Gear choices sound fine. Don't really know anything about the items you have chose. Anything really is better than nothing.

I keep getting hung up on the fact that you have said twice now about crashing. I understand that it's a very real possibility and that one shouldn't dismiss it. However, I believe that if you think too much about it WILL happen. You will be so focused on WHEN, that you won't be able to think clearly to AVOID it.

I lived in Victoria for 5 years and it's where I learned to ride. I can't remember the names of the shops out there but the best one is over in Esquimalt. Those guys were amazing and would do anything for ya. So even though you don't care about local money...I'd go to them. ;)

Getting good deals usually depends on how much research you do. By that, I mean get on some other forums' classifieds. I've gotten some ridiculous deals on the WERA forums. An Akrapovic slip-on, new, for $150 shipped, for example. There is always all types of new/used gear for sale and custom/performance parts too. Best forum I've seen yet as far as classifieds go.

Wear the best stuff you can afford. And wear it everytime.

fixed. ;)

minor detail but an uncomfortable rider becomes a fatigued rider (especially a newer rider) which is a dangerous thing!

Thats true. And thats alot of what you pay for in higher priced helmets. The DOT approved cheapo's will protect you just fine. The high dime lids offer more comfort.