PHOTO: BARLEY NIMMO
POWERED BY KXNGS PARIS, WITH 03, GOLF & MAX
KXNGS began the day at Saranuphong’s apartment, a minimalist space with subtle but distinct touches that reflect his creative side. As a stylist and textile designer, Saranuphong described how cycling gives him a sense of freedom unlike any other. ‘When I’m on the bike, I feel the wind on my face, the adrenaline rising. It’s my escape, a moment where I truly feel free.’ Cycling in Paris, he says, is more than a sport; it's a community that’s become like his second family. Together, they share life—dining, traveling, and of course, cycling as a way to connect with each other and the city.
Our next stop was Golf’s bike shop, Kilomètre 0, just off the Champs-Élysées. At 21, Golf is a skilled bike mechanic, and his shop feels like a second home. ‘At first, I just rode a fixed-gear around Paris,’ he told us, ‘but after connecting with Max on Instagram and seeing his bikepacking trips, I got into road bikes, exploring more of the city and the countryside.’ Golf walked us through his current rotation of bikes—a tricked-out Specialized Venge and an Allez Sprint, both tailored to his discerning taste in components.
From there, we made our way to Max’s workplace: a cozy, authentic Thai restaurant with MMA fights playing on screens above the tables. The atmosphere was a vibrant blend of Thai culture and Parisian charm. Watching Max briefly behind the kitchen counter gave us a glimpse into his world, where his dedication to his craft is unmistakable.
Max, who has cycled since he was young, told us his grandfather sparked his love for bikes. ‘I grew up learning how to fix and handle bikes with him,’ he explained. For Max, cycling is both a passion and a way to connect with friends. ‘I love organising rides, planning routes, and sharing those moments together.’
We regrouped at The Coffee, a lively Japanese-inspired spot that serves as their go-to meeting place before any ride. The trio then led us up into the hills of Paris, where they pushed through a few hill repeats before heading to Bois de Vincennes, a sprawling park that felt like the Parisian equivalent of Regent’s Park. The strength of the Parisian cycling scene became evident, with far more cyclists than you’d see in Regent’s or Richmond after work.
If you haven’t seen it already, make sure to check out our video from Paris.
