I have been fortunate enough to be associated with Yamaha India and they never fail to surprise me. Whether it was the launch of MT-09 earlier this year or the recent launch of Saluto RX, Yamaha always does it in style! This time around, for the launch of their new entry level bike, there was already enough buzz all around and I happily accepted the launch invite when it came my way. Even though it was a weekday, I just could not say no to Yamaha because I have a childhood connect with the brand. So, that meant cajoling friends and family members to attend it on my behalf and come back with some tips and insider information. So, here is what all I came to know about the new bike on the day of it’s launch. And, its pretty impressive for the price they are offering it at!
Saluto RX, which is their latest entry level bike is an affordable and smart street bike specially designed for Indian roads. The Saluto RX comes at a stunning price of Rs. 46,400 (ex-showroom Delhi) and offers a mileage of 82 kmpl* (*under standard test conditions). This next-generation 110cc class street model boasts of being a stylish commuter motorcycle for young men, with good balance of performance, low fuel consumption and excellent affordability.
The Saluto RX mounts a newly developed air-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 110cc, 2-valve single-cylinder engine. Based on the Blue Core Engine Development concept, it is powered by a new engine with a more compact combustion chamber than previous 110cc models released by the company. The engine, frame and wheels have comprehensive weight-reducing designs that contribute to the model’s overall fuel efficiency. The new model has the lightest weight in its class at 98 kgs, which is approximately 22 kgs lighter than the company’s previous models in its class.
This bike is targeted towards young men who are looking for comfort and a sporty look with great fuel efficiency at an affordable price. Some of the key features include 1) Sporty exterior body design 2) Lightweight yet robust body makes it extremely user friendly 3) Easy handling and comfortable performance while riding 4) All-new engine with improved fuel economy @ 82 kmpl* (*under standard test conditions) 5) Excellent affordability. Combined with Yamaha’s DNA of performance, innovation and design, the Saluto RX comes with a suspension of front – telescopic fork and rear – swing arm. The maximum torque is 8.5 Nm @ 4500 rpm.
Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Masaki Asano, Managing Director, Yamaha Motor India Sales Pvt. Ltd. said “India is the largest two wheeler market in the world with nearly 16 million units sold last year and is a strategically important market for Yamaha. Known globally for the passion to put all of their engineering skills to develop models with notable results, Yamaha has always believed in offering custom made products by taking into account roads and traffic conditions. Being committed towards India, the launch of the unique 110 cc bike is a clear illustration of Yamaha’s endeavor to cater to the aspirations of young India. Yamaha is very excited to launch this bike and is confident this will be very well received by the target group.”
Roy Kurian, Vice President Sales & Marketing, Yamaha Motor India Sales Pvt. Ltd. said, “The 110 cc commuter segment is by far the most competitive segment in the Indian market. The Saluto RX is expected to attract buyers who prioritize style and comfortable riding with affordability. Targeted towards the requirement of tandem riding, the bike comes with an attractive price as well as alloy wheels which are suitable for rural Indian roads. Yamaha’s first step to enter the basic segment with the promise of quality and innovation will be backed by Yamaha’s network expansion plans in tier II and tier III cities.”
