SantaCruzRiderCongrats on passing the test. Where in the BA are you? I’m in Santa Cruz and commute to Sunnyvale — typically via Hwy 17 or Old San Jose Rd. and 85.
I’m a penny pincher, so I got most of my gear online from NewEnough and MororcyleSuperstore. My current setup is Teknic armored leather jacket, black armored Fox overpants, PowerTrip leathergloves. For boots, I used eitheran old pair of Harley engineer boots or zip up construction-type boots. I have an Xspeed helmet (DOT/Snell) and like it alot. I’m an advocate for buying helmets based on 3 criteria: fit, fit and DOT approval.
As for hitting the streets: You just have to jump in. You might start with rides during off-peak traffic hours (Sunday mornings are usually good in my area). Also, keep it short to start so your concentration stays high and your avoid fatigue that may come because you’re gripping everything too tight.
Have fun.
