I have a 2003 Electra Glide Classic FLHTCI. My front brake handle goes in about 3/4 of the way in before the front brake seems to engage. As this is my first Harley I'm not sure if this is acceptable

 

Sometimes brakes and clutches need to be adjusted. If you don't feel qualified to do it yourself, find a dealer.

 

When were the front pads changed last? When was the brake fluid last flushed? Ever rebuilt the front master cylinder? When the front brakes start to engage does the lever feel firm?

 

Yes, it is normal. The brakes on newer models have less travel. Don't worry it will stop you and you should get used to it in no time. Btw, it is a brake lever.
Wuzfuz
03 FLHTPI

 

Doesn't sound normal to me. Check the brake pads and rotors, bleed the brakes, or have a qualified shop do it for you.

 

I can't comment to any of your questions as I bought the bike used and certified

 

If that's the case I hope I get used to it fairly quickly as for the other I'll have to blame that on spell check

 

I have the same on my 04 road king. My 01 road king did the same, I thought it needed new pads but they are ok.

 

You need to clean the caliper pistons. Take off one caliper at a time. Pump the brakes with the pads still in to extend the pistons, clean them with brake clean and your neighbor's toothbrush, push the pistons back in, repeat until all the pistons move fairly evenly.


I do my 03 at least once a year depending on how much riding I do.

 

+1 on LazySundays recommendation. I have an '03 as well and just two weeks ago had the same issue. Lever all the way to the bar - very uncool. Since it was "always that way" since I bought it, I assumed (bad) that it was normal. Then my buddy checked it out and let me know that it was NOT correct.

We ended up bleeding the brakes using the MityVac system. Then cleaned the brake pistons as described above. In addition, I actually used an old boot lace and essentially "flossed" the pistons so that all four pistons where free. Remarkable difference in brake lever action.

You'll be amazed. Keep us posted!