Chris,

You've got me on the cost of the Prophecy kit....that is a data point I don't recall. And certainly inflation costs are a complication when trying to evaluate the cost of an older skinny 2M to a current day 2M. I think it is fair enough to look at current day kit prices from companies that offer the same (or similar) plane in different sizes.

There are lots of companies that make similar models in multiple sizes - 40, 60, 90, 110, 120, 2M, etc - for pattern and IMAC styles. There are lots of companies that make motors, ESCs, servos, lipos, etc over a broad range of sizes. Pick any size (or weight) plane you want, and outfit with any price level equipment you want, and then bump up to the next size (or weight) while maintaining the same level of performance, and the cost goes up.

And, I'll mention noise again....even at the 2M IMAC size, it is not easy to achieve 96 db while retaining the thrust, speed, and smooth throttle response pattern planes enjoy. The noise issue becomes increasingly difficult as the power output increases. The typical 2M pattern plane costs more than the typical 2M IMAC plane because the pattern plane has more thrust, speed, and is quieter. The increased cost associated with increased size, weight, and power is easier to see with IMAC style planes since there is a broader range of sizes.

It doesn't make me happy to think someone will drop out of pattern if the prices don't drop, but certainly the prices will drop if the rules are left alone. If the rules are changed in a manner that favors electric, I'd expect a lot of the current IC fliers to drop out when they can't afford to reset in a short time period for electric (no matter what the electric costs).

Regards,

Dave Lockhart