Well on investigation I do not find a diaphragm to fail in the Mikuni VM carb. The look reliable and simple. Widely available for about $90 each making them a very good deal with parts in distribution. No need to find an alternative.
Simple disassembly video
Leonard recently commented about a positive affect changing 28 out with a new set of 26mm. There are hundreds of models each with a slightly different jet size. Can anyone recommend a jet for flying around an area 800-1000' above sea level?
Leonard acquired his latest carburetors- from Summit
https://www.summitracing.com/search?SortBy=BestKeywordMatch&SortOrder=Ascending&keyword=26mm%20carbThere appear to be knockoffs for 1/3rd the price but why fool with those.
Regards
Matt