What size to get back in the hobby?

[dmechnic]

Started in the hobby at 13yrs old w Ugly Stick 60, flew just a couple flights then folks split (divorce)…built several Stick 40’s as a young adult (20’s) and got out for several flights. I’m now 54, looking to get back into it and can’t decide on size. Looking at 3 ARF Sticks (2 Ultra’s and 1 Ugly). I want to stick with gas….the Ultras are either 10cc/60” span or 30cc/81” span. The ugly stick is a 15cc platform w 71” span. Plan is to utilize the flap option so to allow for slower speeds, but I recognize how entertaining (read…hot) these can be. Besides cost, are there any other reasons to choose one size over the other? Is one of the three better suited for trainer duty? Thanx in advance everyone!

Dave

[paulrkytek]

Do you have a local model flying club. So many things have changed since you last flew and it might be worth your while giving them a visit before you buy anything, you might even get a trial flight !!!. Flying sites are hard to find and KEEP with lots more hoops to run through with Registration, FAA ,CAA , National and local laws, Health and safety etc compared to 25 years ago.
I used fly i.c ( UK) or gas if you are in the USA) in the 1960s. I now only fly electric because it is quieter, cleaner and less hassle. I can get 3 flights in before some guys eventually get the gas motor started and running well. Having said that I love the sound of a 4 stoke motor or a MOKI engine so it is what ever keeps you happy. To start back in the hobby I would go for something 48" to 60" wingspan gas or electric and spend some time on a flight simulator before I even took off. You can download a Phoenix flight sim using the link below and get a cheap used Spektrum DX 6 or 8 or 9 . Either way welcome back !!!

https://www.rc-thoughts.com/phoenix-sim/

[Elbee]

Started in the hobby at 13yrs old w Ugly Stick 60, flew just a couple flights then folks split (divorce)…built several Stick 40’s as a young adult (20’s) and got out for several flights. I’m now 54, looking to get back into it and can’t decide on size. Looking at 3 ARF Sticks (2 Ultra’s and 1 Ugly). I want to stick with gas….the Ultras are either 10cc/60” span or 30cc/81” span. The ugly stick is a 15cc platform w 71” span. Plan is to utilize the flap option so to allow for slower speeds, but I recognize how entertaining (read…hot) these can be. Besides cost, are there any other reasons to choose one size over the other? Is one of the three better suited for trainer duty? Thanx in advance everyone!

Dave

Hey Dave,

Firstly, Welcome to "The Squawk".

Secondly. I, too, got back into RC after many years away and I owe it all the folks here at Hobby Squawk.

I'd say, these are just a great bunch of people.

paulrkytek has a really good point, Along with your research, I'd try to find a local club and visit their flying site.

Talk to anyone, as most of us are all to happy to talk about the hobby.

Your "Ugly Stiks" are great airplanes, but those can be high performance, as you well know.

A longer wingspan is always better, IMHO, and the Ugly Stik .60cc was my favorite back in the 'late '80s.

Don't overlook electric, but buy-in costs can be higher especially if you still have all your fuelie stuff lying around.

Fuel costs are really high, but small price to pay if you don't fly a lot or you're not buying LiPo batteries and a new charger.

All in all, welcome back to R/C and glad to have you onboard here at Hobby Squawk.

Best, LB

[dmechnic]

Thanks for the responses! I have already sought out the field and club…it’s close by so I’m set there, just haven’t seen anyone out as of yet. I’ll likely check out their monthly meeting if I don’t catch anyone at the field. Having flown glow I really like the idea of gas, 2 or 4 stroke. Electric, while convenient, isn't as visceral for me. I LOVE the Ultra Stick 30cc size/look but not having any experience in large scale am a touch hesitant. Obviously the planes have great flight characteristics and with flaps I’m guessing can be a bit more tame with slower speeds to facilitate training. I didn’t have much trouble with the Sticks in the past, until a water tower got in my way (short/long story). I’ll also get on the sim to get myself refreshed…didn’t have that option back in ‘83 lol! Pics of the club/field show several larger scale Extra 300/Edge type planes so at least I know they have members familiar with larger airframes.