2024 autoX Awards: Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 Performance,

2024 autoX Awards: The Shotgun is designed to be a sportier version of the Super Meteor 650, offering a fun riding experience while still retaining a cruiser feel. With its low profile, chopped fenders and single seat, it screams “bobber”. But this isn’t just a retro clone. Minimalist looks and chunky inverted forks give it a modern feel while staying true to its rich heritage. The quality and finish are also impressive, and thankfully we tested the matte version rather than the flashy chrome version. So, does it feel sporty enough on the track?

The Shotgun shares its chassis, braking system and suspension hardware with the Super Meteor. Both are powered by the same 650cc air-cooled parallel-twin engine and come with the same gearbox with the same gear ratios and final drive configuration. However, once you get on board the Shotgun, it definitely feels sportier than its cruiser brethren. A flatter handlebar, higher seat height and repositioned footpegs contribute to an athletic stance and increased agility. The rear suspension is also slightly stiffer, providing a firmer and more responsive feel.

However, we found that the stock tires on our test bike didn’t inspire the confidence needed for sharper handling on the track, which negatively impacted riding dynamics. While the performance of the engine and gearbox were commendable, handling issues held it back, ultimately affecting its lap times. In our track testing, it was faster than a handful of scooters and commuter bikes. On the plus side, the twin-cylinder engine is exceptionally smooth and user-friendly, with minimal vibration, providing a comfortable cruising experience at 120km/h and plenty of power to keep the excitement going.

Also read: Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 First Ride Review: The Best 650cc RE to Buy in India?

Shotgun’s functionality is very simple. You get LED headlights housed in a cool-looking cabin, a semi-digital instrument cluster and dual-channel ABS. Shotgun is all about style. It’s not your typical bobber and doesn’t have the muscle or technology of a heavyweight cruiser. That said, there’s no denying that it looks good. But ride quality and handling really hurt its place in this year’s rankings.