John is right - and I am sure he would agree that the collective technique should only be done on smooth ground, and with a smoother hand. Or you could just not fix the MMI and there is no worries at all!!
The most worrisome time in the BK117 with the MMI is during running landings. I am usually more attracted to the frighteneing outside picture, but if you dare to look in you will be quite distracted! Though I do recall hearing from an Aussie that had been taught by the BK test pilot that he had been told by said legend that the two things he wished he hadnt incorporated in the BK were the constant force trim system and the MMI.
Nick, at a certain Ft Eustis school, I was told that the reason we should limit fixed stabilator training (ie stab failure) in the Black Hawk was because it exacerbated mast bending moments, and I subsequently took that knowledge back to the back water from whence I came. A myth, or fair enough?