I have an OS 61 FX that's looking for a plane that I can use to develop some pattern skills. I'd estimate my piloting skills are in the early intermediate stage - they still get me in trouble but I'm able to recover (most of the time!!). There are so many good looking planes out there but they're classified as 3D or 4D or IMAAC-compatible and I really don't know if they'd be good for what I'm looking for. Anyway, I like the looks of 4 planes: Lanier Stinger 60; Modeltech's Dragon Lady and Formula 3D; and, Hobbico's Sukhoi SU-31. I'd like your comments on these planes and any others you might recommend to me.
Thanks,
Bidwin

Two come to mind for pattern. I have had good luck with a Cermarc Javalin II with a OS 46AX so the 61 should be within the range, It is a very inexpensive ARF. The second is a Koyosho Oxalys. Both of these a are for medium to advanced flyers. For a better comfort level you can't beat the Hangar 9 Ultra Stick for a Sportsman starter.

I think giantscaleplanes has a 61 sized pattern style plane looking similar to the Quest. I flew pattern with their SWALLOW 90 and was very competitive with this ARF. I even flew it into Intermediate for a few contests.

http://www.giantscaleplanes.com/Lark-70.htm

I think this plane would perform awesoem with your 61 without a pipe to complicate things. ONLY 139!!! Just make sure as with all arfs you look at the glue joint around the firewall, and the wing hold down plate. The reseal the covering edges with a little iron or recover if you prefer.. or just go fly the heck outta it and use it to learn pattern!!! when its dead, move on to 90 120 0r even 160 size.

Here's another to consider:

http://www.camodel.com.ar/Ingles/models1.htm

Yep, that CA Epsilon 40 would be sweet with the 61 and so would the Javalin II. I've seen the Javalin fly and it is a nice clean flying plane.

The Lark is also a very nice flying plane, I don't think you could go wrong with any one of these choices.

Ken

The Dragon Lady makes a very acceptable plane for Sportsman or Intermediate just reduce the diheidrel to about 3/8" total and add about 1" to the rudder. A 61 size engine would be a little small for the weight, a 120 2 or 4 cycle work very well. In 1996 a friend won several contests in Masters class flying against pattern fliers that flew at the nats that year flying a Dragon Lady. For a 60 size engine a Great Planes Super Sportster, modified the same as the Dragon Lady, is hard to beat, a very smooth and accurate sport plane. By the way, tricycle gear can be a real benifit for your first pattern bird. It will help your take off and landing scores.

Thanks, All, for your replies. Haven't quite decided on which plane to get but several of your suggestions have been added to the mix.
Bidwin

Take a look at the Melody Pattern Plane from GCBM R/C Models Inc. [link=http://www.gcbmrc.com]www.gcbmrc.com [/link] They are being sold on RCU for $249.99 with free shipping....

The Melody is a 90 size plane, AUW of 8 lbs.. A little large and heavy for a 61FX.

Ken

Do a google search and find Joe Bridi's web site. There are several planes, the XLT, Dirty Birdy and a bunch of others that will fit the bill. Most aren't new designs but over time they've shown themselves to be something everyone ought to have at least one of.

Rick H.

Of your primary choices I like the Modeltech Formula 3D but even better the Modeltech Twister.
The javelin will be a good choice also
and then the lark from giantscale planes

My favorite would be the
Sportsman Aviat Excelleron 50 ARF for $159.99 at :
http://www.hobbypeople.net/gallery/127564.asp
Have flown one with an Irvine 53. The 61FX would be perfect.
Eddie

The lark should already have the holes and mounts for retracts setup in the wing. you just cut the covering out to access them

this is why i suggested it as it also comes with fixed gear. simple installation.

Chuck

I forgot about the Excelleron 50. I have a 90 size, it flies sweet!

Ken