There seem to be two extreme points of view.
- don't do it until you've got x hundred hours blah blah blah
- it's easy what's the problem don't even know why you need a check ride
The reality as you've discovered is somewhere in between. Get a good check ride, get hold of a pilot manual for the type and learn about it. Be aware of the differences between the aircraft both in terms of procedures and handling.
Don't be scared of different types, but don't be over confident either. Reading your post I think you have the balance right.