Absolutely right, Nathan. I have a pair of pattern planes, one Venus II and one Excelleron 90. Both fly like they are on rails, and land like nothing you've ever flown before. Just fantastic planes. However, they do require proper care and feeding as well as good piloting. They can tend to land fast ( by nature, they are very slippery) however, are very predictable, most of them do not have bad habits.

However, I still contend that if a pilot is going to want to try pattern, and is still at the 'second plane' level, then a great, outstanding choice would be something like a Tiger 60 or Four Star 60 or something like that. They are sport aircraft, but are very forgiving and offer the visibility to see what's going on as a pilot pattern trainee is working on sharpening his/her skills.

One thing I look for in a pattern type plane is what the elevator/rudder look like, as well as the size of the ailerons. Barn door control surfaces don't cut it as far as I am concerned. Especially those with the 'counter-weights' with very small horizontal and vertical stabs. That's great for 3D but also present some pretty sharp and reactive controls. Soft, smooth, and defined is good for the beginner pattern type.

BTW, what is that aircraft in your picture? Very nice!!!

CGr.