Charlie,

I had a student with an RCM and I experienced all the things you said and worse. I think his control set up was a little loose because it flew like crud. If you made a sharp turn it would take a few seconds of correcting to get it back to flying straight and level. (yes it was in trim - as good as it could get) I agree with you about the plane for beginners. It is a sharp plane and they sell for dirt cheap, but I think there are much better "trainers" out there.

Jeff

My first plane was the IBIS from Laser Models. I started flying about 5 months ago and I have never crashed it. It is an incredibly stable model and you can do as much or as little with it as you want. On low rates I can come in for nice slow landings or do rolls, loops, vertical climbs and stalls on high rates. I really love this model. It wasn't hard to build either. I know I'm posting this long after the original question but if anyone else is wondering about this model I would HIGHLY recommend it. I have seen other trainers and this isn't a boxy looking thing, it looks and flies more like a full scale than the other trainers I see at the field. Yesterday I snapped the elevator and was still able to safely land. Thats how stable it is! I was pulling sharply out of a high speed dive on high rates and the side that doesn't have the control horn sheared at the center under the rudder. It just flapped while I landed the plane. I put an OS .46FX on it and it has plenty of power which makes it fun now that I can do more interesting stuff than just circle the field. I don't see them on Tower anymore but I think Laser Models still makes them. 2 thumbs up on this model!

I am new to RC planes and I purchased a Hobbico NexStar. I read where the LT-40 is taughted as a great trainer and I am wondering if I should switch. Anyone have experience with both of these? The instructors at my field had nothing but positive things to say about the NexStar but I did not know to ask about comparisons. Thoughts?

TIA,

Richard

I'm an instructor & I've flown & instructed with a ton of trainers. The Nexstar is an excellent training tool, particularly if you are not a "natural" (& if cost is not a particular issue). It easily covers all of the training steps from no-skills beginner to standard aerobatics. If you have some prior experience, or are a "natural" at model flying (a good clue is that you are a killer at three-dimensional video action games), then something cheaper & more sprightly would be better -- a Hobbico Avistar is an excellent trainer in that case.

I'll give you a clue... It ain't the plane

How does the Hobbico Hobbistar 60 MK III ARF fit into the mix? I figure that a largerplane would be easier to see and a bit more stable.

The Hobbistar 60 fits the picture just fine & it flies quite well. You are correct that the larger models are easier to see -- & they also are generally easier to fly than the 40-sized models -- with the exception of the Nexstar -- it is almost as large, & it flies very easily.

the aero star is better where there is a lot of wind/cross wind due to the gear being wider stance , other wise pretty much personal choice. the Nosen trainer was one of the worst (if not THE worst plane Ive ever flow(& that was with a "90") what a pig! no aileron response at all.yes it was well built byexperienced builder.

Hey guys i need to know if i am ready to fly my Hobbico superstar.i have had 2 Aerobirds,a slowflyer,Been on Real Flight for about a year now and i am building 2 elec 3D planes.is it really that hard to fly....?its just been sitting in my closet collecting dust because its a glow engine...and those are big and scary [X(]

pooman -
Go for it! The Superstar is an excellent trainer. Is there a club nearby that you could get help at?(yes-you're going to need it) The best way is to find a club that has instructors, fly there where you have lots of experience and support. Sounds like you already have a good introduction to the hobby, and by flying the electrics, you should be familiar with the technique. (Not to mention lotsa time on realflight!) They're not That big and scary! yet...

Almost all the planes in this post would be good trainers. I personally prefer the LT-40 or Kadet due to size, much easier to see. While instructing, I've watching new pilots do just fine with the nexstar, avistar, superstar, pt-40(I learned on one), LT-40, most of the Kadets, and a few odd-ball other trainers. (yes - I've flown all of them too). There's really not too much difference between any of these as far as I can tell besides name and asthetics. I would be somewhat hesitant to start off with a superstick, ultrastick, etc... it would be easier with a more stable airframe.

As far as kits vs. ARF... I agree with those who say start off with an ARF. Less initial investment when you consider the cost of tools, the amount of time spent trying to get it together, and somewhat less disappointment if something goes wrong. I would build a kit for your second plane while you learn to fly, so you arent rushed to get it done.

Wingman - How's it going?

The SIG KADET LT-40 is without a doubt the best .40 size Beginner Trainer on the market. We use 3 of them as Club Trainers. 71" Wingspan and will accept anything from a OS LA .40 to a O.S. or Super Tigre .61

If you want something just a little smaller, the SIG KADET LT-25 is a SUPER Easy to Build, Easy to Fly Tail Dragger. I just soloed two of our club students on my LT-25. I have a Saito 4 stroke .30 in mine, could use just a little bit more power, but I believe it is the best .25 size Trainer. 63" Wingspan, 4 pounds of Flying Fun.

Built it and learn how you might have to repair it.
Keep em Flyin,
Ken

allright thanx guys im gunna try it with a buddybox system and just have him there for any mess ups if theres any