I have drained via the lower hole, then took the water pump cover off and left it to slowly empty via the metal pipe, I guess that is rad draining down via the thermostat, I guess it very slow as it's by-passing via the tiny hole in the thermostat body.. anyway it drips out of the metal pipe for while and then stops..

After I'd finished I'd only captured about 3/4'ers of the total expected (maybe more) so I proceeded to flush the system.
I put the hose in the rad filler neck and sure enough coolant was ejected from the rear most port in the water pump, so I guess coolant was trapped in the block somewhere.
I have now flushed and back flushed the system to death but I know there will be some tap water left in the block now.

Will elevating the front allow this water to drain?
Tipping the bike over as much as I dare didn't release it btw.

Yes, yes you can.

The bike needs to have the front wheel 24" off the ground during the whole process.

See: