Hi RoboLibre. Thanks for the post. The standoffs fit fine and are free to go wherever, it looks like they clash but they are clear of the motor boss by miles. They're the short length they are because the 10mm thick motor mount plate (not yet made up) is what they tighten onto, and I can easily adjust their length for a nice frictionless support on the motor shaft. I don't think a bearing in there is worth it; space is very limited (12mm OD is the limit) and the bronze should last plenty long enough for a competition or two. Can always make up spares. I cleaned up the front of the pinions so that they are smooth, with a bit of grease wear should be minimal. The bronze doesn't even touch the gear under no load anyway.

Have tested the motor with and without the support and there is no audible difference, no heat in the bush and no apparent issue change in start up speed. That's without any grease.

It'll be just fine lol.