Have you considered using an MP Jet brushless setup with a gear box?
http://www.hobby-lobby.com/brushless_mpjet.htm
I've hear good things about them but have no experience.

As for my landing gear it is just 1/16" piano wire and foam wheels. Longer gear was needed to accommodate the longer prop. At first the gear was too floppy and the plane would hit its belly unless I landed perfectly (something I still don't do every time) so it is re-inforced with more wire and zip ties. You can tell I don't have a lot of time to dedicate to making my planes look great.

Steve