I think your modifications are right on and not only will make the plane look better, but fly better as well. I did similar modifications as you are doing, but will a full cockpit and full sized pilot. I did link the flaps together with bell-cranks and one servo like we did in the old days to save weight and with the mods, it came out at less than 14 lbs. I use a Saito 180. Really, the biggest modification was changing the wheels to a scale location, and while it makes it a little more narrow tracked, there is no problem with nose-overs at all. I am using the Shinden gear made for the KMP 109 (almost scale length) and they are wonderful retracts. That allowed me to move the CG to the forward mark without the fear of noseover and the plane flys quite easily. The rudder must be used with care on takeoffs with the more narrow gear, but landings are actually easy. I have not had one nose-over and have landed the plane very fast at times on a grass field. I bought another one and plan on doing the same modifications again. I like what you have done with the canopy and bellypan and will likely do the same next time.
Good work,
john