Yes, many clubs offer free "Stick time" to prospective members. (If you ever feel like taking a drive out to Willmar, I'd be happy to take you guys up)

The problem with many of the cheapies, is that the controls are layed out differently.

Example: Most of the people in the US fly what is known as Mode 2, which means that our transmitter has two sticks, and each stick moves back and forth, and side to side. The stick in your right hand controls up and down, and right and left roll, while the left stick controls throttle and rudder.

But with many of the cheapies, one stick only moves up and down, while the other moves only right and left. No matter the configuration, you'll have to learn all over again when you get a real radio.