Awesome tips! It's no wonder that when I'd do google searches for any bike info, there'd always be a bikeforums.net thread listed in the top 4 results. Definitely got good fodder for scoping out replacements. As was mentioned it's certainly a fun and decent ride as-is.

I'm scoping out wheel/rim deals and I figure if I can work out the wheel/rim solution (stretching the frame vs. finding a replacement) before the rainy season really picks up, that would improve safety. I'll be staying at the 27" rim size since my front brakes cant seem to go any lower. As far as the other comfort enhancements (padded handle wrap, inexpensive aero brake levers with hoods, etc) completed before the weather gets really nice, then I'll be in even better shape for the longer rides.

Thanks again for the tips!

Update: I did some searching and found these on Niagra. Are they what I'm looking for for the
Front and Rear wheels? They seem so inexpensive that I wonder if they're what I'm after. The pics are broken, but I'd figure they were the same as the wheels pictured here. I'm also not really sure of their abbreviations for alloys (QR alloy vs. 3/8 Alloy) or the spoke types SS vs. UCP.

Thanks!