True, the 450 is less costly to repair then the 550 or 600. But I find I crash my 450 at least 4 times more often from getting disoriented because of its small size then I do the 550 or 600. So even if my 550 cost 2 or 3 times more to repair, the cost over a year of flying is less, and I seem to learn faster on them, as I can see them at any distance better then I can the 450's.

I also find that my 550's & 600's or so much more predictable in any winds of consequence that this also contributes to more flying and more confidence while doing so.