I was in your same position, I built a mtn bike w/slicks for my wife. It weighed a ton and rolled like a tank. She is only interested in MUP use also, fortunately we have miles and miles of paths and converted rail roads. Last month she bought a Trek 7100 WSD and absolutly loves it. Upright position, step through frame, good rolling 700 tires and around $400 bucks. Her 10-12 mph pace line isn't going to break any records, but she is comfortable enough to do a 25-30 mile ride.