Passo dell'Incrociati

Overview

Passo dell'Incrociati is a compact Category 3 test that packs a real punch into a short distance. Over just 4.8 km the road climbs from 234 m to a summit of 507 m, a net gain of 273 m at an average gradient of 5.65%. That average sits comfortably in the sustainable range for most riders, but the max gradient of 9.41% tells you the climb does not simply tick along at a single tempo. It is short enough to attack, long enough to hurt if you misjudge the effort.

How the Gradient Unfolds

The headline numbers hint at a climb with genuine variation. With a 5.65% average and a 9.41% max, the difference between the two shows there are stretches noticeably steeper than the mean and, by extension, easier ramps that let the road breathe. The total ascent of 260 m against a net gain of 273 m is worth noting: the two figures being so close means this is an honest, almost relentlessly upward road with very little false-flat or descending relief to break the rhythm. You climb, and you keep climbing. Expect the gradient to lean hardest somewhere in the middle third, where the pitch toward that 9.41% maximum will force a decision about whether to hold power or ease and recover.

Pacing Notes

For a climb this length, pacing is about not overcooking the opening kilometre. At 4.8 km, the entire effort likely lasts somewhere in the 15-to-25 minute window for most riders, which places it right around threshold territory. Aim to ride the steady 5.65% sections at or just below your FTP, then allow your power to rise over the 9.41% ramp without redlining so hard that you blow before the 507 m summit. If you do not know your threshold number, run the FTP estimator first so you can anchor your effort to real watts rather than feel. The 273 m of vertical gain is banked quickly here, so a controlled, slightly negative-split ride pays off: save a little for the steepest pitch.

Gearing

Nothing on Passo dell'Incrociati demands ultra-compact gearing, but the 9.41% ramp rewards having a bailout cog in reserve. A compact chainset paired with a wide-range cassette is the sensible baseline. A 34×32 will carry strong climbers over the steep section while keeping cadence respectable on the 5.65% average grades. If you are carrying fatigue, prefer to spin, or want insurance for the max gradient, step up to 34×34, which lets you sit and turn the pedals through the pitch rather than grinding out of the saddle. Either setup keeps this Category 3 climb well within reach.

Summary

Passo dell'Incrociati is a short, honest climb: 4.8 km of near-constant ascent at 5.65%, spiking to 9.41%, delivering 273 m of gain to a 507 m summit. Pace the opening, respect the steep middle, and it makes for a rewarding Category 3 effort.

Length: 4.8 km
Average gradient: 5.65%
Max gradient: 9.41%
Start: 234 m
Summit: 507 m
Net gain: 273 m
Total ascent: 260 m
Category: 3