Hugely emotive subject this one.
Can't and shouldn't stop evolution / progress but for sure, it has to be balanced with regard to cost - especially once the evolution gets to the point where it is detrimental to class numbers and the longevity of the class.
Note - I'm not suggesting that this point has / has not occurred in 1:10 Off road EP 2WD yet.
For me though the issue is about grip and the abundance of it. Regardless of where the motor is placed, or how many chassis's you now need to be 'competitive', we've reached a situation now where 4WD is now so reactive that they're almost impossible to hang on to in dry conditions and 2WD has become very chassis specific.
Astroturf has it's benefits and although I prefer old skool natural surfaces (and the skill in pitting yourself against a degrading surface which demands subtle changes during the day to stay on top of the changes when you next go out), you can't argue that Astro has made off road much more accessible all-year round in our climatic conditions and has made it easier for clubs to run meetings without constant track repairs.
So if the surface can't change, then how else can the grip be limited?
For me its simple - why can't we mechanically limit the available grip by enforcing harder tyres - or banning inserts?
It was muted once by a much cleverer guy than me but it was ridiculed back then.
I suspect the same will happen now - but if grip is the root cause of the issue, then take some of it away.
BTW - I'm with Jimmy - can't beat the feeling of driving a well sorted rear motor car for the feedback and enjoyment it gives you - but it's hard to accept being much much slower than cars in the 'same' class and its got to a point where the racing lines are so different between rear motor and front/mid motor that the two are scarcely compatible without some respect and gentlemenly driving.
Its probably no wonder that Vintage is becoming more popular - but it's enjoying a heyday at the moment because it's still seen as being fun and not uber serious.
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