I fully agree with you...it DOES fly pattern maneuvers well with a forward CG and minimized throws, it just does them much slower than a dedicated pattern plane. Since the instructions explicitly call for a low pitch prop (APC 16x4W specifically), and a Saito 100 or YS 110 they've pretty much dictated how fast the plane will fly. Fly it faster and take your chances. 6-pitch prop? Maybe with judicious throttle control. 8-pitch prop? Adios Mr. Wing!

Some of the Hitecs have slightly larger cases than others. More than once I've done the 'just...a...little...more...pressure and I'll have it....CARRACCKKK...uh oh..' trick! Now I take my time and do a little sanding if necessary. Very important on such lightly-loaded models such as these. They are fragile.

If you have the .40, then you would absolutely love the .90! Does everything soooo much better.

-Tom