Originally Posted by
noisebeam
I mean spinning on the road, especially downhill.
Same thing applies. I do cadence drills at 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, and 140 RPM on the road and it requires concentration (till it's learned) and proper muscle recruitment. Butt-hops show up around 120-135 rpm without proper technique. I can spin over 215-220 RPM on rollers for 15 second efforts similar to that in the video. I've done lots of cadence work.
Many road riders that use gears are only comfortable in a certain self-selected cadence range. For example 85-95 RPM and select a gear that puts them there depending on the terrain. Many fail to extend their cadence comfort zone upwards.
Again, high cadence won't hurt you. Even for the relatively untrained cyclist.
For knee issues: The key is bike fit with an emphasis on saddle height, saddle for/aft adjustment, and cleat placement.