Get a 46 size engine, either Thunder Tiger or OS FX. The priece difference between the 40 and the 46 sizes has dropped to around $5.00 difference but the extra power is nice to have in reserve. For radio, a basic 6 channel will do more than you will need for a couple of years but get one to match the RC clubs buddy box. Theres no point in buying a Futaba if the club only has Airtronics buddy boxes. The best trainers are still the Sig LT40 or the slightly smaller LT25 taildragger. The LT40 comes in both kit and ARF versions. After all this its still best to visit your RC club first and see what they have to say!