Yep. The '86 had the beefiest frame, the '86 and '87 both had steel swingarms, whereas the '88 and '89 both had -1" (compared to '86 and '87 lengths) aluminum swingarms. There are other differences as well, but the swingarm change is accountable for most of the weight reduction in the later years.
Banshee vs 250r
Well a few month back I rode a 250r for the first time. It was an 86' with a pipe. I was really impressed with how well they handle and how goos the suspension is. I love how light they are and the power comes on nice and smooth. I am used to riding a banshee and even wiht a -2" swingarm it doesn't hook up very well in the dirt. The 250r stays straight easier and pulls hard through the corners while my banshee spins and gets sideways. Also the stock 250r suspension seems really nice even just as nice as my aftermarket suspension. I think the weight and geometry of the bike help out alot. My banshee is a blast to ride but I hope to pick up a 250r the really put down the 450's
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