Well, here's my 2 cents..

I love the way the YS performs, sounds, smells and handles. I've been flying IC since I started in this hobby, and I think I'll always own a couple of IC-engines!
There is some maintenence involved, but not too much. (Having said that, I do have an Ys160 that for some obscure reason just won't last through the P-11 schedule... It now sits nicely on a shelf, awaiting further investigations. But still, these are some really nice engines!)

My latest build, still to be completed, is fitted with an Ys170. Why? Well... After some years of using YS-engines, I have 4 of these jewles. I also have approx.100L of Methanol, 30L Nitro and loads of oil..
The question was then; Do I want to invest BIG $$ on converting to electrics now, or do I want to use the engines and fuel I already have? That is the sole reason for me chosing IC on my latest build. If I was to buy everything new anyways, I would absolutely go electric!!
Many of my fellow F3A-pilots fly electric, and the amount of power, braking etc is awsome... Only minor "hickup" is the charging, but that seems to be OK as well.

So, if you are buying everything "from scratch", I would not hesitate one second - choose EL-power. But I would invest an extra $ on the equipment and buy from the top shelf.. Usually, one gets what one pays for..
I would have to reconsider if a 2-cycle powerhouse similar to the 140RX came on the market that could perform on the same level as the Ys170/Pletty/axi etc!