I've been riding for ohh... 40+ years.
For many years my gear was just a fullface helmet, gloves and boots, and the boots were engineering boots.
I knew they were needed from a few spills on my cousins dirt bikes as a teen.
I wore a jacket for cold or rain, but it wasn't a 'motorcycle' jacket.
Then I got a Gpz750 - it was fast enough to concern me, so I got a leather motorcycle jacket. But it wasn't very versatile.
Then I got a sport-touring bike, and couldn't take all the jackets I might need for varying conditions. I discovered textile M/C jackets with safety padding, liners and multiple vents with zippers. I also got 'overpants' with safety padding, a liner and a couple vents...
Virtually all of my gear was bought on sale, which means last years model, so surely NOT "the best". I look for the best value.
But I've never bought a new motorcycle either.
I'm mature and experienced enough not to ride at 'the best' my bike or I can do, as that leaves no margin for error or surprise.
FWIW; I've ridden my Ninja on a race track. For education, not competition. I had on my jacket and overpants with safety padding. I went faster and leaned farther than I ever did and probably ever will.
The race track event was a birthday present (I was waffling on the cost). It was a GREAT experience.
Best in safety gear is VERY subjective. I've read articles that say the SNELL helmet test really doesn't apply to street accidents. You can only get the best if you can know exactly how you will use it... that is, how you will crash.
Also, new does not equal best. $2,500 is more than I've spent my whole life on M/C gear.
Have you taken M/C safety classes? Or a rider skills class on a track or similar controlled environment?