CBRWorld.net

So I'm just getting into the riding scene getting ready to purchase my first set of gear.  I have a 2002 CBR 600 F4i coming this saturday (see new members area) and now I need the gear to go with it.  I will put what I am planning to get, please let me know if there are better choices within my price range.  Along with sizing if you know the brand runs small/large.  Here goes:

Helmet: Less than $200.  My head measures 22 5/8" (~57.5 cm)

Gmax GM68S Dragon - Medium - Black  - $110
http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/1/1/38/12169/ITEM/GMax-GM68-Dragon-Helmet.aspx

OR

HJC CL-SP Osiris - Medium - Red - $80
http://www.motorcyclecloseouts.com/sport/motorcycle+helmets/hjc_cl-sp+osiris+-+snell+approved

The Gmax comes off of webbikereview's review.  Even though its only DOT, After reading the motorcyclist article from 2005 about ratings, I'm not as concerned about SNELL (although it'd be nice since autocross requires it also)

Jacket:  Less than $300.  I am 5'9" 165 lbs, self measurements indicate a 33" waist, 31-32" sleeve measured from shirt collar, and I wear 42" (chest) coats. I will mainly do fair weather riding in Iowa.

Joe Rocket Supermoto Jacket - $180 - Red - Size 42.  This one seems like a really good deal even though its discontinued.
http://www.motorcyclecloseouts.com/sport/leather+motorcycle+jackets/joe+rocket_supermoto+leather+jacket

OR

Joe Rocket Ballistic 7.0 - $225 - Red- Med or Large?
http://www.motorcyclecloseouts.com/off+road/dual+sport/joe+rocket_ballistic+7.0+waterproof+jacket

Gloves:

Teknic Chicane Short - $30 - Red
http://www.motorcyclecloseouts.com/hot+deals/hot+deals+-+sport/teknic_chicane+short+cuff+leather+gloves

What do you guys think? Remember, this is my first bike, so be easy on me.

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2002 CBR 600 F4i

2004 Infiniti G35X

w/ any and all gear, u MUST try it on b4 ordering online.  dont assume it will fit, cuz it prob wont.  helmets, boots, gloves, and leather jackets all need to fit tight when u purchase them... almost to the point of discomfort... because they will stretch considerably w/ use. 

as far as cheap helmets go, id def stay away from both those brands.  No HJC street helmet that ive tried on/seen felt good.  i recommend Scorpion Helmets if u dont want to spend too much.  very nice quality and their safety rating is great.  go here for great deals on em http://sportbiketrackgear2.homestead.com/Scorpionhelmets.html

supermoto jackets are meant for a more upright riding position, so itll prob be uncomfortable on a sportbike.  the most important thing about a jacket is the protection it includes.  theres no pt in having a jacket if doesnt have armor built into the shoulders and elbows at the very least.  'CE' is the rating u should look for.  u may also want to consider that textile jackets r good at melting onto skin and giving 3rd degree burns if/when u go down.  because of this (among other reasons), i recommend leather to everyone.

those gloves r alright, but id rather not have Teknic because i hear they come apart at the seams rather easily... and also, gauntlet style gloves offer more protection.

lastly, look into a set of boots also.  i got my first pair off craigslist for 40$ and they gave me 3 good yrs of use, even a trackday.  buying gloves n a jacket used might not be too bad either if its a steal of a deal.  however, never ever ever buy a used helmet. 

ok, ive typed enough. good luck on finding good gear and ride safe..... oh and head to www.newenough.com

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Naked 93' F2...... RIP -- 04/12/07
04' 600RR Black - currently stuck between track and street usage
- Brembo Master, Sato's, & Ohlins out back

When buying gear always try it on before you buy online. It may sound like it will fit but you never know until you try it on in person.

Your helmet choices arent bad but a little more on the helmet will give you better quality. You should look at Scorpion helmets like mentioned above. I have an EX700 and paid about $200, if that is too high look at the EX400's. It may be a little more out of your price range but a better quality helmet that are compared to top brands like Arai and Shoei is worth it.

Im not too fond of Joe Rocket gear......heard a few things about them. Look at brands like Cortech or if you can find one in your budget Alpine Stars or Teknic. You should be able to find some deals on newenough.com. And buy only leather since its better for sliding and more abrassive.

I wouldn't go with short gloves. With the gauntlet style or long glove you have more protection for your wrist which well be helpful during a crash. I have a pair of Teknic Lightning gaunlet gloves that Im willing to sell for $60 shipped. They normally sell for about $90 new. I bought them in a size M online and their too big. The gloves are red, black and white in color. PM me if your interested.

Boots is another thing I would seriously look into. If you ever crash your foot could be crushed under your bike or even a car. Just remember to always gear up even if your not going far. Hope this helps :) Man am I tired now.