Recreational & Family - had an idea

I was thinking since nobody seems to like the 'mart' bikes ( I know that they are heavy)and my wife is having problems with the shifters on hers what if I got quality shifters and deralers for her?for the way we ride getting a new bike for her would really be a waist.but I would like to get hers better and more trust worthy.I am happy with the bike itself but I don't like the shift mechenisms of these bikes.
what do you all think?
Rick
PS
after this I am sure that just buying a new bike would be cheaper anyway but thought I would ask.

You might try that, but I have a feeling that it might end up costing more than you'd expect, especially for the frame involved. Still, you might want to check it out. I'd also suggest that, once you have a price for a significant enough upgrade, that you check out the prices of used bikes.

If you're interested in going the used route, check out this link - http://tinyurl.com/9ynzf - click on your city and then on bikes. Probably a lot of used bikes in your area will be listed. Of course, all the "buyers beware" advice applies. Still, if I was to buy a used bike, I'd want to get one in an area where I could check it out first before buying.

Heck, you could even try to sell her bike by the same means, which would even lessen your out-of-pocket expenses.

Well I have thought of buying a used bike but I have only one LBS in the area and the stuff that is just sitting around is no different than what I already have.I dunno I am going to the LBS today I will take a look around.maybe even take a test ride on something.