If the spokes first cross is pulling past the spoke next to it , the likelihood of it pulling thru the flange is pretty remote,
as the flange is in compression between 2 spokes..
Not in shear forces wanting to pull to the edge.
I've built 4 cross 36,40, and 5 cross 48 spoke wheels,
3 cross in 32 is good in the same regards.
a skilled wheelbuilder can make 32 spoke wheels strong in either pattern, seems like the Pros pull out the 3x32 DB spoke hard anodized box section tubular rims
for Paris- Roubaix,
unless they have a wheel sponsor with something to prove for the marketing campaign.
Last edited by fietsbob; 08-08-10 at 09:26 PM.