“Pueblo.”
Where Route 50 and Route 25 cross, there is a town called Pueblo. Leaving Dodge City, I headed toward that town.
Today is clear again, but as noon approaches, the temperature keeps rising. Passing through several small towns, I ride along the scorching freeway. The sun burns my skin, and I start to worry a little about my partner’s engine.
I’ll refuel and rest at the next gas station I find.
Gas prices here are a bit higher. Up until now, it was $2.29–$2.39 per gallon. But as I get closer to Colorado, it’s gone up to $2.49. Well, it makes sense— prices differ by state.
Oh right— I also need clothes for crossing the Rocky Mountains.
Just as I thought that, I spotted a cute western‑wear shop.
I walked in without hesitation.
“Phew… it’s cool in here…”
The words slipped out with my sigh. A kind older woman at the counter said:
“You need a break. Rest a little.”
It really was hot today. I wondered if I even needed warm clothes in this heat, so I asked her:
“I’m going to cross the Rocky Mountains. Can I make it with just this long‑sleeve shirt?”
“Well… you’ll be fine. You’re not camping overnight, right? It gets cold at night.”
So I gently put back the $31 heavy‑duty shirt I had been holding. I thanked her and stepped outside.
After refueling, I left the town.
Next destination— of course:
“Outpost Harley-Davidson Pueblo, Colorado.”
It was right on Route 25.
My partner had run 4,442 miles. Maybe I should get an oil change.
“Hi guys!! How are you!!”
A lively woman shouted as soon as I entered the store.
“I’m great!! Thanks! Hey, can you change the oil on my Harley?”
“Of course!! Just wait a moment!”
She went to the back to ask the mechanics.
“They can do it right away!! Come with me!!”
In the workshop, that familiar Harley smell filled the air— a scent that makes any Harley lover’s heart swell.
A mechanic came over:
“How many miles now? …4442? Too early. You can ride another 600 miles.”
“I see… How far is it to Las Vegas?”
“About 500 miles. Do it in Vegas.”
“Got it. Thanks.”
I went back to the lively woman and told her the situation.
“I’ll just shop today.”
“No problem! Look around as much as you want!!”
How bold she was, in the best way.
I browsed the store thoroughly and picked up:
– a long‑sleeve shirt – a patch – a thick hoodie with a hood
I was still worried about the mountain temperatures.
Total: $100.79
Then— a surprise.
They were running a promotion: spend over $100 and you get to spin a big roulette wheel.
I spun it…
And won a store‑original shirt.
Everyone was shocked. The design was awesome. What luck!
Alright— I’ll stay in Pueblo tonight.
To be continued…
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