I've played alot with a modified and lightened Zenoah G26, and have found that you do get the snappy, unlimited performance on aircraft 10lbs or less. The only thing I might mention, is that a biplane might add just enough more drag to affect the results. 1000 sq in wing area and up is nice, that seems to be about the point where adding 1/2-1 lb to the AUW won't negatively affect the flight characteristics, and allow you to have much more power up front. Going from the 26 to a 35 in your case, would indeed add a little more than a pound up front. Even with the 35 I would be aiming for 11lbs or less, and your battery might need to be placed pretty far rearward. Hopefully someone will jump on here who has one, and can confirm some AUW and balance numbers for you, before you decide. We all know the weight advertised is not always a good number to trust.

Chad