As Spaceprobe said please don't think that people are pressing you - it is all well meant advice.
Advice that I agree with.
I tend to ride at about 55 on my 125 and about 65 - 70 on my 600. Not a huge difference but the key difference is that on motorways I have the reserve to get out of problems on the larger bike.
Large lorries often run nose to tail, maybe up to half a dozen in a line. On the Silverwing I can zip past them quickly and positively. If the road conditions allow I can use the third lane to get out of the turbulence as I pass them. I couldn't do this on the 125.
I know that your 125 is a bit quicker than mine but keep in mind that the lorry that is limited to 62mph will actually be doing 62mph. When your speedo is reading 75mph you are probably only doing 68 or so - not that much quicker than the lorry - and no reserve!
You said that you manage ok on dual carriageways but even though some of them are virtually up to motorway standards they aren't motorways. They will have lay-bys every couple of miles where you can take a break if you're getting a bit stressed with the traffic. On a motorway the next stopping point may be 30 miles away. That's a long way when surrounded by lorries with the odd bad tempered 4x4 thrown in for good measure - not too mention embittered toner salesmen in BMWs where the only thing between them and their next meeting is you.
Yes, a 125 can do virtually everything, but it will do it in its own way and at its own pace. A larger machine will do it however the circumstances dictate that it needs to be done. Less compromising, more safety.
And why thrash the living day lights out of a 125 anyway - it won't thank you.
Taking the test for 125s involves beaurocricy and hassle anyway so why not get it all out of the way in one go.
If you do take the full unrestricted licence (whether auto or manual) you will sit back on the day you get it, slurp a cuppa and think, "Yes... Oh yes... Oh yes". Betcha!
Don't deprive yourself of that moment.
Whatever you decide (and it is up to you at the end of the day) enjoy your riding, stay safe and have fun
Paul
