The global bicycle industry gathered in Taiwan on March 5 to honor the life and legacy of King Liu, founder of GIANT Group and one of the most influential figures in modern cycling history. Liu passed away on February 16 at the age of 93.
More than 1,000 attendees from across the cycling industry, government, academia, and international organizations attended the memorial ceremony titled “A Perfect Ride – The Life Journey of King Liu,” held at GIANT’s headquarters in Taichung.
Among the distinguished guests were Taiwan Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim, Legislative Yuan Vice President Johnny Chiang, Minister of Economic Affairs Kung Ming-hsin, Minister of Transportation Chen Shih-kai, and Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen. International industry leaders also traveled to Taiwan to pay tribute, including John Burke, President of Trek Bicycle, and Tokihiro Nakamura, Governor of Japan’s Ehime Prefecture.
On behalf of Taiwan President Lai Ching-te, Vice President Hsiao presented an official Presidential Commendation recognizing Liu’s extraordinary contributions to Taiwan’s economy and the global bicycle industry. The commendation was accepted by GIANT Chairman Young Liu.
According to GIANT Group, the ceremony was designed not as a traditional farewell but as a tribute celebrating Liu’s life journey and the values he embodied. The memorial was held in a warm and grateful atmosphere, reflecting Liu’s lifelong belief in cherishing relationships with colleagues, partners, and friends.
The ceremony opened with a short film retracing Liu’s remarkable entrepreneurial journey—from humble beginnings to leading GIANT’s rise as a global bicycle powerhouse. Former GIANT CEO Tony Lo, Liu’s longtime business partner, delivered a heartfelt tribute. Lo recalled how he joined the company in 1974 at Liu’s invitation and worked alongside him to build GIANT into a world-leading brand. He also pledged to continue Liu’s legacy by organizing annual cycling tours around Taiwan to promote cycling culture.
A Visionary Who Shaped the Modern Bicycle Industry
Born in 1934 in Taichung’s Shalu district, King Liu founded GIANT Manufacturing in 1972, initially as an OEM bicycle manufacturer. Under his leadership, the company evolved into one of the world’s largest and most influential bicycle brands.
Beyond corporate success, Liu played a pivotal role in shaping Taiwan’s bicycle ecosystem. As chairman of the Taiwan Bicycle Association, he championed industry collaboration, technological innovation, and the transition toward high-value manufacturing. He promoted carbon fiber frame development, encouraged smart manufacturing transformation, and initiated the landmark A-Team alliance, which united suppliers and manufacturers to strengthen Taiwan’s position in the global high-end bicycle market.
Liu also believed deeply that bicycles represented more than an industry—they represented a healthier and more sustainable way of life. Through initiatives such as the Cycling Lifestyle Foundation and the Cycling Culture Museum, he actively promoted cycling education and environmental awareness.
Perhaps his most visible social contribution was supporting the development of YouBike, Taiwan’s public bike-sharing system. Today, it stands as one of the world’s most successful bike-sharing programs and a model for sustainable urban transportation.
Global Recognition and Lasting Impact
Throughout his lifetime, Liu received numerous international honors for his contributions to industry, sustainability, and cycling culture. These included Taiwan’s Tourism Special Contribution Award, the United Nations World Bicycle Day Special Lifetime Achievement Award, and Japan’s Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon.
In the official Presidential Commendation, Taiwan’s government praised Liu as a visionary entrepreneur whose leadership laid the foundation for Taiwan’s bicycle industry while elevating the global reputation of Taiwanese brands.
A Legacy That Continues to Move the World
Following the ceremony, attendees received a commemorative publication titled “King's Epic Journey: The Final Ascent” produced by Wheel Giant. The special issue documents Liu’s extraordinary life and includes tributes from family members, colleagues, and industry leaders worldwide.
For many in attendance, the memorial served not only as a farewell but also as a celebration of a life that reshaped an industry. From pioneering modern bicycle manufacturing to promoting cycling as a global culture of health and sustainability, King Liu leaves behind a legacy that continues to influence the global cycling landscape.
As many in the industry have said, he was not only a successful entrepreneur, but a true leader who rode at the front—guiding the world of cycling forward.
