So, I currently own a Traxxas Bandit VXL and i'm taking the leap to LiPo. I've been doing some research and it looks like i'll only be going with a 2S instead of a 3S as people are saying that running the 3S on stock parts will cause stuff to break. Thoughts on this?

Also, the Traxxas website recommends changing the pinion gear to 33T 48P. The only one i can find is made by RRP and i've read that they aren't very good. Does anyone have any recommendations for a better gear?

Lastly, i will be racing (for fun) against my uncle who just picked up a Traxxas E-Maxx. What are my chances against it?