Are they really necessary? Can I just remove them with no ill effects?

 

I heard about a Sporty rider ordering a new drive belt last week at my pal's shop. He said a rock flung into the belt, causing it to snap.

On the other hand, I've got a Thunder Mtn. softail that came with no lower guard & only a 4" top guard.

 

A belt guard is a protective device, and it's there for a reason...you could remove any protective device from anything if you're willing to assume the risks...your bike, your call.

 

I guess what I'm asking is if anyone has removed them and had any problems.

 

I'm wondering if anyone has first hand experience with removing them.

 

I have removed them on my last few bikes...never had an issue...

 

popped mine off with a quickness once I put rims on it......

 

I have a shorty on the top and took off the lower. A friend has both off and has not had an issue. They do help prevent rocks from getting in the belt, a guy from work has both on and got a rock in the belt and it put a hole in the middle of the belt, do they work all the time?? no. your call

 

no problems with mine off. when my son or daughter rides with me i put the top one on just in case it the belt breaks.

 

I removed my lower a couple of years ago ran a rock between the belt and pulley on a ride to Sturgis - I now have a 1/4 inch hole in my belt.
I put it back on cause I run bags most of the time, but I am still tempted to remove it