Hi Bob

I would say the best method would be the one you have been quoted on, it takes longer but you are getting more time to accustom yourself to being on a bike, to road conditions etc. In an intensive course over a week, what if that week its p**s wet and you lose confidence? You may also feel yourself putting yourself under pressure to pass, as you've got your test at the end of the week, this can distract you from the job in hand.

My wife took her bike test back in 1996 and did the more spread out course, she had never ridden before either and was very apprehensive.

Another thing you might consider, and don't laugh, is Ron Haslam Race School, they do a starter course there specifically aimed at people who have either not ridden before or have very limited riding experience. it consists of 2 20 minute sessions with your instrutor who will have spent time with you showing you how the bike works etc, the benefits of doing this are that you get used to riding a bike without having to worry about traffic, or anyone judging you. These sessions are taken at YOUR pace and nobody elses. Have a think about it . The number for the school is

01332 88 33 23

Cheers