FREE simulator you can dl on your pc http://n.ethz.ch/student/mmoeller/fms/index_e.html <the first link great sim for a freebie wont eat at your pocket

you can get one of these cheapo gampads and use the analog sticks the same as a 4 channel just no trims.. but youll learn http://www.walmart.com/catalog/produ...uct_id=5044147 link to the one i use

im recently out of flying due to lack of a place to do it "just moved no areas around really to fly" and that setup is what i learned on 2 years ago when i started flying
there are tons of models to dl for it and all that even some weird stuff like scooters lol have a look enjoy and hey .. its a whole lot easier on your pocket 14$ to learn to fly.. not bad