mga,

I've got to give you a lot of credit for your cold weather flying. I have a set of skis that are still in there packaging due to lack of enthusiasm. I don't mind the snow as much as I mind the COLD.

I agree that this plane is a smooth flyer. Extremely stable in moderate wind. My old setup was with an OS 120 pump and a smoke system. I'd guess it was around 12 to 13 lbs. The CG was a little aft even with weight in the box up front. I'd need to slowly run it down the runway until the tail came up than throttle it up for take off. The landings were smooth as silk with no bounce. I love flying this plane!