NotSo6
I have been running one for 2 years and have nothing but praise for the machine.
Starting is not a problem if you stick to the Eurocopter method. If hot, crank to well below (I head for 180) and then keep the throttle position short of the gate, feed in very slowly. Typically this gives a very smooth hot start. Starting problems come with ham-fisted throttle hand or trying to rush the process.
As for the rotor head, not heard of another one going. Still no report as to why it gave way, but my money is on a casting fault.
Otherwise, a 50hr service coming in at well under £1k gives you an idea of maintenance ease.