RE: Entry Level verses National/International Designs
G'day Chip,
The real question should be: Should the "entry level" pilot be flying a 2 x 2 metre pattern ship?
One could argue that 2 x 2 metre pattern models flying in sportsman could potentially put off new participants.
Most "entry level" pilots wouldn't want to buy a $1500 airframe and then add motor, batteries (assuming electric), ESC, Radio gear etc. By the time you add all that up, you're going to be well over $2K.
I'm all for reducing costs but I think you might be barking up the wrong tree for the "entry level" pilot.
Cheers
Jason.