Yamaha Banshee 350

The Yamaha Banshee 350 is a legendary sport ATV celebrated for its raw performance, distinctive sound, and enduring appeal among off-road enthusiasts. Introduced in 1987, it was powered by a 347 cc liquid-cooled, twin-cylinder, two-stroke engine derived from Yamaha’s RD350 street motorcycle, giving it explosive acceleration and a high-revving, adrenaline-charged riding experience. Paired with a 6-speed manual transmission and chain drive, the Banshee offered precise control and thrilling speed, capable of dominating dunes, trails, and race tracks. Its lightweight steel frame, long-travel suspension, and responsive hydraulic disc brakes made it agile and confident over rough terrain, while its aggressive styling and low stance gave it a distinctive, race-ready look. Lacking modern conveniences like electric start or reverse, the Banshee remained a purist’s machine—mechanically simple, but demanding skill and attention from its rider. Production in the U.S. ended in 2006 due to tightening emissions regulations, though it continued in other markets until 2012. Today, the Yamaha Banshee 350 stands as a sought-after collector’s item and a symbol of the golden era of high-performance two-stroke sport quads.