Training and Biking in London?

[AndrewIC]

Yep...another one of these threads.

So I have been looking at getting onto two wheels for a while now (generally when the weather warms up) and I'm pretty set on it now, especially as I may be starting a new job that would involve getting from Chelsea out to Barking area, so a mix of Embankment heavy congestion and A13 dual carriageway.

I'm currently looking at geared CBT with Off the Kerb MCT near White City, as they seem to have very good reviews from what I can see, opposed to my initial view of using Metropolis in Vauxhall, which is closer to me. I would then look at doing DAS straight after, providing I'm not completely incompetent, as I think a scooter wouldn't be the best on the dual carriageway stretches.

Any advice/suggestions would be much appreciated, along with suggestions of where I can find a large variety of brands such as helmets and clothing to try on for sizing...?

[AndrewIC]

I'm very cautious of Metropolis from the terrible reviews they seem to have for anything to do with sales, of equipment or bikes.

[AndrewIC]

Thanks for the detailed reply, I will be sure to have it open when calling places.