Ok right, from experience, buy secondhand bikes, maybe an Onza... Check ebay most nights till something that takes your fancy comes up. Unless your mega tall, get a mod, due to them being smaller and easier to flick around makes them a hell of a lot easier to learn on. With tools the essentials are Allen keys, adjustable spanner, tyre levers etc. Look at the fittings on the bike and buy tools for them. Shin pads, gloves and a Helmet are all good ideas, Don't try and save money by buying a cheap helmet.. it may just save your head one day. I would recommend and Met or Giro helmet, there pretty light and cool, they also fit on your head nicely. Specalist parts are quite common in trials so I'll go through most of them. Freewheel - It's basically a moving cog, you use these with a fixed hub, there not like your normal bike where the chain stays still. Freewheels are used by many riders due to them being light and responsive. Freehubs - Freehubs are used on most normal bikes, except in trials there alot stronger and engage quicker compared the normal ones. They are known for being more reliable than freewheels. Magura Brakes - Most riders use these, they are hydraulicly powered and give immense power and hold. They are perfect for trials. Another nice feature of these brakes is that you can bleed them using most fluids, for example, water. Drilled Rims - Basically all trial riders use these, they have circles or squares cnc'd out of them to save weight. Grind - To enhance braking performance most riders grind their rims using an Angle Grinder. If I have forgotten anything I'm sure the other forum users will inform you on any other bits and pieces. Also, take a look at www.tartybikes.co.uk or www.trials-uk.co.uk Joe