GaryHarris:

Nobody knows what a trainer can do, until an experienced pilot pushes it to the limit.

My instructor used to do things with my trainer, that I have never been able to repeat!!

He did not endangered anyone, never folded a wing, or crashed the noble machine.

For me, the graduation test can be three basic maneuvers, performed each in 10 mph crossed wind:

1) A slow, but perfectly axial roll that takes the whole lenght of the field.
2) A perfectly round loop with same level in and out.
3) A greaceful landing on the center of the strip with soft touch down directly in front of the pilot.

Jumping to a more advanced model is nice and challenging, but it has nothing to do with having or not mastered your trainer yet.

A trainer is to keep forever, for you, and for friends that just begin.