Originally posted by ajo
Had a Mavic Elite - 20 spoke rear wheel. One broken spoke = 1-2 lateral movement, rubbing brakes and frame (I was climbing, not suffer any loss of controle etc, but that could have happened if high speed downhill). Managed to ride home, only 4 km, but the rim was permanent damaged.
Shimano wheels would probably be a bit better because of lower spoke tension, should at least avoid permanent damaged rim (and fewer damaged spokes). Have newer had any problems with my Shimano (WH6500) wheels.