I can't explain anything I see on models except for "follow the leader" seems to be a common link
I have seen perfectly good designs stretched out to copy "pattern" models - The results being a very mixed bag.
The stab position thing -another idea I can't explain as lots of objective tests say it is NOT critical. A T tail isn't a good layout tho for aerobatics
keeping the "drag and thrust" in fairly close alignment makes trimming at different speeds easier
Ditto for decalage
My flying ?
I flew control line then rc mainly pattern and then IMAC All sizes and speeds .
The biplane thing is very interesting trimwise because the drag (wings) relative to the thrust really kicks in at higher AOA-especially if there is stagger. and the more seperation btween panels the more pronounced it gets. The Bucker is still the best setup I have seen -The Ultimate was horrid.
I am an admitted fuddy duddy - I don't like the "look" favored on current pattern-Also detest stying on current cars which resemble dung beetles (or Japanese beetles)- and never have figured out why a commuter pickup truck has to be as large as a Peterbilt.
Reality seems to have taken a holiday.