Check your motor temp at the end of a 5 minute run (if you las that long). You should be close to 150 degrees. Any more, too much gear, any less, go up a pinion.

You need to see what your ESC is listed for. If it can't handle down to your 12T, then either go to a lesser motor, or buy the ESC that can handle the power. Assuming you can handle the power, why not race in a speck class that required driving skill and setup to outdo your competition? Just a couple cents worth.

EBR