10 State Day 2

Two of us began the ride from Minneapolis to Sioux Falls about 0800 this morning. Easy going, just cruising along.

My friend mentioned that he wanted to stop to take a photo with the Jolly Green Giant along the way, one of HOG's 15 Rides for 2026 locations. When I thought he had missed the town it's in, I flagged him down and we pulled onto the shoulder to look up directions.

While we were stopped, three rally riders and friends of mine came by...and two crashed into each other. One rider was thrown. My friend and I successfully stopped the highway traffic and rushed to help her until someone arrived. A guy from the traffic came up and worked with 911 to do CPR. A cop showed up with a medical kit, and as all that was happening, an ER doctor showed up from the other side of the highway. Despite everyone's efforts, nothing could be done. She died right there in the road, her head cradled in my hands.

My friend and I stayed with the other two riders, her husband and their friend, for several hours until everything was finished. She laid on the side of the road in a bag under a sheet for most of that time.

Afterwards, my friend and I went into the nearest town to get some air conditioning and food. Not a pleasant meal. Then we beelined to Sioux Falls, only for me to find out I made my hotel reservation for last night. So, my friend is graciously allowing me to stay with him tonight. Maybe that's a good thing.

Everytime I get on the bike, I know it could be the last, but it's easy to forget. Hold your friends and family tight, tell them how much you love them every time you can. Hoka Hey.

Hope to see you on the road! Remember, NO WHINING! ✌️

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https://powderkeghd.com/
https://allamericanharley.com/
https://www.wild-ass.com/

2026 starting odometer: 46667
Starting odometer: 140533
Ending odometer: 140791
Daily mileage: 258
2026 miles total: 94124

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