[Tempted]

Thats what I would recomend. Run stock until it breaks, then replace what breaks(idlers 90% of the time). I bought the idlers with the intentions of doing the same, I have just never broke. As for the single speed, sure if you run 6s or a crazy KV 4s set-up. But the smaller motors need the low gear to help with temps and bash-ability. As for changing gears, you mentioned it would grind when shifting. Be sure to fully release the throttle in between shifts so the cog has time to fully engage. I even blip the throttle after the gear change to ensure it shifted properly.