Originally Posted by Drew Eckhardt

Not aero spokes for cost reasons (about $2.50 a spoke) and because they're only good for 1-2W at 30 MPH depending on yaw angle.

Alloy nipples because I can make that work reliably. I lubricate the spoke threads and sockets with anti-seize (zinc) which I know from experience keeps alloy nipples turning even after a decade with some riding in the rain and snow. I get my spoke lengths right so they don't break - alloy is fine as a nut, but not a spoke extender. I aim for the nipple top on a rim on the small end of ERD spec, slot for one that's large, and have spokes cut to 1mm if necessary so everything should keep working when I eventually replace the rim. I also debur the top of the spoke holes with a drill bit spun by and so the nipples turn smoothly.