How is the preparation going for the qualifying ride at the end of February?

I admit I am struggling somewhat....because I don't have my own bike :(

It's a long story which includes "snow in Italy sir", "deliveries are slow from Italy sir" and finally a "they don't import that model to the UK sir". So...I've got another bike on order and now await the wheels of my employer to turn so I can purchase it under the Cycle scheme. In the meantime all I can do is look at the pictures. Will that prepare me for our ride on Feb 28th? Will it arrive in time ????