The fact that you are an expierienced RC person I would suggest you look directly to the Tamiya RC Tanks. These are built from kit form and are the highest quality.
I am affraid you would be quickly displeased by the entry level quality of the Heng Long tanks. These really are entry level. Most of them require a great deal of modifications to be good runners. Not all but most. With a Tamiya you are all ready set for competition level quality. Some added gear reductions that are much easier to install and some bearings in the road and idler wheels and you are Competition ready.
The detail is also much higher. If you do decide you want to join a club, this is the system they will likely employ. Just get the TBU and you set. The tanks electronics pakage is set to accept the TBU straight from the box.
I would also suggest you check out the AFF Museum for your Tamiya tanks. Karen is a first class supplier to us.