Have your friend talk to either Low Pass or Honcho. Both flew my -9 when I was working with them at San Jac's.
It has been a while since they flew it but they might be able to give your friend some input as to how it differs.
It flies like an RV, probably a bit better balanced, and slightly heavier on the controls but a LOT ligher than a Cessna or Piper.
As far as a taildragger, it is probably the easiest taildragger I have ever flown.