I genuinely am puzzled by the notion that Classic is somehow more difficult. It isn't, if anything it is far more survivable than realism.
Slower, no chance of insta-sniping, more time to think, and people seem to seek more safety in numbers. Realism is a speed game; fast movement, fast mechanics; In this respect I think it is much harder if one prefers the RO1 pace. I think to get competent at realism is to use a different mindset; personally I really notice this when I switch between the two.
For instance on a competitive realism server, If I don't know the map well, I am usually in for an immediately frustrating experience; being careful doesn't matter. If you don't know the layout and traffic areas you lose a critical edge because you have to think about where you are going, and that affects readyness and reaction time - the determining factors in realism - because players very rarely miss; aiming is so easy you simply need to be faster than the other guy. This has strong offensive potential because with negligible sway there is only a minor chance one will miss so if you are quick and accurate with your hand-to-eye you are going to run and gun, because it works.
In contrast on a Classic server if one takes their time on a new map they can usually contribute and have some fun, even if you don't top the table
.
I suspect the inverse is true - a fast player probably finds RO1/Classic infuriatingly slow, and because setting up shots takes a little longer, there's much less advantage in being innately quick.
To get on topic, the writing is on the wall which mode TWI prefer; look at the naming convention. It's a shame but Classic is only wanted by the small number that know its strengths.
I think it is time that RO1/DH vets accepted that this game is not and never was for them. Either accept 'realism' (I personally find it rather unfulfilling) or organise better. Classic mode is hardly helped by the fact it is characterised by griping.
I see it another way. If you want something beyond speed with a little more depth, Classic is very attractive, and it should be sold as such.
Us Classic folk are hardly good ambassadors for it.