You could also try the Firebird II. It is in between the Outlaw and XL. It has a smaller motor than the XL and is a good little flyer for what it is meant to do. My 13 year old son started out on one and really liked it. Once you get the handle on running it on the 4 cell pack put a 5 cell pack in and it flies even better.

My son has moved up to a GWS E-Starter and still messes around with the frirebird. He built a new wing out of foam and made it 7" wide X 36" long. Now it gluides around great. Plus he doubled the size of the controll surfaces. Now he can turn as quick as he wants. Anyhow just another option for him.