Looking for advice on getting a trainer after a long break from the hobby. With all the graet ARF's out there I'm tempted to get a .60 size trainer for more stabilty and having it easier to see. Other than cost is there any down side to getting for example the thunder tiger .60 size ARF Trainer
Thanks
Mark Franke
Fairfax, Va

I was the same way, I left the hobby. Was doing pretty good before I had to quit. I re-entered the hobby with a duraplane 40 with the idea of less money to re-build or loose if and when I crashed. What I was amazed at was how much I remembered when I got back into the sport. I wish I would have went witha different plane. I've out grew all the diheidral so fast it's kinda discourged me, but I'm quickly building a Tiger 60 on which I'm going to put a Saito 91. If I was you, and had soloed before I left the hobby I would go with a Avistar. Great flying planes, and are capable of what most of your flat bottom winged trainers aren't.

The best 40 size trainer that works with a good 40(but get a 46) is the Sig LT40. Available as an ARF or kit. Its big but lighter than the 6o size rated trainers so it flys better.

second Fastsky's advice.
Have a goodun,John

You will probably want to go with a size that you are more likely to go with when you advance from a trainer. So, if you want to go with 40 size planes afterwards then the 40 is the choice and obviously the same with the 60 size. This way you can use the engine in future planes in its respective size. In my opinion the difference is just size and expense. And like Fastsky said, an LT-40 is as big as most 60 size trainers and is a dang good trainer. :stupid:

Gdolboy has a great point. I took a 5-year break after my first year. Took the sport plane that I'd had in the closet out, refurbished it, and flew it. There were some shakes, to be sure, but the rust came off quickly and I didn't have any troubles.

If you were beyond trainers in the past, see if one of the guys at your field will let you get on the buddy box with a trainer or sport plane. You might be surprised how quickly it comes back to you.

If not, consider the models you think you're likely to build in the future.

Could someone explain what the .60, .40 represents, and how you determine when looking at the planes which they are.

thank you,

Hi Archimedes,
.25,.40,.60,etc.,is the size engine the plane designer is recommending as the max. size, can not always look at a plane and tell what size engine it will need ,wing loading and the design will control that,most people use larger engines than the design calls for with no harm.
Have a goodun,John.

mfranke:
LT-40 is an excellent choise, however .60 trainers are in my opinion, much easier all the way.
in your case, just coming back to the hobby, I can bet $ you will remember everything fast; so in a short time you will be able to move to a stick or to a low wing, and a .60 is alway more fun (you can use the same engine!!!.)
just my tip.
enjoy & welcome back!

I like the .40 sized trainers. They are easier to transport and with this size plane - More fit in my garage.....

I have had no problem seeing the .40 sized planes and sometimes I fly way, way out to avoid other flyers.

Another point - .40 planes are cheaper.

Somer people prefer .60 size trainers because they can see them better. This is very important - it all depends on your vision.

The LT-40 however is the size of most .60 size trainers and will fly with a simple .40 size engine. The wing is 70". It does fly great and is a great trainer. I usually recommend the .40 Avistar because of its aerobatic ability. Most people fly it longer than the flat bottom trainers.

Good luck and enjoy.

Chris

cwat212 has a point. Since you were flying before the LT40 may become too laid back for you very quickly. An Avistar may be a better choice for you. I don't usually suggest them for new flyers with zero stick time. The plane is very light and responsive and can gain speed very quickly and some newbies simply can't learn on it. Since you flew before, a few flights should get you back on your feet so to speak.

Build the Tiger 60, flies great, and lands like a trainer. Plus you now have an enging for your Hog Bipe that you will build later LOL Good luck Loren

Looks like I found a great deal on a Tiger.60 Thanks to everyone for your advice and experiance.
Great Forum
Mark Franke
Fairfax, Va

Hey, I"m almost finished with a Tiger 60, lot's of fun to build. I think you can also get them in an ARF.