Ohh, this is spot on for me. I have a 201 I sew on and try to get into the free motion. I have the belt version mashine, and it's not bad at all with original button bakelite controller. When it comes to speed regulating it's all about the foot controller, you might have to take it in some where or get yet another one. I plan to buy a clam shell speed controller just to know the difference.
I struggle a bit with reverse stitching, I sometimes get loops showing under the fabric when sewing in reverse, not always and I haven't quite figured it out yet. How did you go about it? I have the darning foot from the accessory box, #121994, and a generic jumping foot. I might have to get one of those clear plastic ones for quilting.