Welcome to the forums, Seymour.
Spend a little time in the subforums that interest you and see how you take to their individual cultures. At least one is sure to be a good fit for you. You'll find lots of specialist advice on bikes & gear there that will serve you best.
Good luck & welcome aboard.
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"Surely one can love his own country without becoming hopelessly lost in an all-consuming flame of narrow-minded nationalism" - Fred Birchmore