I have one of these on my touring build, and will probably get a couple more for my other bikes. So far mine has lasted 3 years w/o a problem.
It's just nice to have something I can bungee to on the front. (last load was 3 med pizza's in boxes).

Bentley6...I have much the same set up as you on the front, but without the tie-in.
would you post more photos of the connection? Looks like it makes both racks stronger.