When I started out (at a club "learn to fly" weekend), I flew my instructor's high wing 60 size flat bottom trainer. I got maybe four or five flights when I decided to take the plunge and get my own setup. After much discussion with my instructor, I decided on a Big Stik 60 for several reasons -- high wing like a trainer; dihedral like a trainer; tricycle gear like a trainer, fully symmetrical airfoil like a second plane, easily modifed to tail dragger like a second plane; huge wing area to aid in slow landings.

When I took the plane to the field for the maiden, the instructor was so impressed with the flight characteristics (trainer like in speed and landing, dihedral to help self-righting, symmetrical airfoil for improved aerobatics, etc.) that when his trainer bit the dust, he replaced it with a Big Stik which he now uses as his trainer. Since that time, I've had the opportunity to fly "typical" trainers, and I have always found them wanting in terms of really helping a person learn. The combination of high wing, dihedral and tricycle gear combined with a full airfoil and serious wing area makes this, in my opinion, the best of both worlds for a trainer.

Sadly my Stik met its' expiration date (bad switch), but it gave me enough confidence to move into an Ultra Stik and now into a 24% Edge. I have had no problems adjusting to tail draggers or fully aerobatics planes, and I truly believe that is due to the broad range of experience I got with the Stik.

Probably more than 2 cents worth, but I really like(d) that platform.

Mark