The biggest challenge at this point in time regarding weight is international roboteers competing in our country. Losing any weight in a feather is difficult, losing 10% impossible.

This isnt a case of us having to increase weight to compete... we are already within the rules in that respect. Its being accomodating so that others may build to a weight and that weight be valid anywhere in the world.

This isnt a financial issue either; building a heavier feather makes the sport more accessable for those on a tighter budget. Cost is usually proportional to the quality of materials available. For example, Titanium is around half the weight of steel but costs significantly more. Of course, if you work it right, neither costs anything.