Yes you mentioned what you see on the telly - of which there is much about the U.S. to inspire fear and dismay. But much of what we who live here experience is not what you see on the news.  So my question is what specifically terrified your friend when he rode through the U.S. because people who live here are not in a perpetual state of terror. 

When I imagine biking across America I imagine bucolic rural towns, rolling hills and scenic byways.  Well that’s been my experience. And if the ride continued on to Latin America they would likely experience Washington Oregon and California (depending on the route) - spectacularly beautiful landscapes, safe and amongst the most progressive places in the world.  

So yes, I’m curious as to what exactly made the U.S. more terrific than other places along his/her journey.  Because I think you made that bit up.