Electrics aren't cheap. This is about as good of a combo as you can get for the money.

http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin...I=LXCXF4**&P=0

Definitly find a local club and they will help you to learn about glow engines, how to tune them and how to feed them. Also they will help to keep the plane in one piece till at least after you solo. As far as the hassle....It is worth it!