If you're wanting to reduce the weight I would scrap the pushrods that it comes with and go to small/medium sized carbon rods.

Probably the best thing that I can think of to make it fly properly is to get the correct balance for the plane...which probably isn't the recommended CG. Balance is EXTREMELY important to getting the plane to fly right.

A lot of people like to "Set it a little nose heavy so it will be 'stable'." This really isnt' a good idea. The same people also say "A plane that has a rearward cg is twitchy." This isn't the case. A plane that is too nose heavy will not respond to control inputs, possibly leaving you off field or in a tree. It will have to fly faster to stay level because of all the weight in the nose. Landings will be harded because the elevator will lose authority at low speeds causing the nose to come into the ground. A plane that is balanced properly should respond to the slightest control inputs and fly at all speeds level. That means no "ballooning" or stalling. Just straight...beautiful level flight at all speeds A properly balanced plane is NOT "twitchy" it's controllable and the CG is generally back from the manufacturer's suggestion.

Properly balanced planes also come alive in thermals and are more fun to fly Dual rates are nice for high speeds if you have the capability of using them. The balance point can take a while to perfect, but it's definately worth it when you're "on the money."

To give you an idea. Before I dumbthumbed my spirit elite and put her into the ground the CG was a little over 3/4" back from the recommended position. It flew beautifully...but it wasn't quite perfect(yet).

So...the most important thing about building your new model?
CG CG CG CG CG CG CG CG CG CG CG!!!!!
You can make a brick with a wing fly with the proper balance point

Averen