A Rare Sight on the Road
Sidecar motorcycles are an increasingly rare phenomenon in many parts of the world. Unless you are part of a niche enthusiast group, spotting one in daily traffic is an event worthy of a second look. While these rigs were once common workhorses in countries like Thailand or Vietnam—carrying everything from produce to industrial supplies—they have largely faded from the typical Western commute.
However, with fluctuating fuel costs and the evolving needs of modern riders, the practicality of a sidecar setup is finding a renewed appeal. Beyond mere utility, there is an undeniable aesthetic charm to these machines that draws attention wherever they go.
Introducing the Sidegun 650
The latest project to capture this spirit is the Sidegun 650. This custom build is a collaboration between Czech-based workshop Vintage Garage Prague and the legendary sidecar manufacturer Velorex. Unlike the utilitarian rigs seen in Southeast Asia, this project focuses on style and craftsmanship, transforming the base Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 into a striking exhibition piece.
See It Live in London
The Sidegun 650 is slated to make its public debut at the 2026 Royal Enfield Busted Knuckles Build-Off (BKBO). This prestigious custom bike competition will be hosted as part of the Bike Shed London Moto Show:
- Event: Bike Shed Moto Show 2026
- Location: Tobacco Dock, Wapping Lane, London
- Dates: Friday, May 22 through Sunday, May 24, 2026
Attendees will have the opportunity to view the Sidegun 650 alongside other top-tier builds from European competitors, including workshops from Germany, France, Italy, and Portugal. For fans of the Shotgun 650 platform, the event serves as a masterclass in how far the original design can be pushed.
The Future of the Platform
The Shotgun 650 was originally designed with a distinct, slightly dystopian aesthetic that feels inherently compatible with the rugged look of a sidecar. As the design team behind the project noted, the pairing feels almost inevitable given the bike's factory DNA. Whether or not this concept inspires a wider trend remains to be seen, but the Sidegun 650 proves that there is still plenty of room for innovation in the world of three-wheeled motorcycling.