Hi,
Having recently got back into the hobby myself, i understand you concerns about lipos - all i can say is wow - what a difference to nicads of old!!
Can't recomend the orion touch charger enough - it so easy to use - has loads of features and is a fair bit cheaper than the LRP.
I won't comment on saddles as I am using shorty Lipo's, I'm sure a more experienced racer will help you out there!
Si