While I think that Sonic games should stick to the speed-runs, if you want to include a rings section, it'll add a whole new dimension to the records section. I think, though, that you'll find some people will do it to get new records, and others will not be bothered. I, for one, can't be bothered to waste my time playing for rings in any levels other than Emerald Hill 1 & 2.
Side note: Don't forget that in Sonic 3&K, you could get 999 rings on any level, assuming you get to 4 lampposts or more.