I am a newbie, but pretty handy with tools so I plan to take a look at it myself. I like your worst case senario. I did some searching and haven't found any Matrix wheels like what is on it, so I would have to go after a complete new set. I found some Vuelta wheels, they say sell for 450-600 for around 150. But I know nothing about these wheels other than they have Shimano Sealed hubs and they are made in Italy. Also says the wheel is 700X18mm wondering if a 700X25mm tire will fit on this wheel