I'm buying a stock 01' 400 EX and going to the Land Between the Lakes in a few weeks, also I will go to the Badlands frequently this summer. Mostly trail riding and some MX course for fun. Is a skid plate needed? Is the risk that a small rock will bounce up and crack the engine case? How about the swing arm, whats at risk without it?

Thanks in advance for patience with the newbie questions.