I have been flying for around 5 years now and am completely self taught. Started with a SPAD BUHOR and quickly trashed it. Moved into slow electrics and from there my first Nitro model was an Uproar 40. I flew that thing to death. I was finally doing full speed touch and go's with it before I lost it in a combat flight. That was fun. As far as flying something to the ground goes, I have to admit that a touch and go at about 60 miles and hour is heart pounding.

I don't have a bi plane yet, but am seriously considering and Ultimate. I have flown everything from slow electrics like the slow stick to the giant scale Cap 580 from Great planes. I'm still apprehensible about getting a biplane. Do yourself a favor and don't get the biplane as your second plane. You'll trash it. I'd really recommend the Uproar if you're looking for something forgiving but all out nuts later on. The Twist 3D is a good choice too. Just don't get the biplane.

I've got a ModelTech 20 size Extra with a .Magnum .28 on it. It's a lot of fun to fly and it has a cowl. Handles really well as well and with the 48 inch wing span, it's pretty forgiving. Won't 3D for it's life, but'll do all the regular aerobatics depending on how you set up the CG.