I think how appealing it is to racers can depend more on the current rules and future changes than anything else. Consider if it would be made to join with the current 350cc class if they raised it to 400cc?

Reverse has its times as being real handy, but as anyone who rides without the luxury knows its not a requirement by any means.

One thing I know for sure is that though going backwards doesnt help you be any faster forwards, it can save the rider a ton of energy and that could be used towards the end of a race or even hard ride.