Brake question

Hi everyone! Question as it's been a few years since I wrenched professionally and I'm used to hydraulics....is it normal to really have to squeeze hard to brake while riding loaded?

I have a set of trp spyres I just put on my commuter. Stops perfectly with minimal lever pull. At least in the stand. And yes, I bedded in the pads and rotors.

When I ride with my work stuff (+25pds) it feels like I have to really GRAB the brakes and SQUEEZE FOR ALL I CAN to get to stop. Noticeably worse on the front than the rear, I can usually get the rear to lock no issue...but it doesn't feel like eveb when I've pulled the lever to the bar. I'm not trying to go otb buuut....not fun riding with what feels like only one working brake.