The Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 blends classic bobber style with modern reliability and is uniquely positioned in Singapore’s cruiser market. Sharing its platform with the Super Meteor 650, this eye-catching cruiser brings a distinctive riding experience, practical features, and excellent value for money. Here’s a deep-dive review based on first-hand riding and detailed analysis.
Engine & Performance
- Displacement: 648cc air/oil-cooled parallel twin
- Power: 46 hp @ 7,250 rpm
- Torque: 52 Nm @ 5,650 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed; wide, forgiving powerband, extremely smooth delivery
The Shotgun 650 offers mellow, predictable power—great for new riders, or anyone seeking a relaxed cruising feel. Acceleration is smooth, not snappy, needing a hearty wrist twist for excitement. Despite weighing more than the Kawasaki Vulcan S, the Shotgun’s final gearing leans toward taller, relaxed highway cruising. Real-world fuel economy is a strong point, with 23 km/l achieved and a 13.8L tank equating to a 315km range on mixed city/expressway riding.
Handling & Braking
- Wheels: 18″ front, 17″ rear alloy—short wheelbase improves agility
- Suspension: Stiff, rigid, minimal front dive and strong mid-turn stability
- Tyres: CEAT Zoom radials—sharp profile aids lean confidence
- Brakes: Rear brake particularly sensitive; requires a gentle, measured touch
Despite bobber looks, the Shotgun glides smoothly and is surprisingly nimble. The heavy weight is balanced by a low center of gravity, making the bike feel stable even in slippery conditions. Peg feelers hit the ground easily, hinting at the Shotgun’s sporty handling for a cruiser.
Features, Instrumentation & Electronics
- Cluster: Classic analog speedo with minimalist LCD for essentials (trip, fuel, ECO light)
- Tripper Pod: Turn-by-turn navigation via app (not a full map); drains phone battery if used frequently
- Extras: Hazard switch, USB charging, removable subframe for bobber conversion
Royal Enfield keeps the Shotgun feature-light, staying true to its retro orientation. The Tripper Pod is functional but not as versatile as modern touchscreens; a clear nod to traditionalists and minimalists.
Ergonomics & Comfort
- Rider stance: Upright lower body, but forward, flat handlebars suit riders with longer arms
- Seat: Wide but hard—gets uncomfortable after an hour; pillion subframe easily removable
- Controls: Good foot peg placement; kickstand is awkwardly close to pegs
- Suspension: Rear is especially stiff—fine on Singapore’s smooth roads, challenging on rougher surfaces
The Shotgun’s posture suits taller riders but may require a handlebar swap for ultimate comfort. Vibration is minimal even at higher speeds—a plus for longer journeys, and the overall build quality of controls and panels is solid.
Design, Customization & Market Position
- Style: Aggressive, classic bobber—removable pillion setup right out of the box
- Build: Functional welds, premium metallic finishes, exposed components for easy maintenance
- Comparisons: Directly rivals the Vulcan S and SRV 700 in Singapore for price and presence; offers easier customization and classic looks
The Shotgun 650’s visual drama and bobber capability will resonate with both urban commuters and weekend customisers. Price-wise, at SGD 17,100, it undercuts both aging Japanese and untested Chinese rivals, making it a compelling proposition in today’s market.
Who Should Buy the Shotgun 650?
- Best for:
- Fans of classic bobber aesthetics
- Riders seeking real-world comfort for city commutes
- Riders valuing easy customization options
- Less ideal for:
- Shorter riders who dislike forward, flat bars
- Those who demand plush suspension or map-rich navigation
Final Thoughts
With its handsome styling, smooth power delivery, and affordable price, the Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 is set to become a Singaporean classic for the everyday cruiser or custom enthusiast alike. It’s not perfect for everyone, but for many, it will hit the sweet spot between heritage appeal and modern usability.