I have wire-bead Rubinos. There are biotch to get on... but if you're forced to use tire levers to get the tire on, something sounds wrong to me. I'd get a different kind of tire (maybe a cheapo until your new rims arrive).

You shouldn't need any tools to get the tire on. If getting a different tire is out, try lubing the surfaces of the bead and the rim with soapy water. That might help the tire slide on. You still shouldn't need any tools, although you may end up with some blisters on your hands if it's that stiff.