Bigwave,

I've seen some negative press but the following is based on my own personal experience.

A co-worker purchased a FIREBIRD XL in hopes of learning to fly it and then teach his 8 year old son.

I agreed to give him lessons on our lunch hours. After our 2nd 1 hour session he was soloing with it (hand launching & landing in a large field) (Although he did become accustomed to REVERSE CONTROLS much quicker than anyone else I've taught).

Although his son will take a little longer to solo they have had some good weekend flying sessions with it on their own. Well worth the $ even if they do have to purchase new equipment when they move up to another level of plane.

3 plus's with the FIREBIRD:

minimal initial investment (119$ and he bought a spare battery)
We could fly it in "less than perfect conditions" wind est 7~10 mph
10+ minutes flight time per battery charge.
Fairly sturdy construction

Minus

Rudder only. have to "re-learn" elevator when they move up.

However, the Rudder/throttle system does reduce the intimidation factor and whenever the newbie get's the first few circles around the field under control they quickly get used to the system.

Just my $.02

Harvey