I have run without the front swaybar for quite a while and, although I can certainly tell a difference with it removed during aggressive driving, I feel like AHC Sport mode knows what I am trying to accomplish and compensates nicely. In fact, it blows me away how planted it still feels even with very large tires.
This being said, I know the specific circumstance where it would still be very beneficial is with an evasive maneuver. The “moose test” swerve test throws the body weight from one side and back to the other and that is where I feel the swaybar would still shine. I have not had to make such a maneuver yet since removing it. This is something that should be in the back of your mind if you choose to remove it. I have no problem swerving one direction, but swerving back throws the weight back in the opposite direction and can certainly cause a possible roll-over scenario. Especially how some overlanders like to load their rigs down with weight up high on the roof rack.
If I enter a turn very smooth, even far above the posted recommended speed, with the AHC in sport mode, I can maintain the proper steering angle to keep the vehicle planted (not flat, but not out of control) and it might surprise some how well these rigs can do. At least mine feels great, IMO. I have driven some sporty cars, and raced a little SCCA a long time ago, so I have a little bit of experience pushing a few cars close to their limit, but I am by no means a race car driver. I just play one when I’m by myself on the local mountain pass.
Off-road, I feel like AHC benefits tremendously from the front swaybar being removed. When we lift these with a mild sensor lift, or drive off-road in High mode, the pressures are increased and the rig will struggle to allow the IFS to independently cycle to bump at slow speeds. Especially when the two sides are still connected by the swaybar. When you remove the swaybar, each side works so much better, independently, and the higher pressures are felt less, IMO. Not perfect still, but much better.
It’s certainly worth a test on a weekend you’ll be out on a trail, maybe have a little highway drive to the trail to feel that difference. But make sure you try to soak the bolts in penetrant oil, so you can remove them without damaging them. They’re in a tricky spot that can hold debris and moisture and some have said they break bolts or damage threads easily.
Kai’s video was spot on with my experience. The 200 rear end still flexes to maximum articulation even with the rear swaybar attached and feels like it almost forces better front end articulation. And if you can picture how any vehicle reacts with a stiffer rear swaybar, it begins to lift the rear inside tire a little around a turn, which allows the vehicle to rotate a little better and allows you to use a little counter steer instead of having the front end push from understeer. Most automobile drivers prefer a little oversteer instead of understeer.