My missus has no problem with me riding, she dont particularly like watching much. Although our 3 year old loves watching so she has no choice sometimes!
I have a hope c2 which is probably about 7-8 years old. Eno freewheel is 4 years old ans still great. Revell pedals are 6 years old and still spot on. Plazmatic crm pads, 3 and a half years old and still going strong.
I had a bit of a problem like this for a bit. On a mod, you have to really sink into the bike then launch yourself upwards, similar to bunny hop technique but still pedalling. Its hard to explain really.