Spring is the time many people get their bicycles down off the rack in the garage and get them back into shape.
‘Things need to be done, repairs and tune ups they know need to be done,? said Louise Kasl, who owns Kinetic Systems bicycle shop with Jeff Noftz in downtown Clarkston.
The staff of bike enthusiasts at Kinetic Systems, at its current location since 1986, handles all repairs and maintenance, in addition to selling new bicycles. Noftz also teaches classes on bicycle repair on a regular basis.
‘It’s the perfect time of year for that,? he said. ‘It’s a basic how-to class of things you can do on the road ? the number one thing is how to change the tire.?
The shop offers something for every level of cyclist, from the lycra-clad, two-percent body fat, hard-core racer interested in the latest titanium-framed bike, to the amateur weekender looking for a bargain.
‘We’re just into riding,? Noftz said. ‘What we really want is for people to get off their butts, get out and ride.?
Noftz was an Olympic cyclist trainer, and he and Kasl ran a professional cycling team for five years. But that doesn’t mean their programs are only for serious cyclists.
‘We want to make it more enjoyable,? he said. ‘I’m a good looking and hilarious guy ? we have some out-of-control fun.?
Their Flying Rhinos cycling group has about 300 riders of all skill levels who enjoy and pursue active life-styles through cycling.
‘There’s so many folks with diverse interests in the group, there’s really something for everyone. I understand how it could be intimidating if the group was all cycling at the highest level. That’s not the case with this group.? said Noftz.
The Rhinos meet Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. at Depot Park for rides of about 10-25 miles.
‘It’s casual ? all we ask is that you wear a helmet,? he said.
The club and Kinetics also organize several races. The Back 40 Challenge, set for May 13, includes 8-mile, 17-mile, 27-mile and 44-mile routes through North Oakland County dirt roads. From 400-500 ridersare expected.
They also ride to commemorate holidays, raise money for charitible causes, and go on rides at night. Bike rides are planned year round, not just in the warmer months.
‘Why wait until spring,? Noftz said. ‘People walk around, ice fish ? you can ride your bike any time of year.?
Other activities include Tai Chi on Mondays with Noftz at 6 p.m. at the United Methodist Church, and indoor workouts Tuesdays at 7 p.m., followed by Yoga at 8:15 p.m.
Noftz and Kasl also offer a selection of items to enhance the active outdoor lifestyle. They have the area’s largest selection of popular merino wool active and everyday wear clothing. Their selection of sunglasses will fit any need or interest.
‘We have things to make you look cool,? Noftz said.
Kinetics? Main Street location means being part of a small-town community. He drops off his car at Morgan’s when it need repairs, and the auto repairmen drop off their bikes at Kinetics when they need fixing.
‘I like the Main Street community ? it makes it kind of nice,? Noftz said.
Kinetics Systems is located at 60 S. Main Street in Clarkston and is open seven days a week, Monday 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Tuesday-Friday 10 a.m.-7 p.m., and Sunday 12-4 p.m.
For more information on the store, upcoming classes and rides, and the Flying Rhinos, call 248-625-7000, or visit their web sites at www.flyingrhinocc.com and www.kineticsystemsbicycles.com.