Are you new to flying or just to flying electrics?

At rcgroups, there's a thread about a Slow Stick Speed competition--some got up to 50 mph or more. Is that hopped up enough for you?

If you're new to flying, I'd recommend something like the Estarter as your second plane. It isn't bigger, but it will handle the wind a bit better, is a four channel plane, and it's a good transition to your third plane.

Simulators? Once you're paying around two hundred dollars, they all seem good, but each has it's own strengths. Aerofly Pro Deluxe and Realflight G3 are the two big names right now.