Gasteizko mendatea

Overview

Gasteizko mendatea is a short, honest category 4 climb that rewards steady effort over dramatics. It runs for 3.9 km at an average gradient of 4.26%, lifting you from a start elevation of 596 m to a summit of 764 m. That works out to 168 m of net elevation gain, with a total ascent figure of 148 m once the small dips along the way are accounted for. Nothing here is designed to break you — the maximum gradient tops out at just 6.06% — but the consistency is exactly what makes it a satisfying test of pacing discipline.

How the Gradient Unfolds

The shape of this climb is its defining feature. With an average of 4.26% and a peak of only 6.06%, the two numbers sit remarkably close together, which tells you the road never lurches into anything savage. Instead you get a rolling, uniform ramp that holds its pitch for most of the 3.9 km. The gap between the 168 m of net gain and the 148 m of total ascent points to a couple of brief flatter or slightly downhill breaks — small resets where you can shift up, breathe, and gather momentum before the grade tips back to its working average. There is no sting in the tail here, no wall to survive; the challenge is simply refusing to let the rhythm drift.

Pacing Notes

Because the gradient is so even, this is a climb you should ride to a number rather than to feel. Aim to settle just below your FTP and hold it there for the full 3.9 km — the modest 4.26% average means surges cost you far more than they gain. If you do not know your threshold, run your recent efforts through the FTP estimator first, then pick a target you can sustain to the 764 m summit without fading. With only 168 m to climb, the whole effort is over quickly, so treat it like a sustained tempo push: lock in early, stay seated, and let the smooth grade do the metering for you.

Gearing

You will not need anything exotic for a climb that never exceeds 6.06%. A compact setup is more than adequate here. A 34×32 lowest ratio gives most riders a comfortable spinning gear across the whole 3.9 km, letting you keep cadence high on the steadier sections. If you prefer to sit and spin, or you are carrying fatigue from earlier in the ride, a 34×34 offers a touch more headroom without ever feeling like overkill on a category 4 ascent. Either choice lets you protect your legs and hold form to the top.

Summary

Gasteizko mendatea is a clean, rhythmic climb best suited to riders who enjoy a controlled tempo effort. Short at 3.9 km, gentle in its 4.26% average, and capped by a friendly 6.06% maximum, it is a fine place to practise pacing to a wattage target and finishing strong.

Length: 3.9 km
Average gradient: 4.26%
Max gradient: 6.06%
Start: 596 m
Summit: 764 m
Net gain: 168 m
Total ascent: 148 m
Category: 4