Ryder Hesjedal has told VeloNews that after a poor 2014 season, he was heading into 2015 with Cannondale-Garmin expecting it to be his last as a pro. But strong rides in the Giro and Tour allowed him to keep going with Trek-Segafredo.

“Even last year, at the start of the year, I was having thoughts it would be the last season,” Hesjedal told VeloNews. “I had that kind of idea in the mind, but once the season got going again, with what I could do with the racing, it got me motivated again. I still have lots to give, and I found a place that believes I can give it.”

After being one of the founding members of the Garmin team in 2008, Hesjedal and Dan Martin leaving the team signals a new beginning for Jonathan Vaughters team. Martin won two Monuments and Hesjedal the team’s only Grand Tour, the 2012 Giro. Hesjedal talks about moving on from the team.

“Things change, time goes on, and I was up for contract. I looked around like anybody does, and it just all came together. I had a good feeling that [Trek] wanted me, and it was the best value, to roll for the Giro. It didn’t take long.”

Hesjedal said that while he would have loved to win another Giro stage in 2015, fifth overall and two second place on stages is a great return, especially considering his bad start to the race.

“The sport is tough. Second on those two stages at the Giro with [Fabio] Aru, not too many people in the world are beating Aru right now, so I cannot be too upset. I was happy with the way I rode in the Giro, and I was still fifth overall. That keeps me motivated and pushing.”

Turning attention to the 2016 Giro, the 35 year old Canadian says the route is different to what he usually likes, but that he still thinks it will be a good race.

“It does seem a little different, but the Giro is always tough. There’s always more to it than what it looks like in the race book. A piece of paper doesn’t tell the tale. Aru won’t be there, so that’s good. I’ve heard Valverde is going, Nibali, Urán, plus a few others. It will be a good race. The Giro always is.”