt RX135s are also fetching serious money in the resale market. Pristine modified versions have reportedly sold for ₹1.5 to ₹2 lakh — nearly four times the bike’s original price. It’s clear that the demand is not just sentimental, but financial too.
Legal Grey Areas Remain
While the passion is undeniable, there’s also a growing conversation around legality. Since the RX135 was discontinued largely due to emission norms, heavily modified versions may not always align with current RTO rules. Enthusiasts are being advised to ensure proper documentation, and some are even registering their bikes under vintage vehicle categories to stay on the safe side.
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The Revival Isn’t Slowing Down
Whether it’s a clean restoration or a radical custom build, the RX135 continues to strike a chord. As workshops, YouTube builders, and garage tinkerers breathe new life into old frames, the bike’s unmistakable presence on Indian roads is once again being felt — and heard.
And in a time where electric vehicles are taking center stage, the return of the RX135 is a reminder that sound, smell, and spirit still matter to many riders.
