Allmodes, in response to the rudder turns, all planes very. I have some that need no rudder..and others that don't turn good without a constant battle of mixing the rudder and ailerons. This is one thing that con make the hobby tough/fun depending on your tastes for mastering different types of airplanes.
I haven't read every post in this thread but my standards or feelings on when its good to move up is when .
1. You don't feel you are a threat to the safety of others... I didn't feel that way for many years.. but I am overly cautious about it.
2. When you can accept a large loss in money, you should never gamble with money you can't afford to loose ! hahahah