As was mentioned, 1 1/8 rims are race rims for kids. They are not junk by any stretch of the imagination. They range from 100.00 for ones with heavy flip flop hubs and cheap rims up to over a 1000 for light cassette hubs, titanium spokes, etc. Most have a rider weight limit of 125 - 135 lbs and the biggest tire they will accept is a 1 3/8. 1.5's are the next step up for riders that are looking to keep the weight down while they grow into a full size race bike, these usually have a weight limit as well.
No experience with the wider rims that you mentioned but they are at least in the appropriate size for a full size rider.