I must unequivocally agree with this assessment. Even though it doesn't seem like this should be the case, the tires are harder than they seem and harder than they should be. I bought the old man knowing I would change the tires sooner than normal regardless of what the tread looked like. To address the 'braking' issue, I will go ahead and get some tires coming.
After a little study, I now equivocate in regard to the previous assessment of braking performance:
First, traction control only affects power delivery to the rear wheel by limiting throttle response and has nothing to do with the front wheel or braking action of the bike, so that's out. However, I could verify this by turning traction control off.
Second, the manual does state,
"When K-ACT system is functioning, you may feel a pulsing in the brake lever or pedal and feel a change of the braking touch. When the ABS is functioning, you may feel a pulsing in the brake lever or pedal. These are normal. Maintain braking pressure. This is my first linked braking bike. I have the setting on standard, not high. This is my second ABS bike. The previous bike only went into ABS mode one memorable time (dark, lost, very rough pavement, turning, car coming at me head-on) in over 7000 miles. The lever pulsing was expected and predictable. This bike pulses every time I pull the lever (unexpected) no matter the speed (unpredictable). It very well could be the tires, but this sure is odd.
Third, the manual states,
"K-ACT system does not function at the speed of approx. 12mph or below when the brake starts to be applied. ABS does not function at the speed of approx. 3.1mph or below." I get the strange pulsing and feeling like I'm going to wash out just stopping at the end of my driveway, which is well below the 12mph, so it can't be K-ACT if it's working properly. However, I am going faster than 3.1mph, so it could be the ABS.
Concluding, then, the most likely culprit is the ABS and maybe the tires. A thorough brake bleed and cleaning/exercising of the brakes is in order, as is a new set of tires.