No-one has seemed to address this, so here goes…

I have two bikes. In commuting trim they're about the same weight--within a pound of each other.

One is a lighter frame but heavier wheels, the other is a heavier frame and lighter wheels. They have similar, although not exactly the same gearing (8-speed vs. 10-speed).

There is a significant difference is acceleration and climbing on the lighter wheeled bike, even though it's the heavier bike overall (and is the 8-speed). And I *do* mean significant.

You might want try a new wheelset. I went for custom handbuilt and got a robust, yet lightweight set for around $400. Light as a feather, yet still has 32 spokes in the rear. And, they ride nicer and handle better than the old wheelset too.

A good wheelbuilder will be able to find a sweet spot between the seemingly incompatible needs of light weight, strength, stiffness and ride quality. If they say it can't be done, find another builder (or use mine.)