I havn't flown in 10 yr's wasn't that experienced then. I am building a kit, balsa usa phaeton II, should i just build the kit and buy nessesary equipment radio and such, or buy a hanger9 60 trainer arf and use that radio for my phaeton II? Just getting started out this can get into so much money! Thanks, Charlie

I've priced buying an ARF and the components versus buying an RTF. If you work the discounts and sales right at someplace like Tower, I've found that you can do as well, or even better, buying the components rather than the RTF packages. You'll also gain experience installing components in an ARF.

Since you haven't flown in a long time, you really should get something to relearn/learn the skills you'll need for the Phaeton. Consider an inexpensive ARF trainer, engine, and look at basic 6 channel computer radios. Then when you're ready for the Phaeton II, buy another engine and a flight pack. Depending on how you do with the trainer, you might even want to get another plane before you transition to the Phaeton.

KYOSHO just came out with two 40size models that they call ARF. Truth is, they're almost as completed as some RTFs. The only gluing is to put the two wing halves together and stick on the horizontal tail. Hinging is already done, pushrods are in place, horns already on, motor mount bolted on, wheels bolted on the gear.... almost a RTF.

And they're right on $100.

I'm flying the low wing daily because it's so good. It's supposed to be a low wing trainer. hahaha..... yeah right...... It is stable as heck and easy to fly, but what it can do is way beyond what trainers are for........ hmmmmmmmmmmmm

A buddy has the high wing. If it can't do anything the low wing can do, we haven't seen it. And it IS a trainer. But one that can do anything.

KYOSHO Calmato is the high wing. Calmato Sport is the low wing.

Both of them only need the wing halfs joined and the stab glued in. Oh yeah, you do have to put your engine on and the servos in.

Thanks guys, I'll go for another trainer again, maybe put the money in the radio first and field kit first.