Shelbyfv, I have posted a few times on this subject and have yet received an answer. What brought it up this time was a discussion with the service manager at the shop where I work weekends. He insists DB spokes are more durable and resist breaking better than straight gauge. I asked him for proof, which of course he did not have. I suppose this has to be laid to rest, and I will have to simply turn the other cheek when I hear the proclamation of the virtues of DB spokes.