unless you travel via plane a lot then just go with this one:
http://www.carolinasrc.com/Webstore/...idproduct=2002
Normal life span is a long time. I have had mine well over a season and use it as a "workhorse" at home. Since I travel a lot I have a losi box to help with weight on the planes.
I have never cycled mine or anyone I have ever had for that matter just used it and charged it. Not saying that it's wrong to do, just have not felt the need to do it personally.