BRIAN : this is RICK I have just now read your post and I SUBSCRIBE TO YOUR THINKING AT LEAST 150% percent.
I also believe that way too much tinkering is happening with the CP series, when in actual fact they are EXACTLY what is required to LEARN THE BASICS. I still have my 3 O.O.B. in pristine condition, All I do is keep the batteries charged up and replace them after each training exercise. I have YET to do a Long or VeryHigh flight, but only because I am limited by my own driveway in front of the house.... The ONLY observation in a negative way is on the CP Yellow where it is very clear that the original motor is putting out less and less power. I have the replacement motor ready and will change it soon. All else , works just fine. I do have a replacement set por the PRO ( Motor - gyro and ESC) which will be used when I am finally ready for real unlimited flight. THANK YOU FOR THE LEADERSHIP, I admire your flying and the sane intelligent concepts you espouse.

RICK