I've been in this hobby for 30 years now and I've seen/done it all. I've built from kits, plans and done a few ARFs for myself. My first kit was a Bridi Bipe. Second was a Bridi Utter Kaos. Now those where kits that would teach you how to build. I remember when EZ first came out with their ARFs and Indy RC added them to the catalog. Man those were beautiful looking planes - until you saw one in person. Admittedly, the ARFs of today have gotten better than those EZ's of 25 years ago but they still are not as good as I can build. I "assemble" ARFs for other club members and I've seen the good, the bad and the ugly of a lot of ARFs. After building so many for other pilots I've come to the conclusion that I have no plans to buy another ARF for myself. I would say "never buy another ARF" but we all know that could always change. At this point in time, there is not one Chinaman in China being paid enough or has the knowledge to out build me. I look at nothing but kits, plans and short kits for myself. I won't condem anyone for wanting to fly an ARF. That's their choice but don't expect me to be impressed with your plane. Show me a simple trainer that a pilot built from a kit or plans and I'll be more impressed with it than any ARF at the field. One of my fondest memories is the first flight of that Brid Bipe. It may not have been the best flying or even the best looking plane in the pits, but it was my plane and I built it. No ARF will ever leave a pilot with that kind of feeling or memory.

Bob Cox