Cessna 172 Solo
I've never flown a 172 solo as I will always pick something smaller (cheaper) when on my own.
I imagine that the climb rate will be similar when solo as the 172 is a lot heavier but there are so many variables (engine size/condition/prop type etc)
I don't know where you fly but hopefully it has a longish runway so you can concentrate on landing smoothly rather than in a short distance.Once you have got the hang of putting it down,get an instructor to help you with your short field work.
Although I am a low hours PPL,I find the 172 very forgiving and doesn't seem to have any real issues.
Might pay you to sit in the a/c to really familiarise yourself with the controls and the flap control 'gate'.Always worth a visit to the airfield on those unflyable days.
MM