The Yamaha Banshee 350, an ATV that has made a lasting impact in off-road riding and motorsports, holds a special place as an iconic vehicle. Created by Yamaha Motor Company, this high-performance quad debuted in the mid-1980s and quickly gained fame for its impressive power, agility, and unique design. With its twin-cylinder, two-stroke engine, the Banshee delivers a thrilling riding experience that captures the imagination. Enthusiasts consider it a favorite due to its raw power and remarkable combination of speed and handling.
Now, let us explore the details and features that have contributed to the legendary status of the Yamaha Banshee in off-road adventures.
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 Type
|
2-Stroke Twin with Reed Valve |
| Displacement | 347cc |
| Bore x Stroke | 64 x 54mm |
| Compression Ratio | 6.5:1 |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual transmission |
| Fuel Delivery | Dual Mikuni 26mm |
| Final Drive | Chain |
|
Front Suspension
|
Independent Double Wishbone, 9.1″ w/ 5-way Preload Adjustment |
| Rear Suspension | Swingarm with Linkage, 8.7″ w/ Rebound, Compression and Threaded Preload Adjustment |
| Front Tire | 21 x 7-10 |
| Rear Tire | 20 x 10-9 |
| Front Brakes | Dual Hydraulic Disc |
| Rear Brakes | Hydraulic Disc |
|
L x W x H
|
73.0 x 43.3 x 42.5 in |
| Seat Height | 31.5 in |
| Wheelbase | 50.4 in |
| Ground Clearance | 5.3 in |
| Curb Weight | 405 lb. |
| Fuel Capacity | 3.2 gal |
|
Top Speed
|
65 mph / 104.6 kph |
| Starter | Kick Starter |
| Cooling System | Liquid Cooled |
| Ignition | CDI |
| 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
The Yamaha Banshee 350 is equipped with a Capacitor Discharge Ignition (CDI) system, which relies on a 12V YTX14AH-BS battery to provide power to its electrical components. Although it lacks an electric start option, the presence of an auxiliary mechanical recoil starter allows for easy engine initiation using the 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 the 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 kg/cm²) to 4.7 psi/33 kPa (0.33 kg/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 the 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 30 watts 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
The 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
Below are some frequently asked questions and their answers
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 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, the EPA defines the control limits for the emissions, and unfortunately, Banshee exceeded the emission limits set by the EPA, so Yamaha has to discontinue it.
Is the Yamaha Banshee 350 a beginner bike?
No, the 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?
The 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.
Why did they stop making Yamaha banshees?
Yamaha made the decision to discontinue the Banshee ATV due to stricter emissions regulations that favored cleaner and more fuel-efficient four-stroke engines. Another contributing factor was the evolving consumer preferences towards utility and sport-utility ATVs. Furthermore, advancements in four-stroke engine technology have narrowed the performance gap, prompting Yamaha’s choice to stop manufacturing the Banshee. Despite its discontinuation, enthusiasts still actively seek out and value the Banshee in the used ATV market.
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.
