I once saw a lightened CG Extra fly at a regional meet and it was quite impressive. The builder had ditched the ply sides for balsa and built airfoiled tail surfaces( among other mods). The plane was really awesome with a YS 120. Im just about ready to start on my CG Extra and was wondering if anyone had any tips on keeping the weight down (or other performance mods). I already plan on installing a carbon fiber landing gear and fiberglass cowl. I fly some mild 3D, more into pattern type, rolling circle, knife edge etc. But would love to be able to perform knife edge loops, torque roll well, etc.

If I could build it light enough, maybe my Saito 100 would give it unlimited vertical? On another subject, anybody know what weight the Saito 100 will pull straight up?

Any advice from the pros would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance.
Chris

you must understand removing wood to save weight, makes the plane more fragile and is a lot of work. Get a scale and see how much balsa it takes to weigh one ounce. How much weight do you want to save?

I would build up the ailerons instead of the solid ones provided. Also check the density of the supplied balsa and replace any heavy pieces. Try to remove 10% of the wood from every piece. Never add any plywood, it's just too heavy.

You'll find the biggest payoff comes from light weight equipment. Use the smallest possible fuel tank and battery. Just one elevator servo should be enough for this plane. Light weight wheels are a must. Most of all, check the CG as soon as possible to avoid adding weight.

A YS90 is plenty for all the pattern stuff.

Tom