Last poll I've seen (don't remember during what chapter) Sasuke was indeed number one. Naruto came seconds with around 2,000 votes less.
But now, what's really strange, is that Rasengan is the most popular technique in that poll
Chidori was second.
As for myself, I like Naruto. If you think he's pathetic, maybe you should consider Shinji Ikari from Neon Genesis Evangelion. That's a coward and a loser... no matter how you look at him.
Really, I'm convinced that Naruto has some potential as character... maybe it's just a late-bloomer ^^'
Sasuke being number has certainly something to do with these Sasuke x Naruto doujins, fanfics etc where often he's the one in control over Naruto and their relation. They even make him look very kawai and mature at the same time (Naruto too but more naive/innocent
) Personally, I like Sasuke 'cause of he looks cool, but his personality is not something you'd envy. I feel sorry for him.