Im wanting to remove the upper belt guard and leave the bottom one on.....

my question is:

1. does the bottom guard play the  most important role in deflecting rocks from breaking the belt?

2.Has anyone experienced having the top guard removed and snaped a belt?

the reason i am looking at removing the upper guard  is because the  inner brace mounted on the bolt which mounts the shock rubs the edge of the rear sprocket cover.

on the stand there is clearance, but when riding and  turning corners it has rubbed and scratched the rear sprocket cover.

i could grind the bracket but i dont want to wreck the chrome...

So is it safe to run with out the top guards?

It's the First thing I do on all my Sportster, ,,Never Broken a Belt

I run no guards top or bottom. Either you risk damage and get 'the look' or not - you decide. Far more chance of said rock hitting you in the face. Do you wear an open face helmet....

I'm on my third belt in 60,000k's with both guards fitted.