He's scared. A lot of guys are that way until they get some experience under their belt. Nothing to make fun of, we all have our weaknesses. Cut the guy some slack, and be satisfied you are a good friend who tried to help.
no... better yet! start a thread about your friends possible preferences and drag his insecurities out in to the open for everyone to poke fun at him... Thats how you keep good friends:fyi: