While Dick has some very good points, I still think that the format works as is. In every avenue of R/C I have participated in the sport evolved. You simply just can't fight it. Look at what Q500 has become. It started out with all balsa/ply models with a K&B 40. These were pretty fast at around 100 mph. Now look at it, nelson racing engines and composite airframes with a price tag 5 times higher. Sailplanes, Used to be the same with an all balsa polyhidral wing usually 3 cannels. Look at them now. Composite airframes as well, computer generated airfoils. Last time I checked a good F3B sailplane cost from $800 to $1200. Bottom line is that the participants of IMAC have made the sport what it has become. When I talk to people interested in IMAC I tell them that in basic I would start with a good 80" to 85" airplane, set it up well with good reliable equipment. I suggest a gas engine because of the amout of time practicing the cost savings is there. That airplane should last them their first two seasons. One season in basic and their first season in sportsman. By then they can decideif they enjoy the sport enough to invest in a 35% airplane that would last them up to the advanced class. Even that isn't all that nesessary as all season long I was getting beaten in advanced with 33% and 35% airplanes while I was flying my 40%.



Shawn