This is the only ski I've seen that is braced this way. Not that I've seen a lot of skis but I have a few. The 2003 GTI doesn't have this brace and it uses the same carb set up. I was just curious. I thought it was homemade at first but it was too perfect. LOL
Those brackets, to someone, are probably worth their weight in gold!
Those brackets make it go faster and vibrate less than the cheesy manifold can accept. All in the name of reliability, dependability, fuel and cost savings, sorta like those plastic engine covers on modern cars a dealership must charge an additional $30 to remove before servicing the engine. Just try getting past smog checks without one!
And how many hands have been inside the hull before you? Just cause it isn't there on one ski but is on another doesn't mean it shouldn't have it. Always check the fiche.
Why would you not put them back on? Why question why in the first place? Unless you're joking around, which is becoming annoying, you should understand why.