@colibris79 as a foreigner you can exchange max 500 dollars per day at BOC, that's it. If you want to change more you'll have to go multiple days.

Xiong bros is no longer on Beimen, but you can meet with Bruce and he still has lots of parts. I think he is closer to Tuodong Stadium now, but I don't know exactly where. It's not a shop at street level, you have to make an appointment with him.

Hi, you can find me on warmshowers, Velo Vera. I can get you in touch with Bruce Xiong.

www.gokunming.com/en/calendar/

Hi, I crossed the Hekou/Lao Cai border with the evisa a couple of weeks ago, it was easy as pie.

About the online application: I made a (small) mistake in the online form and they were kind enough to email me to correct it, without extra charge. I had my visa within three working days.

@savdls Check if you are on the list of countries that doesn't need a visa. If not, add it in the comments.