I am new to the Hobbie as well, and have only been flying for a couple of weeks now. For my first plane, I chose the Extra Easy 2 from Hanger 9, for a couple of reasons. Firts it is an RTF, within 30 minutes you can have it in the air. Comes with engine pre-installed and already broke in a factory, also has limiters so engine cannot be adjusted out of wack. Radio was pre-installed as well, come with JR XF421 5 channel radio. Plane handles very well, easy takeoffs, and slow landings. Wings are 69", and has lots of Dehydral. Also has hands off if you get into trouble. Some say hands off is bad, because you get to use to it, but sure makes it easier on the wallet. The only problem I have had with this plane so far is flying it on windy days. Due to the large wing and great dehydral, I assume this is where my problem is coming from, makes handeling hard. I am looking at my next plane already, have looked around alot, and have made my mind up on getting the New Funtana by Hanger 9., and transfer my engine, ( Evolution .40 Power Trainer system), and radio over to it. Any thoughts on this is appreciated, and hope my little experience so far, can help a little.