Originally Posted by
John E
Vintage wheelsets w/ 32 or 36 spokes/wheel often have a lower moment of inertia (what really counts during acceleration, and the basis for the "ounce off the rims or tires is worth two off anywhere else" axiom) than modern reduced-spoke-count wheelsets, whose sole benefit is reduced aerodynamic turbulence. Contrary to current fashion, the average bicyclist is far better off w/ more spokes per wheel, rather than fewer.
This is very true. But I think there are some modern light and aero rims on the market with higher spoke counts. Kinlin XR270 comes to mind as one really nice compromise between weight and aerodynamics, and their spoke count is as high as 32. See this build up:
http://www.prowheelbuilder.com/cw/?step=review