- Loot valued at around £80,000 (approximately €95,200 / $103,200)
- Total damage including building damage reportedly in the six-figure range
- Police have released CCTV footage and are appealing for witnesses
On the night of March 11, 2026, British motorcycle dealer Colin Appleyard Motorcycles in Keighley, West Yorkshire, was targeted in a professionally planned raid. Around midnight, a white Nissan Juke reversed into the shop’s entrance shutters on Coney Lane. When the first attempt failed to fully breach the barrier, the driver reversed a second time. Simultaneously, a white Ford Transit Luton with a tail lift positioned itself on the opposite side of the street.
Chainsaw, Battering Ram and Five Minutes
After the vehicle had damaged the shutters, the perpetrators first attempted to lift them by hand. When that proved insufficient, a chainsaw was deployed. CCTV footage from inside the shop shows massive sparks flying as the metal security barrier was cut through. The burglars then tore the shutters open and smashed the glass doors behind them.
Six of the seven perpetrators, all masked and wearing tracksuits, then stormed through the entrance into the showroom. Each of them grabbed a motorcycle and wheeled it outside to the waiting van. Some of the thieves returned to collect additional machines. Using the tail lift on the van, the motorcycles were loaded before the group fled in the direction of Park Lane. According to the dealer, the entire operation took less than five minutes.
Exclusively Husqvarna Machines Targeted
The haul consisted entirely of Husqvarna off-road models. The stolen bikes include a new 2025 FC450, two 2026 TE250s, two 2026 TE125s, a 2025 TC85, two 2026 FE450s and a used 2023 FE350. One of the two FE450s had an Akrapovič exhaust fitted. Police estimate the total value of the stolen machines at around £80,000 (approximately €95,200 / $103,200).
Existing Security Measures Were Not Enough
Despite existing protective measures, the perpetrators managed to break into the premises. The dealership’s sales manager, who did not wish to be named, told MCN that anti-ram bollards had been installed but the burglars had bent them. All off-road motorcycles had also been locked as usual.
According to the sales manager, the financial damage extends far beyond the value of the stolen goods alone. Taking into account the building damage and business interruption, the total damage is in the six-figure range. “Having to find around £100,000 in the current economic climate is difficult,” the sales manager said.
Dealer Responds with Enhanced Security Measures
Immediately after the break-in, the dealership took several steps. The stolen motorcycles were reported as stolen and the engine control units of the affected models were locked where technically possible. All remaining competition and off-road machines were removed from the showrooms. In future, trial, enduro and motocross motorcycles will only be available for viewing by appointment. Additional security measures are also being installed.
The business intends to continue operating despite the incident. The shop will continue to sell off-road motorcycles, the sales manager emphasised. On its social media channels, the dealer thanked staff who had helped secure the building overnight and remove remaining off-road machines from the premises. Local tradespeople and businesses also offered their help spontaneously to re-secure the shop.
This is not the first time Colin Appleyard Motorcycles has been the victim of a burglary. Around ten years ago, four motorcycles were stolen from the premises.
Police Analysing CCTV Footage and Seeking Witnesses
The investigation is being led by the District Crime Team of Bradford police. Both fingerprints and footprints were secured at the scene. Police have released CCTV footage of the raid and are hoping for information from the public.
Detective Chief Inspector Mark Atkinson stated: “Extensive enquiries, including the review of CCTV, are ongoing to trace those responsible.” The footage clearly shows the crime. Anyone who recognises the suspects in the images is urged to contact the police. Investigators are also interested in any information about whether the stolen motorcycles are being offered for sale on online marketplaces or social media.
Information can be provided to West Yorkshire Police on 101 or via the live chat on the police website, quoting reference number 13260141649. Anonymous tips can be given through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. At the time of the latest reporting, no arrests had been made.
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