Sounds really good! Getting the bearings, a shaft and extra gears isn't too bad I guess. And indeed, rear motor cars can still do pretty well on astro, at least my TRF201 feels really good on astroturf
I'm sure the 210 does too.
I don't know about other countries, but in the Netherlands there is no spec class, there are not enough drivers to do so I think, many people here run 6.5-10.5 in 2WD... I'm sure TD has done their homework, but if it's anything like in the Netherlands it would make sense to also get a hotter motor available soon.
As for the composite chassis, is this also the way forward for future DEX210s? Or just the longer wheelbase?