Hey Chris, I'm sure I will be happy with the Stearman. I had the ASP 400 Radial engine in a CMP 80" Zero but the landing gear supports were to weak. The plane was quite heavy and it flew well but the landing gear mounts broke after each flight. I also have a GP Super Stearman powered by an FPE 40CC gas engine that performs very well. I also had a GP Curtis Hawk (before it decided to self destruct) powered by a PTE 36 gas engine that performed well too. Since I have experience with other GP Bipes, I think the PT-17 will work out well with the ASP 400. I do enjoy my radials, I have the ASP 400, a Saito 200 in a Sea Fury, a Saito 450 in a Gilmore Red Lion, and an UMS Evolution 777 in a BH Corsair, all are a lot of fun.
Best wishes and good safe flying.
Heli-NuBee (AKA Roger the radial rabbit)