You ran into one of the assholes who feels the need to be "vocal" about his overpriced butt-jewerely. While assholes ride every brand, they do seem to gravitate toward Harleys. People just don't feel like a "badass" riding a Honda, something they capitalized on years ago. Remember the "You meet the nicest people on a Honda" ads?
Harleys (and their riders) are all show and no go. They'll "talk the talk" all day long, but when it comes to action they all pussy out, because they know those "piece of shit rice rockets" are cheaper, built better, faster, and will still be on the road long after the Harley's in the scrapyard.
One of the people I ride with every so often has a Fatboy, and while he's definetly a nice guy, he definetly bought the bike for the image and lifestyle that accompanies it. He's owned it for 7 years now and doesn't even have 3000 miles on it. Takes it to the local bike nights and local rallies, that's about it.
Unless you see a Vrod with a turbo hanging off the side, you have nothing to fear from any HD.
As for SOA, I don't get it. You know how people say "action figures" are dolls for boys? I see SOA as a soap opera for men. Every episode is 90% touchy-feely talk about nothing. No action, no ass kicking, no car chases, no explosions. Lots and lots of talking. Boooooooring. I know I'm in the minority here, but honestly the show bores me to death, despite really trying to like it. I guess when I first saw it I was hoping for a new-age Knight Rider-esque show or something.