Thank you to everyone for the insight (as you may have noticed, I've got a lot to learn, even about bikes without gears) and the encouragement. I live in northern Manhattan (in the 190s), and most of the "famous" shops are below 96th Street, some way below. This shop is in the neighborhood, and it is really reassuring to know that these guys (business was slow and I had a team working on my bike) know what they are doing. The guy that knew the most said exactly what several of you have said, exactly: I could do it, but I don't like the look of it or the idea of it. I'd rather not do it.

Truth be told, I had done enough research to know that most of the experienced riders and do-it-your-self-ers on the fixed gear and single speed forums disliked the Alex wheels, some disliked them intensely. I pretty much assumed that someday I would want to replace them. With a kid in college I was trying to save a few bucks. But you guys have made me feel that -- with only a few minutes to think about it -- I made the right decision. In fact, considering the shape I am in (very good for my advanced age) and the streets I am riding on every day (very bad) those Alex wheels might not have lasted me very long and that getting them on the bike today would have been penny wise but pound foolish.

Thanks again.