I've had the Steeda brace installed for over 2 years and I have taken it off asphalt many times. I don't notice any difference. if anything it's miniscule. Happy offroading!
I second the forums opinion on the Redline Struts. Easy install and they work great. It looks like they have a stainless steel version that were not around when I got mine. Might be a good option if you live in an area with various weather.
Non-stainless version...
Yesterday at Sycamore Creek in AZ, Aired down to 28 PSI and drifted through the sand with ease. I'm still amazed at what this BS can handle. Love it more and more every day.
I have the Yakima interior rack that holds 2 bikes. I have a hybrid and a mountain and they fit just fine inside away from people and the elements when driving and or parking.
I like it a lot but not sure I'd strap a canoe to it. You'd have to drill a hole into it and it's affixed by 3M tape so not sure I would trust it with something strapped to it.