An opportunistic bike thief didn't stand a chance, after being cut off and corralled by a group of elite cyclists, in Invercargill for a national cycling event, on Saturday (18 Jan).

Police Sergeant Geoff Sutherland said the group of elite cyclists were having a meal when they witnessed an opportunistic thief take one of their road bikes and ride away.

“Two of the cyclists mounted their trusty bikes and went into pursuit of the man.”

The alleged offender did not stand a chance against the cyclists, only going as far as three blocks before being sandwiched in and apprehended.

“For him, the race was over,” Sutherland said.

A Police patrol unit was on-scene within a minute, and the out of breath offender was arrested without incident.

Thankfully, the $15,000 road racing bike suffered only minor damage, and the owner was able to race the following day in the finals event with some success.

A 31-year-old local man is due to appear in Invercargill District Court today, charged with theft.