Royal Enfield Classic 650 vs Shotgun 650: Key Differences

Royal Enfield has expanded its 650cc lineup with the Classic 650, a motorcycle that shares its fundamental architecture with the Shotgun 650 but offers a distinctly different character and aesthetic. While both motorcycles utilise the same 648 cc parallel-twin engine, their design philosophies and intended audiences diverge significantly.

Royal Enfield Classic 650 vs Shotgun 650: Tyres

Technically, both the Classic 650 and Shotgun 650 share core components like the engine, main frame, and braking system. But its their cycle parts that reveal some of the crucial differences. For starters, the Classic 650 opts for a more traditional 19/18-inch wire-spoke wheel configuration shod with 100/90 and 140/70 section specially developed MRF Nylohigh tyres. Whereas, the Shotgun 650 gets contemporary 18/17-inch alloy wheels, shod with 100/90 and 150/70 section Ceat Zoom Cruz tyres, respectively.  

Royal Enfield Classic 650 vs Shotgun 650: Cycle Parts And Dimensions

The suspension setup further highlights their distinct characters. While the Royal Enfield Classic 650 employs a conventional 43 mm telescopic fork, the Shotgun 650 gets a sophisticated upside-down fork at the front. However, the suspension travel is identical in both with 120 mm travel at the front and 90 mm travel at the rear. 

(Also Read: Royal Enfield Bullet 350 vs Classic 350: The Better Icon Is?)

But the most significant aspect about the new Classic 650 is that it is the heaviest in Royal Enfield's current lineup, wherein it tips the scales at 243 kg. This makes it marginally heavier than the Shotgun's 240 kg kerb weight. Lastly, the ground clearance on the Classic 650 has increased to 154 mm and the seat height is 800 mm, whereas for the Shotgun 650, it stands 140 mm off the ground and a relatively low seat height at 795 mm. 

Royal Enfield Classic 650 vs Shotgun 650: Aesthetic

Beyond the above, the visual distinction between the two motorcycles is immediately apparent. The Shotgun 650 embraces a modern, blacked-out aesthetic with an edgy, custom-oriented design. In contrast, the Classic 650 pays homage to traditional motorcycle styling, featuring generous chrome elements and a tastefully retro colour palette that evokes nostalgia and screams of retro.

(Also Read: Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 First Ride Review: Sherpa Goes Rogue)

Royal Enfield Classic 650 vs Shotgun 650: Price

Pricing positions the Classic 650 as an attractive proposition. Ranging from ₹3.37 lakh to ₹3.50 lakh (both ex-showroom prices, Chennai), it is around ₹22,000 more affordable than the Shotgun 650. This price difference comes with trade-offs: the Shotgun offers an upside-down fork and tubeless tyre convenience, while the Classic provides a more classic riding experience. But which one of these two should you opt for? Stay tuned to this space for a comparison of the same.