Port de la Ribera

Overview

Port de la Ribera is a category 3 ascent that packs a satisfying, honest effort into 6.4 kilometres of climbing. From a start elevation of 45 metres it lifts you to a summit of 362 metres — a net gain of 317 metres at an average gradient of 4.94%. On the four-tier scale of paved climbs (category 4 being the gentlest, then 3, 2, and 1, with HC reserved for the hardest), this sits comfortably in the middle-lower band: long enough to demand rhythm, but never so severe that it snaps your legs. With a maximum gradient of 7.16%, there are no wall-like ramps here, only a road that tilts up and asks you to keep turning the pedals.

How the Gradient Unfolds

The shape of Port de la Ribera is its most useful feature. An average of 4.94% against a maximum of only 7.16% tells you the climb is remarkably consistent — the steepest pitch is barely two percentage points above the mean. That narrow spread means the road rarely surprises you. You settle into a gear early and hold it, rather than constantly reacting to lurching ramps.

The total ascent of 303 metres sits just below the 317 metres of net gain, which confirms there is little to no descending mixed in. This is a climb that goes up and keeps going up, gaining altitude in a near-linear line from bottom to top. Expect a steady grind rather than a series of switchback surges.

Pacing Notes

Because the gradient is so even, Port de la Ribera rewards a disciplined, threshold-adjacent effort. Riders comfortable with their FTP can hold a firm tempo the whole way without blowing up, since there are no spikes forcing you deep into the red. Aim to keep your power just under threshold on the 4.94% average, then let the effort creep up toward the 7.16% pinches without ever fully committing to a sprint.

If you are unsure what number to target, run your figures through the FTP estimator first, then set a wattage ceiling you can sustain for the roughly 6.4 kilometres of climbing. On a climb this uniform, going out too hard in the first kilometre is the classic error — the road never eases enough to let you recover.

Gearing

Nothing about Port de la Ribera demands ultra-low gearing, but comfort still pays off over 6.4 kilometres. For most fit riders, a compact chainring paired with a 34×32 low gear gives plenty of range to spin the 4.94% average and cover the 7.16% maximum without grinding. If you carry extra fatigue, favour a heavier bike, or simply prefer a higher cadence, a 34×34 provides that little bit of extra insurance on the steeper pitches near the top. Either setup lets you stay seated and rhythmic, which is exactly how this climb wants to be ridden.

Summary

Port de la Ribera is a fair, consistent category 3 climb — long enough to be a proper test, even enough to be enjoyable. Pace it near threshold, gear it comfortably, and let the steady 4.94% do the rest.

Length: 6.4 km
Average gradient: 4.94%
Max gradient: 7.16%
Start: 45 m
Summit: 362 m
Net gain: 317 m
Total ascent: 303 m
Category: 3