Hi Vinnie- I kinda did the same thing- I took out my GP Skybolt a couple days ago for the 1st time this year, as I've been flying an old kit built Skybolt, "Beater", I call it. Both have OS 61SF long strokers in them, and with APC 12/10 props, they do perform well. The GP ARF is a little lighter, as the Yellow/black one is kit built, has a sheeted & painted fuse. The GP will go vertical a lot higher and quicker than the "Beater", so I do all my practice with the Beater. I have a club member friend who is an excellent pattern flyer, and he's helping me learn the old "Classic Pattern" routine. I really don't want a pattern plane,ie, a Kaos, Dirty Birdy, or that type of plane-- I want to fly a BIPE. I don't want to be an expert, I just want to be able to do the routine smoothly, and have fun with it. At 73, I don't want to get all panicky, I just want to have a fun & relaxing day with my birds. Dean