Mike in DC: To answer your questions directed at me... I'd say that an overwhelming fear of crashing which prevents RC from being fun is NOT the norm because most don't learn how to fly with SPADs and they get along just fine... empirical evidence. I have a problem with some of the logic behind getting a SPAD if it is used as a substitute for training... which can make the pilot dangerous. It's kinda like learning how to drive a car. Get into a few accidents... what's the solution? Buy a cheaper car more durable car and hit the public streets again until you figure the whole driving thing out or take some driving lessons?