Coll del Falcó

Overview

Coll del Falcó is a short, honest category 3 climb that packs a real punch into a compact distance. Over just 4.3 km the road lifts you from a near-sea-level start of 6 m to a summit of 290 m, a net gain of 284 m. The average gradient sits at a demanding 6.55%, and while that number sounds moderate on paper, it hides a steepest pitch of 12.95% that will have you out of the saddle. With a total ascent of 273 m, this is a climb you can commit to fully from the bottom, knowing the summit is never more than a few minutes of hard effort away.

How the Gradient Unfolds

The defining feature here is consistency backed by one nasty sting. A 6.55% average across 4.3 km means there is very little respite — no long flat runs to recover, no false summits to break the rhythm. The climb trends relentlessly upward, and the difference between the average of 6.55% and the max of 12.95% tells you the steep sections are roughly twice as hard as the mean. Expect the gradient to hover in the mid-single digits for much of the ascent before pitching sharply toward that 12.95% ramp. Because the start elevation is so low at 6 m, thin air is never a factor; the challenge is purely the incline and how hard you push it.

Pacing Notes

Since this climb is over quickly, treat it like an extended threshold effort rather than a long tempo grind. Aim to ride the shallower sections just below your FTP, then dig into your reserves when the road tips toward 12.95%. Blowing up on a 4.3 km climb costs you dearly because there is no long descent to recover on. If you do not know your threshold power, run the numbers through the FTP estimator first so you can set a realistic ceiling. The smart tactic is to arrive at the steepest ramp with something left, then empty the tank over the final pitches to the 290 m summit.

Gearing

For a climb with a 6.55% average and pitches hitting 12.95%, gearing that lets you spin rather than grind is worth its weight. A compact chainring paired with a 34×32 will handle most of the ascent comfortably for strong riders. If you prefer to keep cadence high on that steepest 12.95% ramp — or you are carrying fatigue from earlier climbs — a 34×34 gives you the extra margin to stay seated and controlled. With only 273 m of total ascent, the smart move is to protect your legs early and let the gearing absorb the sharp bits.

Summary

Coll del Falcó rewards a committed, punchy effort: 4.3 km of climbing at 6.55% with a bite of 12.95% near the top. Pace it like a threshold burst, gear for the steep ramps, and enjoy the quick payoff at 290 m.

Length: 4.3 km
Average gradient: 6.55%
Max gradient: 12.95%
Start: 6 m
Summit: 290 m
Net gain: 284 m
Total ascent: 273 m
Category: 3