Hey Ric,

I would think reliability too. I would start with a reliable engine, lets say an OS 1.60. that would fly a good many 1.20 size planes out there. I'm not too current on the 1.20 ARFs but my father flew a thundertiger Giles ARF that was about 78" and it flew and presented the sequences very well. I enjoyed flying it but it was a bit underpowered with his TT 1.20 engine. an OS 1.60 would have really brought that plane to life. OK, lets think OS .91. there is a guy in my (old) club that flies a great planes 60 size extra 300. it is also a real good basic flying type plane. a bit older and a "kit" not ARF. incidentaly this is the same plane that started me flying IMAC. mine was powered by an old OS 1.08. the .91 fx would be a better match though. should bring the weight to around 7.5lbs. good combination in my book. if you go .60 size then watch the wing area on some of them. of course I would not think of anything other than a DA 50 if you were to step up to gas, there are alot of nice flying 50cc planes out there - especially your EF Yak. but, there goes your $$$$$. I don't think you have to go crazy on servos, just something that centers well. perhaps a mid grade digital (~$50)

good luck and keep us updated

Hubb