A CHEEKY thief raced off on the fastest motorbike in the world after he conned his way into a test drive.

Now Bolton motorbike dealer Doug Hacking has offered a £1,000 reward for information leading to its safe return.

The highly prized Kawasaki GPZ 1100cc - worth £7,000 - can clock speeds of up to 170 miles per hour.

It has been widely acclaimed by bike enthusiasts as the fastest on-road production motorcycle in the world.

The man walked into Mr Hacking's showroom on Chorley Old Road last Friday, claiming he had suddenly come into money.

He left a driving licence, now believed to be stolen, as security while he took the bike for a quick test drive.

But he never returned and Mr Hacking called the police.

Mr Hacking said: "I'm prepared to offer a £1,000 reward if someone can give information leading to its safe return."

The Kawasaki is bright red and had the registration plate P45 FVR. The man who drove it away was white and almost bald with a mole on the top of his head. When he opened his mouth he only had one side tooth. He also had a thin growth of moustache. He was 5ft 8ins and was wearing grey BT overalls.

He is believed to come from the Little Hulton or Worsley areas and the driving licence referred to an address in Monton, Eccles.

Anyone with information can contact Mr Hacking on Bolton 491511 or police on 0161 872 5050.

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