I would definitely advise starting on a 125cc and become comfortable with life on 2-wheels. I rode 3 months on a 125cc before taking my test and it really gave me the confidence to get through the process quickly and stress free. If you rush into taking DAS, you may find it costing you more if you do not pass first time.
Take Vivi, as a case study - maybe she has taken her time to upgrade from a 125 to a 500, but at least she has complete confidence in her riding ability now and rides around with us on our 600s all the time. I never see the point in rushing these things, and you can have so much fun on a 125cc and they are favoured by beginners for a reason!
