Thanks for your input. If I can get a floor model and/or closeout at a discounted price, I certainly will.

I tried a floor model yesterday (step thru) that had the battery on the back rack. Today I'm testing a different one (diamond frame) with the battery centrally mounted inside the frame, like you prefer. I'm interested to see the difference in feel. Altho' I am already used to having a bit of weight on the rear rack so I didn't find the rear-mounted battery, which was only 6 or 7 lbs, terribly objectionable or even noticable.

Yes I suppose you're right that Raleigh isn't the worst. I've seen some God-awful looking step through models that look like they'd snap in half. I used to have a 1990s ladies Mongoose mtb that had a great frame that was also low step-over height. I'm sure if money was no object I could franken-bike myself everything I wanted in an eBike and nothing I didn't. But I like getting the warranty and service through my LBS. I haven't set my heart on any specific model yet, but I do want disc brakes and 700c wheels, fenders, and it might be nice (but not required) if I can have integrated lighting, which the above model accomodates.

My signature is from a little Youtube video about how the movie Spiderman 3 should have ended:
I thought it was hilarious, and the phrase often still comes to my mind at random moments and still gives me a hearty chuckle.