Brake lines wear out, get old, break, swell shut, etc and they need to  be replaced.  V-Twin sells brake lines to fit just about any old Harley.  The lengths and fittings are different on many different models so find one that is made for your bike.  After carefully restoring your sled there is no reason to skimp on brake hoses!  And it doesn’t matter how fast you can go if you can’t stop…

These Russel brake lines are stainless braded for durability and excellent feel, since they don’t expand as much under pressure.  See:

Russel Brake Lines and Hoses  starting on page 541 of the ‘08 catalog