I can probably count on both hands the number of people I've seen biking since I started commuting about two months ago

Having worked out for years (first as a runner, then biking), it's pretty easy for me to get into the workout mode.
But I will admit, if I had a bike buddy for my work commute, I'd probably take a longer route on the way home. As is, I just want to get back. If I had someone to hang out with, I'd probably have a reason to add on a couple of extra miles.