Giant Bicycles Founder King Liu, Cycling 'Missionary', Dies at Age 91
The founder of iconic Taiwanese cycling brand Giant, King Liu, has died at the age of 91. Described by his company as a lifelong advocate for cycling culture and a self-proclaimed missionary for the sport, Liu passed away peacefully in the early hours of Monday, according to an official statement from the Giant Group.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Leader
King Liu established Giant in 1972 in his hometown of Taichung, located in central Taiwan. What began as a modest enterprise has grown into the world's largest bicycle designer and manufacturer by revenue. The company now operates factories in China, Taiwan, and the Netherlands, producing millions of bicycles annually and generating over $2 billion in sales revenue each year.
The Giant Group's statement paid tribute to Liu, noting he was not only the founder but also a leader who consistently guided the organization forward while remaining attentive to those around him. The company emphasized his profound influence on colleagues, partners, and riders across multiple generations.
A Lifelong Devotion to Cycling
Throughout his life, Liu devoted himself to bicycles, viewing them not merely as a business but as a meaningful way of life. He was widely respected as a lifelong advocate for cycling culture. In his early years with Giant, he famously cycled to work to better understand the product, though this habit eventually gave way to the growing demands of the expanding company.
Interestingly, Liu only began cycling seriously at the age of 73, during what he considered his retirement phase. He described this period as a rediscovery, stating, I was an old man contemplating retirement, but funnily enough, I instead discovered a brand-new me. His first major ride involved bicycling more than 900 kilometers around Taiwan's rugged coastline, an experience he said boosted his self-confidence, health, and willingness to learn new things and take on challenges.
Legacy and Impact on Taiwan's Industry
The Giant Group thanked Liu for his role in aiding the global recognition of the strength and capability of Taiwan's bicycle industry. At a time when Taiwan was associated with poor-quality goods, Liu's company proudly issued the Made in Taiwan label for Giant bicycles, helping to reshape the island's manufacturing reputation.
Liu saw himself as a missionary spreading cycle culture, often expressing his hope to continue pedaling. In a 2016 interview, he remarked, There will be one day when I can't pedal my bike anymore. I hope that day will keep getting pushed back again and again.
Further arrangements regarding Liu's departure will be planned according to his family's wishes and will be made public at an appropriate time. His legacy as a pioneering figure in the global cycling industry and a passionate advocate for bicycle culture endures.
