Sorry I ment shocks, not brakes. And doubling the bumb stops is a very good idea, as is the skid plate. I do know about 'push' but the worst feeling in the world is grabbing some air then a grill full of dirt, and a slightly stiffer front will help put the much lighter rear wheels down after even speed-bump size air. You have to remember the dirt will give, and since so much of your weight is up front if any of the front smacks/grabs dirt after air, your rear end is just gonna wanna flip over. [imagine just useing front brakes on a bike] Speaking of that, may think about re-locating the battery to the back, and getting something to protect your radiator as well. 1" steel pipe works well.
[In the link] The green mazda is owned by my boss Kurt Thiel, of Thiel's Import Auto.
Photos from January 31 & February 1 2004 at Cayuta Lake