I had many of the same concerns you do when I started riding.
Bike Equipment:
An engine guard bar will support the side of the bike, and help prevent your leg from getting crushed underneath if you have to lay it down. LED lights on the bike are brighter, and more attention getting than the stock incandescent bulbs. They also have an added benefit of a lower draw on your charging system. Stock motorcycle horns suck. I recommend an air horn. If someone starts to drift in your lane, you want them to notice you when you sound your horn. I also recommend a wireless brake light for the back of the helmet. Mine was $100 from
http://www.atlantispowersports.com/w...elmetlight.htm Money well spent.
Gear:
Blaze orange or safety green jacket is recommended, with plenty of reflective trim. Make sure your gear has body armor, and get a Snell rated helmet. Snell is a higher standard than DOT. I do not recommend fingerless gloves, you can get summer weight full finger gloves that are comfortable. If I can wear full finger gloves in 100+ degree DC summers, then full finger gloves are not too hot.
Training/Instruction:
Take the MSF basic rider class. Pay attention. There's lots of good stuff in the class. Once you buy a bike, and are comfortable with it take the advanced rider class. It basically polishes the skills you learned in the basic class, but you get to do it on your own bike.
Don't forget to take your MSF training certificate to your insurance agent, most companies you give you a discount on your motorcycle insurance.
Oh, and by the way, when I ride, I'm wearing over $1,000 worth of safety gear. Don't skimp on safety.
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