Ergonomically, the Shotgun 650 is well thought out. The mid-set foot position, low 795mm seat height, and intuitive handlebar placement create a riding position that feels both commanding and comfortable.
Available in four distinct colourways—Stencil White, Plasma Blue, Green Drill, and Sheet Metal Grey—the Shotgun 650 offers up swatches that lean into the progressive side.
Riding Experience: A Journey of Discovery
The real magic of the Shotgun 650 unfolds when the rubber meets road. With Victoria’s winding roads and scenic vistas as my backdrop, the bike’s true character emerged. Its low centre of gravity, paired with that solid 650 and approachable ergonomics, highlighted just how effortless and satisfying riding can be.
Navigating city streets, the Shotgun 650 proves itself to be nimble and responsive, easily weaving through traffic. The neutral riding position made low-speed maneuvering relaxing, while the torquey twin had no qualms conforming to lazy throttle inputs. As I transitioned to the highway, the bike’s power was evident when punching through the second and third, but the higher gears seemed to be more aligned to a fuel-saving ‘overdrive’.
Leaving the highway, I ventured onto the twisty roads of Victoria’s mountainous terrain. The Shotgun 650’s chassis adjustments from the Meteor to Shotgun were immediately apparent and highly appreciated. The bike felt planted and smooth through tight and sweeping turns alike. When quick or sharp adjustments were needed, the Shotgun handled them well, maintaining composure and stability.
Down low, the brakes on the Shotgun are well-tuned with excellent feel. For the size and style of the bike, the single-front-brake rotor and its two-piston Bybre caliper were surprisingly adequate. Winding through the mountainous roads with their banked turns and smooth tarmac, the bike slalomed with aplomb. Effortlessly moving through turns, the bike’s movements were predictable, meaning I could appreciate the beautiful surroundings.
In terms of absorption, the Showa shocks, which are 20mm longer than those found on the Super Meteor, provide the Shotgun 650 with a robust suspension setup capable of maintaining composure and providing excellent road feel without excessive dive under hard braking. The rear end was a little too stiff for Australian roads, but with some pre-load adjustment and possibly a juicier seat, you could iron out that stiffness with ease.
Compared to the Meteor, the Shotgun’s chassis geometry is ultimately more nimble with a greater lean angle and better handling in every scenario. However, in stock trim at least, there’s a trade-off in comfort for those longer days in the saddle.
What makes the Shotgun 650 truly stand out is its dual appeal: it serves as an excellent blueprint for a custom roadster while delivering substantial value straight from the showroom. The solid and reliable platform, combined with its vast customisation potential, makes it an enticing choice for both new riders and seasoned enthusiasts.
Royal Enfield has been on a remarkable streak, releasing new models at an impressive pace. This burst of innovation isn’t about flooding the market with unnecessary options but stems from a genuine passion for motorcycling and a deep understanding of riders’ needs and desires. Each new release, including the Shotgun 650, embodies this spirit, showcasing Royal Enfield’s dedication to delivering high-quality, versatile, and affordable motorcycles to a global audience.
The Shotgun 650’s extensive range of customization options is a major highlight, with 31 genuine accessories designed to enhance both aesthetic appeal and functionality. Options include bar end mirrors, sculpted solo seats, contrast-cut billet rims, and more.
Priced at $11,590 ride away, the Shotgun 650 presents a compelling option for all types of riders. Supported by Royal Enfield’s comprehensive warranty and roadside assistance, this bike is poised to become a favourite among motorcyclists seeking a blend of tradition and modernity. Whether you’re looking for a robust daily ride or a customizable project, the Shotgun 650 offers the perfect starting point, making it yet another successful addition to the Royal Enfield stables.
