Failed KTM theft in Vienna: the hunt for the culprit was successful

A spectacular motorbike theft in Vienna has caused a stir in Austria over the past few days. A 19-year-old had his KTM stolen there late in the evening. According to reports in the daily newspaper *Heute*, the bike was a 690 SMC R from the current model year – it was the pride and joy of his life. The young man had only bought the motorbike in March 2026.

Whilst visiting a friend in the Vienna-Favoriten district, a thief broke the special lock at around 11 pm and rode off. The theft was reported to the police immediately, but initially the police had no success in tracking down the culprit. Then, at the start of last week, there was a sudden twist: friends of the owner recognised the motorbike at a petrol station and were able to identify the number plate straight away.

Two friends caught the thief

Five mates in two cars immediately gave chase and also alerted the police. However, they temporarily lost sight of the rider. Three hours later, the bike suddenly reappeared. Two of the friends eventually apprehended the thief, along with the motorbike, until the police arrived. According to the police, the thief is a 17-year-old. The only downside to this dramatic theft case is that, unfortunately, the KTM was badly damaged – so now quite a few repairs are needed.

Speaking of KTM: the recently published strong half-year results are having a positive impact on the brand, which is now part of the Bajaj Group. On the Vienna Stock Exchange, Bajaj shares have soared to 38 euros in recent days. This represents a rise of over 80 per cent in the last two weeks or so.

Topic of the week

Topic of the week: Aprilia comeback? The truth is: Aprilia never went away!

Four weeks ago, Aprilia headed into the summer break from Germany with a badly injured Marco Bezzecchi. The response came from the heart of British motor racing: ‘Together we are strong!’

Thomas Kuttruf

Read more