What would be a good first model for a g-23 or similiar size gas engine.. I want something that is fully aerobatic with some 3-d capabilities..Dont really know much about gas engines so any advice would be helpful..

Thanks

On the G23, you'll need to run about 70% nitromethane for fully aerobatic + 3D. Seriously, I've never heard anyone say 3D and G23 in the same sentence. I think you need to think about 40-50cc of lightweight gasser for 3D. Combine with about 14-16 lbs of plane with about 1200 inches of wing area.

Honestly if you are going to go to gas and you want AEROBATICS, get a good 25-29% Edge or Extra and go with a 50cc gas engine. There are a few good bARFs out there or you also could get a CA Extra or the 29% Aeroworks Edge (personal favorite for this size)

A plane of this size will give you better flight characteristics and you will start to notice how BIGGER is BETTER

There are a few good bARFs out there or you also could get a CA Extra or the 29% Aeroworks Edge (personal favorite for this size)

I am interested in your comment on ARF's in the above above sentence. While this used to be true in the distant past (say 2 years ago) ARF's have made truly amazing progress. I have just opened the box of a Hangar 9 80" CAP232 ($299) and I am very impressed with the quality of construction and the finish - hardly a dimple in the Ultrakote anywhere. I am a scratch builder and design my own most of the time. I saw this deal, had a spare Taurus 52 and couldn't pass it up. A great knock around plane I can fly it without knees knocking!

By the way - the manual(s) (one from the website and one in the box) recommend a CG - 4 1/2" - 7" behind the Leading edge at the fuselage. Horizon recommends 6-7" by return e-mail. What do you other guys use on this model for aerobatics (not 3D)?

Gerry Rosebery

A G-23 in a Dragonlady is a great sport plane. Also a 4*120 is good. Both will FLY most aerobatic patterns. Add a g-26 and the 4*120 is even better.
BUT no torque rolls and not much 3D.
The 3D planes start about 45cc and 80".

As a builder, bARFs will ALWAYS be bARFs.