Royal Enfield recently launched its fourth 650cc bike in India, the Shotgun 650. Now, we have already ridden it, and if you are planning to purchase one, then here is our take on the new Royal Enfield Shotgun 650.
On the design front, the Shotgun 650 appears visibly more sophisticated and modern compared to its sibling, the Interceptor 650. While it is based on the Super Meteor 650, the Shotgun is designed to be a bobber and sports elements for the same.
From its aluminium cowl to the fuel tank and the side panels, the Shotgun looks neat. Its build quality, finishing levels, and paint quality, all feel up-market.
As we mentioned earlier, the Shotgun 650 is based on the Super Meteor 650. Hence, it borrows the 648cc, parallel-twin, oil-cooled motor that belts out 46.4bhp at 7,250rpm and 52.3Nm at 5,650rpm. It is linked to a six-speed gearbox.
From our earlier experience of riding the Super Meteor 650, Interceptor 650, and the Continental GT 650, their engines have turned out to be very likeable in terms of performance, gradual acceleration, and meaty exhaust note. We feel the same for the Shotgun’s engine.
Moreover, during the BikeWale fuel efficiency test that we carried out in Mumbai, the Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 returned 23.72kmpl. This is a decent figure and the bike should return an approximate range of 330km in one go.
Even the Shotgun’s gear ratios and tuning are shared with the Super Meteor. The same is the case with the features. So, you get a twin-dial setup that comprises a speedometer, odometer, trip meter, and fuel level readout on the larger pod, while the secondary unit is for the Tripper Navigation.
The Shotgun 650 rides on USD front forks and dual rear springs that have been retained from its cruiser sibling. But owing to its bobber styling, the length has been shortened for the front forks while carrying the same travel.
Compared to the Super Meteor 650, the Shotgun’s rear springs feel more pliant and the ride quality is also likeable. However, there is still room for improvement as the bike feels unsettled at times when ridden over bad patches or speed bumps.
But what about its braking, seating comfort, and value for money? Well, we have covered all of that in our first ride review of the Royal Enfield Shotgun 650.
