Gear advice for a newbee

[gmark]

So it has been quite a while since I have owned a bike and after a ton of research I settled on a GS500. I found a 2001 that I am going to pick up on the 9th of January and I have enrolled in the MSF class. I am planning on riding most of the year and using the bike as a commuter/trip bike and I need your opinions on gear and windshields. I like the bell apex helmet and like the fact that it is Snell 2005 and DOT certified.  I am leaning toward Fieldshere Aquasport and Apollo for my jacket and pants along with a nice set of gloves. Do any of you use this gear? If so what are your thoughts?

Thanks
Steve   

[Dan02GS]

Welcome Steve, good choice I have an '02 I use to explore my local roads on. Two things that I have found indespesible were a tank bag, mine is the Coretec mini, and a windscreen that I got from Bike Bandit. The wind screen is an F-15 sport. Both have really helped my enjoyment of the bike. Hey welcome again. 

[ajaxgs]

best advise is buy the best fitting gear that you can afford so that you are comfortable /warm ect and that you are well protected ...

[Domindart]

I just got a 2001 and Im in the same position.  Im liking a HJC Clsp helmet and a power trip jacket.. 

[sector9]

I was in this same position this past summer when I found my '89 GS. Glad to hear you are taking the MSF course, you'll learn a lot.

To echo what Dan said, having a small windshield has been great for taking some of the wind off my chest/ face. I picked up a National Cycle F-16 Touring windshield for $70. I just realized that you said you have a 2001 GS and I'm not sure if that is the F model. If it is, then this windshield wouldn't apply to you.

As far as other gear goes, do some research about whatever it is your looking at, read some reviews, find out what else has similar features. One resource that I've used for that is http://www.webbikeworld.com. They have great reviews and lots of images of a variety of motorcycle gear. Another great site that I've bought most of my gear from is www.newenough.com. Great prices, especially the closeout section, and the pictures of all the products really help in getting an idea of what your buying.

Good luck!
Ty