update.

sent the counterfeit rim back, seller even agreed to pay the return shipping cost.
i think like many taobao sellers, he didn't know what he was selling.

rebuilt the big dude's (100kg+) wheels, both front and rear. 28-spoke 2X with
the original hubs and power circle rims, using pillar spokes. so far, no problems
on his return ride to haikou.

also ordered the power circle P25D (extra heavy duty!), laced up to a shimano
deore (130mm, 8spd) hub, 32-spoke 2X also using pillar spokes.

just waiting for him to come pick it up, will be used for a circle-the-island tour
this summer. maybe i can convince him to take the ferry to beihai, and then
do a tour through guangxi province.

in the meantime, it's on display in my living room. so pretty!