Stage two of the 2009 Amgen Tour of California brought out the best in local rider Levi Leipheimer of Santa Rosa as he took second place for the stage and the overall lead, Monday.

Conditions proved challenging to riders and spectators alike, with weather continually shifting from gentle drizzles to torrential downpours.

This didn't faze Leipheimer, though, who "had it in his head" that he was going to try to win today. "I looked around and saw that people were at their limit, but I felt really strong and inspired at that moment, so I went for it," Leipheimer said.

Other riders were not so lucky, with at least one crash victimizing 15 riders, including Lance Armstrong. All of the riders, except for Andy Jacques-Maynes (USA) of the BISSELL Pro Cycling Team, were able to recover from the debacle.

A large portion of Monday's race was dedicated to repair, maintenance and rider comfort. Multiple stops by many different riders, including a flat tire for Leipheimer, required the teams' mechanical crews to stand vigilant and follow closely.

Leipheimer summed up the conditions of the day perfectly. "Turn your shower on as cold as it is and stand there for like, you know, four hours. That's what it's like."