Chicago - July 01, 2009

Reinventing the Wheel

Refurbished Vintage Bikes

Even your frenemy dug your souped-up Huffy — basket, bell, spokes, and all.

Ah, childhood memories. You never tire (ha) of them.

Ride out your fantasies with bike enthusiast Kevin Thornton. He collects, refurbishes, and sells vintage wheels (Schwinns, Raleighs, Treks) out of his workshop and home on weekends.

Thornton travels everywhere from local estate sales to Europe for old pedals, handlebars, bolts, and wheels. Give him a few hours to gear up, and he’ll make a 40-year-old bike look like new — for about a fifth of the price.

As if a basement full of 300 bikes for sale wasn’t enough, Thornton will also buy your old ride — in any condition — and use the parts for fix-ups.

Putting a new twist on recycling.

Kevin Thornton (773-610-9442). By appointment only.