TUCKED along the bustling stretch of Anson Road stands Lim Bicycle Station Sdn Bhd, the headquarters of a legacy that has kept Penang moving for more than seven decades.
What began in 1948 as a humble bicycle repair shop has today grown into one of the state’s most influential cycling hubs, driven by the grit, unity, and unbroken passion of a three-generation family.
During an exclusive interview with Buletin Mutiara at their Anson Road headquarters today, father Lim Lai Huat and his two eldest children, Lim Yee Fang and Lim Yee Wei, shared stories of resilience, evolution and an unwavering love for bicycles.
Their words reveal not just the journey of a business, but the heart of a family that has pedalled through Malaysia’s changing times.
The Lim family’s story starts just after World War II, when the late founder opened the very first shop in Datok Keramat. With bicycles then serving as a primary mode of transportation, the workshop became an essential touchpoint for daily commuters.
“We started as a simple repair shop. Bicycles and tricycles were everything to people then,” shared 72-year-old Lim Lai Huat, who has been in the business for 49 years.
From Datok Keramat, the shop later moved to Bayan Lepas before expanding to Bayan Baru in 1976. It was during this period that the second generation, led by Lai Huat himself, transformed the family operation into Lim Bicycle Shop, specialising in family and children’s bicycles.
“We faced tough times when motorcycles became more convenient and affordable. The bicycle trade dropped a lot.
“But we never gave up. We had to innovate,” Lai Huat recalled.
Their revival began in the early 2000s, coinciding with the growing popularity of cycling as both a sport and a leisure activity. BMX and MTB bikes brought a new wave of customers, while Penang’s improving cycling culture helped restore demand.
The family later expanded to the Sungai Nibong outlet in 2011 and to Anson Road (HQ) in 2020.
Today, the business includes retail and distribution under SLM Bicycle Trading, and employs 30 staff across all outlets.
Five of Lai Huat’s six children helped set up the shops, a testament to how deeply the business is rooted in family.
Eldest daughter Lim Yee Fang, 44, and second son Lim Yee Wei, 41, have taken the reins of daily operations, continued the legacy, while adapting to modern cycling needs.
“We are proud of how far we have come.
“From a small local store to a trusted specialist in bicycles, our steady growth reflects our commitment to quality and long-term customer relationships,” Yee Fang said.
The trio emphasised that the business is not merely about selling bicycles, but about nurturing trust, expertise, and community.
“We have built a loyal customer base, expanded our product range, and secured partnerships with reputable global brands.
“Each achievement reminds us why we work so hard,” Yee Wei added.
One of their proudest milestones is becoming a major distributor for premium brands, with Trek being the flagship.
Their outlets now carry an extensive range, including road, mountain, hybrid, children and e-bikes, along with components from brands such as Bontrager, Abus, DT Swiss, Vittoria, FSA, Ride 100%.
Behind every sale and repair is a team of trained technicians and dedicated managers.
“Technical knowledge is crucial.
“Our staff undergo online training and certifications such as Trek University, and sometimes the principals come to Malaysia for training sessions,” Yee Wei explained.
The family also highlighted key team members such as David Ung Chun Heong, the store manager, and Lau Kwang Hau, lovingly known among customers as ‘Mr Good’ at the Bayan Baru outlet.
The shop’s services span from bike fitting to full maintenance, test rides, and personalised consultations. Staff frequently advise customers to service their bicycles based on usage, from twice a year for casual riders to every three months for avid cyclists.
“Our goal is to make sure customers ride safely and confidently,” said Yee Wei.
Far beyond business, Lim Cycle Outlet has become a gathering point for cyclists from various backgrounds, from beginners to competitive riders and even world-class athletes.
“We have helped riders find the right equipment and stay motivated.
“By hosting rides, sharing technical knowledge, and supporting events, we hope to contribute to a stronger and more connected cycling community in Penang,” Yee Fang said.
Over the years, the outlets have actively supported events by government bodies, the Penang Island City Council (MBPP), the police, and local cycling groups.
“This outlet is more than a bicycle shop. It has become a hub, a home to cyclists in Penang.
They will hang out here before a ride, and even come back afterward to chill. We even have a coffee spot in the compound. It is like a little cycling community centre,” Yee Wei added.
This sense of belonging is what keeps many customers coming back, with some returning just to express appreciation for the support they received.
“We have customers from all types of backgrounds and positions.
“It shows how cycling brings people together,” Lai Huat shared.
The family recognises how far Penang has come in embracing cycling, thanks to government initiatives, better infrastructure, and a growing appreciation for active lifestyles.
“Penang has evolved a lot as a cycling-friendly state.
“We are glad to play a role by offering high-quality products, technical expertise and consistent customer support,” Yee Fang said.
“I hope to see Lim Cycle Outlet continue growing as an influential part of Penang’s cycling community.
“We want to promote a safer riding culture, support local events, and help more people discover the joy of cycling,” Yee Wei said.
Despite the ups and downs of the economy, evolving customer trends and industry challenges, the Lim family’s spirit remains unshaken.
When asked what advice he hopes younger entrepreneurs will take to heart, Lai Huat offered a simple but powerful message.
“Always have a positive thinking and never give up easily.”
In many ways, that has been the secret behind the Lim family’s long-standing success, a belief that perseverance, family unity, and the strength of community can carry them through any challenge.
And with three generations already shaping the state’s cycling landscape, and signs of the fourth beginning to show interest, the Lim legacy looks set to keep rolling for many more years to come.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Siew Chia En