Apologies for the typo above! Just want to set the record straight. I have absolutely no objection to anyone using any sort of powerplant that they wish! I am not interested in pursuing a sterile debate of electric versus IC motive power. As I have said elsewhere, the system used to power current electric planes is very old hat and somewhat crude in execution. I have had my fill when I did development work on chopped DC to power multiphase motors. That must have been at least 30 years ago. So the systems are not new. The ability to programme power was also developed at that time.
So personally, I don't have much interest in old electric technology, because I have been there, got the tee shirt and it doesn't really inspire me. To other people the techniques, as applied to model aircraft are cutting edge and exciting, if you find it that way, then fine, go for it and enjoy yourself. I just find it boring and unexciting, but that is just my take.
What people constantly fail to realise, is that we all play with model aircraft and engines / motors to ENJOY ourselves. There is room in the hobby for all sorts of people with different interests. That is what makes it so good to take part in.
I actually enjoy IC engines, I like the noise, smell and oil. I take them apart when they are sick and try my best to repair them. I am captivated with old US spark ignition engines and spend hours getting them to run at their best. If it actually came to either flying or engine fiddling, it would be a hard choice, I would probably take the latter. There is still a lot to learn about IC engines, different makes with near enough the same timing and port arrangements will run totally different to each other. I could go on, but enough!
The bottom line is go and do what appeals to you, but more importantly ENJOY yourself.
Andrew.