The Plus 5 is a very good motor, strong bottom with a linear pull all the way to the screaming top end.

On the rear bearing, just make sure you give it plenty of break in time and lots of lubrication(running rich)
The bearing issues are coming from guys revving the engine out to early in the break in process.

When I sold my complete scale set up due to $$$ issues my Plus 5 had 3 gallons on it, was still VERY tight and Started first time every time, idled nicely and ran extremely strong.
The guy I sold it to now has another 2 gallons through it and said it is as strong and reliable as the day he got it from me.
later
Dayton