If you have a new Lemond bike and the wheel is badly built, I think you have a good claim for a complete rebuild by someone who knows what they are doing. If your LBS lacks a skilled professional wheelbuilder, contact Lemond directly.

The strength of a wheel has little to do with the quality of the components. Mostly is down to the skill of the builders, then the spoke count. Given a good build, expensive bits will lower the weight, and/or extend the life of the wheel, but lightweight rims can also wear out more quickly than cheaper, thicker walled rims.

Im afraid that wheel build is one of those things that is easy to skimp on because most bike shoppers dont know about it. I had my cheapie commuting wheels built by hand out of low-end components. They have lasted over 2 years of daily abuse with no problems.