STORM Cycles Tugun has been the victim of an expensive and apparently opportunistic theft just three weeks after the store's opening.

Last Sunday night and Monday morning an offender or offenders smashed Storm's glass storefront and removed a $4000 RRP GT Sensor Pro mountain bike.

Senior Sergeant Mark Johnston of Coolangatta Police said another bicycle dumped nearby – from which fingerprints were lifted – suggested the offender may have been riding past and decided to upgrade his/her bike.

“There were a couple of incidents in the area at the time,” Snr Sgt Johnston said.

“There was a case of wilful damage to a motor vehicle before the break-in, which was possibly by the same offender.”

He said the bike's 29-inch wheels and lime colour were very specific.

“Because there was another bike dumped nearby, we're guessing it's linked.

“With all-glass doors, if offenders want to get in badly enough they will, and once the owner screens it, it'll be right.”

Storm owner Terry Bosworth said he and wife Sheridan had deliberately left the bike in a visible location for advertising purposes.

“It was one of the higher-end bikes in a distinctive lime green,” Mr Bosworth said.

“It was a chaotic day with the police, and the alarm system certainly didn't do everything we expected it to after people told us it didn't sound.

“We've learned a serious business lesson.”