Unfortunately, we are the red headed stepchild to the serious off roaders. I know when I had my Samurai, I could get a lot more input in my build. But for my uses, the Sidekick made more sense because I don't really enjoy crawling over rocks and tearing up my rig, plus the wife likes the A/C. Don't worry about guys that turn their nose up to your rig, believe me, they are in the minority. Most I have met think Track/kicks are cool.
But like I said, go into the Zu forum and introduce yourself or ask questions. Guys will ask what you have done to your rig, and that is how you will start making friends. The IFS section is a little slow, but still always guys there to answer questions. Find out more about the Zuwharrie meet, you would surely meet others like yourself there. I wish there was a dedicated Suzuki forum in my area, but this is Jeep country.
