'The Bachelorette' -- Brokeback Bachelors Are NOT GAY

The Bachelorette's big gay event -- the so-called "Brokeback Bachelor" moment where 2 of the guys fall in love with each other -- is missing something ... 2 gay guys.

TMZ has learned both guys -- Clint and JJ -- are both straight as arrows. Multiple sources tell us the 'Brokeback' promo ABC's been airing is just that ... a promo.

We're told Clint and JJ did have a bromance while trying to woo Kaitlyn Bristowe, but "nothing gay ever happened" ... not even in the shower ... as Clint mentions in the promo for next week's episode.

Our sources say both guys are in on the whole 'Brokeback' thing and "just think it's funny." They even gave producers soundbites to run with. Of course, they've also been getting a ton of attention on social media, and they love it. We're told they "think of funny things to write back to people on Twitter."

Case in point ... Clint's tweet comparing himself to Heath Ledger.

So, bottom line -- nothing gay to see here folks. Just a very effective ad.