I'm a fairly new cycle rider and was talking to a more experienced one the other day. He was saying that I had real road wheels/tires, I'd be able to ride much quicker. I understand there is less friction, but are the differences really that noticeable?

btw, I ride a GT ZuM 5.0. Don't know if theres a better size description for my tires but they say 26x1.5 on the side. Here's a pic if youve never heard of the bike

http://www.performancebike.com/produ...7-GRY-SIDE.jpg

If road wheels and tires really would make a difference, are there any recommendations for a poor college student? One of my buddies that I ride with just bought a $4k road bike so I'm gunna have to do as much as I can to keep up with him! Thanks