Go with the 1.20. You won't regret it. Even Sportsman this year has a couple of power manuevers, such as the vertical on center. Yo can't have to much vertical performance, and you have a throttle. The 1.20 is a sweet, modern generation engine. The .91 is a last generation engine. Move it back on the mount 3/4 to 1" to help with the CG.
I found that the Venus II is sensitive to CG changes as the tank level drops, and you end up retrimming during the flight; very annoying. I put a Perry VP-30 pump on mine and moved the tank over the CG. Helped a lot.
I didn't glass my center section; no need, plus it is added weight. Weight is the enemy of any pattern flyer, so be sure to leave out the heavy pilot they give you! Actually, the longevity of modern ARFs is pretty good. If anything, landing gear mounts are a weak point on many arfs, but the Venus mount is relatively strong. You need to grease landings anyway for maximum points!
Jon
ORIGINAL: JimConaty
Ok, thanks! I'll go with the CA hinges and save myself the work. Thanks for the rudder tip. Maybe I'll just build that right in.
On a related note: I'm new to pattern (flew controlline precision aerobatics for years) so I have some general questions.
How is the longevity of Venus II or ARF's in general? Anything I should beef up? Do you bother to glass the center joint of the wing?
And as I will be flying sportsman this year, is the O.S. 91FX ok? Or should I spend the extra dough and go for the 120AX... I did read your excellent review on the Tower site Jon, but I wonder if I will notice the difference at this stage in my journey. It sounds like it's easier to balance with the 91.
Thanks,
Jim