That didn’t wash with a power junkie like Andrew. “I decided to just replace it with something cool: a 472cc Super Cub engine.” This modified two-stroke mill is well-known in the Yamaha Banshee world: the stock engine was an evolution of the unit used in the RD350 motorcycle, and lends itself to massive power gains.
“I went to work on Craigslist and eBay and found miscellaneous Banshee parts, including a nice set of crank cases with a transmission,” says Andrew. “I ended up buying a new 4mm stroker crank and a 472 Super Cub cylinder, and then found some CPI Racing drag pipes.”
To get everything to fit, Andrew had to cut into the frame and modify the rails to contour around the engine. He also had to cut into the pipes to allow them to sweep under the frame, but given the size of them, that’s understandable.
Andrew has also installed a race-style MSD total loss ignition system (liberated from a jet ski), and a VForce reed valve system, but the 35mm carbs are decidedly street friendly and fuel-efficient. “They carburate very cleanly,” he says. “I also have a set of 40mm carbs for big power, but they eat way too much fuel.” A radiator taken off an RD250 keeps temperatures down.
