Giant Group founder King Liu passes away at age 93

King Liu, the visionary founder of Giant Group, has passed away at the age of 93. Liu established Giant Manufacturing Co. Ltd. in 1972, transforming it into the world's largest bicycle manufacturer and a dominant force in the global cycling industry. His passing marks the end of an era for the Taiwanese company, which he led for decades before stepping down as chairman in 2016, succeeded by Bonnie Tu.

Liu's legacy extends far beyond mere production numbers. He was instrumental in shifting Taiwan's manufacturing focus from low-cost OEM to high-value brand development, notably with the Giant brand itself. His strategic foresight, including the crucial decision to support a fledgling Specialized in the early days and later to build Giant into a household name, fundamentally shaped the modern bicycle market. His passion for cycling, evidenced by his well-publicized long-distance rides in his later years, also served as a powerful ambassador for the sport.

Liu's passing is a moment of reflection for an industry he helped build from the ground up. The wheels he set in motion continue to turn, a testament to a true pioneer.