What setting do you have your master cylinder on?

 

21

 

The S1000RR does not come with the same brakes as the 890 R

 

The brakes on the 890R are the best I have experienced, bar none. They have much adjustment so make sure you are adjusting properly.

 

The MCS ratio is 19-20-21. 19 is the most progressive/street oriented feel, 21 is the most direct/track oriented. But either way they should feel very strong.

I’m with you though, mine don’t feel as firm as they used to. I swapped to SBS pads which apparently are known for soft initial bite in exchange for little to no fade during repeated hard use, but I’m not really happy with the feel. But it also feels like I have some air in the system because if I squeeze hard the lever keeps moving inward further than I’d expect.

Your first step is to bleed the brakes, but it can be hard to do at home thanks to the ABS system. If you can’t get a firm feel any dealer should be able to do it using a powered/pressurized bleed system. Doesn’t have to be a KTM dealer.

 

I have had "speed bleeders" on most of my bikes, including my BMW R1200GS which has the ABS system. I have had no difficulty bleeding the brakes in less than 10-15 minutes per axle.
The key is to bleed not only at the caliper, but also at the master cylinder. I generally start with the master cylinder as any air/bubbles tend to elevate in the system and are located in close proximity to the master. Thereafter, i go to the calipers and bleed a lot of fluid to insure i am flushing throughout including the ABS . Do not be afraid to flush a lot of fluid.