After a first wiring test the motor slowed after a few seconds and started smoking. Switched everything off and checked everything to find the ABC connectors from esc to motor were the wrong way round. What an idiot - I was so sure I had checked them many times!
Anyway switched them round the correct way and tried again. Speedo seems ok and runs the motor but after a few seconds the motor starts smoking again.
I guess I need a new motor then.....