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I laid down my '03 FLHRC once at about 10 mph and the bag guards prevented any damage except the rash on the guards and a shattered plastic reflector. I don't think it helps the looks of the bike to remove the guards anyway.
Check out any year Streetglide. They've never had 'em - you'll get the picture even though the bags are not covered in leather. If you drop your bike you'll likely skin those babies up w/o the crash bars though.
Your choice but fixing the bags could be expensive.....You might want to consider having the protectors powder-coated black. Should make them visibly inconspicuous and still protect the bags.
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