The E-Maxx is a great starting truck imo because it is pretty durable in stock form and there is a lot of hop-ups
what do you have against electric
welcome to the forums
I'd say an electric 2wd stadium truck is the ideal beginner RC.Failing that a nitro one like the jato or the associated or losi would be good too.electrics require slightly less maintenence since they don't vibrate themselves to bits.MTs are inherintly less durable due to increased inertia and require more maintenance due to being 4wd but are muchos fun.I don't think you'd regret getting the Jato.