I did a Palomares Road loop for the first time today on my Birdy. I actually started in Pleasanton, heading south on Foothill Rd (the route is plotted going the opposite direction).

http://www.bikely.com/maps/bike-path/217409

Not too much bike noise for me since I tightened everything this past weekend. My climbing skills leave much to be desired as I had to stop a couple of times going up Palomares Road to catch my breath. It still feels a little unnatural for me when I am out of the saddle compared to riding a full sized bike, so I typically spend most of the time in the saddle on climbs. I'm thinking it's somewhat due to the more upright riding position, or maybe I just need to practice the technique more.