Banshee Bikes Interbike 2007
Banshee went back to the drawing board this year and they have created a fully upgraded lineup. Their new bikes have improved immensely and it has been very impressive to see what they’ve accomplished in just a year. The Pyre, Rampant, and Rune all utilize a bushing system to reduce maintenance and decrease wear. Hydroformed tubing and a lot of technology went into fine tuning the Banshee bikes this year for strength and weight.
I got a chance to swing a leg over the Wildcard during the outdoor demo. It was easy to set up and was a blast to ride. It had great cornering, progressive suspension, and felt really good in the air. The backend felt solid and I wouldn’t expect any less from Banshee. The bike was also lightweight thanks to the frameset (~7.5lbs w/o shock). It would be a perfect park bike, and is a really nice bike that can meet a variety of needs.
2008 Banshee Wildcard (click to enlarge)
The Rampant 4x is also new this year. Designed specifically for 4x, the Rampant is lightweight and made to take off just that edge when you come up short. The current frame prototype is only 7lbs with RP23 and the production version should ring in lighter.
2008 Banshee Rampant (click to enlarge)
The Scythe is Banshee’s new DH/FR bike this year. It has an uninterrupted seattube, 1.5″ headtube, and much more. Offering multiple shock positions (while still utilizing the same shock) they were able to create a 7″/8″ bike that meets the rigors of freeride and is still DH capable. It’s built on simplicity and to be dependable. Geometry is still being finalized on the Scythe but should be done very soon. Frame weight is only 8.5lbs (without shock).
2008 Banshee Scythe (click to enlarge)
The Rune is Banshee’s new All Mountain / Enduro bike. It’s going to be a killer bike for them this year and rightfully so. The Rune weighs in at 7.2 lbs w/o shock and offers 6″ of travel. There’s a plethora of information over at the Banshee blog if you’re interested in learning more about it.
2008 Banshee Rune (click to enlarge)
The Pyre MK II has undergone an overhaul this year. 4.5″ of travel, adjusted geometry all around, this new version of the Pyre defines itself a lot better towards the trail/aggressive XC market. 5.5lbs without shock.
2008 Banshee Pyre MKII (click to enlarge)
Be sure to check the gallery for more detailed shots of the Banshee Bikes.
[Banshee Bikes Interbike 2007 Gallery] [Banshee Bikes Website]
