Posted: 7/17/02

A need for speed

Branden Peterson
Sports Intern

Dick Reinhardt opened Trail Cycle three years ago with the intentions of the bike shop becoming a post-retirement hobby.

The hobby that began with constructing, maintaining and selling bikes has developed another ìspoke,î as kids and families in Forest Lake, Scandia, Lino Lakes--even Elk River flock to his collection of BMX parts.

Bicycle Moto-Cross, BMX, has developed quite a following in the area, with enthusiasts running to Trail Cycle for their specialized needs.

Summer break has turned Trail Cycle into a popular place for many kids.

ìItís our meeting place.î Seventh grader Andy Kelly explained.

After suffering through countless lawnmowing and babysitting jobs, Kelly and his friends eagerly bike to Trail Cycle to spend their well earned cash.

ìMy mom thinks Iím crazy that Iím always biking, buying bike parts, and hanging around it all the time.î Kelly said.

Kelly isnít alone. Rehbeinís BMX Arenas in Lino Lakes supplies many young customers of Trail Cycle the opportunity to race on dirt tracks often, while not having to travel long distances.

BMX racing requires the financial support of parents much like hockey. The sport becomes costly, and Reinhardt admits most often parents take the bill of bike frames, accessories, racing fees,and clothing, just to name a few.

Reinhardt encourages the kids to race, talks with parents on the details of racing, and overall helps with needs of the youngsters.

ìHeís always willing to help you.î Jordan Brown said.

Parents are also thankful for Reinhardtís generosity to the children.

ìHe bends over backwards for the kids,î BMX parent Skip Selfors said. ìHeís good with them, he listens to them, heís just a good guy.î

Selforís son, Zach, recently took first place in the age 6 intermediate division at the Midwest National BMX Finals June 21-23 held in Rockford, IL.

Success has also come to many other Trail Cycle customers.

Eight-year-old Jeremiah Cusiak took second place, and a trophy much taller than himself, at the Grand National Finals last year.

Tyler Gillespie is rated first in the country, and is a two-time state champion. He currently races in age 15 expert class.

Five members of the Mann family of Hugo have become BMX kids. Michelle, Jason, Danny, Chris, and Matt compete in BMX races as far as Texas, Oklahoma, and other states.

BMX has created great family memories across the country, while at the same time allowing her kids the opportunity to race with some of the best BMX kids in the land.

As prices increase, Trail Cycle attempts to help kids get the opportunity to race. Reinhardt sponsors a team in Rush City, and also sponsors several individuals in the area.

ìAll the kids need is a bike, a helmet, and a long-sleeve shirt.î Reinhardt said.

After kids get a taste for BMX racing, the addiction appears to set in.

Still, many of the BMX kids only race as a hobby, but for those ìdie-hards,î the Forest Lake area has become a convenient place to continue racing.

Accounting for as much as half of his business, Trail Cycle continues to adhere to the wants of BMX lovers. Reinhardt continues to enjoy the company of his young patrons.

ìTheyíre great kids.î Reinhardt said.

As long as kids keep wanting to race, Reinhardt will remain encouraging the kids to lead the races.

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