How should I get started with LEGO trains? I'd like to get started with LEGO Train. I understand the PF system is The Way, and the tracks are generally mutually compatible, but the exact interplay of trains &amp; power components eludes me. 

Is there a "Just the train, PF control system, and tracks" set available?
Would that be set 60051?
That set would work, set 60052 would work as well (although it has a few more parts that are not actually needed if you are really focused on trains, in that regard 60098 might be better)

Those sets (including 60051) are from 2014/2015, rumours have it that new trains will come out this year (probably around august), and apparently (I hadn't heard it before @TheBrickBlogger wrote it in a comment here) they won't be completely compatible.