Welcome....Take the MSF course. DEFINITELY get gear! Helmet, gloves, and Jacket minimum but look for boots and pants as well. Dont think you really need a stabilizer quite yet...Should prolly spend the money on gear.Do a good once over on your bike to make sure its mechanically in good shape. Go on some group rides next season, ride your pace and learn what you can. And that must be a hell of a tune.....