Can't comment on bike choice...you need to find what feels comfortable to you. Go to dealers and sit on the bike.
As for the courses a large % of people who take the course have never been on a bike and never driven standard. The courses step you through everything you need to know...there is no need to have ridden before. If you have that is fine.
As for gear - absolutely go try it on...ever manufacturer's gear fits a bit different. Get the best that you can afford (saves the cost of constantly upgrading to better gear over the next few years)
Best of luck!
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