Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 First Ride Review: A Fun-Fueled True Bobber

If you believe that motorcycles aren’t just machines, but an extension of a rider’s personality, then you and Royal Enfield have something in common. The all-new Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 is a radical experiment for the bike manufacturer, making it shine as a lifestyle brand making a lifestyle motorcycle.

Design and Aesthetics

Let’s get one thing straight, the Shotgun 650 is definitely a good-looking motorcycle and catches the eye. It commands attention wherever you go, with its striking design, departing from the conventional cruiser aesthetic of the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650. The chopped fenders, mid-set footpegs, and sporty fuel tank scream "look at me NOW!" The graphics add a dash of sportiness to the bike, aligning perfectly with Royal Enfield's lifestyle-focused vision.

Performance with a Twist

Underneath its flamboyant exterior lies the beating heart – a 648cc twin-cylinder air-/oil-cooled engine, delivering 47PS at 7250rpm and 52.3Nm at 5650rpm. What sets the Shotgun apart from its siblings is its distinct state of tune and throttle calibration, injecting a dose of hooliganism into the riding experience. This bike is not just a mode of transportation; it's an invitation for a thrilling joyride.

However, this exhilarating performance comes at a cost. The Shotgun's peppiness translates into noticeable vibrations, even at lower speeds. You can feel the vibrations prominently on the seat, handlebar, and footpegs. Besides, the gear lever's awkward positioning adds a touch of inconvenience to the otherwise spirited ride.

Comfort Meets Excitement

Unlike its cruiser sibling, the Shotgun 650 is not designed for leisurely couch-like rides. With relatively mid-set footpegs, a higher seat height, and a narrow, low-set handlebar, it leans towards a sportier, bobber-inspired stance. Surprisingly, it feels lighter and more agile than its weight suggests, making it an excellent urban companion with a bit of a bratty attitude.

Surprisingly, the Shotgun 650 delivers an astonishingly lighter feel than the Super Meteor and even the Continental GT 650. Riders experience a sensation of shedding about 20kg, rendering the bike remarkably nimble and agile.

Despite the mere 1kg difference in kerb weight between the Super Meteor 650 (241kg) and the Shotgun 650 (240kg) on paper, the real magic happens on the road. This weight, coupled with the distinct riding posture and agile handling, transforms the Shotgun 650 into an outstanding urban performer. Its slightly bratty demeanour adds a touch of fun, making it the ideal bobber

The secret behind this perceived lightness lies in the Shotgun's shorter wheelbase and altered rake angle, setting it apart from the Super Meteor 650. The harmonious blend of these factors creates a significantly lighter feel.

Suspension and Braking:

While not the most sophisticated, the suspension setup of the Shotgun 650 strikes a balance between comfort and performance and offers a pretty comfortable riding experience. On the downside, the brakes leave something to be desired. The lack of initial bite on the front brake affects confidence, while the rear triggers kickback from the ABS, signalling an imbalance in this department.

Verdict:

The Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 isn't just a motorcycle; it's a statement. Designed for riders seeking fun, excitement, and a touch of rebellion, this single-seat bobber may not suit everyone's taste. However, for enthusiasts who crave a unique riding experience, it's a perfect match. The optional seat attachment option, paired with the standard pillion footpegs, adds to its versatility.

The Shotgun 650 could carve a niche in the market as a distinctive and thrilling choice, considering that it is the only bobber in this segment. That said, this bike is very different from its 650cc siblings, so stay tuned for a comprehensive road test to uncover the intricacies of this rebellious ride.