Originally Posted by franklin_m

Good point on the maintenance. It's non zero to be sure, but I considered it small and more challenging to quantify in relation to the other issues for the purposes of this comparison.

I wouldn't consider it small. Brakes, tires, etc. all add up. Best thing to do is break it down on a per mile basis.

As to what lifestyle changes?

If your cost/benefit analysis determines it's not worthwhile to be an AMA member and not belong to a local club then is your work done here?

Now that I've built a rig to carry more than one helo to the park, I'll probably fly more. I'll add some additional pieces that make it easy to carry a plane or two as well. Once I get my 600 sized nitro burner ready, I'll add a way to carry that and fuel as well. I can't fly at the park (too small), but the local school has a huge open space, and that's only about a 200 yard walk.