ALL banshee parts are the same with the exception of A-arms/J-arms, rear hubs and wheels, electrical connectors(as you stated),heel guard crap,seat height,tail light,headlights,ect....Feel free to add to the list. But all the real parts, such as motor parts and chassis parts are more or less the same. Maybe you don't want to order a shift shaft for a 1987, order the 2005. I no for a fact that they are the same, as are MOST parts. Also, you may be right that the earlier parts may cost more, what I am saying is that they are the SAME part.I'll have to check at my local Yamaha shop.