This is the spec we run at Tamiya for F-103 GT and for Mini and everyone that runs thouroughly enjoys it. Touring seems to be happy running 19T, 23T or 4300 BL and for Mod it's wide open all these classes seem to have something to offer for everyone. Plus there is a very good skill progression.
Most at Tamiya are making the switch to Li-Po as many of them are weekend racers only and very few go to any big races.
I truly think Li-Po is a very good starting point to eliminate some of the gripes people have.