Well, I did it! I went with a bbs02 mid-drive. I have to say I'm so happy with it. I really don't notice any significant additional resistance when in pas level 0 or when powered off. It behaves like I hoped. Obviously this is totally subjective to the rider but for me, it's great!

Thanks so much for that information. As excited I am at the prospect of converting my bike to an e-bike, I think i'll wait a bit until I can find a good mid-drive motor that doesn't offer any resistance when it's off. I'm just starting on researching this so maybe there is one that I haven't learned about yet. I'm primarily a recreational rider and totally enjoy the natural pedaling feel when out and about.

yes, the motor does add noticeable resistance both forward pedaling and just backing up - can hear it click softly as u back up. its no where near normal biking resistance, one downside for sure. though the upsides far outweigh it, get a large cap battery and have range from 30-60 miles depending how u ride it. I hear there actually kits in development like one called Swyft i think? with no resistance when ebike turned off...which is brilliant, a hybrid setup where yuo can get out of tough spots without too much hassle if your battery dies. just pedaling as normal with the extra weight. cant wait for that... or regenerative braking/kinetics to recharge the battery while riding.