[quote=sd_matt]Almost forgot. How much should I budget for the gear?[/quote]
Helmet: $200-300 You will have a “Shoei Head” (kinda round) or an “Arai Head” (kinda pointy). Don’t get a cheap helmet, please.
Jacket: I suggest two, one for winter and one for summer. My perforated leather summer jacket was $280 or so, and my synthetic textile jacket was $200-250, IIRC. Both are armored.
Pants: Can vary, but I just wore jeans knowing from experience that shorts provide almost as much protection (i.e. none).
Gloves: $50+. Get gauntlet style leather, as tough as possible in the palms since that’s the first thing you will put on the asphalt to break your fall. I once went through 3 layers of calfskin when I went down at 20-25mph.
Boots: Your choice. I only bothered on long trips since they are more comfortable.
If you’re really serious, get an Aerostich one or two piece suit. ($500+?)
