ORIGINAL: jerzdvt
You guys got me; I'm going to go nitro.
Good choice!
I was pricing planes with two nimh packs. Lipos are more expensive and needy than my ex was!
Dare I say, another good choice?
Also, I'm a pretty busy guy, and don't expect to have lots of days flying, so when I do, I want the most out of it. And I get bored as much as anyone else, so that post about losing interest in electrics really spoke to me.
To get the most out of a flying session, invest in a larger capacity receiver battery, and get a second transmitter pack, but not right away. It won't set you back too much and will significantly extend the amount of time you can fly. However, bear in mind that when you're first starting out there's a limit to the number of flights your mind can handle in one session. Once you reach that point, it's best to hang it up and come back another day.
I'm strongly considering the Hobbico Avistar 40 Select 4-channel RTF 59". It has ailerons, which I like, a futaba 4ch radio which I can use on my next (lo-wing) plane when I get there, and is an "advanced" trainer, so I'm hoping it can do a little more than a basic trainer.
Second choice is the Hangar 9 Alpha Trainer, but I don't think this one has ailerons.
anyone know what the difference between the "flat bottom" wing on the basic trainer, and the wing on the Avistar is?
Thanks everyone for all the help.
Personally, I'm not a big fan of RTF packages. They're good if you want a quick fix, but IMO, you miss out on some valuable learning that you'll receive by choosing an ARF, selecting the components and then putting it all together. With an ARF, you also get to choose better components, which will give you more choices later. It's still pretty cold up your way, right? If you get an ARF, or even a kit, you'll have plenty of time to get it flight worthy before the snow melts.