Climb Time Calculator
Climbing performance is determined by your power-to-weight ratio (W/kg) and the gradient of the climb. This calculator estimates your time using physics-based modeling, accounting for gravity, rolling resistance, and aerodynamic drag – though on steep climbs, gravity dominates.
The calculator also shows your VAM (Velocità Ascensionale Media) – the vertical meters climbed per hour, a key metric used to compare climbing performances across different gradients.
What this calculator does
Estimates your climb time from power, weight, distance, and gradient using a simple physics model.
Your sustained climbing power. Use your FTP or a realistic climbing effort.
Include bike, shoes, bottles, etc. Road bikes: 7–9 kg, with gear: 8–12 kg.
Typical categories: 4–6% moderate, 7–9% hard, 10%+ very steep.
Results
How to use this result
- Use the time estimate to pace long climbs or compare different power targets.
- Test how small weight changes affect your time on steep gradients.
- Use the same inputs to compare famous climbs to your local routes.
VAM Reference
Recreational: 600–900 m/hr
Trained amateur: 900–1100 m/hr
Strong amateur: 1100–1300 m/hr
Elite/Cat 1: 1300–1500 m/hr
Professional: 1500–1800+ m/hr
VAM varies with gradient – higher gradients typically produce higher VAM values.
What-If Analysis
Results will show how weight and power changes affect your time.
Understanding Climbing Performance
Power-to-Weight (W/kg)
The most important metric for climbing. A 70kg rider at 280W (4.0 W/kg) will climb faster than an 80kg rider at 300W (3.75 W/kg), despite lower absolute power.
VAM (Vertical Ascent Speed)
Meters of elevation gained per hour. Allows comparison across different climbs. Pro climbers on major climbs typically hit 1600–1800 m/hr.
Gradient Effects
On steep gradients (>8%), aerodynamic drag becomes negligible – it's almost purely about fighting gravity. On shallower gradients, aero still matters.
Weight Savings
Losing 1 kg (rider or bike) typically saves 1–2 seconds per kilometer at 7–8% gradient for a 250W rider. The steeper the climb, the more weight matters.
Note: This calculator uses a simplified physics model. Real-world times depend on road surface, wind, temperature, variable gradients, and pacing strategy. Times are estimates only.