Right on Jon....my 30% Extra was about $500 landed in my back yard and the engine was another $400. I'm still using the Foootuba radio I had before, and the only reason I'm looking at another plane is because this one has spent 3 perilous years teaching me to fly all over again...
It's pretty well beat up. The engine tho still has another 20 years on it..
In those 3 years I've had an absolute blast, 1 third placing and 1 win (but no $10.00 plaque either
). I love it, but it's not for everyone that's for sure. Do I attempt to justify or rationalize the cost - nope - can't.
Is it as much fun as chasing Jonboy with my striker? Not even close.
And I will likely have more FUN flying my new hurricane....
BUT, there is a camaraderie in IMAC I've never found in any other facet of this hobby - you call for me as I'm flying my sequence, and point out to me how I could improve a manouver....Then I call for you while you compete against me...kinda neat!
Sorry, Old Man Ramblin'