A fluid operated system controls a reversible fluid operated apparatus and is herein described in the form of a speed control system for a reversible motor such as a double-acting cylinder housing a piston. The piston is selectively driven in either of opposite directions by a pressurized operating fluid introduced into one end of the cylinder while the opposite end of the cylinder is vented. Control devices in conduits opening into opposite ends of the cylinder regulate the piston speed. If desired only one of the conduits may be provided with a control device so that the piston moves at maximum speed in one direction and more slowly in the opposite direction. Each control device includes a restriction to the flow of fluid through the associated conduit, and has a by-pass with a fluid piloted diaphragm valve about the restriction, the fluid pilot operatively communicating with the opposite conduit. When operating fluid passes through one of the conduits to operate the cylinder, the valve associated with the other conduit is piloted closed so that fluid vented from the cylinder passes through the restriction of the other conduit, thus retarding the venting rate of the fluid and slowing movement of the piston. If desired, one or both restrictions may be of a variable type.