Just a quick note to everyone who reads this blog:

Gran Fondo NJ is a pretty class act.  If you're at all able, register for it: there's 4 different rides catering to all ability levels of riders along with timed climbs and plenty of festivities the weekend of the ride.

One of the biggest perks is the series of training rides that Marty's Reliable Cycle (the chain of shops that organizes the event) puts on to get riders ready for the routes.  Cue sheets and GPS routes are provided.  Free nutrition is provided.  Rest stops are organized.  There are like minded riders training to be the best they can be on Fondo day.  It's pretty awesome.  Today the Jamis truck was available with test bikes available (for the entire Medio Fondo route to boot.)  Interestingly, they were testing a (blacked out, of course) new 2013 frame before it goes into production.  Unfortunately I wasn't able to get any photos, but it looks quite interesting.