Gear that actually matters
Helmet, gloves, boots, long sleeves. That's the difference between a scare and A&E.
Rules for the first 10 hours
Flat ground. No passengers. No slopes over 10°. Speed limiter on. Adult supervising if under 16.
When to say no
Wet grass on a slope, loose gravel downhill, unfamiliar tracks after dark. Come back another day.