That's an excellent and very practical question. As someone who's dealt with rolling bins down everything from smooth driveways to cracked, uneven alleyways, I can tell you it absolutely depends on the specific can.
The short answer is: many are, but many are not. The sturdiness hinges entirely on the wheel design and construction. Higher-quality wheeled trash cans intended for municipal or heavy residential use typically feature solid rubber or polyurethane wheels with robust, often ball-bearing, axles. These can handle bumps, curbs, and rough asphalt remarkably well. You'll notice they are larger in diameter (often 8 inches or more), which helps them roll over obstacles rather than getting caught.
However, the cheaper, lightweight models often come with thin, hollow plastic wheels. These are fine for perfectly flat, smooth surfaces but are prone to cracking, warping, or simply becoming difficult to pull when faced with consistent rough pavement. The axles on these are usually simple plastic pins that can bend or snap under stress.
So, how can you tell? Check the product specifications. Look for keywords like "heavy-duty wheels," "all-terrain," "solid rubber," and high weight capacities. A can rated for 100+ gallons is almost certainly built with tougher wheels than a 35-gallon model. For truly rough paths, larger, solid wheels are non-negotiable. In summary, if your pavement is rough, invest in a bin specifically built for durability—it's worth it to avoid the frustration of a broken wheel on trash day.