Yamaha Banshee 350 was a 1987’s quad with a two-stock high-performance engine. Banshee used Yamaha’s RD350 two-stroke twin-cylinder non-power valve engine. It was one of the most successful and longest-standing ATVs in its category. One of the reasons for its success is it was the only ATV that uses a twin-cylinder, two-stroke engine made for the public.
If you are willing to buy and want to know more about this incredible machine, then read the full article.
Yamaha Banshee 350
Yamaha Banshee 350 was introduced in 1987, and later Yamaha discontinued it due to EPA regulations. It has a 348 cc two-stock engine that can produce a top speed of 65 mph. It is a full-power quad with a six-speed continuous mesh transmission. Its suspension can absorb bumps easily and provide a comfortable ride to its user. Its safety department works amazingly with the two hydraulic brakes on the front and one hydraulic brake on the rear side.
Pros
- It is one of the most successful and long-standing ATVs.
- It is the only ATV for the public that uses twin-cylinder, two-stroke engine.
- It has a lot of modification options, so you can easily modify it.
- It is an easy-to-maintain quad. It just requires time to time oil changing and filter cleaning.
Cons
- Its thumb throttle is difficult to push.
- You may face engine overheating issues in it.
Specification:
Here is the specification of this long-standing quad:
| Engine | 248 cc two Stock |
| Top Speed | 65 MPH / 104.6 KMH |
| Bore x Stroke | 64 mm x 54 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 6.5:1 |
| Drive Train | RWD; Sealed O-Ring Chain |
| Fuel Delivery | Dual Mikuni 26 mm |
| Ignition | CDI |
| Starting System | Kick |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual Clutch |
| Dry Weight | 386 lb. |
| Wet Weight | 405 lb. |
| Fuel Capacity | 3.2 Gallons |
| Ground Clearance | 5.3 inches |
| Length | 73.0 inches |
| Width | 43.3 inches |
| Height | 42.5 inches |
| Seat Height | 31.5 inches |
| Wheelbase | 50.4 inches |
| Brakes / Front | Dual Hydraulic Disc |
| Brakes / Rear | Hydraulic Disc |
| Suspension / Front | Independent Double Wishbone, 9.1 inches w/ 5-way Preload Adjustment |
| Suspension / Rear | Swing arm with Linkage, 8.7 inches w/ Rebound, Compression, and Threaded Preload Adjustment |
| Tires / Front | AT21 x 7-10 |
| Tires / Rear | AT20 x 10-9 |
| Price | $6,099 |
Engine
It has a 348 cc two-stroke engine which is forward-inclined. People usually use ATVs on high rev so as to prevent overheating; it has a liquid-cooled system. In addition to its 65 mph top speed, it is powered by 34 horsepower / 34.47 ponies.
It is a powerful twin-turbo engine with a bore and stroke ratio of 64 x 54 mm (2.52 x 2.13 inches) and a compression ratio of 6.5:1. It is a throttle-on machine that will perform best when ridden aggressively.
Ignition
It has a Capacitor Discharge Ignition system. It requires a 12V YTX14AH-BS battery to give power to electric items. It does not have an electric start option, but due to the auxiliary mechanical recoil starter, you can easily start your engine with Kickstarter.
Transmission
The YFZ350 is driven by a six-speed continuous mesh transmission. The clutch system is wet and multi-disc, which is accountable for transmitting power from the crankshaft to the final drive of the ATV. You can operate its gearshift from the left foot.
Each gear reduction ratio is listed below, along with the primary and final transmission ratios.
| 1st gear ratio: | 32 / 13, 2.461 |
| 2nd gear ratio: | 29 / 16, 1.812 |
| 3rd gear ratio: | 27 / 18, 1.500 |
| 4th gear ratio: | 25 / 20, 1.250 |
| 5th gear ratio: | 23 / 22, 1.045 |
| 6th gear ratio: | 21 / 24, 0.875 |
| Primary ratio: | 66 / 23, 2.869 |
| final ratio: | 41 / 14, 2.929 |
Fuel System
This ATV has a fuel injection system that provides the perfect amount of air and fuel mixture to the engine so that engine can perform better. One thing to make your engine and its performance good is to use high-octane fuel. It can store 3.2 US gallons / 12 liters of fuel in the fuel tank, along with 0.7 gallons/2.5 liters of reserve fuel.
Dimensions
It has 114 mm / 5.3 inches ground clearance with a height of 1080 mm / 42.5 inches and a width of 1100 mm / 43.3 inches. You can easily ride on it as it has an average length of 1855 mm / 73.0 inches. Along with that, you are going to get 800 mm / 31.5 inches seat height. With a 1280 mm / 50.4 inches wheelbase, you will get a smooth ride as it absorbs all the bumps.
Tires
Tires take the load of the ATV and provide a good connection with the road to the ATV. This ATV has Dunlop’s KT851A 21 × 7-10 front tires and Dunlop’s KT877 20 × 10-9 rear tires. Both of the tires are tubeless and have the ability to go anywhere. These tires will provide a good grip on any terrain.
(Note: When airing tires, do not exceed 3.9 psi/27 kPa (0.27 kgf/cm²) to 4.7 psi/33 kPa (0.33 kgf/cm²).)
Suspensions
The suspension on this ATV is designed to provide a smooth ride. You will get an independent double-wishbone with a five-way preload-adjustable coil spring/oil damper for front side allowing 9.1 inches / 230 mm of travel. And for the rear side, it has a swing arm with mono-cross shocks with 8.7 inches of travel.
Good suspensions are a must in an ATV because they are used for off-road and climbing. If an ATV does not have a good suspension, it will ruin your joy and the money you spend on it.
Brakes
It has dual hydraulic brakes on the front side and a single hydraulic side on the rear side. All these three breaks are perfect in their work and provide flawless braking. The rear brake is operated by the right foot, and the front brake is located on the right side of the handlebar.
Electronics
The Yamaha banshee 350 does not have an electric start option but for the rider’s convenience, it has a responsive Kickstarter. It has two headlights on the front side with a multi-reflector lens. Its headlights are just of 30-watt but will give you better illumination.
Frame & Body
The frame is the base and provides strength to all ATVs, so a good and strong frame is essential for vehicles. This bike has a steel tube frame with a 9° caster angle and a 40-mm trail. You will get adequate leg space and a good 9° caster angle. It also has front/rear bumpers, a light guard, grips, handlebars, and a front bash plate—one more thing; it’s the body is made of plastic.
Weight
It has a dry Weight of 386 lb / 175 kg and a wet weight of 405 lb / 183.7 kg, which is normal for an ATV. You can easily go anywhere on this ATV; it can easily climb the hills. Because of its average weight, you can haul it anywhere with your truck.
Conclusion
Yamaha Banshee 350 has a 348 cc two-stock engine. You can buy this quad as it is powerful and can go anywhere you want. You will not face any lethal issues with it. It is one of the long-standing ATVs in the market.
If you are exhausted with the complex maintenance of ATVs, let me tell you it is an easy-to-maintain quad that only requires oil and air filter replacement.
It has 10 inches front tire with dual hydraulic brakes, and 9 inches rear tire with a single hydraulic brake responsible for the decent height and excellent braking. It also provides an extra comfortable ride with its premium suspension.
Although it is an old ATV, it can compete with the latest ATV models and will surely provide value for money to you.
Ready to Learn More about
FAQ’s
What is the Top speed of the Yamaha Banshee 350?
The top speed of the Yamaha Banshee YZ 350 is 65 mph / 104.6 km. It is a perfect bike for off-roads and climbing due to its huge power. If you are unsatisfied with the 65 mph and want more speed, you can do some upgrades to increase its speed. These small upgrades include Kendra Speed Racers, altering front fairings, power mods, and getting taller gearing.
What is the reason behind the Yamaha Banshee 350?
Yamaha Banshee was a good-selling ATV, but Yamaha discontinued it in 2006 due to the strict implementation of EPA regulations. Although it’s a good ATV, EPA defines the control limits for the emissions, and unfortunately, Banshee exceeded the emission limits set by EPA, so Yamaha has to discontinue it.
Is Yamaha Banshee 350 can be a beginner bike?
No, Yamaha Banshee 350 can’t be a beginner bike as it has a lot of speed that can be dangerous for a new rider. You can choose any other 250 cc category Japanese ATV brands that are durable, long-lasting, and premium class ATVs. It can be really dangerous if he hits with this powerful quad. It can be a good option for the mid and trained rider.
What is the maintenance scenario of the Yamaha Banshee 350?
Yamaha Banshee 350 is an easy-to-maintain quad. It is not like other old machines that require extra care and maintenance. Make sure to change its oil and air filter on time and that it. No other maintenance is needed.
What is the price of the Yamaha Banshee 350?
The price of the Yamaha Banshee 350 was $6,099; as you know, Yamaha discontinued it in 2006, so it is available in a used condition only. You can find this machine at retailers for between $2,035 and $5,999.
The selling price may be higher if the quad is heavily modded or in mint condition. Although it is a vintage quad, it still has its market, and many people are buying and enjoying it.
What are the improvements you can do to the Yamaha Banshee 350?
As you know, it is a vintage quad, and technology and quality are getting more advanced daily. So to meet today’s quality and technology, you must make some changes to improve its performance. You can do true, welded crank, and axle carrier modification for a comfortable ride.
You will get high performance by upgrading its stock pipes, removing the Stock air box, and opening the air filters and outerwear. For better throttle and quick response, you can replace the Throttle Override System with the twist throttle. Lastly, you can use a custom inline cooler to prevent the engine from overheating
Rand Frankey is OffRoadsCare freelance Content Editor. He loves offroad Travelling and bikes, jeeps, and dirk bikes. He will explain all his experience with dirt bikes and offroad vehicles which helps you to make a decision like which vehicle is right for you.
