Knowing the relative frailty of the externally geared rear wheel, compared with the front wheel, due to its dishing, combined with the normally rearward-biased weight distribution, I have acquired and custom-built rear wheels, or complete wheelsets for my commuting and utility bikes, that trade-off svelteness for ruggedness.

First off, a tandem, 48-spoke rear wheel, for my FrankenVega.







Next, a modern Weinmann 40-spoke rim built on a vintage Maillard hub for my 1989 Peugeot Versailles:





The Versailles sports a visually similar, albeit svelter, custom built 36-spoke front wheel:



Latest wheelset build was for my 1985 Ross Gran Touring commuter, based on period correct, 36-spoke stainless steel Van Schothorst Saphir stainless steel rims, and Shimano hubs:







BTW, the Van Schothorst stainless rims are still available new, including narrower widths than the Saphir. Google and you shall find.

Anyone else have rugged wheels to share?