Hybrid Bicycles - 2010 Jamis Allegro 1x

I just got the Allegro 1x (http://www.jamisbikes.com/usa/thebikes/street/allegro/10_allegro1x_gy.html) from Jamis and while it's been awfully cold where I live and we do still have ice on the ground, I did get to take it out for one run. I went just over 12 miles (not bad for my first outing in almost 15 years). It seemed the wind and the cold were more prohibitive to my ride than my physical capabilities. I was wondering what people thought of this bike or brand. I have never heard of Jamis before, but fell in love with it when I was searching.

Oh yea, if you are a hybrid hater, move along then. Nothing to see here.

Jamis is a reputable brand and that Allegro is a decent entry-level bike. Not a bad choice for someone looking to get into riding for the first time (or those who want to rediscover riding after 15 years). :)

As long as you got properly fitted for the right frame size, it's a good bike to start off with.

As you get more into riding though, in the future you will probably look to upgrade to bikes with better components (lighter frame or fork, stronger wheels with better bearings and hubs, smoother-shifting drivetrain components, etc.). Or upgrade the stuff on that bike yourself if you don't mind doing some wrenching.

I was properly fitted at the shop I bought it from. They appear very reputable and offer free tune ups for the life of the bike. It's a good 30 miles from my house (less than 10 miles from my girlfriends, though), so I don't know how often I will be visiting them. I bought a Topeak Alien II 26 multi-tool and would like to learn bicycle maintenance on my own. I thoroughly enjoy the ride of the bike and it was nice to be able to take it over curbs and ice. I think I untrued the back wheel a little on the first ride b/c it doesn't spin as perfectly as when I first got it, but I think I will leave that up to the shop.

Looks like you got the bases covered, which should bode well for your foray back into bike-riding. :)

Better wheels would definitely be a priority upgrade for you in the future. That's the difference between entry-level components and the more expensive stuff-- As you ride more and more, you will find the more expensive wheelsets (which are stronger, maybe lighter too, and will hold true longer) to be worth your money.

Jamis makes some really nice bikes. They have 2 or 3 models I would love to own.

What sort of wheels should I be looking at? I'd like to keep the same style components to the bike with increased performance. Stronger and lighter wheels sound like a double win for me, but since I am just getting into this stuff, I couldn't even tell you what size wheels to look for. I know I bought a couple 700x35 inner tubes in case of a flat, but I wouldn't know what size rims I have. Are there any other components that are worth upgrading early?