I've been driving RC cars for years, and I guess its about time to fly something. I have a couple RC helicopters and im not too crazy about them, so I want to try fixed wing aircraft.

Im sure you guys get this question all the time but... What would you recommend as an entry to RC aircraft, preferebly something RTF (or a kit that comes with everything) that isnt too big, is electric, and flys slowly.

Thanks in advance!

top of the page is a rather large list of trainer planes to look at it will give you a rough idea of whats out there and I am sure there are plenty of suggestions to come

A very complete list for gas... However, what if one wanted to start by going electric? It would be nice to make suggested electric trainers as well.

Here are a couple that I know of that are great:

[link=http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXNVC0**&P=0]Hobbico ElectriStar Select EP Brushless RTF 63" [/link]
[link=http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXJKU3**&P=0]Hobbico SuperStar EP Select RTF w/Ailerons 48.75" [/link]

I've put together a list of planes that make good trainers and second planes. All of them on the list are proven planes that are well suited for successfully letting students learn to fly, or advance to a second plane. Check out the list here
[link=http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/m_4537845/tm.htm] Looking for a trainer- what's available. (Updated 1-19-07) [/link]

Hope this helps

Ken

I've read very good reviews of the Electristar. The Superstar (the frame the electristar is based on) has been around for quite some timme now, and has a very good reputation. I've not personally flown the Electristar, but I see no reason you shouldn't look into it if you're wanting to go all electric.

i haven't flown the electristar, but i hear it is a bit underpowered

Funny, RC Universe doesn't think so: http://www.rcuniverse.com/magazine/a...article_id=821

I've seen the Electristar fly, and when run with the recommended NiMH packs the plane seems to have plenty of power. Short run times are more of an issue, with 7 to 8 minute flights being typical of a pair of 3000mah NiMH packs. LiPo batteries would be an expensive but ideal upgrade to extend the flying time of the airplane significantly.

Based on the original poster's description, however, I believe that the 63" wingspan of the Electristar might be larger than what he had in mind. Consider instead:

Hobbyzone Super Cub RTF
Parkzone Slo-V RTF

Both of these ready-to-fly electrics can be conveniently carried in a very small car and include everything you need to get them in the air. The Slo-V boasts an almost 4' wingspan, but flies so slowly and is so manuverable that it can be flown in a gymnasium if the weather doesn't permit outdoor flying.

Swap out the batteries for LiPo and power is not an issue!

Nothing else needs to be done to it too making it a great upgradeable plane.