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for riding gear. here
for helmets Some AGVs
For your price range and styling I would suggest a used Virago or honda rebel. They are gonna be 250cc but they are fun to ride and have the power to move you along, unless you weigh over 250lbs. >>
I'm going to disagree and say to stay away from anything under 450cc unless it's some form of crotch rocket. I've seen Honda Rebels and they are barely larger than my old moped was. You will very quickly grow out of a 250. My current bike is an '82 Honda Nighthawk 450 and it's just adequate for a runabout. If I did anything resembling distance riding I'd want a larger bike since the 450 doesn't like freeway speeds (70-75), instead preferring to trundle along at about 60. Granted, if you really wind the sucker up she'll probably do 90-95 but the highest comfortable cruise speed is 65, with 55-60 being preferred. The old 450 is a great bike to start on since it's about the same physical size of a 650 or a 700, but is light enough (~450lbs wet) that you will be able to get it upright by yourself when you accidentally drop it in a parking lot. Since you are probably looking for a newer bike than an '82, I'd look at late model Honda Magnas.
As far as riding gear, Brooks makes some nice jackets. Make sure that you are getting a motorcycle leather jacket because motorcycle grade leather is more durable. Also, make sure that your helmet meets Snell M95 specs for safety (almost all helmets do). I would reccommend a full-face helmet, but if you choose not to get a full-face, at least be sure to get a set of good glass goggles. Plastic goggles are more prone to scratching. Always wear a pair of unlined leather gloves, when your right hand hits a bee at 55 mph you'll be glad for the gloves. Also, be sure to wear over the ankle boots when you ride. I wear a pair of heavy Timberlands laced tightly, and they work well, but you can also buy dedicated motorcycle boots as well.
ZV
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