Can we use this thread to talk about some of the common mistakes that Basic Pilots Make(I have made all of them and still do). Here it a few that I can think of.

Here i will try to help:

1. Flying in too close --- To me this just an area were you fell comfortable with. The new guys seem to fly closer for some reason not sure why. Try moving out a bit a see how it looks.

2. Flying too fast --- Too fast goes back to flying to close. Everything is rushed because you are so close in. Don't forget to throttle back a little

3. Rushing the sequence(short uplines)--- This is just a matter of burning fuel and understanding the power window your plane has. I don't think basic has any upline rolls, but if a roll was involved start the roll sooner on the upline.

4. Spinning too fast with too much aileron --- try going to low rate aileron. My Extra won't even stay in a spin if I don't have a little aileron involved. Burn more fuel and don't be afraid to try something different. Over roation is tuff. The one thing I notice alot is the pilot letting go off the sticks were you think it will stop. Try flying the airplane to a stop.

5. rolling too fast --- ok on this if anyone has a deflection meter, Leave it alone once you get the overall setup in your plane. I.E. make sure elevators are pulling the same. Once the setup is done. Leave the meter at home. Not everyone is going to use 15 degrees of elevator. Use what is comfortable for you. Adjust your D/R to what you like, and don't be afraid to experiment.

6. not centering the manuever on the line--Burn fuel!!!!

7. Going in or out ie... not keeping the same distance for the whole sequence--- This one my dad taught me along time ago. I really struggled with this one in my early days of pattern. Start by making a trim pass were you want it, and them copy it for the whole flight. Up and down the flight path you have choose. it took me 2 full weeks to get were I could hold a line. So have patience with this one.

8. straight and level---Most pilots don't know when they are straight and level. The most common is the wingtip that is close to you is always down. Whether you are going up wind or down wind. Learn what your plane looks like wings level and go from there. Also remember that your wings are going to look different going acroos the top of the box.

I hope this helps, also everyone check there CG. Most guys think a tailheavey plane flys better. Try adding some nose weight and your plane will get a more locked in feel.

Rick