Megan,
One way to confirm "shortcomings" of an aircraft (in some cases) is by the kind and numbers of mod's that follow the fielding of an aircraft. Some stem from new technology but sometimes that derives from a perceived need.
Bell came out with some Long Ranger tail rotor mod's, they changed the 205 Tail Rotor's design, and other designs such as the Fast Fin have been developed.
Brother Lappos can tell the story as well as it can be told as he has a wealth of knowledge and experience at all levels.