Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 Review : One of the most exclusive bikes in the market in India, the Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 was launched in early 2024, and it’s a combination of bold bobber design and a reliable 650cc engine by Royal Enfield. Few riders and enthusiasts were curious whether it’s merely a matter of aesthetics or whether the bike performs and delivers when it’s put through practical assessments. Let’s take a closer look to find out if it’s worth all the attention.
The Shotgun 650, in fact, transforms heads in instant ways. With a very low-slung frame, minimalist fenders, a round LED headlamp, and blacked-out alloy wheels, it gives across a custom-bike feel. Riding on the same platform as the Interceptor 650 and Super Meteor, it continues to look fresh and rebellious. The styling simply fuses the vintage charm into modernism; making it one of the most ultimate machines for you who want something other than the average cruiser or street bike.
In fact, the engine is the good old familiar 648cc parallel-twin motor, capable of producing around 47 PS of power and 52 Nm of torque. This engine is smooth, torquey, and very comfortable for cruising between 90-120 km/h. The 6-speed gearbox with slipper clutch makes the shifting light and limits wheel lock during hard downshifting. Acceleration is extremely fast for a motorcycle of its size, and the throttle response is predictable and fun.
One of the most surprising features is how nimble it is despite the weight of over 240 kg. The short wheelbase and a bit of sporty riding position helps in handling corners better than other Royal Enfield 650. Bad news, however, is that the suspension is stiff and with a low ground clearance, which isn’t great for bad roads or speed bumps. And when it comes to long distance rides, you might find it comfortable alone, but with a passenger, comfort is limited and not much option for luggage without add-ons.
A seat height of 795 mm puts the Shotgun 650 squarely within the reach of most riders and is thus accessible. Fuel economy is decent given the 650 twin people, real-world figures range from 22 to 27 km/l depending on rider and road conditions. The bike feels a little heavy in the city, but where it really shines is on highways, with stable cruising and a confidence-inspiring handling.
In total, the Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 really is a stylish and capable motorcycle built for solo riders who prefer performance with personality. Though it’s not really meant for everyday commuting or for those who very rarely will have pillion rides, it’s definitely one of the most exciting bikes under 4 lakh Rupees in India today for weekend rides and making a style statement. If you are a person that rides for the passion of it, but also wants a mix of retro look and modern performance, then the Shotgun 650 is the bike for you.