What should be ensured about the motors used in the robot?

The correct answer emphasizes that the motors used in the robot should be FIRST-legal only, meaning they must comply with the specific regulations and standards set by FIRST for robotics competitions. This ensures that all teams are using equipment that meets safety, performance, and fairness criteria outlined in the competition rules. Using FIRST-legal motors helps level the playing field, ensuring that no team gains an unfair advantage through the use of unauthorized or potentially unsafe motors.

This is crucial because adherence to the rules fosters a competitive environment where strategy, engineering skill, and programming can truly shine, without the introduction of variables that could arise from unregulated or non-standard parts. It promotes innovation within the established framework, encouraging teams to creatively and effectively utilize the motors that are approved for competition.