RE: is this too big of an engine for a beginner?
Spawn:
The Futaba Skysport is a very good radio, limited in capabilities though.
If, when you get a fancier radio you get the new one on the same channel (and same brand) the Skysport will always be a good backup. Even if you get one of the nine channel rigs the Skysport will still operate the basic four channels.
AJC:
The wingspans of my toy planes run from 8 inches to 8 feet. I also go small and big. I really go bigger yet, but RCU isn't for the ones we control from the inside.
Bill.
PS: I did see your smiley. wr.