Royal Enfield Shotgun 650: A Cruiser Bike Like No Other
In the realm of road racing news, Royal Enfield’s latest addition, the Shotgun 650, has generated significant buzz. This cruiser bike has been in the making since its concept debut at EICMA 2021, and we’ve finally had the chance to put it through its paces.
Unique Suspension Setup
Sharing its engine and frame with the Super Meteor 650, the Shotgun 650 boasts a unique suspension setup that sets it apart from its stablemate. The 43mm Showa forks, paired with bespoke damping and spring rates, offer less travel than the Super Meteor, resulting in a bike that’s more agile and dynamic. The rear shocks are also tailored to the Shotgun, standing 20mm taller to enhance its handling characteristics.
Agile and Dynamic Performance
This translates to a steeper rake, less trail, and a shorter wheelbase, making the Shotgun 650 a sharper, more responsive bike. The 18-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels, shod with new tires, further reinforce this dynamic profile. With an engine producing 46.4bhp and 38.6lb ft of torque, the Shotgun 650 is designed to carve corners and devour twisties.
Aesthetics and Design
Aesthetically, the Shotgun 650 deviates from its Super Meteor sibling, boasting a distinct fuel tank, mudguards, and headlight nacelle. The engine’s blacked-out finish adds to its sleek, aggressive appearance.
Pricing and Availability
Now available in UK dealerships, the Shotgun 650 comes in four variants:
- Sheetmetal Grey (£6,699)
- Plasma Blue and Green Drill (£6,799)
- Stencil White (£6,899)
When considering value for money, the Shotgun 650 holds its own against the competition, including its sibling, the Super Meteor 650.
Ride and Handling Impressions
In terms of ride and handling, the Shotgun 650 impresses with its ability to masquerade as a sports bike on the twisties. While its cruiser-style riding position may take some getting used to, the bike’s firmly set-up suspension and smaller front wheel make it surprisingly agile and responsive. The only downside is its relatively low ground clearance, which can lead to scrapped pegs when pushing the limits.
Engine and Performance
The 648cc twin engine, with its 270-degree crankshaft, feels at home in the Shotgun 650, delivering a punchy mid-range performance and an addictive throaty growl. Although it may not be the quickest bike in its class, the Shotgun 650’s power delivery is more than adequate, and its slick-shifting six-speed gearbox is a joy to use.
Braking Performance
Braking performance has also seen significant improvements, with immediate response from the lever and decent stopping power. One minor complaint is the firmness of the suspension, which can result in a choppy ride on rougher roads.
Verdict
Despite some limitations, the Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 is an extremely enjoyable ride, offering an A2-compliant cruiser experience that’s hard to match at its price point. Its ability to blend cruiser comfort with sporty dynamics has earned it a spot as an “accidental performance cruiser” – a bike that’s greater than the sum of its parts.
In the world of road racing news, the Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 is definitely one to watch, offering a unique blend of style, performance, and value that’s sure to appeal to enthusiasts.
🔗 Source
