Debating making a Ranger

[Halius]

So I have a dilemma that I am hoping anyone with some experience on the class can help me out with. I am seriously debating starting a Ranger despite all the hate for them and the exp penalty. I have always been intrigued by the class and thought it would be fun to play. My Magician will remain my main but I want a class to play when I get bored on the mage and although my enchanter is fun with charm, I just want to shift from the caster classes. So anyways I have a couple of questions.

1. After selling gear and such from my chanter I should have close to 4-5k to spend gearing up a Ranger, will that be sufficient to be self-sustaining should I need it? I tend to solo a lot because I am usually quite busy and rarely have time to sit in a group.

2. How good is bow-kiting? Will it be torture with how slow the exp will come or is it actually pretty decent?

3. What is your favorite part about the ranger class?

4. Goes along with question 1, but any gear suggestions?

I really think the class looks fun I just want to make sure I can enjoy it, even solo if I have to. Well any advice on the class is appreciated, thanks in advance!