Horní Sedlo

Overview

Horní Sedlo is a compact, honest climb that rewards rhythm over drama. It runs 3.3 km at an average gradient of 5.2%, lifting you from a start elevation of 261 m to a summit of 432 m. That works out to a net elevation gain of 171 m, with a recorded total ascent of 146 m once the small downhill and flatter breathers are subtracted. The maximum gradient tops out at 6.49%, so nothing here spikes into leg-breaking territory. This is a category 4 climb — the gentlest of the graded tiers, sitting below categories 3, 2, 1 and the hors catégorie giants — but the steady pitch still makes it a genuine test of pacing discipline.

How the Gradient Unfolds

The defining feature of Horní Sedlo is consistency. With an average of 5.2% and a maximum of only 6.49%, the gap between the typical grade and the steepest ramp is narrow — barely over one percent. That tells you the climb doesn't hide any nasty surprises; it simply asks you to hold a moderate effort for the full 3.3 km. The difference between the 171 m net gain and the 146 m of total ascent points to a short section that eases or dips, giving you a moment to recover mid-climb before the road tilts back up toward the 432 m summit. Treat the closing stretch as the place to spend whatever you held in reserve.

Pacing Notes

Because the gradient never runs away from you, Horní Sedlo is ideal for pacing off effort rather than fear. Aim to settle in just below your threshold and hold it. Your FTP is the number to anchor to here: on a climb this short, sitting around 90 to 95 percent of threshold for the full 3.3 km is sustainable and fast. If you don't know your current threshold, run the numbers through the FTP estimator before you plan your target power. Use the brief flatter section — the reason total ascent falls short of net gain — to shake out your legs, then commit to the final pitch toward 432 m.

Gearing

Horní Sedlo doesn't demand extreme gearing, but comfort keeps you smooth. A compact chainring paired with a wide-range cassette gives you all the range you need. For most riders a 34×32 combination covers the 5.2% average and the 6.49% max with room to spin rather than grind. If you prefer a lower cadence ceiling, favor climbing seated, or simply want insurance for tired legs, a 34×34 adds a touch more relief without any real downside on a climb this length. Either setup lets you protect your cadence across the full 3.3 km.

Summary

Horní Sedlo is a clean, well-mannered category 4 climb: short at 3.3 km, moderate at 5.2% average, and never harsh with a 6.49% ceiling. Pace it steadily, gear it sensibly, and enjoy a climb that showcases rhythm over suffering.

Length: 3.3 km
Average gradient: 5.2%
Max gradient: 6.49%
Start: 261 m
Summit: 432 m
Net gain: 171 m
Total ascent: 146 m
Category: 4