Royal Enfield Classic 650 vs Shotgun 650: Key differences

Royal Enfield is expanding its 650cc lineup with as many as five models in this range, the latest addition being the Interceptor-based scrambler called Bear 650. The next in this range will be the Classic 650 which also has been revealed in its full glory at the recently concluded EICMA 2024 last week. 

Surely, Enfield would want to cash in on the Classic nameplate which has brought so much success to the brand over the last fifteen years. The underpinnings of Classic 650 bear close resemblance to the Super Meteor and the Shotgun. In fact, the Classic 650 shares a lot in common with the Shotgun both visually and functionally. Let us look at some of the key differences between the two models.

Royal Enfield Classic 650 vs Shotgun 650: Design

Both the Classic 650 and Shotgun 650 get a similar single-seater bobber style design with retro elements. However, the Shotgun looks more youthful and sporty while the Classic as usual, looks more old school retro. This mostly has to do with the colour options and the graphics offered in both motorcycles. 

Further, the Shotgun makes use of blacked-out internals and components lending it a sporty appeal whereas the Classic gets all chrome elements which makes the look more classy and timeless. Also, the Shotgun gets a shorter and more bulbous rear fender which resonates more with the traditional bobber style. To wrap it up, the taillight and the headlamp bezels in both the bikes are different.

Royal Enfield Classic 650 vs Shotgun 650: Features

Coming to features, the Classic rolls on wire-spoke wheels with tubed tyres as standard whereas the Shotgun benefits from tubeless tyres wrapped around alloy wheels. The equipment on offer is mostly the same on the 650cc models but Shotgun borrows the semi-digital round instrument console from Super Meteor, Meteor, Hunter, etc. 

On the other hand, Classic 650 borrows the same traditional setup as its 350cc namesake with a round analogue console and a small rectangular digital inset below which now gains a gear position indicator. Both bikes get a tripper navigation pod, LED headlights and taillights, and a USB charging port as standard.

Royal Enfield Classic 650 vs Shotgun 650: Hardware specs

As mentioned earlier, the Classic 650 is based on the same underpinnings as Shotgun 650 and Super Meteor 650 but apart from that there’s a lot of difference between the two. The Classic relies on traditional 43mm telescopic forks for its front suspension, delivering 120mm of smooth travel. In contrast, the Shotgun boasts upside down front forks. Both motorcycles feature twin shock absorbers at the rear, ensuring a comfortable ride with 90mm of rear wheel travel.

The Classic 650 rolls on 19/18-inch wire-spoke wheel setup whereas Shotgun gets a sportier 18/17-inch alloy wheel combo. Shotgun 650 rolls on tubeless CEAT Zoom Cruz rubber, the Classic runs on new MRF Nylohigh tyres, developed specifically for it.

Royal Enfield Classic 650 vs Shotgun 650: Dimensions and weight

There isn’t much to choose on paper when it comes to dimensions between Classic 650 and Shotgun 650. Both bikes weigh over 240 kg (kerb) albeit smaller. 

Royal Enfield Classic 650 vs Shotgun 650: Powertrain

The powertrain on both the bikes are identical to each other. Both are powered by the same 648cc, parallel-twin engine which pumps out 47 bhp and 52.3 Nm of peak torque. This motor is paired with a 6-speed gearbox via a slip and assist clutch.