[Viju]

10.03.2005 - A day that would change my life forever. A bad incident involving my Karizma and an Amby left me with a fractured hip, recouping on crutches for the next 4 months. The Karizma had to go. 1 year and 7 crashes was just too much, even for a known rash rider like me. She went, to a friend's friend for 50K, in 'as-is-where-is' condition.

Fast forward to August 2005. I had fully recovered, and was itching to get back on a motorcycle. I had my RD, but for the daily commute, I wanted something small and not-very-fast. What better time to bring another 2 stroke into the family, than in the last production year of the RX135. There were just 2 bikes left at the Cochin dealer, both in black.

For those who don't know, the last lot of the RX135 came with the slim cat-con, RX100 graphics (the thin gold stripes), a central lock and Crux meters with white face. Not the best looking of the RX135s in my opinion. Anyway I grabbed my RX135 with open arms, and paid up around 49,000/- OTR.

Modifications / additions on day 1 : replaced the cat-con silencer with the older, chromed pipe, got OE crash guard, saree guard and carrier fitted.

Over the next few days, I fixed the orange indicators beneath the fuel tank (had to drill holes in the chassis), fixed a 2T oil level gauge in the 2T oil tank side glass, and even changed the indicators and engine side covers to the RX100 type (the original engine covers were of the 5 speed variety).

Over the next couple of years, I rode it around for approximately 14000 km. And then, for the next 5 years, I left it in hibernation at home (inside the house, nevertheless) while I lived thousands of kilometres away, immersed in my job assignments.

01.07.2012 - I put in my resignation at my company in Gurgaon, and was ready to move back down South to Bangalore. How do I commute once I am back in Bangalore? Do I get a new bike?

A Duke 200 seemed attractive as a daily commuter. It was affordable, powerful enough to commute on, and looked quite radical. But I was not so sure if it could keep me excited for long enough.

A Pulsar 200 NS meant that I could save 20 ~ 30K over the Duke and save up a bit more towards the dream of an SBK. But then, I had two Pulsars in my garage at different points in time - the Classic P180 and the P200 DTSi-F. Did I want more of the same stuff? Not really.

A Thunderbird or a Classic Chrome would be really nice, the devil in my mind said! After all, my very first bike was a maroon Machismo A350, and a Classic Chrome 500 would be like returning back to your first love of 12 years ago! I wasn't sure of the quality and service of the RE's though, and I still am simply fascinated by the simplicity of 2 stroke engines.

OK, if I had to buy a big bike, I wanted something BIG (read I4, 1300cc at the best, or I3, 675cc at the worst).

I had a few 2 strokes sitting at home, why not restore one of them? The RD - well, not as a daily commuter, and definitely not in the time by which I came back to Bangalore. The Lambretta or the Lamby? Not really. The RX? Well, that sounds doable (in a short time, that is).

Called up my parts guy and mechanic back in Cochin and ask them to be prepared for a full scale restoration, replacing anything and everything which required.. well... replacement! Sitting by the sea-side (well, not literally), smelling the salty air had not done any good to my 2T. Every panel had started to rust, there was even bubbles coming out from the paintwork on the fuel tank and cylinder head!

OK, a trip to my trusted mechanic, 1.5 months and 30,000/- later, here she is, my beloved 2T. To clarify, the intention of the restoration was not to get her back to factory condition (because by the time my RX was born, Yamaha had started putting some ridiculously low-spec / low-quality parts on their 2 strokes, as if they had lost their interest completely).

Work done:
1.) Engine (still on original bore, and nothing needed to be done there) - replaced the bearings, painted the cylinder head, put the original 5 speed covers back on.

2.) Chassis and swing-arm - painted black.

3.) Everything else - replace. I am not kidding. If you have a good parts dealer, you can still get everything brand new for the RX135 (OK, except may be a carburettor or some very few parts), but persevere and you shall get it. Of course, the quality (especially of the chromed accessory bits like the saree guard, crash guard and carrier) are not what it used to be. So don't expect thick gauge metal or good quality chrome.

When I got the new tank and side covers, I went for the RX135 graphics (since I find them better looking), and I chromed the head-lamp stays (they were originall black). 2T originall came with horrible TVS tyres (Front : 2.50x18, Rear: 2.75x18). Put new MRF Zappers on (Front : 2.75x18, Rear : 3.00x18).

Well, that is it. Topped up the fuel in the fuel tank, Yamalube 2T oil in the oil tank, and rode her to Bangalore (540 km, 10 hours). Even if it sounds like a cliche, that 10 hour ride was like two soul-mates getting to know each other all over again not seeing each other for many years.

Now, we ride 40 km happily every day, to-and-fro on the Hosur Road. Luckily, found the Shell petrol station (the precious unleaded stuff) and Yamaha service centre (for her Yamalube drinks) I have to give her a loving micro-fiber wipe everyday for half an hour (wifey as usual thinks I am 'not well'). I am not the rash rider I used to be 7 years ago. Age does bring a lot of wisdom you know. I ride much slower, more sympathetically, and in a way that she stays healthy, and stays for as long as I am here on this planet. I will never let her go (even if a bigger 4 stroker comes into my life), and would never want a scratch on her. Cheers to all fellow 2 strokers!!

I promise to keep this thread updated as and when there is something to report. Feel free to ask any questions, flag me down if you see us somewhere in Bangy, send a PM, anything. Long live 2 strokes!

[sumathindra]

I must tell you the bike is in pristine condition. This was always my dream bike and was never really in a position to get one. Even today if I can get one I will buy it with closed eyes. The only issue is COST. I am told these are sold at 50 to 55k even today. Is it really worth paying that amount for a decade old bike?

Well there is a RX100 available for 55k and I am still contemplating

Take care mate and you have one good looking bike

[nkrishnap]

Originally Posted by sumathindra

I must tell you the bike is in pristine condition. This was always my dream bike and was never really in a position to get one. Even today if I can get one I will buy it with closed eyes. The only issue is COST. I am told these are sold at 50 to 55k even today. Is it really worth paying that amount for a decade old bike?

Well there is a RX100 available for 55k and I am still contemplating

Take care mate and you have one good looking bike

RX 100 at 55K price is a big no no. Get hold of a decent one for 10-15K, spend 10-15K and get it back to shape which will work out far cheaper than spending 55K.

[Viju]

Totally agree with nkrishnap. You will definitey find a battered RX100 for 10 - 15K. 95% of the OEM parts are still available. Find a trust-worthy mechanic and do it up slowly. Even if you replace everything like I did, and even plonk in a new cylinder-piston kit (8500/-), you will still not touch 55K! Keep the search going. If I find an RX100 for a reasonable price, I will let you know.

[ku69rd]

Hi Viju,
Must appreciate your RX135, especially the silencer. It is still glistening like a brand new equipment. Kudos to you and yes may the tribe of 2strokers last long.

Wishing you miles of smiles with your found again life partner

Originally Posted by sumathindra

Well there is a RX100 available for 55k and I am still contemplating

Take care mate and you have one good looking bike

Mate,
For that sorta dough you can get an exotic RX100, restore it its pristine glory and might be able to save up some money as well. 55K would be an overkill.

[sumathindra]

Originally Posted by Viju

Totally agree with nkrishnap. You will definitey find a battered RX100 for 10 - 15K. 95% of the OEM parts are still available. Find a trust-worthy mechanic and do it up slowly. Even if you replace everything like I did, and even plonk in a new cylinder-piston kit (8500/-), you will still not touch 55K! Keep the search going. If I find an RX100 for a reasonable price, I will let you know.

Thanks on that. Point taken that the 55k is an overkill. Have dropped the plan right away. Finding good people who can restore in Bangalore is something I need to look at.

[Blow Horn Ok]

Viju, your bike seems as it came fresh out of production. Congrats! I love this bike. Rode my brothers RX100 for 3 years and when I left for higher studies, I had to let it go. If you could remove the carrier part from the rear grab pipe, the bike would look more sleek and smart.

Good luck and ride safe!

[ku69rd]

Originally Posted by Blow Horn Ok

If you could remove the carrier part from the rear grab pipe, the bike would look more sleek and smart.

Somehow i always felt that a RX looks always better with a carrier again my personal view. On the contrary it does act as a safety device especially in Bangalore traffic where the Auto Rickshaws bump into you on signals

[josejoseph]

Congratulations Viju on restoring this beauty and many thanks for not selling her off!!! Your bike surely looks like it came right from showroom.

I'm sure you'll have a good time with her in B'lore.

May I ask where did you get the bike restored? Was it in Kochi?

I myself have a 135 at home but unfortunately now out of country for a while. My bike is covered and parked safely at uncles' place. Many times thought of selling her, but then I'm very much attached to my bike. She was my first bike and bought her with my first salary.

Anyways, have you have fun with he bike and keep updating this thread.

[Viju]

Originally Posted by ku69rd

Hi Viju,
Must appreciate your RX135, especially the silencer. It is still glistening like a brand new equipment. Kudos to you and yes may the tribe of 2strokers last long.

Wishing you miles of smiles with your found again life partner

Thanks a lot buddy! I have been keenly following your thread on the RD's and what you have done is mind-blowing! Someday soon when I go in for a second resto for my RD, your thread would certainly be an inspiration!

Originally Posted by Blow Horn Ok

Viju, your bike seems as it came fresh out of production. Congrats! If you could remove the carrier part from the rear grab pipe, the bike would look more sleek and smart.

Good luck and ride safe!

Originally Posted by ku69rd

Somehow i always felt that a RX looks always better with a carrier again my personal view. On the contrary it does act as a safety device especially in Bangalore traffic where the Auto Rickshaws bump into you on signals

Thanks a lot for the wishes Blow Horn OK! I somehow have similar views as ku69rd about the carrier. I am a big fan of OE provided accessories and I feel it gives a 'complete' look to the bike. I am not a slim guy, so don't really want my bike to look too sleek either.

And yes, the protection it offers in Bangalore traffic is priceless!

Originally Posted by josejoseph

Congratulations Viju on restoring this beauty and many thanks for not selling her off!!! Your bike surely looks like it came right from showroom.

I'm sure you'll have a good time with her in B'lore.

May I ask where did you get the bike restored? Was it in Kochi?

Thanks a lot Jose! I have been a regular at Cochin Motors (Ansarikka) for my RD as well as RX since the past 10 years. He restored my bike. And Jose chettan (Speed line) provided the spares. If you are from Cochin, I think you may know them. I hope you are united with your bike very soon. And yes, I am never selling my 2T off!

[ku69rd]

Originally Posted by Viju

Thanks a lot buddy! I have been keenly following your thread on the RD's and what you have done is mind-blowing! Someday soon when I go in for a second resto for my RD, your thread would certainly be an inspiration!

Hey thanks for your kind words mate, She was quite an effort but yes enjoyed every minute of the rebuild. The past year has seen me highly jobless and I do miss the weekend jaunts to Workshop, Scrap Yard, Painter

Never knew you had a RD, If yes have you posted the snaps on your garage? If Not suggest you to do it please. Will be watching your e-space if you are planning to rebuild it.

[Sankar]

Nice bike Viju, you have maintained it to showroom standards. or maybe even better i guess Why did you opt for the regular 135cc graphics for your 5 Speed bike. Although this design looks cleaner the 5 Speed stripe is unique since there aren't many 5 speeds on the road here.

Keep the 2-Stroke flag flying high!

[Viju]

Originally Posted by ku69rd

Never knew you had a RD, If yes have you posted the snaps on your garage? If Not suggest you to do it please. Will be watching your e-space if you are planning to rebuild it.

I have had the RD for the past 10 years (have had 4 in all, the first one still remains with me), and already rebuilt her once many years ago. But like my RX, she has also been sitting idle for over 5 years and is covered in rust and neglect. Not in a state to be photographed. But yes, I should start the restoration in the next 6 months or so. Will document it here. Cheers.

Originally Posted by Sankar

Nice bike Viju, you have maintained it to showroom standards. or maybe even better i guess Why did you opt for the regular 135cc graphics for your 5 Speed bike. Although this design looks cleaner the 5 Speed stripe is unique since there aren't many 5 speeds on the road here.

Keep the 2-Stroke flag flying high!

Thanks Sankar. She is not a 5 speed, just a humble 4 speed.
My RX is from the very last batch made around March 2005, where as production of the 5 speeds had stopped much before that.

[ku69rd]

Originally Posted by Viju

But yes, I should start the restoration in the next 6 months or so. Will document it here. Cheers.

Good Luck with it mate, if you are just 6 months away from the pending restoration then I suppose you will be ready with the planning, parts and all logistics?

Would you be getting it restores in Bangalore or back in Kochi?

[Viju]

Originally Posted by ku69rd

Good Luck with it mate, if you are just 6 months away from the pending restoration then I suppose you will be ready with the planning, parts and all logistics?

Would you be getting it restores in Bangalore or back in Kochi?

Well, I went through the whole process once. Did stock up quite a few parts too. Not planning anything exotic. It would be a simple restoration (hopefully better than the previous one since the graphics were all messed up then) retaining all the things which came original with the bike. What I mean to say is, she would not be seeing any upgrades, not to the chassis or even a change to CDI. Let us see, need to start planning.

You can definitely expect a few PMs from me asking for help in sourcing some critical parts!

Oh, and yes, I will be doing it in Kochi.