Actually, I see a lot of people that do reasonable research and decide on the ARF or RTF combos anyway. People usually want to learn how to fly right away. Even guys that have CL experience seem to buy a complete package for their trainer. I think the Hobbico RTF and ARFs are good quality at a reasonable price and don't hesitate to recommend them.

I just started in RC two years ago and did the same thing. Of course, I got the trainer for my birthday in May and by September had my first kit built. By February, I had biplane built from plans that I was showing off at the Club meeting. My goal was to keep it under $1000 the first year, I didn't. It only went down hill from there .

Carl