Scandi,

Don't freak out! I think people like to post their horror stories, and I was a bit worried too, but people in the US, especially in small towns are overwhelmingly friendly and helpful.

I had 2 only slightly bad people encounters in 10 weeks of touring, and probably 500 wonderful ones.

Drivers - the worst ones are the folks with the rental RV's who don't know how big their vehicle is. Try not to ride the national parks on weekends and holidays (Memorial Day 5/28-30, July 4th 7/2-4, Labor Day 9/3-5). Helmet - yes. Mirror - yes. Body armor (I know you are kidding) - no. The truckers are usually friendly and courteous. Be friendly, wave, share the road.

Dogs... well, there are some bad ones for sure, I carried pepper spray, available in any camping/hunting shop, but I never used it. Got chased about 10 times, only 2 were really scary. Guess I was lucky?

Camel has it going on!

Whatever energy you put out, you will get back.

Have a great trip!
Anna