I think one reason the F1 see's less use is for the up/forward view being blocked by the wing. Mainly it's because the Dr1 is more suited to the deck fights and the DVII doesn't have the gyro issues.
i have no problem with the views or the gyro issues...it's the fact that everything else can not only run it down but it appears to be the flimsiest least air worthy aircraft in the setup...that's why the dr1 and d-vii get used more...almost like flying a p-40b in furball lake...you're going to get run down by spits and ponies.