I live in a small town and I've not had any problems either. On the other hand I am very strict about obeying the road laws, making my intentions clear, etc. Whenever I hear other's horror stories I always think this one thing...and it always bothers me: why not pedestrians? How many walkers, joggers, and runners get stuff thrown at them, yelled at, or ran off the road(where there are no sidewalks or paths)? It happens...but not nearly as much as what happens to cyclists. I just have to wonder...where does the hate come from?