wr250r fork question

What is this item that I have circled? It's on the bottom of the gold part of the 2010 WR250R. It can be removed with a flathead screwdriver, and can separate. When looking at a forts part list http://www.partzilla.com/parts/search/Yamaha/Motorcycle/2010/WR250R+-+WR25RZL/FRONT+FORK/parts.html the part is listed as 21, 42 and is described as PROTECTER GUIDE COMP., 1.

I just want to know what this item is, what happens if this item breaks, and what solution there is if this item breaks rather than spending $15 + shipping for another one.....

As was answered in your other thread, it's there as a guide for the plastic fork guard that will rub against it as the fork moves up and down.
If it's not there, them the fork guard would eventually gouge the fork leg.

The odds of needing a new one anytime soon are slim, and I don't see a need for having to remove it.

I augment this with a tightly applied zip tie and a realignment of the guard using a hair drier to heat it and them tweak it to improve clearance.