Rear center brace that connects the saddlebag mounts is missing , how critical?

[boss hoss bill]

I'm looking at a set of OEM bags for sale, and the ad says the
" rear center brace that connects the mounts is missing as the bike had a trailer hitch and the part was removed and did not come with the bike."

Is this brace critical, and if so, where, pray tell , would I find one?

[scoot]

Here you go. I believe its #23 your looking for. Most likely you'll want #'s 21,22, and 57.
http://www.hdlparts.com/fiche_section_detail.asp?section=2093217&category=Motorcycles&make=HONDA&year=1999&fveh=124339

[sandy]

I installed a HitchDoc hitch in '03. I left the brace off at that time. Since then I've been cross country 5 times. Never a problem. I now have 130K on the bike.

[boss hoss bill]

Thanks guys, appreciate it! 
Bill

[fudgie]

I left mine off but felt the bags were to 'flexable'. Didnt feel comfortable loading the bags or if I dropped the bike. I had mine off cause of a hitch install. But I made one out of copper and all is good. Just buy another one.

[Bone]

Bought my 98 Tourer 80k miles ago the brace was missing. Still missing no problems.

[Gavin_Sons]

Took mine off this spring to install a hitch. I also have bag rails that help support them. Couldn't get it too fit back on, so left it off

[HayHauler]

Took mine off this spring to install a hitch. I also have bag rails that help support them. Couldn't get it too fit back on, so left it off

So, why not send yours to BHB?  I'm sure he would pay for shipping.   Hehe

Hay
Jimmyt

[JetDriver]

Didnt feel comfortable loading the bags or if I dropped the bike.

I'm with ya, Fudgie.  I'm still uncomfortable dropping my bike, too!