I'm not sure it's actually necessary, but it makes ME feel better, so I do it. I mean, theoretically, it's a bash plate. If it's designed to contact/slide over rocks, and such, surely a gentle lifting with the weight spread out can't cause any harm. And yes, I know, not all bash plates are created equal. I have an Altrider plate, which I consider light weight, and when I lift it in such a manner, I don't see ANYTHING even start to flex/bend. And when I wash the bike, specifically the front wheel, I put my shoulder under the front fairing, and push it up just enough to spin the wheel; with the bike on the center stand.