Think the first ride should be the 38 mile race thru pisgah? over 5k feet climbing, everyone saying the most brutal ride they ever do...They'll be fine. Don't blame your equipment. It's not the crate, it's the guy sitting in it.
I have been using multiple parts from Chinese shops, usually I replace the grease and add-up on every bearings. check for any loose or small descripancies. And it rolls fine on m y Dirt Jump, echo 26 and street trials bike.
Bucklos fork is fine for XC. It's on par with Suntour. When it's time to service it, just get a new one. Easy. Just put a Bucklos on my son's bike because it's an air fork and way more adjustable than the ancient Manitou it replaces.