Everyone is different...and I am still relatively new to the hobby as this is just starting my 3rd season in.  But, the Mini Ultra Stick was my 2nd plane...actually my 3rd, the F27C Stryker was my 2nd (i just didnt fly it that much before flying the stick).

I only flew my trainer less than a dozen times before I moved on.  Maybe I was a fast learner...but I really liked the way the Stryker and Stik flew moreso than my trainer.

The biggest thing, for me, was getting used to the stick (and stryker too) not self correcting from a bank.  But I did have a lot of SIM time before I tried the real thing.

Also...the MUS takes off in about 10 feet...I cant imagine the 25e version to take much more, so it being a dragger shouldnt be an issue.  My other planes like my Yaks, Extras, J3 Cub...etc... take a lot more strip to get up to speed (purposely because ALL of them are overpowered and I build up speed rather than punching WOT and hoping for the best) and avoid a ground loop...rudder correction helps with the longer take off too.

I think that once anyone can learn with their high wing trainer to...

1.  Take off
2.  Fly around and put the plane EXACTLY where you want to and not "chase the plane around"
3.  Land ON the runway and taxi back every time

You are ready for a stik type plane of any size.  This, of course like I try to say on most all posts is my own opinion.

If I were only able to own 2 planes, they would be a Stick and a Stryker for sure!</p>