Cruisers? Lazy, boring, and impractical. Honestly, that’s what I thought about them before.
Living in Metro Manila, one of the busiest cities in the world, I couldn’t imagine riding a cruiser. Heavy traffic, narrow roads, and dense urban chaos make low-slung bikes seem pointless. My daily rides are usually on a nimble scooter or a sporty naked bike, which feel just right for city life. Cruisers, with their wide turns and massive engines, just didn’t fit into my lifestyle.
Yet, one fine day, Royal Enfield invited me to test the Shotgun 650 in Real, Quezon’s twisty mountain roads. At first, I wasn’t thrilled, but the idea of trying something new intrigued me. Plus, it was a chance to meet friends, celebrate my 30th birthday, and explore a different bike. Little did I know, this motorcycle would redefine my understanding of cruisers.
A Cruiser Like No Other
The Shotgun 650 isn’t just another Royal Enfield; it’s a machine built for individuality. From the moment I laid eyes on it, I could tell it was special. This bike screams customization, with tons of official accessories available. You can turn it into a tourer with luggage and auxiliary lights, or a sporty canyon carver with a lower handlebar. The versatility was impressive, allowing you to gradually make it your own.
When I finally swung my leg over the Shotgun 650, I realized this wasn’t your stereotypical cruiser. It felt like a bike that wanted to be more than just a laid-back machine.
Not Lazy, Surprisingly Nimble
I’ve ridden other Royal Enfield cruisers, like the Classic 350 and Super Meteor 650, so I expected the Shotgun 650 to feel heavy and sluggish. To my surprise, this bike was surprisingly nimble. Thanks to its mid-mounted controls and lower handlebar, the ergonomics are sportier compared to other cruisers.
The riding stance gives you confidence, with mid-controls that let you grip the tank for better cornering. It’s almost like the bike encourages you to push your limits, even on tight curves. By the end of my test ride, I had completely worn out the footpeg feelers, proof of just how spirited the Shotgun 650 can be.
This bike isn’t about laziness. It’s about finding the sweet spot between comfort and control, giving you a unique cruiser experience.
Never Boring on Mountain Roads
The Shotgun 650’s 270-degree parallel-twin engine has a distinct character. It hums with a satisfying growl and delivers just the right amount of power for spirited rides. On the winding mountain roads of Real, Quezon, the bike truly came alive.
This isn’t a high-performance monster, but that’s the charm. With enough torque to keep things exciting without overwhelming you, it’s a bike that’s easy to enjoy. The engine’s smooth power delivery feels almost like riding a smaller, friendlier machine. In fact, the performance is similar to bikes like the Honda Rebel 500 or Kawasaki Eliminator, making it beginner-friendly and approachable.
Cruisers often have a reputation for being dull, but the Shotgun 650 defies that stereotype. It’s engaging, fun, and perfectly suited for a relaxing yet thrilling mountain escape.
Practicality Meets Customization
At first glance, practicality isn’t something you’d associate with a cruiser. But the Shotgun 650’s versatility changed my perspective. Royal Enfield’s accessories catalog offers endless possibilities for personalization. From comfort-enhancing upgrades to performance-oriented modifications, this bike adapts to your needs.
The optional pillion seat is a nice touch, making it suitable for two-up rides. Whether you’re gearing up for a long road trip or a short city commute, the Shotgun 650 has features to match. It’s not just a bike; it’s a blank canvas waiting for you to create something unique.
A Newfound Appreciation
So, has the Shotgun 650 convinced me to buy a cruiser? Not quite yet. But it’s certainly opened my eyes to the potential of these bikes. I’ve spent years riding high-performance machines, focusing on speed and agility. Cruisers, by contrast, seemed like the complete opposite of what I enjoy.
However, the Shotgun 650 showed me that there’s more to motorcycling than chasing performance. It’s about finding joy in the ride, enjoying the company of friends, and exploring roads at a relaxed pace. With the right people and the right environment, a cruiser like this can be an absolute blast.
Will I ever own a Shotgun 650? Maybe not right now, but who knows? A decade down the line, I might have one parked in my garage, ready for laid-back adventures.
Conclusion
The Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 isn’t just a cruiser; it’s a statement. Nimble, fun, and versatile, it challenges the stereotypes associated with its class. While I’m not ready to trade my sportbike for a cruiser, this bike has given me a new perspective. It’s proof that motorcycles don’t have to fit into a box—they can be as unique as the riders themselves.