I really like my Hobbistar 60 too and feel its a wonderful trainer. And I'm still learning, have built several kits (not all RC) over the years and feel like you - that ARF's still require a lot of attention that you wouldn't realize needed doing if you'd never built a kit.

While I abhor rigid rules and would never make it mandatory; I truly believe that anyone that takes the time to struggle thru assembling a kit via plans and instruction manual will personally benefit beyond the aggravation of doing it. Most will be glad they did it and feel some sense of accomplisment. At the very least they will appreciate more what makes one tick, they may discover a new creative passion and almost certainly will admire those folks that can design and build from scratch. If you're like me I'm amazed at how little it takes to make something fly but how attention to detail can result in something that flies smoothly and looks like it was poured from a mould. I know the ARF manufacturers have a fantastic process because the intricate structures and coverings are way beyond my building capabilities. Its only because I've built from kits that I appreciate the craftsmanship in the ARF. Now if they'd just glue'm up like would.

Regards,

Clay