civdic wrote:Would I be able to get away with a 24 spoke count on the rear??
No way. I don't even think the 28 will be ideal for you. Ideal meaning the best component choice for you. A wheel that "works" and a wheel that is ideal for you aren't the same thing. If you insist on buying components based on the gram scale you won't always get what's best for you.
Enjoy whatever wheels you end up getting.