Except for single channel rudder only when I was in Jr Hi, I had never flown RC.

I started out with the free Flight Model Simulator then bought the G2 with a couple of expansion packs.

I built the Sig LT-40 trainer and joined an RC club for training. Getting my feet wet on the sim probably saved me a few weeks of instruction time - I soloed on my 4th actual flight.

I think they're worth it.