Is there a major strength difference between chrome and stainless step spokes? I know chrome spokes are cheaper which would be good for my budget but don't want to sacrifice spoke strength.

Which one would you recommend?

 

If I was replacing the spokes I would go stainless. No rust.
The chrome you get nowadays sucks.
Strength wise it would be the same.

 

I've used SS in the past. Make sure you find someone that know what they're doing. This is guy I used way back in the 90's to lace my rims.
http://kosmanspecialties.com/products/drag-race/

 

Are the stock spokes stainless steel? I have a 2009 FLH 16x5 rim that I'm lacing up to my rear hub. Forum member AFMM3 had mention to me that he just trimmed 3 thread lengths off his spokes and they worked perfect. My front is a 16x3 drop center rim that will be placed up to a wide glide hub.

 

If it were me I'd save my $$ and go SS with a 60 or 80 count on the spokes.The 40 just looks kinda thin IMO.

 

I think the 60 spoke's look great...still have the 40's in the back, but their all stainless.