Q1: Is my understanding correct that one really does not need to keep a build log for the RV-12 ELSA, since one has to take the 16 hour maintenance course regardless, to be able to do Condition Inspections?
Yes!
Q2: My unscientific analysis of the last year of RV-12 postings and review of builder's websites that have completed and are flying their planes, seems to show that RV-12 owners tend to fly more hours per year than typical RV owners. Is this true or am I delusional?
There are many factors why this occurs. Top of the list is average fuel cost are much lower than almost all other planes that are not rotax powered. On average you burn about 4.5 gallons per hour. When in the pattern doing touch and gos this goes down to 3.5 gallon per hour. If you use Premium gas you do the math for your area prices. In my state Premium runs about $2.30 per gallon X 4.5 is $10.30 per hour. So you don't have to worry about emptying the bank every time you go fly after your fixed costs like hangar rent and insurance.

Next would be how simple the over all operation of getting it out of the hangar and flying the airplane is. Its almost as simple as getting in your car for a drive once you understand the avionics in the 12.
Q3: I've reviewed a number of build logs and web sites where the builders have completed their RV-12s in 12-14 months. Is this atypical or reasonable. I have a full time job but can easily put 20 hours per week into the build so by my calculations it seems realistic. I'd like to finish it in time to fly it to Oshkosh 2017.
That gold is feasible how ever Life has a way of getting int the way especially if you are married!

Two years is a realistic gold for a first time builder.
Q4: Does it make sense to order the empennage and wing kit at the same time?
Building a plane is an adventure and a big commitment. I'm not a big fan of ordering multiple kits at one time mostly because of the cost. Remember what i said about life.

Also there is always changes to improve the sub kits over time so you may miss an update if you already have the kit. Just my opinion.
