India's motorcycling history is filled with machines that went beyond being just commuters - they became icons. From the agile Yamaha RX 100 to the sporty Hero Karizma ZMR, certain motorcycles captured hearts with their performance, design, and sheer character. These bikes not only defined eras but also continue to hold immense nostalgic and collector value today. Whether it's the thump of a Bullet, the thrill of an RD 350, or the reliability of a Samurai, here are five motorcycles collectors truly cherish.
Yamaha RX 100
The Yamaha RX 100, produced between 1985 and 1996 in collaboration with Escorts Group, became iconic for its agility and acceleration. Initially imported from Japan, local production began in 1990 with some parts still sourced abroad. Its 100cc two-stroke engine delivered strong output, paired with a lightweight frame for an excellent power-to-weight ratio. This combination made it one of the best mass-produced 100cc motorcycles, with demand remaining high even decades after discontinuation.
Hero Honda Karizma ZMR
The Hero Honda Karizma ZMR, introduced around 2012, gained attention in India for its sporty styling. It was powered by a 223cc, single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine, tuned to deliver 20 bhp at 8,000 rpm and 19.7 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. The engine was paired with a 5-speed gearbox, and offered a claimed top speed of 129 km/h for the ZMR.
1968 Royal Enfield G2 Bullet
The 1968 Royal Enfield G2 Bullet, part of the iconic Bullet lineup assembled in India, was popular for its classic 350cc cast-iron engine, thumping exhaust, and rugged build suited to Indian roads. As one of the longest-produced motorcycle designs globally, it symbolized durability and heritage, attracting adventure riders and military users during its era.
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The motorcycle's popularity was reignited after its appearance in the hit film Kabir Singh, sparking nostalgia among enthusiasts.
Photo Credit: teambhp
Yamaha RD 350
The Yamaha RD 350, sold in India during the 1980s as the Rajdoot 350 through Escorts, earned legendary status for its 347cc, air-cooled, two-stroke parallel-twin engine. Its smoky exhaust note thrilled affluent buyers and racers at a time when small-capacity commuters dominated the roads. However, the bike's high cost and poor fuel efficiency meant sales remained limited, with only a few thousand units finding owners - further cementing its cult appeal today.
Photo Credit: YouTube/bart
TVS Suzuki Samurai
First introduced in 1994, the TVS Suzuki Samurai quickly earned a reputation as a reliable and lively commuter motorcycle. Often mentioned alongside the Suzuki Shogun and Max 100, it carved its own space in the two-wheeler market. Powered by a 98.2cc, 2-stroke engine, the same unit that also ran the TVS Max 100. This motor produced 7.8 bhp at 5,500 rpm and 9.8 Nm of torque at 5,000 rpm, figures that made it peppy yet practical for everyday riding.