Why nose gear?
You wont find an easier plane to learn tail-wheel handling on than the 4star.
If you can afford it go for the 4star60. Easier to see and a little more stable in the air.
I have a 4star40 for club competitions, will build a 60 this winter for next years competitions.
(They are not that expensive to crash chasing balloons...[>:])

Her is a pic of mine...Wing clipped one bay and some aother mods.