Review of Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 2024
Over the past six years, since Royal Enfield introduced its first 650cc twin-cylinder motorcycles in 2018, the Interceptor and Continental GT have positioned the Indian manufacturer as a key player in the global middleweight motorcycle market. The Super Meteor, added to the lineup a year ago, has been a global success, surpassing expectations even in the Indian market. Despite production challenges, Royal Enfield’s parent company, Eicher Motors, reported a significant increase in net profit in November 2023.
Now, Royal Enfield is set to add another exciting variant to its Custom segment with the launch of the 2024 Shotgun 650. This eagerly anticipated model shares the same twin-cylinder platform as the Super Meteor but features a distinct chassis geometry and a unique riding position. Based on the Shotgun SG650 concept showcased at the 2021 EICMA Milan Show, the new model is expected to make its way to Royal Enfield dealers worldwide, offering four color options at affordable prices, backed by a three-year unlimited mileage manufacturer’s warranty.
While U.S. pricing details are yet to be disclosed, the U.K. pricing for the base model in Sheetmetal Grey is set at £6,699, including a 20% tax. The Plasma Blue and Green Drill variants are priced at £6,799, with the Premium model in Stencil White costing £6,899. Comparatively, the 2024 Super Meteor 650 starts at £6,799 in the U.K. and $6,999 in the U.S., suggesting a slightly higher price point for the Shotgun, likely just above $7,000.
The Shotgun 650 was conceived as a customizable platform, acknowledging the growing trend of post-purchase customization among Royal Enfield owners. Mark Wells, RE’s Global Head of Product Strategy & Industrial Design, describes it as a “blank canvas” inspired by the Custom world, allowing owners to personalize and develop their bikes further. Royal Enfield aims to provide a starting point for customization with the Shotgun, reflecting the spirit of creative chaos inherent in the Custom world.
In terms of specifications, the Shotgun shares the same air/oil-cooled SOHC eight-valve 648cc parallel-twin engine with the Super Meteor. The engine, developed at Royal Enfield’s UK Technology Center, produces 46 hp at 7,250 rpm and 39 ft-lb of torque at 5,650 revs. The bike features a six-speed transmission with a slip/assist clutch and a low 9.5:1 compression ratio to ensure optimal performance on varying fuel qualities.
The steel open-cradle spine frame, developed by Royal Enfield’s UK subsidiary Harris Performance, sets the foundation for the Shotgun’s distinct handling. Equipped with a non-adjustable 43mm Showa Big Piston upside-down fork and twin rear Showa shocks, the bike promises a unique riding experience. The chassis geometry, wheelbase, and tire sizes differentiate it from the Super Meteor, contributing to its sportier demeanor.
Noteworthy features include a sleek LED headlamp, a single round instrument combining an analog speedometer with an LCD digital panel, and the inclusion of Royal Enfield’s Turn-by-Turn Tripper navigation pod. The Shotgun also comes with the Royal Enfield Wingman in-app feature, offering live location, fuel and engine oil levels, service reminders, and more. The bike is designed for customization, offering various accessories from bar-end mirrors to a sculpted solo seat.
Having the opportunity to test ride the Shotgun 650 for a 150-mile day, the author was pleasantly surprised by its performance. Despite initial expectations of a stripped-down cruiser akin to the Super Meteor, the Shotgun delivered a more rational yet sportier riding stance. The bike’s handling, influenced by changes in geometry and suspension components, showcased a level of agility and precision that defied its unassuming appearance.
With a focus on individualization and improvement, the Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 pays homage to the legacy of customizable sportbikes from the late ’80s and ’90s. Priced affordably and offering vast potential for personalization, it stands out as a modern-day chameleon Classic, providing riders with a unique and enjoyable experience on the road.
