Zweivoss

So, I'm about 380-390lbs. I have a 2016 Giant Escape 2 with standard wheels that (obviously) just don't cut it. Haven't ridden it in years because of that and being a NEET with no money to upgrade.
Now I have a job, I want to get into cycling both for health reasons and so I don't need a car to get to/from work.

Should I look into upgrading the rear wheel or just straight up try getting a new bike? From what I've found, my options are kinda limited with my frame. It doesn't support very wide tires. I get some serious anxiety about stuff like this, so help would be much appreciated.
I have a LBS that sells Giant/Specialized and another that sells Salsa/Jamis/Kona, if that helps. (Though they don't show up on the Jamis "find a dealer" thing, not sure what that's about)
Money is...somewhat of an issue. If there are options with payment plans, that'd be great. I do think I can get away with spending around $1200 outright, though.

Advice would be very much appreciated!

10 Wheels

You will need 36 Spoke Wheels Front and Rear.
Have your bike shop get them for you.
How far is Work?

Zweivoss

Work is only a mile away, fairly flat ground.

masi61

How many spokes are your current wheels? Have you broken any spokes on your rear wheel? Are there any cracks visible around the spoke nipples?

It is possible that a good bike shop could check out your current wheels and then bring them up to spec for you.

Zweivoss

They're 32h
There aren't any cracks or anything, but my weight causes them to go out of true/round pretty quickly.

DeadSlow

I can't really help you other than to say good luck with your efforts.
I have 29inch wheels and although the bike from new, only 4 months ago, didn't seem to have issues the original rims just didn't cut it. I wouldn't say the new rims are worry free yet but I do feel a lot more confident and don't find myself checking the spokes every time I get off the bike.

cyclist2000

I think that the best thing to do right now is get a wheelset with 36 spokes in each wheel.

I would have recommended upgrading to a gravel bike to get a wider tire on be bike. But the entry level gravel bike that I saw still has a spoke count lower than 36 spokes.

indyfabz

If the bike is otherwise fine, look into a quality set of hand built wheels with 36 quality spokes. Maybe something with Rhyno Lite rims. They are what I use for fully loaded touring. Shimano Deore hubs and DT Swiss Alpine 3 spokes.

Zweivoss

All of these suggestions makes me wish there was a database like PCPartPicker, except for bikes.

Also, is there a particular reason why I should replace both wheels? I realize having a stronger front wheel isn't a bad thing, regardless, but I've never had problems with that since I tend to put most of my weight on the rear.

fat biker

One mile from home to work?
Why not walk instead of ride the bike?

With respect to weight loss, I have found walking is more effective.
New Cross Trainers every 6months or so, earlier if you need.
Shoes lose the cushioning long before the shoe or sole is quote Warn Out.

As always, YMMV
fat biker

Zweivoss

I actually intend to start riding recreationally as well. Just to encourage me to get out of the house. We have some nice bike paths around here.
Also, lower impact with bike riding. As long as the seat is relatively comfortable the pain I'm likely to experience is quite a bit less.
I'm already on my feet walking around for nearly 8 hours a shift at work, so. Lol

Also, LBS guy found what he thinks will actually be better for me in the long run. They're gonna come pick my bike up later today and start building that wheel.