I learned something really interesting in the last few years. I can hit accurate bends without thinking using 11 - 52's on my 24 7/8" guitars, while I struggle would make an accurate bend using 9-46's on a 24.4" scale guitar. My 24 5/8" Les Paul with 9-46's works OK, but just barely. The neck shape and frets will also be a part of this, but I seem to do best when I have more tension to push against.
I use round core, nickel, Pyramid strings, which are easier to bend than other strings. They are warm yet clear, in a very balanced way. The construction, and types of metal used, can significantly impact tone as well as how a string feels. The good part is that it's easy and inexpensive to try out different string types and guages to figure out what's best for you.
Terry.