I discovered Kimmy through Tropical Rainforest, his brand of handcrafted bikepacking bags inspired by the beautiful landscapes of Thailand. His approach to cycling and adventure immediately resonated with me, especially his love for exploring the wild on a 26-inch mountain bike. Beyond making gear, he has a deep connection with nature, and his journey is a fascinating one. Let’s get to know him better!
Hi Kimmy!
To start, tell us a little about yourself. Where are you from, and how would you describe your connection with cycling and nature?
Hi, my name is Kimmy Hiker Man, and I am the founder of Tropical Rainforest in Thailand. I was born in a rural province far from Bangkok, where transportation was quite challenging, and public transit was not very convenient. I received a donated bicycle from my school, and that was the beginning of my cycling journey. I used my bike to go everywhere—to school, to play with friends, and to run errands for my mother. This experience made me deeply connected to bicycles from a young age.
What led you to choose a 26-inch MTB for your adventures? Was it nostalgia, practicality, or something else that made you fall in love with this type of bike?
26-inch mountain bikes are very popular in Thailand, mostly as second-hand imports from Japan, where they are still in great condition. Some also come from the U.S. and Europe. The sizing of Japanese bikes is well-suited to Thai riders.
A 26-inch MTB has a unique charm, it carries a long history from different manufacturers, each with its own design philosophy and approach to building bikes. They are also very affordable, making them accessible to many people. Spare parts are widely available, maintenance is simple, and anyone can repair them.
Since they are inexpensive, customization becomes limitless, allowing riders to modify their bikes according to their imagination. It’s much more exciting to create something unique rather than just riding a mass-produced bike.
I enjoy collecting parts, slowly experimenting with different setups, and learning through trial and error. Every adjustment takes time and experience, but that’s part of the fun. And when you finally set off on an adventure with a bike that truly represents you, it’s an incredible feeling.
Your brand, Tropical Rainforest, is all about handcrafted bikepacking bags. How did the idea come to life? Was it a natural extension of your own travels, or did something specific inspire you to start making bags?
Tropical Rainforest was founded in 2014, which means it has now been around for 10 years. I put everything that represents me into this brand. The name Tropical Rainforest perfectly describes Thailand’s natural landscape—our warm climate, diverse vegetation, and the rich biodiversity found in these environments.
In the early days, I started by making hammocks for trekking. Later, I moved on to more complex gear, such as ultralight hiking backpacks, and eventually, bikepacking bags followed. I only create things that I personally use and love.
I have always been passionate about traveling in beautiful natural landscapes while also loving design. I studied architecture and worked as an architect for several years before deciding to pursue my dream. I applied my architectural knowledge to design bags that are highly functional for outdoor adventures, selecting durable, cutting-edge materials.
I started everything on my own in a small room, crafting each piece by hand. And every time I see my bags traveling the world with fellow adventurers, it brings me so much joy. That’s what keeps me motivated to continue creating.
"A 26-inch MTB is the perfect bike for any journey, whether in the city or on rugged trails. No matter how much the cycling industry evolves, its classic charm will always have a place"
What makes your bags special? Is there a philosophy or a certain craftsmanship behind them that reflects your vision of adventure?
Our bags are designed with great attention to detail and aesthetics. Every piece is the result of accumulated design experience. I always listen to customers’ needs and refine my designs accordingly, ensuring each bag is perfectly suited to its user. We use high-quality, durable materials, ensuring longevity and minimizing waste. Many of the fabrics we use come from recycled sources. Creating bikepacking bags requires a high level of expertise since every bicycle has a unique shape and size. This makes precision tailoring essential to ensure a perfect fit for each bike.
What are the essential items you always carry with you on your rides? Is there something you never leave behind, whether for practicality, comfort, or a personal reason?
Bikepacking requires thorough preparation. You need to be physically ready, research and plan your route, and adjust your bike setup accordingly—tire size, gearing, and other components must be suited to the terrain. I always bring essential spare parts, especially those that would be difficult to find on the road, and I make sure I know how to perform basic bike repairs.For me, the most important thing is sleep. Resting well is crucial to having enough energy for the next day’s ride. That’s why I invest in high-quality camping gear—a good tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad. Other essential items include lighting, a cooking stove, proper clothing, and, most importantly, coffee. I love coffee!
Fortunately, in Thailand, there are plenty of great cycling routes that are both beautiful and safe. You can always find food along the way, so there’s no need to worry about going hungry.
What has been your most memorable bikepacking adventure? Can you tell us about a journey that left a deep impression on you?
Every time I ride, I feel happy, but I especially enjoy cycling events where I get to meet new people.
In Thailand, there are many organized bikepacking trips. One of the most memorable ones I joined was a ride to Bang Kama in Ratchaburi Province with 26 MTB LIFESTYLE BKK, the largest 26-inch MTB community in Thailand, with over 30,000 members.
Bang Kama is a small, peaceful mountain village with fresh air and friendly locals. The climbs were steep—so steep that at times, it was impossible to pedal—but the experience of riding there with so many fellow cyclists made it incredibly rewarding.
Many think 26-inch bikes are outdated, but Kole shares your perspective that they are still perfect for adventure. What’s your take on this? Why do you think they still deserve a place in the modern cycling world?
MTB 26-inch bikes have a unique character and a rich history. While they may no longer be considered the latest trend, modern components allow them to be upgraded for better performance, aesthetics, and versatility. A 26-inch MTB is the perfect starting point for adventure, whether in the city or on rough terrain. No matter how much the cycling industry evolves, the classic charm of the 26-inch wheel remains timeless. There is still a passionate community of riders who love and appreciate them, ensuring that these bikes will always have a place in the modern cycling world.
Looking ahead, what are your future plans? Do you have new projects or dreams for Tropical Rainforest?
Even after 10 years, I still find joy in running Tropical Rainforest. Doing what I love and having so many people support us is something I’m truly proud of. We’ve never been tied to trends or market shifts; instead, we constantly adapt to new generations of riders while staying true to our vision. No matter how the cycling world evolves, Tropical Rainforest will continue to create products that truly resonate with our customers—because we share the same passion they do.
One last thing, I’d love to visit Thailand’s stunning forests someday. If I were to explore them by bike, what’s the one place you’d say I absolutely can’t miss?
I’d highly recommend cycling in the southern border provinces of Thailand. It’s a place where bicycles are a part of everyday life, blending a unique mix of Buddhist and Muslim cultures. The region offers pristine tropical rainforests, rolling hills that challenge and reward you, and breathtaking coastal views. But what truly makes it special is the warmth of the people and the incredible food—everything there is perfect for a cycling adventure!
