Well, this is the plane I selected to get back into the hobby after not flying powered R/C for 10 years. I did get some sailplane stick time around '96 though. After having some trouble with the Saito, fixed with an O.S. 'F' glow plug, I finally got out to the field. Advanced the throttle, corrected rudder, and was flying. It did need some up elevator trim such that the top of the tapered elevator was parallel with the horizontal stab. Landing was quick but solid, no problem. I only put three flights on but I was back into the aerobatics mode immediately. Now all I have to do is work on straightening my maneuvers. :stupid: The "low" control throws are very low. I will be using "high" throws next time. The plastic wheel pants have already started to crack and will get some fiberglass reinforcement. The Saito 72 is just barely enough for continuous vertical flight. I am still having trouble with a rich midrange. Hopefully more break-in will sort it out. The O.S. plug is well worth the horrendous $10 price tag. I can now maintain an exceptionally slow idle.

All in all, I would recommend this plane to anyone past the basic trainer stage.

I'm glad you like your Extra. I have had mine for two years powered by an Enya 80 4C that would not run well. This winter I replaced the Enya with a 91 Surpass with no home. What a difference. This is now my favorite plane. My wheel-pants lasted a few flights (grass field). The cowling is starting to crack in places despite lots of fiberglass reinforcement.
Watch the elevator throw. It will snap on you if the rates are too high. I have way more aileron throw that the manual recommends. It increased the roll rate a lot.

I bought two satio 72's last fall and both had a bad midrange rich problem. In fact, I was so disgusted I was ready to toss them both in the dumpster. Luckily someone here on rcu rescued me and both now run great. I think if you lean out the low end you'll be fine. The low end needle has an effect on the mid range. I also thought more break-in time would help but that wasn't the case. Here a link to the website I was directed to. Go to the throttle setup page. Good luck.....Dave

http://home.gci.net/~bjw/Saito-Engines/index.htm