Red Hat 7.0 really doesn't deserve the bad reputation it has been given. Once updated with the appropriate RPMs, it is a stable distribution.

For those new to Linux, Red Hat is a great choice. So many developers make RPM packages. (Although I don't like their recent change to a fee-based system for the automatic updater. Just find a local FTP mirror and get the RPMs there.)

But, as you say, there are stronger distributions for those with a bit more experience.

I hope this doesn't start a flame war, as I am already dangerously offtopic. :-)

Update: Forgot "of" in the title. I need more sleep....

--PotPieMan