+1 to Big Fred's post.
Ride that new bike for awhile, and you may want to switch to a different bike style altogether. Then you will resent that you've spent potentially hundreds of dollars on wheels that were un-needed. You drop a few pounds, and the allure of some sexy road bike may be too much to resist, then those hoggy hybrid wheels will mock you!

I would like to repeat the advice that if you are unsure of what direction to go and are going to stick with the stock wheels for now (or if the dealer isn't going to give you credit for them towards something else), have the tension checked on 'em. Then retensioned in 1-200 miles.

If you really decide that you want a wheel with 36-spokes/better rim right now, then ask some local riders where they recommend. You may have better luck than asking an LBS with their own agenda.


To me, the bottom line is always: Spend the money, or compromise. The compromise here being that you just wait with the stock wheel until the upgrade is needed.