Can anyone explain how to read the data log? For instance, if the current reading is 22.3 max, is that the amps the motor is putting out? Same with throttle (1.628), what is the relevance?

(The max amps are just that, the instantaneous maximum amperage drawn or highest achieved.  If you move the cursor over the graph you can read the amps at the cursor position time.  The max amps drawn are usually static i.e. with the airplane retained.  If you follow the graph you can actually pick out the different maneuvers even going up or down wind.  Don’t consider that your motor draws 22.3 amps during the entire flight, it should be considerably less.)

This does help. But even though the max only appears at the beginning, is that the amount one should consider when picking an appropriate sized ESC? For instance, if I run a battery/motor combo using the ICE 50 and it shows a max amperage of 26, would I then be safe in using a cheaper 40 amp ESC like a BP on the same motor, prop, rpm, battery combo?

James
John is correct.  I thought the question was how to read the ESC data; not can I buy a cheaper ESC and of course John has that covered too.  I haven't heard about many inexpensive ESC that work well with C/L models.  Do note that Keith Renecle has developed some items that enable you to use an inexpensive ESC for C/L. Search this forum for "Keith Renecle" and you should come up with it.

Norm

James
Yes, the Phoenix 45 is even more expensive than the ICE 50.  I use the ICE ESC so that I'm not operating in the blind.  Smoke signals are not my idea of reliable warnings.

 Norm