Once you know the empty weight and CG on your airplane - then you can figure the extreme limit and then stay within it. I know that I can carry full fuel and 200 lb passenger and be within my CG if I have no more than 25 lbs of baggage in the back. (as since tested to be true) If I have over 50lbs of baggage in the back I sit on the rear CG when the fuel in the header is empty. With only 25 lbs I give myself a little room for error. It took off fine from Valdosta at @1400 lbs. but I made sure to keep all manuevers gentle and smooth. You dont want any excuse for an accelerated stall to happen. Yes I was over gross but that was planned. Learn the limits and how your plane reacts. Work up to it gradually. I had 250 hours on my plane before I tried at this weight. It is not something I will do repeatedly but in a pinch I could do so comfortably. Bill
