The gym and lack of going.

[DDBB]

Having ridden both, I'd always pick the mid drive but that's just me.

 

[PedalUma]

We just purchased an Aventon Level 3 for DW, it is a torque sensor, but other than that seems to hit most of your desires. We got to do test rides, and we're impressed.

I just started reading this thread. The Aventon Level 3 has a torque sensor that can be turned OFF. It is easy through the display. And you can make it class 1, class 2, or class 3. Way out west in California throttle bikes are limited to 20mph. You will feel better, more endorphins with better exercise riding it class 3.

Edit: If you worry about breaking a chain, then carry a quick link. With a legal motor it's just not an issue. Many years ago I lost a quick link at an intersection with an HD Bafang, but even then I had reused the quick link four times and gunned the 1,000 watt nominal monster at the green light. Now I like subtle torque sensor motors with feel. This is a recent build. The starter bike was a $100 R-18 disc.