1990 Kawasaki Bajaj KB100 Still Running Strong, Not Even Repainted [Video]
India is currently the largest two-wheeler market in the world. In the past, we have seen several iconic two-wheeler models from various manufacturers. One of them is the Kawasaki Bajaj KB100. First launched in 1986, this motorcycle is still loved by many. Today, however, it is very difficult to find well-kept examples. A video shared on the channel Wheelocity, shows a pristine 1990 KB100. Interestingly, it is still running strong and even has its original paint in most areas.
Kawasaki Bajaj KB100 On Video
As the video opens, we see the host giving a brief introduction of the 100cc bike landscape from the 80s and 90s. Japanese two wheeler manufacturers started launching products in India, through local partnerships, in the early 19080s. We saw many launches from the like of Hero Honda, Escorts Yamaha, etc, primarily targeting the 100cc space.
Models like the Yamaha RX100 leaned towards delivering exciting performance, while the likes of Hero Honda CD100 delivered remarkable fuel efficiency. The KB100 from Kawasaki Bajaj came rather late, and took a mid spot. It wasn’t as exciting to ride as the RX100, but was more efficient. The mileage again, wasn’t as good as that of the CD100.
It had a 98cc air-cooled engine that produced 10.3 hp. The vehicle featured in the video is a 1990 model, and has been maintained well by its owner. Back in its day, the KB100 packed a lot of segment-leading features and had a distinct character. The owner goes vocal about these in the video.
The KB100 was the first motorcycle to come with a tachometer in India. The comprehensive instrument cluster also had a fuel gauge that was fairly accurate. It even had an integrated ignition and handlebar lock. You could lock the handlebars without taking the key off the main keyhole. While this could sound common today, back in the 90s, it was a rare find on budget two-wheelers.
Back in its day, the KB100 also featured a rotary valve in its engine, while the competitors came with reed valves. The engine’s packaging was different from those of its rivals. It also had a concealed carburettor design that, as per manufacturer claims, made it safer.
Both wheels had bigger drum brakes than what were common in the segment- 130mm units.
The KB100 also had a longer wheelbase and bigger rear wheel. The focus on effective mass centralisation made it feel more stable at speeds. The motorcycle could get to speeds of 90-100 kph. The double cradle frame underpinning the KB100 came from its global sibling Kawasaki KH 125.
The owner explains the various interesting components of the motorcycle and talks about how he has taken care to keep it stock and in good shape. Just one panel seems to have been repainted. The vehicle even has its engine in the stock tune. The owner, however, says that he has faced rusting issues with some parts, and did rust-proofing to get rid of the same.
KB100: A Lost Star
While all the above could sound appealing, the KB100 in real, had a grim fate. There were a number of reasons for this. First, it was late to the party.
The 1986 debut meant that it came into a landscape which was already being dominated by the RX100, and would eventually have to fight hard to secure a place for itself. With the likes of CD100 and Ind-Suzuki AX100 on sale, the 100cc space was almost saturated. The chances for its survival were minimal.
Some also say that Bajaj did not advertise the KB100 efficiently. It will be hard for us to disagree or to dismiss these claims completely. The Kawasaki-Bajaj KB100 RTZ that arrived later, however, did receive an interesting TV ad campaign with the “Own Cheeta” tagline.