I have always liked the Brush Guard look on the VX...

...hence I made/modified the original ML 320 one for my ride..
..... ( that Tone copied!)

I think if you section yours in the middle and remove about 4-6 inches...
.....then weld it back together it will look much better..and not too wide.

The "extra" damage issue can be a concern for sure...with the "wings" liable to
fold back and impact front fenders...however with judicial use of bracing
from mid/top center through to radiator support this problem is eased( not cured!)

I stopped using mine for off roading..However in my home town, which is Bike
& skateboard central....it served its purpose numerous times "brushing"off wayward
kids on boards & bikes

Jo