To answer your questions:
1) The backspace key cycles through your secondary weapons. So, if you've brought along rockets, hit the backspace key to select those, then use your secondary fire button to release them.
2) push your stick (or in your case gamepad) forward. This will send you on your way.
3) The red/black scenarios you describe are attempts to simulate pilot blackout and redout. The blackout occurs when you pull too many positive G's, thereby depriving your brain of blood, and you slip into unconsciousness. Push too many negative G's, and your head is flooded with blood. This causes you to see nothing but the red (color of the blood) that is now in abundance in your head.