I would say that there is some value in this type plane from a training standpoint. For one thing, it will get you used to the orientation of an rc plane the air while controlling it from the ground, which is no small thing. It doesn't turn using control surfaces, but the end result is still pretty much the same. One thing to be careful of though is to make sure that the throttle control is variable and not just on / off, otherwise your flying will consist of an endless series of climb / glide movements. You need to be able to fly a level route to get a good feel for flying compared to a "real" rc plane IMO.

I like to tinker with stuff like this and have been considering picking up one myself just to see what it would do. I have an AeroAce mentioned above and it is well worth 30 bucks just for the fun factor and the fact that you can pretty much fly in in any space. It is really cool and there are a lot of good mods for it on the discussion boards. Everybody that likes RC planes should have one of these in their trunks for instant stress relief!.

I have a ParkZone Slo-V electric that in my opinion is a pretty good starter plane, if you live somewhere that affords you some frequent calm wind conditions. I consider it a good step between the "toys" and a .40 gas trainer.

If / when you decide to go gas, buy a true TRAINER. Don't buy anything referring to itself as a 3D plane, intermediate plane, or anything that doesn't have the wing on top of the plane. Also, I would not attempt to fly even a .40 gas trainer without being on a buddy box with an instructor. Even if you've flown electrics a lot, the gas plane is going to be faster, and beginners have the tendency to want to fly too low when they are starting out. This is false security as a crash from 50' is probably going to do about as much damage as one from 150' and you don't have as much time to get out of trouble.

I'm fairly new to this, and these are just my opinions (some based on lessons learned the hard and expensive way).

If you decide you want to try the "bee", it's only $30...and you'll probably learn something and have a little fun in the process.

Happy Flying.