Well Reddit, I come to you as a motorcycle noob, Teach me all you have to offer.

Im 23 and live in Louisiana, I can finally afford a bike. After a few months of research, saving and looking I finally found a bike I would feel comfortable on. A friend of mine was selling a 2010 Ninja 250 with 2400 miles on it for 3200, never been laid down. looks brand new, so i couldnt pass it up. Ill be getting it in a few weeks. My big issue is safety, I want to spend the next months learning how to be a safe and responsible rider. No flying down the interstate seeing how fast i can go. At this point i dont want to leave my neighborhood for a few months.

As far as gear goes I want to get a Shoei X12, yes they are expensive but I feel comfortable that they are the safest helmet out there, which is what i want.

My big question is what should i look for as far as jackets, gloves, boots etc. go? I want to take a safety course and put in my time and be an excellent rider, no short cuts. I would like this to be a life long hobby, so obviously i need to make it past 23 years old.

So you magnificent group of people, teach me everything you have to offer. Thanks in advance.