I don't know if that side tube in the door is structural, but it is definitely for safety. I think it is more there as a side impact bar. It has savedmy *** on the trail. Our last run, I had the VX tipped on its side such the passenger wheels were off the ground, the weight was set on the door line. I was fortunate that the mud hole I was in was at an angle that prevented the fenders from sticking out more than the door. That steel bar did its job, I could see where the "hump" in the door cladding dug into the dirt.

I think the idea is awesome!!! I would be worried about dicks stealing all my goodies. I keep a ton of tools and whatnot in there. Someone just stole a huge chunk of railroad tracks to scrap the steal! They will steal anything.