If you remove them and replace the bolt you might get a smidgen more. They are there to stop the fork tubes contacting the radiators. Removing them entirely could work well for a while, but may end up rather expensive if you bin it.
I think the 2013 uses a little shorter bolts. I've noticed mine doesn't turn so well in the shed, but I don't even notice on the trail. Lean it over further and give it more throttle
