Huffman was part of a small group that broke away from the pack in the first couple of miles of the trek from Santa Barbara to Santa Clarita. The group moved further ahead up the big climb of Balcom Canyon Road before Huffman broke to the front with about a mile to go and held off his pursuers.
Andrew Talansky, who sits eighth overall, punctured with about five miles to go. He was ferried back to the field by Taylor Phinney and did not lose any time.
This year marks the first time the Tour of California has been staged as part of the World Tour, a designation that organizers hope will draw more top names in the sport from Europe.
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
The seven-day race finishes in Pasadena on May 20.
(Writing by Jahmal Corner in Los Angeles; Editing by Peter Rutherford)
