It's your own decision, I have removed it on 2 bikes in the past, no issues. Look at many custom bikes and you don't see it. On my 02 Softail Nightrain it had a tab or "ear" at the top and served as a actual engine mount. I honestly think it is just a horn mount for the famous HD Cowbell Horn on the Touring Models, but that is my own opinion.

 

Thanks, I'm going too remove it this winter or find a used one and cut the bracket. The vibration comment earlier made me start thinking. I really don't think there would be an issue looks like a mounting point for a few wires and the horn.

 

I trimmed the bracket painted where I made the cut , the mount back in place it's hidden. Put the stock horn behind the side cover. I wish I had pics but I have since traded that bike for a 14 RK that I will be doin the same mod to soon.
I got the idea from a member here, when I get off work I will see if I can find the thread.

 

Good idea! So you removed it, cut the horn mounting area off, painted the bracket and then reinstalled it?

 

That looks good. So where is the one from the 14 Low Rider? Got a pic?

 

Here you go, fits so well in this location you'd think they [planned it that way. I used a harness extension that plugs right into the existing connectors - no cutting required.