RE: going to try instead of arf.
I agree with the guys suggesting the Sig 4 star, though no doubt the other recommended planes are probably also good.
I returned to flying after a long layoff, after crashing a couple of over ambitious models, I built myself a 4* 60 with a Saito 4 stroke. the build was straight forward and it flies beutifully.
I've got about 30 flights on it now and if/when it goes in I will get another.
Hope this helps
John
PS, Standard landing gear is crap