In a word. YES!

On the soapbox...

The Cuda will take you longer to get into the air no questions asked. There are a couple of posts here on RCU that talk about building and setting up the Cuda and there is a web site : http://www.aeroprotect.com/Workbench/CUDA/Index.html that will take you through the building process. You can also post any questions you have here, or call Dennis at Carden, he will help you with anything. One of the reasons that Carden's are loved by so many is that Dennis will help you along every step of the way to make sure you get a plane that flies they way he intended. Yes, he leaves a lot for the experienced builder to decide on his / her own, but if you want to know what he does he will tell you.

Another reason to build rather than ARF, is that if you take your time, it will come out 100% straight and true, (most ARF's are not) This will make a big difference in the flying.

Carden's are known to be strong in the air and in any hard landing. The can also be repaired fairly easily in most crashes. There are some optional places to cut lightening holes in all of Cardens Kits, Cut them if you want light, leave them if you want "built like bull".

The Last reason to build a Carden Cuda is after you have built a Cuda, you will be able to handle ANY Carden as they all build with similar techniques.

Rob