Yes, it seems that as we go forward in time the release period also grows. This is because there are more and more complicated software and bigger software sizes. So, it is hard to keep below a DVD size. A solution would be to provide basic CD size ISO and modules (KNOPPIX1, KNOPPIX2...) could be downloaded separately with extra software. Separate modules for games, office software, graphics, programming, multimedia, etc. So, everybody could download only the software they need.

Maybe this is not the right place, but I'd like to recommend some other "Knoppix-like" distros for "impatient people." Some of them tried by me. They have the merit of being true 64-bit systems, which is very important since nowadays they develop mainly 64-bit software, including appimages. Another benefit: they use only 1 Debian version, so you can install any Debian package. Knoppix uses more Debian versions; in Knoppix updates and new software installations are not recommended since you could break the system. Anyway, if you need to install something in Knoppix first try it in live mode.

DebianDog https://debiandog.github.io/doglinux/
Until 2020 they provided ISOs, but now there is a better solution: build script, you can generate your custom ISO. Their software choice for ISOs (and for build script) is not the best (mtPaint instead of GIMP, GNOME MPlayer instead of SMPlayer, etc.) but by using the build script you can specify which software to install.

Exe GNU/Linux https://distrowatch.com/table.php?distribution=exe
Based on Devuan (Debian without systemd (as Knoppix)), uses TDE, a very handy and light desktop. It would be nice for Knoppix, too.

Legacy OS https://distrowatch.com/table.php?distribution=legacy
The fat Antix. Lot of software, light system.

Zephix https://zephix-linux.sourceforge.io/
Modular approach.