This is why I as a Clydesdale rider have never gone with 36 spoke wheels, because of the hub (road size flanges)

I was told years ago they were stronger with more spokes. I almost thought about getting a 36 spoke wheel when a ride partner ripped a chunk of hub flange material away from the hub and needless to say, wheel failure.

Couple years later, same thing happened to another partner.

I am not a small Clydesdale and I have never had a problem with 36 spoke wheels.

After the first bud that lost the hub, I figured the 36 holes had something to do with it. More holes, less meat on the hub flange. LESS MEAT BETWEEN THE HOLES!

I wonder if some of the high hub flange on those old touring pics are for 36 spoke wheels knowing this!