I do not wish to imply that people are inexperienced if they don't use the wheels on the 3k correctly(or,better still,within their limits),and I truly don't wish to offend the egos of people who have all the chops and tricks down cold.
To prevent that from happening,let me state that if I (notice carefully the word"I") use a controller beyond what it has been designed for,and it breaks or gives problems,then obviously it is because I failed to adapt to it's limits.
Adapting to limitations in musical instruments,and continuing to make acceptable (or better) music has in my opinion,always been the signature of a true professional.All instruments have limits,and to go beyond them and expect great results,does not make sense.
The pitch wheels are made for bending pitch(hence the name)and used properly ,will give no problems.That is not an assumption...that is a fact.If they don't do the job for the player who needs (or expects) more,it makes sense to use another instrument(or controller).
If the wheels don't feel strong,why tempt fate by using them beyond what they were meant to do.I understand very well,the technique you described,and have managed it quite well on the 3k,albeit with practice and patience for the wheel's limits.
The "Lucky Man" solo was predominately a portamento (actually a "glide"effect, A "Real" Modular Moog has exponential glide...though the Mini has linear),but the portamento on the 3k and others will work fine,while not being totally accurate.Again,it means working within limitations.
I don't sell Yamahas,I demonstrate them (and Rolands,and Korgs...) and have done so for 30 years ,although my choice in the last few years has leaned towards Yamaha(we all have our favorites) because I feel they are ahead of the rest in many areas,if not all.If that changes,I'll use something else.
This forum has always had people with strong opinions,and that's what has made it all the more interesting and even intriguing .I have my own,and as you can tell,they aren't easily changed,but I am no different than others who do the same.
Thank you for your understanding and open mindedness...and your strong opinions.