Good Beginner Package

[Shadowdancer]

I'm looking to get into sailplanes, but I'm unsure of which stuff to get. I need a good, durable plane that's fun and easy to learn how to fly on but isn't going to leave a hole in my wallet (>$100). Also, what would be a cheap and functional radio to get with this? Thanks for the help!

[aeajr]

I started my sailplane experience with an RTF and it has been wonderful. I
now have 5 thermal sailplanes and 1 slope plane. I don't work for any hobby
company or distributor. I just want to help new glider pilots, who might not
want to build, to enter this wonderful part of the RC flying experience. I
enjoy my electrics but I LOVE my sailplanes. Perhaps you will have the same
great experience waiting for you.

The Spirit Select is a 2 meter starter sailplane that is completely assembled
with all the electronics installed including a a hobby grade 72 MHZ radio that you can use to fly other RC planes. I have flown other gliders and parkflyers with mine. It is very easy to use.

Here is a link to the site where it can be purchased it for $160 complete!
About the same price as a 3 channel RTF electric plane.
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXVK55**&P=7

[aeajr]

You will need one of these to launch it.

For a short field get the up-start
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXE638&P=7

For a larger field, get the hi-start
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXE636&P=7

Two articles that may be helpful.

Sailplanes are Wonderful
http://www.rcezine.com/cms/article.php?cat=&id=18

First Lift - First Gliders
http://www.rcezine.com/cms/article.php?cat=&id=36

[aeajr]

I'm looking to get into sailplanes, but I'm unsure of which stuff to get. I need a good, durable plane that's fun and easy to learn how to fly on but isn't going to leave a hole in my wallet (>$100). Also, what would be a cheap and functional radio to get with this? Thanks for the help!

Shadowdancer,

Did you ever get your plane? Are you soaring with the hawks?

[killabudz00]

get the accipter baddius from ebay for 60.00. it comes with everything and flys awsome if u add a couple quarters to the front to balance it. very easy to repair also. has a great glide time and about 10 to 15 mins on the electric motor.

[aeajr]

The Gentle Foamy from www.mtntoys.com is getting very good reports. Made of EPP foam, it is hard to break and easy to repair. I hear it is a very good first sailplane.