California.

So far California and Giant Bicycle Company have been pretty good to Jen and I. We arrived Monday afternoon. Checked into the Hyatt and took a shuttle to Giant headquarters for some In and Out burgers and shaved ice. I had the double, double animal. Not too sure what the means or is but it was good and most definitely unhealthy!

Wednesday we got up and had breakfast. I suck at buffets. I feel I need to eat as much as I can. The food is actually pretty good.
We then had meetings and presentations which were also pretty good.
Giant is really focusing on road bikes this year. They redid everything. I get caught up in all the hype and get all stoked on riding Giant. I guess that is what they want!
We did get a chance to ride too.
Jen and I opted of to do the long road route, 18 miles. They claimed it wasn't too hilly. California hilly and Minnesota hilly are two different things. But more than the hills the dry air got to me. On the shuttle ride back most were coughing like we were smokers and not bikers.
I took out the TCR Advanced, Giant's race line bike. With the redesign they claim the front end is way stiffer than the previous TCR. So I focused on this. I'd have to concur. Climbing hard out of the saddle the front end didn't seem to flex much at all...and I'm ripped! Overall I really liked the bike, especially since I pretty much put pedals on and rolled out. Sizing is overrated! Today we have another chance to ride and I'm riding the Defy, Giants enthusiast (more comfort) bike.

I'm glad to be here and having fun but as usual I miss my routine of riding, working, family, working out, etc. So tomorrow will be welcome.

Here are some pics of the ride.

Later.