What you say is correct... no arguments.

The only thing I'd say is that it really isn't that hard to replace brushes (a couple springs), and the entire armature can be replaced, if need be, for about $75 on the motor I mentioned. That requires the removal of 4 screws... probably not beyond the capabilities of most modelers.

High power ESCs are relatively cheap for brushed motors... and quite expensive for brushless. Compare the 140A Jeti brushed (~$110) to the Aveox SH-96 120A ($329.99). Castle Creations' PH-80 (80A) ESC has a 20-cell limit, Aveox can take 30. The JETI brushed controllers can take 30 cells.

The way I see it, it's easier to do a big model (lots of W) with a conventional brushed motor. For medium size, it's a tossup. You're right.

-David