Jochgrimm

Overview

Jochgrimm is a hors catégorie climb in Italy, and the numbers explain the classification instantly. Over 19 km the road gains 1740 m of net elevation, dragging you from a start at 241 m all the way to a summit of 1981 m. The average gradient is a punishing 9.16%, and the total ascent of 1802 m tells you there are no meaningful descents to recover on — the road tips up and stays up. This is a climb that demands respect from the first pedal stroke, because there is no easy half. Every kilometre you spend on it is roughly a kilometre spent above 9%, and that reality shapes everything about how you should ride it.

How the Gradient Unfolds

The headline figure is the 9.16% average, but averages hide the teeth. The single most important number here is the 33.01% maximum gradient — a wall steep enough that momentum, not fitness, often decides whether you clear it seated. With a net gain of 1740 m spread over 19 km and a total ascent of 1802 m, the difference between the two ascent figures is small, confirming the road climbs almost continuously rather than rolling. Expect long sustained stretches hovering around the 9% mark, punctuated by sharper ramps that spike well beyond it before easing back toward the average. The 33.01% pitch is the moment the climb defines itself: get your gear selection and body position wrong there and you will be walking.

Pacing Notes

On a climb this long and this steep, pacing is survival. Your target should be a sustainable effort anchored to your FTP — riding just under threshold for the bulk of the 19 km, then accepting short surges over threshold on the steepest ramps rather than trying to hold constant power through the 33.01% pitch. If you do not know your threshold number, estimate it first with the FTP estimator so you can set realistic wattage targets before you start. The key discipline is starting conservatively: with 1740 m still to gain, spending too much in the opening kilometres leaves nothing for the summit at 1981 m. Break the climb into thirds mentally and check in with your breathing at each. Steady beats heroic here.

Gearing

Gearing is not optional insurance on Jochgrimm — it is the difference between riding and stopping. With a 9.16% average and pitches reaching 33.01%, you want the lowest ratios you can fit. A compact 34-tooth chainring is the sensible front choice. On the cassette, a 34×32 is the bare minimum for most riders, and even then the steepest ramps will hurt. If your frame and derailleur allow it, go to a 34×34 for genuine breathing room on the 33.01% wall. The lower ratio lets you spin rather than grind, protecting your knees across a full 19 km of climbing.

Summary

Jochgrimm is a genuine HC test: 19 km, 9.16% average, and a summit at 1981 m earned through 1740 m of net gain. Bring low gears, disciplined pacing, and patience — the 33.01% maximum is waiting.

Length: 19 km
Average gradient: 9.16%
Max gradient: 33.01%
Start: 241 m
Summit: 1981 m
Net gain: 1740 m
Total ascent: 1802 m
Category: HC