1997 Yamaha Banshee

The 1997 Yamaha Banshee is one of the most iconic and revered models of Yamaha’s long-running Banshee line. It was a key year in the Banshee’s history, as the ATV was already well-established as a high-performance, two-stroke sport quad.

Here’s an overview of the 1997 Yamaha Banshee:

Key Features of the 1997 Yamaha Banshee:

Engine and Performance:

• Engine Type: 347cc, liquid-cooled, two-stroke, parallel twin engine.
• Power Output: Approximately 35-40 horsepower, making it one of the fastest sport ATVs at the time.
• Transmission: 6-speed manual gearbox, providing more precise control and flexibility, especially for off-road riding and racing.
• Carburetion: Dual 34mm Mikuni carburetors, a hallmark of the Banshee, which helped deliver excellent throttle response and power.
• Exhaust: Dual exhaust system, giving it the signature loud and throaty two-stroke sound.
• Starting System: Electric start (with a pull-start backup).
• Fuel/Oil System: The Banshee had a separate oil injection system, meaning you didn’t need to mix oil with gas manually.

Suspension and Handling:

• Front Suspension: Independent double A-arm suspension with 8.1 inches of travel.
• Rear Suspension: Swingarm suspension with 9.1 inches of travel, providing good off-road handling.
• Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes both front and rear for reliable stopping power.
• Tires: Standard tire sizes for the era were 22-inch front tires and 20-inch rear tires, offering a good balance of handling and traction for off-road use.

General Features:

• Body Style: The 1997 Banshee maintained the sleek and aggressive design for which the Banshee line was known, with wide fenders and a lightweight frame that enhanced maneuverability.
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 2.5 gallons, which provided decent range for trail riding.
• Weight: Around 350-360 lbs (varied slightly depending on model), making it a relatively lightweight sport quad for its power output.

Performance and Legacy:

• The 1997 Yamaha Banshee was known for its fast acceleration, high top-end speed, and thrilling two-stroke engine performance.
• It had a reputation for being an extremely fun, fast, and powerful ATV, especially on open trails, sand dunes, and motocross tracks.
• Racing: The Banshee had a strong following in amateur and professional racing, especially in drag racing and cross-country events. Its two-stroke engine was easy to modify and upgrade, which made it popular for tuning.