It seems with any group activity several things are going on here.
One, that cost or complexity is being considered as important.
Two, that fairness or the motor heavily determines the outcome.
What if a manufacturer hands out their $100+ motor at events for $40. You have to compete in the event to get that price(adds value to the event). Its only that class that the motor is used for and doesn't necessarily hurt their sales elsewhere. Other sports do similar things, such as offer unattainable prices on superior products limited to the participation of the event only. Creates a better experience overall. The experience matters more than the cost. Its not a paperweight when you take it home. Even if you sell it as "one race only" the net loss for the manufacturer is minimal. Perhaps its almost as good as their good motor. Maybe the last gen motor, so reasonably competitive at the club level.
There are always going to be those that tire of chasing the best next thing. They want to just go, be reasonably competitive and have a good time. Certainly not all classes should have hand outs, but if certain classes are heavily regulated, but don't remove the individuality of picking your own motor, while others are hand outs and others still are anything goes, so long as each group of racers are able to find their niche, participation will be good. Access counts more than anything else. How accessible is our sport?