I feel like the barge, at it's current state, is kind of a "Congratulations, you made it!" as a power trader. It wasn't until I put in considerable efforts with no spending to afford my barge. However, the barge is not as overpowered as it may seem. To St.Denis's point, there are many flaws and obstacles that come with piloting the barge. For longer routes, I'd say 3-4+ systems, 5Ks are still king. Anything less than that, depending on the number of trade lanes, the barge is more efficient. Anything above 3-4 systems the rate at which things happen to send the barge 1000K/s flying upward or downward increase.
Edit: My point about distance for the barge - I mostly use the barge for short distance POB materials. Unless I'm repositioning, I never do long haul freight deliveries
To Xenon's point, it's all about supply and demand. The demand for ores are high with limited suppliers (miners, transports to bring the ores etc). To your point, mining has become too complicated and irritating especially when the shadow loggers show up and "gib moneyz or die" with no RP. I'd rather play Eve. A lot of other players have followed suit which is why we are where we are with limited suppliers and high demand. I'm not so sure it's a barge problem - it's a market and player base problem.
Or just follow US| route and multibox until you're caught
It ain't about what you are capable of, it's about what you're willing to do.
