Specialized cooperate with AliExpress to seize $1.5 million-worth of counterfeit cycling equipment made in China

Specialized and AliExpress have joined forces with Chinese law enforcement to uncover two counterfeit manufacturers, resulting in closure of both productions, arrest of seven people, and seizure of fake cycling products worth over $1.5 million.

Specialized is one of the leading bike suppliers in professional cycling, supplying leading teams Red Bull - BORA - hansgrohe and Soudal - Quick-Step in 2025 with their products. In particular their S-Works bike frames have been easily recognized on the roads this year thanks to Remco Evenepoel's golden specials.

And while Specialized products are praised for their quality and cutting-edge technology, the high-end bike parts don't always come cheap. And customers looking to experience a "bit of Remco Evenepoel feeling" on their rides while not having to break into a bank, the Chinese counterfeits at reduced prices might've been attractive.

However according to AliExpress, the counterfeit products pose serious safety risks to consumers as they bypass quality and safety standards. Specialized has tested these fake cycling helmets and frames, confirming they fail safety standards, sometimes "catastrophically."

"Specialized is unwavering in its commitment to protecting its riders and upholding a zero-tolerance policy against dangerous counterfeit products," said Andrew Love, Specialized's global brand protection manager, in the press release reported by BicycleRetailer. "These illicit operations not only exploit consumers but also undermine trust in authentic goods."

The successful raid highlights the growing problem of counterfeit cycling products in the global marketplace and demonstrates the effectiveness of collaboration between brands, e-commerce platforms, and law enforcement agencies.

"We are fully dedicated to safeguarding our customers and combating organized crime on a global scale," Love continued. "The success of this largest counterfeit bust in the cycling industry highlights the profound impact of collaboration between brands like ours and tech-driven platforms like AliExpress."

Love also acknowledged the crucial role played by Chinese authorities, stating, "Chinese law enforcement and Alibaba [the company running AliExpress, ed.] deserve immense recognition for their integral role in achieving this milestone."