New Guy
Welcome!
I think part of the limited selection in trainers is simply that a basic trainer is, well, it is what it is. Having 20 trainers just creates confusion and competition. For the most part you will find only one real trainer from each manufacturer who makes trainers.
Many planes can be used as trainers like the Cadet and Cadet Sr. or the Telemaster. With the control surface rates turned down, I once used my Ultra Sport as a trainer to teach a good friend of mine to fly.
For the most part, any plane with dihedral in the wing, light wing loading (so it will fly slowly), and predictable flight characteristics can be used as a trainer.
Tower was once the only place to go on the web for mail order R/C planes, but now there are thousands of places to choose from.
If you have a local hobby shop, be sure to check with them too, many shops will compete with Tower and you may save on shipping that way. Even if you have to pay a few extra dollars it is wise to support your local hobby shop because some day you will want to fly and need a simple $1.00 part. If all the local shops are gone, that $1.00 part keeps you grounded for a week plus $5.00 in shipping fees.
You get the point.
Good Luck to you!
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