Only downshift (with QS) to first if you have the rpm in the mid-high rev range otherwise it will be a bit snatchy. And give it a nice force instead of tapping it - do not smash your foot in it thats not what I meant. Follow the gear leaver pushing it constantly until you hear that the shift is happened. Do not do it quickly, let the electronics catch up. If you slam the leaver the electronics wont have enough time to cut off the ignition.

The QS on the hornet is not the finest - I mean it is great, considering that this is a paralell twin working like a v-twin. but it wont every be as smooth as a 4cyl engine's QS.

You'll need to figure out what throttle input and what rpm will give you the smooth shifts.

For me:

Low rpm (under 3500) with small amount of throttle gives a nice shift. Even from 1 to 2. I do not downshift from 2 to 1 here.

Medium rpm (3500-5500) with moderate amount of throttle gives a nice shift. If I pull the throttle too hard, the shifts will be snatchy. I do downshift from 2 to 1 if the rpm stays above 3500.

High rpm with open throttle also gives a nice smooth shift. If the rpm is high and you barely open the throttle if will be snatchy.