RE: Going from heli to plane
I thought (still think) that Stiks are pretty ugly. But they sure do fly nice! Im still new (just started back in the hobby last year after about a 12 or so year layoff) and went from my 40 size trainer to the Stik. I have 2 actually, an EP Mini Ultra Stik and a 60 Ultra Stik (I prefer the taildragger...makes it look, well less "Ugly" lol).
After flying the things...they have somehow become less "ugly" on their own. I think that if I could only afford one plane (Lord forbid!!!), it would definitely be a Stik.
just my .02's