Auchen,
I misspoke. I didn't get new rims/wheels(?), I'm still learning all the correct terms. I got new tires. But, I just looked at the wheels and all I can find stamped on them is ARAYA 700c JAPAN. Those aren't the originals I suppose. Have you heard of that brand?
And you're right, I have never done any serious kind of riding before (besides joyriding with the kids on some random bike) and I was amazed immediately at how it rode up hills. I felt like I could almost go vertical and it would not be a problem...okay, slight exaggeration. Kim