Should I Try A Relationship With My Best Friend?

[soconfusedme]

OK so basically my best friend admitted to liking me, which made me confused me as I'd always had a thing for him, I told him don't be silly and we kinda forgot about it for a bit, but he rang up the other day and told me he wanted to try 'us' and what did I think .. I said that I didn't know and that was pretty much it.
But now I'm really debating whether maybe we would be good together, cause we get on so well and he's funny and always there for me etcetc

BUT:

The thing that worries me is: we're 18 and he's been with lots of (LOTS OF) girls - this kinda grosses me out and I dont think i'd be able to do anything with him, knowing what he's done and also I'd feel pressure to be 'good enough' if you know what i mean.. Seeing as i have no experience in that area.

Also, all my friends dislike him - lots. He comes across a bit cocky to new people and hence hasn't made a good impression and they don't understand that I wouldn't be friends with him if he was a douche - once you get past the cockyness - he's a really nice person and i don't see the cocky side of him anymore (not until I'm with him and friends) cause he doesn't have to be around me.

So i was wanting some advice - have i made the right decision to hold off? Should we at least give things a go and see if they really are weird between us? Should I listen to my friends who don't like him and not go for him? I'm so confused!
Please help!
Sorry this is such a long question - its complicated..

[steviej]

You're not sure about him from the start, which isn't a good sign.

It depends how much you value the friendship, because unless he's the guy you're going to marry and have kids with, the odds are that you'll split up with him in the near future and the friendship will be lost.

I've learned through failed relationships that getting on with the other persons friends is vital, it doesn't take long for that to become a big issue!

[supermarkliu]

You should take more risks. Your hang ups are minor and this could be the best relationship of your life.