Sounds lovely .... but guessing most of February is less idyllic 🙂
You'd be surprised how infrequently it was actually raining for that half-hour or so - but yes, when it all got a bit rubbish weather-wise, the bus was used instead. Took a bit longer, but much more pleasant than the Tube.
As for suburban routes, I can imagine it being more problematic. In circumstances like that I would support the idea of mixed pedestrian/cycle routes rather than cycle/vehicle lanes. Cyclists have got a lot more in common with pedestrians than they have with cars, buses, and lorries. These days my cycling is used for shopping and pub trips. Cycling back from town with shopping I use the canal towpath. Coming back from the pub I ride along the road. It's not busy and no chance of falling in the canal
