ORIGINAL: jerzdvt
Argh. This whole time I was looking at Red Rocket Hobbies website at the H9 Alpha. You can buy it now, but I didn't realized it said "Pre Order"! I have to be in the air by the beginning of May so I can get some training time before I leave town for the summer.
So, if I'm looking at ARF's, is there an engine company to avoid? Are any of the .40's suitable for second plane, or should I get a .46?
IMO, get something in the .46 range rather than a .40. As far as engines to avoid, such a discussion could start wars. Stay with a name brand (OS, Thunder Tiger, Super Tigre, maybe a few others) and you should be ok. Before you choose anything, it wouldn't hurt to get in touch with your local club. Instructors often have preferences and going with them might make the learning easier. For example, you need to be sure your radio is compatible with the buddy box that your instructor has.