Yamaha RX 80 SE (1982-1984) Review: A Nostalgic Ride Through Motorcycling Simplicity

Overview

The Yamaha RX 80 SE represents a golden era of lightweight two-stroke motorcycles that prioritized accessibility and fuss-free riding. Produced from 1982 to 1984, this 79cc air-cooled machine catered to riders seeking an affordable, economical, and mechanically straightforward companion for daily commutes and weekend adventures. While modern bikes drown riders in electronics and complex engineering, the RX 80 SE reminds us why simplicity can be deeply satisfying. Let’s explore what makes this compact Yamaha a cult classic among vintage motorcycle enthusiasts.

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Design & Styling

The RX 80 SE’s design screams 1980s pragmatism. Its angular fuel tank, flat bench seat, and minimalist bodywork reflect an era when motorcycles were designed to be functional first. The chrome fenders, circular headlight, and analog instrumentation (a speedometer and basic warning lights) keep things refreshingly uncomplicated.

At 105 kg (231 lbs), the bike feels featherlight by today’s standards. The low seat height—around 780 mm (30.7 inches)—makes it approachable for riders of all statures. Yamaha offered the RX 80 SE in classic color schemes like crimson red, midnight blue, and pearl white, often accented with bold decals on the tank and side panels. While not a head-turner by modern sportbike standards, its retro charm has aged remarkably well.

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Engine & Performance

The Heart of a Two-Stroke Legend

The 79cc single-cylinder two-stroke engine is the star here. With 7.5 PS (5.5 kW) at 7,000 RPM, performance is modest but spirited. The engine’s character is defined by its raspy exhaust note and eager revving nature. Throttle response is immediate, thanks to the carbureted setup, and the powerband delivers a playful surge around 5,000 RPM.

Top speed sits around 85 km/h (53 mph), making it ideal for city riding and backroads. Fuel efficiency is a strong suit—expect around 35-40 km/l (82-94 mpg) under gentle throttle. The 4-speed transmission shifts with a satisfying mechanical clunk, though finding neutral can require patience until the gearbox warms up.

Riding Experience

Start the RX 80 SE with a kick (no electric starter here), and the engine settles into a tinny idle. Acceleration won’t pin you to the seat, but the lightweight chassis and responsive engine create an engaging ride. The two-stroke’s vibrations add character rather than fatigue, buzzing through the handlebars and footpegs at higher revs.

Riding position is upright and neutral, with wide handlebars offering easy leverage for maneuvering through traffic. The suspension—a telescopic fork up front and dual shock absorbers at the rear—handles bumps adequately, though larger potholes send a jarring reminder of its basic setup.

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Handling & Braking

The RX 80 SE shines in urban environments. Its narrow profile and tight turning radius make filtering through traffic effortless. On winding roads, the bike feels nimble but demands active rider input due to its skinny tires (2.75-18 front, 3.00-18 rear). Cornering is confidence-inspiring at moderate speeds, though aggressive leans reveal the limits of its vintage rubber.

Braking is purely mechanical, with a 130 mm drum brake at both ends. Stopping power is adequate for the bike’s weight and speed, but wet conditions require careful modulation. Modern riders accustomed to ABS might find the lack of assist unsettling, but the setup rewards smooth inputs.

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Competition

The RX 80 SE competed in a crowded segment of lightweight two-strokes in the early ’80s. Here’s how it stacked up:

Suzuki AX100

The AX100 offered similar performance but with a slightly more refined four-speed transmission. Its 99cc engine produced marginally more torque, making it better suited for hilly terrain. However, the Suzuki lacked the Yamaha’s sharp styling and cult following.

Honda CD80

Honda’s CD80 took a different approach with a four-stroke engine, delivering smoother power delivery and better fuel economy. However, it sacrificed the RX 80 SE’s spirited two-stroke personality and weighed nearly 10 kg (22 lbs) more.

Rajdoot GTS

A budget competitor, the Rajdoot GTS shared the Yamaha’s two-stroke layout but suffered from inconsistent build quality. The RX 80 SE outclassed it in reliability and fit-and-finish.

Verdict: The Yamaha struck a balance between fun and practicality. While not the fastest or most advanced in its class, its lightweight design and iconic engine note gave it a unique edge.

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Maintenance

The RX 80 SE’s simplicity is a blessing for DIY enthusiasts. Here are key maintenance considerations:

1. Two-Stroke Upkeep

• Oil Mix: The engine requires pre-mixed fuel (typically 1:30 to 1:50 ratio). Use high-quality two-stroke oil to minimize carbon buildup.
• Spark Plugs: The NGK B8HS (standard) or BR8HIX (iridium) plugs need regular cleaning. Check the electrode gap (0.7 mm / 0.028 in) every 1,000 km.
• Exhaust Ports: Decarbonize the exhaust system annually to maintain performance.

2. Chain & Sprockets

The 13/39 tooth sprocket combo paired with a 106-link chain strikes a good balance for city and highway riding. Lubricate the chain every 500 km and adjust slack to 25-35 mm (1-1.4 in). Consider upgrading to an O-ring chain for reduced maintenance.

3. Suspension

• Fork Oil: Replace fork oil every 10,000 km. Yamaha specified 87 ml (2.9 oz) in the right leg and 117 ml (4 oz) in the left—a quirk to account for damping differences.
• Shock Absorbers: Original units are prone to fading. Aftermarket gas-charged shocks improve ride quality.

4. Carburetor Tuning

The Mikuni VM16SC carburetor is reliable but sensitive to altitude changes. Keep the pilot jet clean to prevent idle issues.

5. Tire Pressure

Stick to Yamaha’s recommendations:
- Front: 1.8 bar (26 psi)
- Rear: 2.3 bar (33 psi)

MOTOPARTS.store Recommendations

• Performance Exhaust: A tuned expansion chamber can unlock hidden power while enhancing the classic two-stroke sound.
• Upgraded Air Filter: Swap the stock foam filter for a reusable oiled cotton unit.
• LED Lighting Kit: Improve visibility with modern bulbs that draw less power from the 6V electrical system.

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Final Thoughts

The Yamaha RX 80 SE isn’t about speed or cutting-edge tech—it’s about the joy of uncomplicated motorcycling. Its lightweight frame, charismatic engine, and minimalist design create a riding experience that modern bikes struggle to replicate. While it demands hands-on maintenance, the effort pays off in spades with a machine that feels deeply personal and engaging.

For owners today, the RX 80 SE offers a blank canvas for customization. Whether restoring it to showroom condition or modifying it for café racer aesthetics, MOTOPARTS.store carries the essentials to keep this ’80s icon alive and thriving. In a world of increasingly complex machines, the RX 80 SE remains a testament to the timeless appeal of simplicity.

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Specifications sheet

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