Like many new bike owners, you've been infected with upgradeitis. This deadly(to your wallet) disease distorts the perception of the victim into thinking that money will solve their problems and that a lighter bike should be the focus of their expenditures.

I myself was once afflicted with this malady but a bearded sage down at the Temple (LBS) advised me to simply ride what I had until it could go no more. At which time, I would be enlightened and would clearly see that I was no slower than the riders with $2,000 wheelsets and ceramic bearings and carbon fiber bottle cages.


Keep the Rush Hour as it is and only when parts start failing should you upgrade. By that time, you'll know your bike and your needs much better. Hauling that bike up and down the stairs will just make your arms and shoulders stronger to match your legs. You can use your other arm to haul beer and even the load.


Since inexpensive is a relative term you'll have to provide a dollar amount in order to receive quality responses. To upgrade significantly anything on your bike you'll be spending a good chunk of money so it's a good idea to be sure you know the effect of any such upgrade besides lightening the wallet.