I don't know about you guys but when 2010 comes around the corner I can tell you now that the 2009 controller isn't coming off of our robot!
It might be a bit expensive but come on.... unless the cRio costs significantly more than the current controller I think it is highly reasonable to purchase a new one each year.
a functional demo robot is almost worth it's weight in Dollar coins (in getting new students, mentors, parents and sponsors)!
That is much more than the price of a controller no matter how they price it....
-Leav