I've got a Yak 54 that I'm building and going to put a Zenoah G62 that's been lightened and had an Electronic Ignition installed on it. What I want to know is if this will make a good pattern plane? I'm not ready for 3D and would like to fly normally until I get the feel of the plane and then start some gentle aerobatics. I thought pattern flying was when you flew the landing pattern. I'm a full scale pilot and have never heard this term until now except for full scale patterns. I guess I'm just a little slow when it comes to RC terms.

Gibbs

Gibbs:
The term Pattern refers to the "pattern" of aerobatic maneuvers that are performed sequentially, usually in aerobatics competition or in practicing for competition. The official term is Radio Control Precision Aerobatics, but Pattern is what everyone calls it. Pattern competition has been around for over 50 years.

As for whether the Yak you have would be good for Pattern, it would not meet the size (2M span/length), weight (5K) or (most likely) the noise rules (94dB over grass @3M) for competition. Could a G62 handle a 30% aerobatic model like the 30% Yak? Yes, more then likely you could fly through most any aerobatics maneuvers you want to try with it.

Gibbs I have the same plane with a DA 50, yes it will fly pattern, but not as well as a "pattern Plane".

Its actually too big for the 2meter X 2meter size and 11 lbs. A C.D. may let you fly it at a local contest. IMO its a good beginning IMAC plane. Basic Imac is not 3-D.

If you havent flown a pattern plane, try it! They fly so precise compared to a scale plane.
Caution: pattern is addictive, in a good way.

Gibbs.
There is an other forum here on RCU that is called IMAC. (it is listed a bit above the pattern section)
IMAC is for "scale" aerobatic models that are made to fly like real aerobatic planes.
Several different programs are flown, with increasing difficulties.
Your plane/engine is more suited for that type of flying, and also complies with those rules.

Magne