a 2 stroke is easy
-minimal needle adjustments
-fuel is $4 a gallon
-ringed piston.... could easily get several years from an engine and only about $100 to rebuild. Pretty easy task too, for someone that likes to tinker.
The Rovan would be a good starter, but remember. You always get what you pay for. Than engine may not last, but you could throw a new headkit on it if it blows.
Also the parts are made from cheaper materials, easier to break, but you can just upgrade to HPI and RPM parts as needed
Better to stick with an HPI if possible, used with some upgrades would be