🏁 2001 Yamaha Banshee 350 — A Two-Stroke Legend

The 2001 Yamaha Banshee 350 is a cornerstone of the Banshee legacy, delivering raw, explosive power in a lightweight, agile package. By 2001, the Banshee had already earned its place in ATV history as one of the most thrilling and modifiable sport quads ever made. The 2001 model represents the perfect blend of classic two-stroke performance and modern refinements, making it a sought-after gem among collectors, racers, and weekend warriors alike.

🔧 Engine and Performance

Engine Type: 347cc, liquid-cooled, two-stroke, twin-cylinder
Bore x Stroke: 64.0mm x 54.0mm
Compression Ratio: 6.5:1
Carburetion: Dual Mikuni 26mm carburetors
Ignition: CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
Starting System: Kick-start
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Final Drive: Chain

💥 Performance:
The Banshee’s engine is the heart and soul of the quad. This 350cc, twin-cylinder, two-stroke powerhouse offers instant throttle response and a killer powerband that’s all about high-revving thrills. Its smooth yet aggressive delivery makes it perfect for wide-open spaces, like sand dunes, dirt tracks, and even drag racing. The two-stroke powerplant is light on weight but heavy on fun, offering a combination of acceleration and speed that still makes modern quads take notice.

🛞 Suspension and Handling

Front Suspension: Independent double A-arms, with 9.1 inches of travel
Rear Suspension: Swingarm with mono-shock, 8.7 inches of travel
Front Brakes: Dual hydraulic disc brakes
Rear Brakes: Single hydraulic disc brake
Tires: 21 x 7-10 (front) / 20 x 10-9 (rear)

🎯 Handling:
The 2001 Banshee offers exceptional handling for its time. The combination of lightweight design, independent front suspension, and rear mono-shock makes it incredibly responsive, especially when you’re throwing it around in the dunes or on open trails. The low center of gravity and wide stance add to its stability at higher speeds, while still being agile enough for quick turns. It’s built to be aggressive, allowing riders to push the limits in performance without sacrificing control.

⚖️ Specifications

Seat Height: 31.5 inches
Wheelbase: 50.4 inches
Ground Clearance: 5.3 inches
Fuel Capacity: 3.2 gallons
Dry Weight: 386 lbs

The lightweight frame (386 lbs) gives the 2001 Banshee a great power-to-weight ratio, which is one of the key reasons it remains such a favorite among racers and enthusiasts. With 3.2 gallons of fuel capacity, it’s good for long, fast rides through dunes or trails without the constant need for refueling.

🎨 Styling and Design

By 2001, the Banshee was already refined in its looks, with clean lines, aggressive fenders, and a sleek design. It kept the same iconic silhouette but came with updated graphics to give it a fresh, modern look.

Key design features:

Aggressive plastics: The 2001 model had bold, angular fenders and a sharp design that made it stand out on the trails.
Iconic twin exhaust pipes: Yamaha’s trademark dual exhaust system gives the Banshee its signature look and sound.
Color options: The 2001 model came in Team Yamaha Blue/White, Black/Red Flame, and other color variations, making it appealing to a wide range of riders.

The look is clean, fast, and unmistakably Banshee.

🛠️ Modding Potential

One of the Banshee’s most compelling qualities is the aftermarket modding scene. Riders have used the 2001 Banshee as a base to create everything from dune monsters to MX machines. The possibilities are endless.

Popular Mods:

Exhaust Systems: Toomey T5, FMF, Shearer, and CPI pipes—each giving that loud, signature Banshee scream.
Big Bore Kits: 421cc, 472cc, or 535cc for more power and higher RPMs.
Carburetors: Larger carbs (34mm to 38mm Keihin PWK) to allow more fuel and air for better performance.
Porting: For better cylinder flow and improved power output.
Suspension Upgrades: Many opt for upgraded shocks, longer swingarms, and wider A-arms for better handling and stability.
Custom Wheels and Tires: Beadlock rims, sand paddles, and high-traction tires for off-road dominance.

With a stock Banshee, you’ve got the foundation for an incredible performance build. It’s no surprise that Banshees have dominated the dunes, tracks, and drag strips for decades.

💰 Market Value

The 2001 Yamaha Banshee is still in high demand, thanks to its solid reputation for performance and mod potential. Clean, low-hour models can fetch a premium price:

Stock condition: $4,500 – $7,500
Restored / Custom Builds: $7,500 – $12,000
Collector’s items (low hour, original): $8,000 – $15,000+

The prices continue to climb as these quads become increasingly rare and coveted, especially for those looking to restore or build the ultimate two-stroke machine.