Sorry to hear about the break in. When it happened to me, the loss of stuff wasn't the issue, but the idea someone was going through my house was upsetting.

As for passing over bikes, it is not surprising. Big, bulky, oversized toy that will get you $20 after looking for a customer for a while. A blower is smaller and an easier sell for the same $20.

Also, a thief walking down the street with all types of crap under their arm is conspicuous. A thief with one item under their arm looks less like a thief walking down the street.