I removed mine, only to cut the reflectors off. The fender seemed very flimsy on the sides, and the inner fender supported such. Plus it keeps water, etc off all the electronics at the front area of the fender.

 

Pretty sure what you're talking about, and what was actually done are two separate pieces. We weren't talking about removing the piece on the front side of the fender that protects the electronics area. Also, even after doing this the fender is still very strong. I did this around 3 years ago, no issues, no fender movement or flexing. That's including 2 up riding.