I was trying to keep "in the $200" range assuming he needed an engine as well.

I dusted off my "old" Kaos last year with it's Como .51 turning a 12x5 and promptly took 2 in a row 1st places with it in Sportsman. So it is a capable airframe that can do anything the pilot is capable of, even though it is not modern.

If you can push into the mid $250's the Venus is an excellent choice as well. I've flown both and the main benefit I see of the Venus is the dual aileron servos and the increased side area (although the Kaos does easily knife edge).

My 2 cents...