Nov 1: Still struggling to get pressure in my front lines

Speaking of "trapped" air bubbles. If your master cylinder banjo bolt/line is higher then your master there will be air in there too. Remove master cylinder and position lever high or "burp/crack" the bolt to let that big-o-bubble out. 

One way that has worked in the past for me - after following all the others' advice herein - .  Place bike on the side stand and turn handlebars full left to raise master cylinder all the way up.  Start pumping; slow deliberate squeeze, quick release.  Vibration from the lever return can break stubborn air bubbles loose and cause them to migrate to the master cylinder. I've worked out many 'resistant' bubbles this way.  You should feel the pressure build up after a few cycles.
Bob F.