1987 Yamaha Banshee Value: What’s It Worth Today?

1987 yamaha banshee value The 1987 Yamaha Banshee 350 is one of the most legendary ATVs (All-Terrain Vehicles) ever produced. As the first year of the Banshee lineup, the 1987 model holds a special place in the hearts of collectors, riders, and enthusiasts alike. With its powerful 347cc twin-cylinder, two-stroke engine, aggressive styling, and high-performance capabilities, the Banshee remains one of the most sought-after quads in the used market.

But how much is a 1987 Yamaha Banshee worth today? The value depends on several factors, including condition, modifications, rarity, and market demand. Let’s dive into what influences the price and how much you can expect to pay (or sell) for a 1987 Yamaha Banshee in today’s market.

What Makes the 1987 Yamaha Banshee Special?

The Yamaha Banshee was introduced in 1987 and remained in production until 2006. Unlike many other sport quads of its time, the Banshee was built with a two-stroke twin-cylinder engine, making it one of the most powerful and exhilarating ATVs to ride.

Key Features of the 1987 Yamaha Banshee:

✅ 347cc Liquid-Cooled, Twin-Cylinder Two-Stroke Engine – Unique in the ATV world, providing exceptional power and acceleration.
✅ Six-Speed Manual Transmission – Offers full control over performance for dunes, trails, and racing.
✅ Kick Start System – Classic, lightweight design without electric start.
✅ Lightweight Frame & Suspension – Designed for aggressive riding and high-speed handling.
✅ Distinctive Styling & Sound – The unmistakable “Banshee scream” comes from its twin pipes and high-revving nature.

As the first production year, the 1987 Banshee has historical significance, making it one of the most valuable models in the lineup.

How Much Is a 1987 Yamaha Banshee Worth Today?

The value of a 1987 Yamaha Banshee can vary widely based on condition, originality, and upgrades. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated prices based on market trends:

1. Bone-Stock, Original Condition (Collector’s Grade) – $7,000 to $15,000+

• Factory original plastics, engine, exhaust, and components.
• Minimal wear and tear, low hours, and properly stored.
• Rare to find, often sold at premium prices to collectors.

2. Well-Maintained, Lightly Modified – $5,000 to $9,000

• Some aftermarket parts (exhaust, air filter, handlebars, etc.).
• Good cosmetic condition with minor wear.
• Well-maintained engine and transmission.

3. Heavily Modified or Custom Build – $4,000 to $10,000+

• Upgraded engine, porting, bigger carbs, high-performance exhaust.
• Extended swingarm, custom suspension, aftermarket wheels.
• May have significant performance gains, but originality is reduced.

4. Rough Condition or Project Bike – $2,500 to $5,000

• Needs engine rebuild or has mechanical issues.
• Plastics may be cracked or replaced.
• May require extensive restoration.

🚨 Pro Tip: If you find a 1987 Yamaha Banshee for sale at a low price, make sure to inspect the frame, engine compression, and transmission to avoid costly repairs.

Factors That Affect the 1987 Yamaha Banshee’s Value

Several factors influence how much a 1987 Banshee is worth:

1. Condition & Mileage

• A low-hour, well-maintained Banshee is worth significantly more.
• Worn-out engines, frame damage, or missing parts lower the value.

2. Originality vs. Modifications

• Stock Banshees are highly desirable for collectors.
• Heavily modified Banshees may be worth more to performance enthusiasts but less to collectors.

3. Location & Market Demand

• Prices vary by region—Banshees are more expensive in dune-heavy states like California, Arizona, and Nevada.
• Winter pricing is often lower; summer prices tend to rise as demand increases.

4. Title & Paperwork

• A clean title increases value.
• Some older models may have been sold without titles, which can lower resale value.

5. Rarity & Collector Interest

• As the first-year model, 1987 Banshees are rarer than later models, adding to their collectibility.

Where to Buy or Sell a 1987 Yamaha Banshee

If you’re looking to buy or sell a 1987 Banshee, here are some of the best places to check:

🔹 Facebook Marketplace & Craigslist – Local listings for private sales.
🔹 eBay Motors – Auctions and nationwide listings.
🔹 ATV Forums (Banshee HQ, ATV Riders, etc.) – Enthusiast communities often have high-quality Banshees for sale.
🔹 Powersports Dealerships – Some specialize in vintage ATVs.
🔹 ATV Swap Meets & Auctions – Great for finding collector-grade models.

Is the 1987 Yamaha Banshee a Good Investment?

Yes! The 1987 Yamaha Banshee is a valuable collector’s item, and its value has been steadily increasing over the years. Since Yamaha discontinued the Banshee in 2006, demand has only grown, making clean examples harder to find.

Why the 1987 Banshee is a Great Investment:

✅ First-Year Production Model – Collectors love early-production vehicles.
✅ Two-Stroke Performance – No modern ATVs compare to the Banshee’s power-to-weight ratio.
✅ Increasing Rarity – Fewer stock models exist today, driving up value.
✅ Strong Resale Market – Banshees sell quickly in the used market.

If you have a clean, original 1987 Banshee, holding onto it or properly restoring it could yield even higher value in the future.

Final Thoughts: How Much Should You Pay for a 1987 Yamaha Banshee?

If you’re in the market for a 1987 Yamaha Banshee, expect to pay between $4,000 and $15,000, depending on condition and modifications. Stock, collector-grade Banshees will command the highest prices, while modified or rough-condition models can be found for less.

No matter your budget, owning a 1987 Yamaha Banshee means owning a piece of ATV history—a machine that remains iconic, thrilling, and valuable in the powersports world.

🏁 Thinking of buying or selling a Banshee? Drop a comment below and let us know your thoughts!