RE: GP Venus II
David, I have had one for a few weeks now (but with work and all I haven't had much of a chance to finish putting it together). Very nice kit, like most of the latest GP offerings seem to be-- even includes a pilot and aluminum spinner! Looks like I can keep mine under 8lbs with a YS 91FZ in the front. Size seems to be very similar to the Excelleron 90.
There is a thread in the Pattern forum although I haven't read where anybody else that has flown one yet. Mine should be ready in a few weeks.