Can't comment on the Shimano's, but I've been riding Elites for a couple years now as my training wheels. Love 'em - they're absolutely bomb-proof...I'm usually around 180-185# at the beginning of the season, and I tend to bunny-hop obstacles from time to time. They're still as true as the day I got 'em..solid, and no creaks. Even without rim strips, I rarely flat on these wheels. My only observation (and it's very minor) is that they do get water in them after rainy rides - guess it's due to the way the nipples join the rim - no big deal.
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"The will to win means nothing without the will to prepare" - Juma Ikangaa http://www.litespeed.com