Thanks for the response. That has been my diagnosis as well. I just wanted to get some outside perspective.
I still have my 450R and a 450X, and have ridden the bigger bikes for years. I just wanted to try something different. My criteria was a lighter bike, electric start, with low end power similar to the bigger bikes for exiting turns under power. Overall, the experiment has been great. The Yamaha has met most of my expectations, it just doesn't turn a well as the Honda's. I guess I'm spoiled, but that is what I'm aiming for.
BTW, I was puzzled by the flooding comment, then I noticed I haven't changed my profile. I now live in No. AZ. No flooding here, but a little snow...