There is some stigma attached to trainers, that they are 'labeled' as newbies. and as soon as you soloe'd time to move up

We have a few well seaseoned pilots who can do wonders with thier LT-40s. they fly them better than some others with the Caps, Extras, etc.. OK, Knife edges are a little funny looking.. But if you can do it with a trainer, you'll definietly do it with an Extra!!

The 4* series were designed just for that, as the sencond 'intermediate' plane. personally, I love my 4* 60. I think it's one of the best planes I've built and flown.

Another thought for the 2nd plane is teh GP SLow Poke. Flys super slow, and is predictable. Some say it makes a good trainer too!!

No, if your skills are sharp enough, and you are very confident with your flying ability, the SSE can be a good 2nd plane, but it is a very big step from a trainer. It can be done, but have your instructor beside you for the 'just in case'