My '03 Honda hard top used the same latch/striker as the original soft top. It came with the extra set of strikers for '02 and earlier AP-1s. I don't think you needed to install the spare strikers.

The entire soft top assembly weighs just over 40lbs. The motors weigh about 6-7 lbs each - it's not worth removing the motors. Go on a diet if you can spare a few pounds - or just date skinny chicks .

For note - You can save about the same amount of weight (as the top motors) by switching to a dry cell battery.