Smaller wheels, like Brompton, 28 spokes were the design.. same rim,
but the spoke gage differs.
12 gage for the back, 14 for the front, due to weight bias ..
always heavier in the back.

BoB trailers another 16" wheel also 28 spoke ..

mountain bike 26" wheels are stronger because they are slightly smaller ,
32 spokes became the Norm , Rohloff hubs are only made in 32 hole.

have a 700c light sport wheelset, Mavic E2 rims , 36 hole , 15 gage,
have been good for decades.