Don't know about the really expensive part but as with any heli their definitely pricey.
The JR supplier in South Africa is really on the ball though so the prices are excellent for their stuff. And well the quality of machine you get does justify the price by all means. Seeing a JR machine in SA is not an uncommen thing but mostly due to the importers. The prices compared to other machines here is more than competitive. I am currently flying the JR Venture .90 which I chose firstly because of its great price and looking at what you get. I'm moving into F3C though and this heli was a great all rounder for me to also play a little with the 3D manuvers but I soften up the head with other dampers and I have a decent F3C heli as well. And yes this heli is an awesome performer for sure. Even though it is probably a little heavier than the high end 3D helis like the new JR Vibe it can still do everything I want to like piro flips etc.