Since this is radially symmetrical, with 8 spokes, one way would be to have a modifier stack with multiple rotated Symmetry modifiers, like this: Symmetry (rotated 90, completes the circle) Symmetry (X axis, rotated 45 degrees, which makes 10 o'clock to 4 o'clock) Symmetry (X axis, this gives you 10 to 2) Editable Poly…
Take a look at my example file. I rotated the model's pivot 22.5 degrees, so then I can use Parent transform space to move/rotate/scale at that angle. The workaround you mention is exactly what the Clone modifier does, except it's all in the modifier instead of having a bunch of instances in your scene. The only drawback…