My daughter has one and there’s an aggravating plate over the oil filter. I’m not too mechanically inclined but my question is, since she never goes trail riding, just back and forth on the highway, can I leave that thing off so I can change her oil in the future more easily? I didn’t know if oil filter was more vulnerable or at risk with it off. I don’t have a lift and laying on the ground on ramps it’s a pain.

Lots of road hazards and things that could damage the filter if it’s exposed even rocks on a gravel road. You will need to figure out if it’s for show or if it has a practical purpose.

Better to leave it place.
Today's cars have so many things that can be damaged easily , like sensitive electronics. Keeping an engine bay clean is important. Washing/steam cleaning an engine now is not recommended.

The manafactuer put it there for a reason , if they could save a buck , it would have never been installed.