I've had my Elise about a month now and the clear bra is well worth the money.
Summer is construction time around here (NE Ohio) and there are roadworks everywhere. The worst sound in the world is small pebbles and rocks dinging off your new car's bodywork.
Despite all this, the body has suffered no paint chips or dents. The bra has taken a few shots, but no tears or rips that I can find. It covers all the right places and is barely visible.
I wouldn't buy the car without one. And the molded-in "Lotus" logo on the material is pretty slick. At least that way you know you got the OEM stuff.
Enjoy your car!:D
Wayne