gcb

jpuke,

You are correct about the handle. Your handle spacing should be about the same as your spacing on the bellcrank. One of the nice features about the Skyray is the external controls and the ability to change control movement. I am hoping yours is set-up with minimum movement (beginner setting). That is with the pushrod in the inner hole on the bellcrank and the outer hole on the control horn. This, along with the closer spacing on the handle should allow you smoother control while you are learning to fly and are still getting over the dizziness.

As you gain more experience, you can move the pushrod to the outer hole on the bellcrank and finally to the inner hole on the control horn. All of this assumes that SIG still provides two pushrod holes in the bellcrank and control horn. I have two Skyrays...one is ancient and the other is merely old. [8D]

You asked about balance but just as important is alignment. Make sure your stab and elevator are on perfect alignment with the wings. This includes looking at it from the side, the back, and the top.

Make sure your elevator is in the neutral position with the bellcrank so that you have an equal amount of up and down.

Make sure the rudder is straight with the fuselage or pointing out a little, but not pointing in.

Make sure the engine points out just a little.

If all of these are correct, you should be able to fly on 35' lines without it coming in on you. You may need to turn the prop around to maintain good pull. You probably have checked all of this stuff, but just in case...

Good luck with it.

George