Yep, Tim, you're RIGHT! The VERY best "scale" aerobatic airplane I ever owned was a slug in comparison. And if there are any doubters....try this test.... next time you're out, and the competent sport pilot is there, give him a few laps with your bird... Betcha a trainer cord his jaw drops open, he fills the air with "Holy Cow"s, and "That is unbelievable" kind of comments.

Also - look at the current really advancing designs in arfs - what are they? Pattern shaped, pattern -capable, and very WELL designed aerobats. Pattern ITSELF may not appeal to a large crowd, but I think the smoothness, response, power-to-weight, and predictable flying habits ARE drawing a crowd. And they're voting with their wallets, too. Just look within the past two years at the 90 size and up "3D Pattern" ARFS out there.... must be there's a demand, eh??