Mark, even according to that particular F.A.R., you can use a smaller limit load. Read the entire rule and you'll see. The minimum load allowed is more reasonable for an RV.
I expect that the higher load is designed to allow the airplane's primary flight control system to withstand a pilot who has a lot of adrenaline, but I don't know for sure.
A stout robust control system is an excellent thing to have in an airplane. And since a test can be done so easily, it's worth doing. Yes, it's called "experimental," but that means that we establish some goals and test for them. The testing is the key. While flight testing might be appropriate in many instances, this is one that can most suitably done on the part itself.
Dave
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