RE: Nitroplanes Pitts Special 120 aka Pitts M-12-120
The amount of throw is the problem I have with it as well. I may try to widen the elevator opening to obtain more. I think it has plenty of surface, just not enough throw. I will let you know what I come up with. Ailerons however, are adequate and I am happy with the roll rate. See the video below for a demonstration of that.
In regards to your balance, I also have the smoke pump mounted on the firewall. That is another three ounces in addition to the ignition and engine, fyi. My videographer was not the best this trip. Weather dependent, I will get my wife to film some passes that will result in much higher quality in the near future. I hope yours figured out, it has been a blast to fly the few times I have had it out.
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fkkNL-QrztI[/youtube]