Noticed that the little metal bridge that joins the 2 sides of the mech cage on my XT rear mech has broken. Is it’s main function simply to link the 2 sides that sandwich the jockey wheels or are there any significant forces going through it?

Will order a new one, how likely is the broken one to fail before I get round to fitting it? My gut says it’ll be fine for a bit!

Err, the bridge doesn’t join the 2 sides, it should only be connected to one! It may not be broken after all.
For me, it’s only purpose seems to be to get in the way when threading the chain through the mech, It serves no useful purpose. The RADR cage that I have fitted to my mech at the moment doesn’t have one in the first place and still shifts fine.

Of course, I really should have known that! 😕 😳

At least you don’t have to buy a new mech!