ORIGINAL: PipeMajor
My son and I both soloed on the LT-40 after 6 buddy box flight each a couple of years ago. It's a very forgiving airplane yet we've since bumped up the throws a bit and have moved the CG back another 3/8". Basic aerobatics is well within the abilities of an LT-40 with a 46 or better engine. We still fly the LT-40.
That said, I also came by an Avistar ARF in a bundled deal a few months ago. It's gonna get built er, assembled and rung out a bit more aggressively than the LT-40. To do that we're going to remove the dihedral in the Avistar. The LT-40 was built as per kit instructions.
I agree with the majority here in that you won't regret either plane. They are both great trainers. I have the LT-40 and LOVE it! It is well built and VERY tough....I've had a few hard landings and other than replacing the nose wheel gear, it's done fine. However, I also agree with PipeMajor here...spend a little more to get a little larger engine (at least a .46). I have an OS .40 LA and that's my only regret, that I got a larger motor.