D200 + 70-200VR - Illustrates the vertical center of gravity (COG) I used for these tests. This resulted in perfect balance and a good ergonomic configuration. Higher clamp platform positions result in more clearance, of course. I found that the same platform position worked well for both lenses. In fact, most of these images were shot with the gimbal loose. The lens always stayed put even at these extreme angles, and would stay put horizontally too.