livpoksoc
Guru
In terms of C2W, you need to look at the specific tersm of your company's specific scheme...then it's up to you whether you stick to the letter of these or bend the rules...
Do you take the bike on the train then? Can you take an unfolded bike on these at the times you travel?
Seems like the most important thing is to go to a pukka LBS and get a sportive style bike that fits (you and budget)
The terms of ours allow for this as I was advised by c2w employees when they visited us.
As for trains, no issues as I do this atm, though there are busier days when there can be problems.
I will go to a decent lbs now as I think this sounds like a good plan to see what's on offer.