This solution is if you can and have the space always the best, a train running into a Transition Curve (starts big radius and gets smaller then eases out back to the big radius before end of the curve) is always going to be a better bet.I've done this in most locations where I'm using sectional track. It works great at the speeds I run, a scale 70kph max at 1:22.5. The R5 lead-in eases LGB 4-axle passenger and freight wagons into the curve. They no longer appear to be suddenly jerked into the turn! Note that the appearance of being jerked is lessened by running at slower speeds and running shorter wagons. Below are pics of a couple of examples. In most spots I use a full R5 (15º) section. I used half (7.5º) sections of R5 as a lead-in to the R3s in my tunnel.
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Edit added - 1 1/2 sections of LGB R5 (15º + 7.5º of circle) are equivalent to one section of LGB R3 (22.5º of circle) if you're doing 45º, 90º,135º, or 180º turns.
As for belly curving, well yes many have success with it but the results can sometimes lead to unwanted sharp bits sometimes worse than R1, but often a Transition will be created as it is not easy to make the curve even without a rail bender.