I think in general what you say is definitely right, Lisa. In this case, she's a heavy-duty hiker/walker and loves the outdoors. I don't think she'd mind taking the kinds of fun rides I do; in fact one is a place we used to walk together. I think she's gotten kind of interested, but time will tell.

nicole, good point. I'll drag her to that LBS to look and also see about borrowing a used bike for the nearby bike trail. (When I say "drag" I kind of mean it. We've known each other since 3rd grade, have been through EVERYTHING together, and have been known to drag/nag each other and it's all in fun.)