Abstract: A machine, for example a sewing machine, including a cyclically movable motor-driven element and comprising a motor for cyclically driving the element through a drive transmission. The motor has a drive shaft connected to a first input member of the drive transmission by a releasable coupling. Means are provided to release the coupling and to activate an auxiliary drive coupled to a second input member of the drive transmission. The auxiliary drive is operative to continue the drive to the driven element after the coupling has been released. Means are provided indicating a predetermined position in which the drive element is to be stopped. Sensing means are provided for sensing the indicating means. A brake disc is movably connected to an output member of the drive transmission.