Point83.com

I feel increasingly mechanically informed and confident when it comes to these whole "bike" things, but I need advice re purchasing wheels, because I still know nothing of brands, model lines, etc etc etc. I was hoping I could put down some dry kindling, hand you people a couple roman candles, and watch an emacs vs Microsoft Word, part of the Microsoft Office Suite style 'debate' thread happen here. Maybe we'll all even learn something.

Here's my deal: I'm saving for a new bike, so I am not at all interested in spending much cash. Inexpensive is def the name of the game. I'm hoping for something close to what I've got on my ride now (700x23, 36/32?-spoke 3-cross, if I recall correctly?). Rear's got a 7-speed cassette that I'd be interested in replacing, too, since it's a couple years old and I've beaten it to hell, but it depends on how much I should expect to pay to replace it as well.

TL;DR: I want to buy new wheels for my road bike that are cheap, and a new cassette as well. What should I get?

There's a small outfit called zapp or zipp or something, you might want to Google them.

What hubs do you have right now? Any good, as in: keepers?

ok, with CHEAP in mind. first thing id do is check ebay:
http://shop.ebay.com/i.html?_nkw=road+w . &_osacat=0

lots of new sets on there with tires/tubes and free shipping. for about 100-150 for a set. all different sets of quality, but on the low end. on the upside, you're a wee little lad and probably wont destroy them too quick. i bought a pair of single speed wheels like this before for 99 and they are still running strong and true on my single speed.

debate over higher price and quality will surely ensue, but above is based on CHEAP price.