Want to get into longboarding

[Dee]

Hey everyone on The Pier who is a longboarder, I am thinking of getting into longboarding, but need some questions answered first. Thanks in advance

Before I go any further, I am placing a budget of $170, then an extra $30 for shipping






Where I'd be skating
Mostly flatland/cruising. No slopes around here really. (Ontario )
Also, I can skateboard. Not amazing at it, but enough to get by.






A good longboarding forum?
Does a good longboarding forum exist? This seems to be the only one.





What to get?
I was thinking of getting each part separate, bearings, trucks, plank/board, wheels etc. This would seemingly satisfy me the most. In that case, I'd love for someone to tell me what companies to avoid, and what to look for.

Also, I would need to know what wheels, planks/boards etc do best for going a distance on flat(er) land.
Otherwise, what models and companies etc would you suggest? Remember mostly flat/slight slope riding.





Where to buy it from?
I thought of buying used, but decided new would be my best bet on this. Three places I have considered buying from are:

1. Original Skateboards
2. LandYachtz
3. The Longboard Store



And. tips
If you got any tips to share, I am all ears.
This is my first longboard.





Once again, thanks!