David nice Job! I didn't change my springs and yes it did bottom out without fuel. It did ok on the ground handling at high speeds. You would have to stay with it. From my experence in flying the smaller Hawks when I tried to make it sit up with stiffer springs it seem to be worse on the ground handling. Not sure why.
I personally like the way it sits with the gear fully compressed. It also helps on angle of attack during take offs.
Best of luck with your maiden. I will be starting on my second one I hope soon.