To go from a Recon to a Banshee would be a pretty extreme change of pace. I have ridden lots of Banshees - they have awesome power that is very user-UN-friendly. To ride one in the woods would take quite a bit of clutch work although not impossible. I don't like the way they handle, either.

If you think you can get it and sell it like someone else suggested, then maybe it would be a good deal, but I don't think you would be happy with it in the long run if you chose to keep it.

My $.02.

 

IF it were me I would trade then sell the banshee and get a 300 or 400ex. It would be much better than a banshee in the trails.

99 300ex w/ lots of stuff

 

Do it for sure!! and the Recon will not hold it value as well come one be realistic. Give the girl useful info not crap. She is asking a real question.

 

Thats a no brainer. Get the Banshee and if you want more bottom end power get a FMF gnarly pipe it adds more power for low-mid.

 

The answer is obvious. It's like asking whether you should trade a 98 jeep wrangler for a 99 dodge viper....there's no question. As long as it's not stolen, and runs good then go for it.
Even if you didn't want it you could always trade it for a 300ex-400ex.

 

Thanks for all the replies, everyone! Believe it or not, this is a tough decision for me. I really have to assess my riding and decide if I can handle the power of the 'shee. All I know is that in many situations my Recon holds me back; in the speed department, long hill climbs, and sand dunes. I know that the Banshee is better for speed, dunes, and hills. Also, I appreciate the concern, but the Banshee is not stolen and has only been ridden twice. It looks like it came off the dealer floor. I'll keep the details of the trade to myself until the time actually is here for me to make the decision of whether or not I'll trade...I really love my Recon, but I just think it's time to move on. This opportunity seems like the ticket. Again, thanks for all the input!
Jen's pics
'98 Recon
'99 GMC Sierra (red)
'00 400ex

 

I think the question isn't so much the brands involved, but the different machine types. You're going from a utility with racks to a pure sport bike. You're also going from a four-stroke to a two-stroke. I think you must examine whether you're comfortable with those significant changes, rather than whether it's a Honda or Yamaha. If you're comfortable with exchanging reliability and durability (of a ute), for the all-out performance and modifiable sport bike, then go for it. Especially if you're constantly riding the Recon more aggressively than it was designed for. On the other hand, can the sport bike handle slower, more difficult terrain? Match the bike to your type of riding, and terrain. If you decide that it does, then decide if can live with the deal. Please notice I did not bash any brand. And sport bikes are a different ownership experience. And two-strokes are a different maintenance experience.

 

if they guy owns a 400ex, I doubt he will have much trouble with the banshee. if he wants to trade do it.

take the money, and since you like the recon so much,buy a new rancher or something a bit more powerful but with the same basic recon style.