This piece first appeared in the July edition of BikeBiz magazine – not subscribed? Get a free subscription.
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Max Chuang talks through Topeak’s product evolution and the philosophy that drives their designs. Here, Max shares insights on the company’s 34-year history, key products, and what’s next for the brand.
Can you give us a little history of Topeak?
The drive to create better solutions for cyclists has been a constant passion for our founder, Louis Chuang, ever since he entered the bike industry and became an avid cyclist himself. In 1991, he founded Topeak with a mission to design innovative products that enhance and support every rider’s journey.
For over 34 years, we’ve been designing and producing award-winning products, and we’re dedicated to continuing that innovation. Whether on the open road or hitting the trails, all cyclists need reliable products. Our commitment has always been to ensure riders are fully equipped for any situation they may encounter.
Topeak is a familiar name to many, but what might people not know about the company?
While we are well-recognised in the parts and accessories sector for our bags, pumps, and cycling tools, what many may not know is that we also partner with leading bicycle brands such as Scott, Canyon, Giant, and Pivot to co-design and develop innovative solutions together.
Our mission is to offer cyclists a wider range of thoughtfully designed products that enhance every ride, from daily commutes to elite-level racing.
Can you tell us more about your founder Louis? How involved is everyone when it comes to products in the range? How are products designed and refined until they are released?
A phrase our founder, Louis Chuang, often shares is: “You must own a bike to truly understand our products. And once you become a cyclist, that’s when you start creating great products.”
This belief is our philosophy: real cycling experience, combined with hands-on product testing, is fundamental to our design and engineering approach. It’s a core part of our DNA.
Our R&D team is dedicated to solving real-world cycling problems through thoughtful design, advanced materials, and cutting-edge technology, all aimed at making the riding experience more enjoyable.
Before any product reaches the market, it must pass our rigorous internal quality standards. We then send prototypes to our network of test riders for real-world evaluation. Only after confirming both performance and durability do we move forward with mass production and product launch.
You’ve mentioned that you are constantly refining products, but is there anything that’s remained the same over the years?
Looking back, it’s clear that riders’ habits have evolved significantly since Topeak was founded. Yet the core need for reliable, everyday transportation—whether by bike or e-bike—remains as essential as ever.
In response, our city and travel bag series continue to be a cornerstone of our product range. Whether you’re pumping up your tyres with the JoeBlow Sport before heading out or carrying a RaceRocket on a long journey, our tools are built to support you wherever the road takes you.
Many of these product lines have been with us since the very beginning, and we remain committed to staying ahead of the evolving needs of riders, refining, updating, and innovating through practical, purpose-driven design.
As materials and technologies advance, some products will stand the test of time, while others may naturally phase out. But one thing will never change: our rider-first mindset, which continues to guide every decision and remains at the heart of our product design.
What are some of the challenges when releasing a new product to the market?
I believe the real challenge lies in striking the right balance between functionality and market realities. From a design perspective, every new product naturally pushes us to incorporate more features and deliver greater value. But more features and premium materials don’t always align with what everyday riders—or even pro athletes—need or want. Sometimes, the best solution is a simple, clean design that fits effortlessly into a jersey pocket and performs reliably for years.
Take the Alien tool set, for example. Your parents might still have one in the garage—well-used, trusted, and passed down since your childhood. Today, you might opt for a more compact multi-tool like the Mini series or the Ratchet Rocket. Yet for some riders, the original Alien tool remains their go-to, no questions asked.
At Topeak, we design for both kinds of riders. Our mission is to find that sweet spot: to serve the needs of all cyclists. Even for tools that have proven themselves over decades, we believe there’s always room to make them even better.
What’s new for 2025? Any standout or favourite products you’ve released this year?
We recently launched the new E-Booster Pump. It has quickly become our top seller in Q1 and Q2 of this year, and we expect strong continued growth in this category moving forward.
In addition, we’ve introduced our latest Team Issue toolset, specifically designed to better support internal cable routing during bike assembly. This release also includes upgraded tools tailored to meet the demands of modern bike maintenance, ensuring mechanics and riders have the precision and performance they need.
Can you tell us more about the Team Issue range?
Absolutely—the PrepStation Team Issue has been newly updated with 48 carefully selected tools, tailored to meet the needs of today’s bike mechanics and passionate DIY riders. Engineered to support the assembly of integrated bikes and handle more intricate maintenance tasks, this comprehensive set is built to cover every stage of the process.
From setting up tubeless tyres with ease, to trimming cables during internal routing, and precisely aligning derailleur hangers, the updated Team Issue Toolset is designed to meet the demands of modern workshops and the evolving techniques of professional mechanics.
We’re also continuing to expand the Team Issue lineup with more advanced tools and mechanic-focused features.
What’s next for Topeak? What should people look out for in the coming months?
Our next major focus is tubeless technology. We’ve already shared early concepts at the Sea Otter Classic, and we’re excited to bring these innovations to the UK market soon. Stay tuned for new product releases in this growing category.
Topeak is distributed by Extra UK.
