Brake backing plate or dust shield

Sorry in advance if this is an easily found answer on the forum. I searched through multiple threads on this forum and did quite a few Google searches without much luck. Maybe the wrong key words? Everything I find is for older models.

I have a 2015 CM platinum that I need to change out the brakes on. I pulled the front wheels the other day and noticed that the thin stamped metal dust shield (or maybe it’s called a backing plate?) is completely rusted out. By the looks of it, I’d assume this is a cheap part. Research tells me otherwise - over $100 or more per shield? As my 6 year old would say: “that’s bananas!” I live in the Midwest, so replacing these every few years doesn’t sound appealing or affordable.

My question is: Are these actually needed? Anyone remove these without problems?

 

Depends on your state inspection laws. Also, there are less expensive options available. Dust shield is the right term to search.

 

Thanks!