thanks again for the responses, and for the encouragement. i've been scoping out some wheelsets on craigslist. i'll try to find a decent set, then see how it works out. if it doesn't work with this current bike, i'll try to look for a different frame and use the wheels on that. and believe me - i won't spend too much on this bike, i don't have that much money to spend in the first place!

someone mentioned replacing the chainring with something else (a bmx chainring?). does that mean it's possible to take apart the current crankset? i've never dealt with a 1-piece before - if it's a 1-piece, how do you take it apart enough to put on a new chainring?

also, regarding the front brake - should i just keep the one i have, or try to find a more updated/newer version? i want to be as safe as possible, and the one right now is a tad bit sticky.

thanks again!