I have never ordered much direct from China and my recent experiences haven't encouraged me. Out of three things ordered only one arrived. I got refunds but it all took a long time. Have I been unlucky or is this common? I was eying up some bigger ticket items, principally some forks but now I am thinking I'll pay twice as much in the UK but stand a chance of actually getting the item.
Depends on the seller, so check reviews. I’ve used eBay and AliExpress
I've bought a few bits and bobs, including a Ti frame and carbon forks. Never had any problems.
No issues with arrival etc from Banggood. Just the crap quality of the product.
If you're ordering forks, and they're 'branded', don't expect them to be genuine. Set your expectations realistically, and you'll be grand.
Bizarrely, just after posting this moan, one of my missing items turned up after being overdue three weeks.
I now feel guilty because I was sent a refund after good old Yodel said my tracking number didn't match my delivery details. Presumably they did as I received the delivery!
Order lots and only had one small item not arrive. Was refunded by the seller easily enough. I've had more go missing with UK to UK couriers like evri
i've ordered a fair bit through Aliexpress - currently waiting for some carbon bottle cages and a baseball cap.
Shipping sometimes takes forever but i've never had anything not turn up.
Do your research - check the sellers reviews/feedback and it should be fine.
As others have said - if you're buying 'branded' parts or electronics - don't expect it to be genuine.
I’ve also ordered lots; loads of electronic stuff, three frames, 4 pairs of rims and some built wheels. Never had a problem. As said above, if you’re expecting genuine branded suspension forks you may be in for a shock (not guaranteed, mind), but I’d have no qualms buying through a well regarded AliExpress seller.
Have a steady stream of bits and bobs from china, including group sets and always been fine , had one product not turn up , but was refunded quickly, happy aliexpress customer here
i started buying bits from china/ali during covid lockdowns and i must say i have been pleasantly surprised, i now have 2 mtb frames, a road frame and every conceivable component/accessory from china. Overall, ive gotten working parts of reasonable quality, one thing i find more than anything is smaller parts (screws/bolts etc.) are made from very soft metal and strip easy. Currently building an xc hardtail from 100% china parts (bar deore 12sp derailleur/shifter), even trying out a balony boost fork 😀
