I used to bike to work in central London. It requires being alert, but it was far better than driving, taking the tube or taking a bus.
I never wore headphones though. I would have considered that suicide.
Agree with the headphones bit. I can't believe it when people bike in a city with headphones and no helmet on.
It's a pretty big fine in NY (headphones) that's actually enforced. Also illegal in most cities AFAIK.
I bike ~40km per day in London, from near Richmond to Tower Hill. It takes slightly less time than the tube, and it's a lot of fun.
It sure beats getting any form of public transport, being stuck in such a confined space, especially in the morning is horrific. the time difference is also huge; I can cycle the 7miles quicker than the tube or bus.
I'm a Londoner and I loved biking to work. I've really missed it since I've started working from home.