My Permit & Gear selection help

[napoleon_e]

I am on my way to getting my license. I passed my written test yesterday and recieved my MD Motorcycle permit. Now its just a waiting process until I can get my bike. I am going to buy my friend's '89 VTR 250.

I need to get a whole set of gear. Can anyone give me some suggestions for gear? I am looking for a good but inexpensive helmet, jacket and gloves.

I have a pair of above the ankle steel toed boots. Are these good enough?

[bok]

seriously spend money on the helmet and buy one that fits you well (see the stickies about helmet sizing). after that, buy what you feel comfortable in and offers decent protection.

leather is pretty much the king but is pricey
textile is really good but not as expensive as leather
denim is not very good in a crash but is pretty cheap.

i've seen guys riding with no gloves or even some tan leather work gloves. you can get a decent set of gauntlet style gloves for 40 bucks or less

steel toed boots or combat boots are better than tennis shoes (and some folks swear by their combats) but a proper motorcycle boot is designed to mitigate side crushing forces from a drop as well as having good support and no laces (which can get hung up on pegs, shifters, etc.)

pants are not to be overlooked, but you can get away with some of the Draggin Jeans or Icon denims that are designed for riding. make sure that you get something with built in knee protection if you can, since that is usually your first lower body point of contact in a fall and knees take a while to heal.

no matter what gear you buy though, remember that it doesn't protect you if it's in your garage, so if you buy it, wear it.

be safe