I have a CrossRip and agree with everything above. The only thing missing, if it's not obvious, is the opinion that you should ride on wider tires, too. The CrossRip will clear 37mm with fenders or 45mm without fenders. You could probably upgrade to some 29'r MTB wheels that are wider, stronger, and will easily use the 45mm tires. The Velocity Blunt 29'rs are wide and can be ordered with 36 spokes.
Good Luck!