[Simmo737]

I just read your post jerry, all I can say is that this is an expensive sport and you get what you pay for, everyone else has listed the good gear and ideas, do it. There is no cheap good options, I've seen what cheap options do to people and they always wished they spent the 20 percent more for the good stuff. The biggest safety items are your suspension and brakes. Spend the money on making sure they are right. This sport is like heroine, it takes all your money and focus, and hurts if you don't treat it with respect. Have fun!!