I have had the Jet 1442 for about 15 months and overall I am quite pleased.

Pro's
- Easy to assemble
- Cast iron legs are very heavy and add to the already heavy bed and other
components
- Quiet, low vibration.
- Easy to learn with (I am a newbie)

Con's
- I share your motor placement opinion but not a real problem yet.
- Speed control is kind of sticky, especially when cold. I am told this is
fixed.
- Price is going up. Paid $799. Recently saw same machine-same shop for
$915.

I would buy it again.
RonB