For Louise Kasl and Jeff Noftz, owners of Kinetic Systems bicycle shop in downtown Clarkston, cycling has no off season.
‘There’s a ton of stuff happening ? rides, events, races, family rides,? Kasl said.
‘We enjoy it. People are looking for places to ride their bikes but don’t know where to go.?
As the main sponsor of the Flying Rhinos cycling club, they host weekly races and rides for all skill levels and ability. Group rides are popular because of safety, camaraderie, and challenge.
‘It gives people a chance to try something new, something they wouldn’t have tried on their own,? she said. ‘They learn what they can do ? go on a gravel ride; increase their number of miles.?
The next major event is the Mother’s Day Back 40 Challenge, set for May 11. Registration will be from 7:30 a.m.-12 p.m. at Independence Elementary School.
‘We have support vehicles, several hundred people come in from all over,? she said. ‘People really enjoy coming out here.?
They will offer four routes: eight-mile family, 17 miles, 27 miles, and 44 miles, all on dirt roads
The Rhinos? Cyclocross Team starts training in a few weeks, with gravel and dirt road rides. A combination of road racing and mountain biking, the team hosts an internationally licensed race in September at Springfield Oaks County Park.
‘It’s a growing event, spreading by word of mouth,? Kasl said. ‘It’s a lot of fun, a spectacular event.?
Kasl and Noftz opened their shop in 1979 when they found no one offered the quality equipment they needed.
‘Bike technology was developing quickly at the time,? she said.
In their current location since 1986, they offer personal service, top brands, and the newest products.
‘We’ve been fitting bikes to the rider since the beginning. Now everyone does it, but we have 28 years experience,? she said.
‘We focus on getting the right product for what you want to do. We make sure helmets, bikes, clothes fit you properly. We do that based on our experience, enthusiasm, and participation in the sport.?
Noftz also leads low-key Tai Chi exercises Mondays at 6 p.m. at the United Methodist Church in Clarkston, for all abilities, to help improve flexibility, balance and posture.
He also leads indoor cycling training, Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Riders bring their bicycles and trainers, to transform them into stationary bikes, for an hour of technique and efficiency drills. After the workout, an instructor leads an hour of yoga.
Kinetic Systems is located at 60 S. Main Street in Clarkston and is open seven days a week, Monday 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Tuesday – Friday 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; and Sunday 12-4 p.m. For more information, call 248-625-7000, or visit www.kineticsystemsbicycles.com.