Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 vs Jawa 42 Bobber : For bikers in India, motorcycles signify not only a means of transport but passion, style, and liberty. In two thousand and twenty-five, the Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 and the Jawa 42 Bobber are two bikes that truly represent this spirit. Both of them, being retro-styled machines with modern engineering, aim to shine on the roads while grabbing attention during their ride. But which one is better? Let’s find out in the comparison.
The Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 is a custom-cruiser styled motorcycle based on RE 650 platform. The big presence of muscular fuel tank, chunky tyres, wide handlebars, and a low-slung stance makes its presence felt on the road. In contrast to the Shotgun 650, the Jawa 42 Bobber goes for a clean and minimalistic design whereby it employs only a single seat, chopped fenders, and old-school detailing giving it a true custom-style bobber straight from the showroom.
The Shotgun 650 features a distinctly able-but-modern 648cc parallel-twin engine that delivers-47 bhp and 52 Nm of torque. The engine is smooth, refined, purpose-built for highway cruising. The 42 has a 293cc single-cylinder engine with 27 bhp and 27 Nm of torque. The RE is devoid of outright power, but it is far less than the Shotgun, hence feels a tad bit lighter and agile which is justified in the city and for the occasional weekend trip.
Royal Enfield, with the Shotgun 650, has delivered some modern bits such as dual-channel ABS, a slipper clutch, Tripper navigation, and premium suspension for comfort in the ride. This entirely retro-inspired Bobber focuses on the rider with adjustable seat height, a digital console, and LED lighting, creating a beautiful balance between old-world charm and modern practicalities.
Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 costs abruptly higher in the ₹3.5-3.7 lakh range, for the price, it offers powerful highway touring capabilities, whereas the Jawa 42 Bobber is a budget-conscious affair at about ₹2.1-2.3 lakh, thus entry to the world of bobbers with style.
If it is long-distance highway cruising with the feel of a big bike, then the Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 is the one for you. But if you want a stylish, inexpensive, and easy-to-ride bobber for everyday riding and short excursions, then the Jawa 42 Bobber is the one to fulfill your fun element. Both bikes carry charm and their own attitude, which will cut your decision down to either one on grounds of big manly power or lightweight serenity.