All of the replies are all good so far. Thanks for not bashing pattern. I agree with most everything everyone is saying. Although, the most expensive arf in us dollars is only like 3500 i believe as seen here ( http://www.oxai.us/Models-Astral.htm ) I don't however agree 100% that there is no new technology coming out. Pattern is the part of the reason that new technologies come out in my opinion. All the carbon that we have used for years is now very popular in all planes to keep them light. We are always striving to come up with new things to make our plane have the edge over the others. I feel also that pattern size and weight restrictions can be part of the contest. We not only have to fly good, but we have to build good and light. I really wish they would come out with a gas motor that has the power of a ys that would fit in a pattern plane. I have to agree ys fuel is EXPENSIVE. I can't wait until I figure out my zdz 80 and finish my extra... I gotta say, I've been flying for a long time and this is my first gas motor and 9-10 servo plane. It's very confusing... My hat's off to you guys for your knowledge. Thanks for the replies, I thought this might be interesting to bring up at the pattern meet next week.....

Take care and good flying....


Krishlan