Giant founder Liu passed away early Monday at the age of 93, leaving a profound impact on Taiwan’s cycling industry. Born in 1934 in Taichung’s Shalu District, Liu developed a passion for mechanics and bicycles at a young age. From an early stage, he showed interest in gears, chains, and metalwork, which laid the foundation for a lifelong commitment to innovation. Consequently, the death of Giant founder Liu marks the end of an era for Taiwan’s manufacturing and cycling community.
In 1972, Liu co-founded Giant Manufacturing, initially producing high-quality bicycles for international clients. To improve product precision, he adopted Japanese Industrial Standards, which subsequently enhanced Taiwan’s reputation for manufacturing excellence. By 1981, he launched the Giant brand, creating a globally recognized Taiwanese-owned bicycle company. As a result, Taiwan gained prominence in the international bicycle market.
Under Liu’s leadership, Giant expanded rapidly overseas. Moreover, the company became one of the world’s most influential bicycle brands. Therefore, analysts note that Giant’s export success helped raise Taiwan’s industrial profile and created numerous jobs, further contributing to economic growth.
Beyond business, Giant founder Liu promoted cycling as a lifestyle. For instance, in 1978, he organized the first Tour de Taiwan, a week-long round-the-island cycling event. Since then, the race has become an annual fixture, encouraging both recreational and competitive cycling nationwide. Later, in 2012, he helped launch Taipei’s YouBike public bike-sharing system, integrating cycling into urban transport networks and promoting sustainable mobility.
Liu’s contributions earned him significant international recognition. In 2016, he received Japan’s Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon. Then, in 2022, he was awarded the United Nations World Bicycle Day Special Lifetime Achievement Award. Accordingly, experts describe his accolades as a testament to his vision and influence in both industry and society.
Demonstrating personal dedication, Liu completed a 973-kilometer ride around Taiwan at age 73 in 15 days. Inspired by a line from the film Island Etude, he believed that some opportunities must be seized immediately or risk being lost. Thus, this achievement symbolized his lifelong philosophy of perseverance and innovation.
Industry leaders expressed condolences, highlighting Liu’s role in shaping Taiwan’s manufacturing culture and promoting sustainable transportation. In addition, policymakers recognized his contributions to urban mobility and public health through cycling initiatives.
Looking ahead, Giant continues to honor his legacy by expanding global operations and advocating cycling worldwide. Therefore, Giant founder Liu’s influence will remain a cornerstone of Taiwan’s industrial and cultural identity, inspiring future generations of entrepreneurs and cyclists alike.
Ultimately, his passing underscores the lasting impact that visionary leadership can have on both business and society. Moreover, it leaves a template for innovation, community engagement, and global recognition.
