As far as weight goes, I do not think it is that bad (yet). I cannot feel a difference between my bike and my friends 600s. All of them are suprised that the bike doesn't weigh much more. My bike weighs 475 dry and 506 wet according to a sight I found. I thought there would be quite a difference. My friend with the cbr929 thought that the bike was light, possibly lighter than an R1 (I haven't looked but I doubt it). According to the same sight, an F3 honda weighs 435 dry and 462 wet.
I am getting more accustomed to the bike and am more confident in turns. Looking at the tach helps in clutching also
I did it by feel before. When the bike started moving on its own, I slowly gave it gas. I am still not that great at turning (and clutching) right from a stop. I have to get back on the clutch to concentrate more on steering.