It can do it, but grass must be short and well-clipped. For normal grass, I went to 3" light foam wheels in front and 2.5" light foam wheels in rear. It will take off about 50% of the time. Power is not the problem, just clearance. Yes, use "up" elevator and a little left rudder. It tends to want to "dig in", leaning right and piviting on its head. (Cuts grass real nice!) Stan