Predel

Overview

Predel is a long, low-tilt category 2 climb that trades steepness for stamina. Over 20.5 km it lifts you from a start elevation of 297 m to a summit at 990 m, a net elevation gain of 693 m. The average gradient of 3.39% sounds gentle, and for much of the road it is — but the number that shapes the day is the length, not the slope. At more than 20 km, this is a climb you settle into rather than attack. The category 2 rating (on a scale where HC is hardest, followed by 1, 2, 3 and 4) reflects that combination of distance and moderate pitch: hard enough to matter, forgiving enough to ride steadily.

How the Gradient Unfolds

The defining feature of Predel is how evenly the effort is spread. With an average of 3.39% and a maximum of 7.47%, the steepest ramp is only about 4.08 percentage points above the mean — a narrow spread by climbing standards. That tells you there are no wall-like sections to blow you up; instead the road undulates around its average, with the sharpest 7.47% pitches serving as brief punctuation rather than sustained torment. The total ascent of 673 m sits just below the 693 m net gain, meaning almost every metre you climb stays climbed — there is little in the way of false descents giving elevation back. Expect a road that keeps pointing up without ever forcing you out of rhythm.

Pacing Notes

On a shallow, long climb like this, the winning move is discipline. Because the gradient rarely spikes, it is tempting to push above threshold early — but 20.5 km is long enough to punish that. Aim to ride the bulk of the climb just under your FTP, keeping a smooth, aerobic effort you can hold for the full distance. The steepest 7.47% ramps are the only places worth spending a little extra; everywhere else, protect your legs. If you are unsure where your sustainable ceiling sits, run the numbers first with the FTP estimator so your target power matches the 693 m of climbing ahead rather than a single early kilometre.

Gearing

Predel does not demand ultra-compact gearing, but the length rewards having something in reserve. A compact 34-tooth chainring paired with a 34×32 low gear covers the 7.47% maximum comfortably for most riders, letting you spin rather than grind on the steeper ramps. If you are carrying fatigue from earlier climbing, tire on long days, or simply prefer to protect your knees over 20.5 km, drop to a 34×34 for a touch more cadence room. Either way, the goal is the same: keep your legs turning over easily so the 3.39% average never accumulates into a slog.

Summary

Predel is a patience climb — 20.5 km of steady, honest gradient that rewards even pacing over heroics. Ride it smooth, gear it kind, and let the road come to you.

Length: 20.5 km
Average gradient: 3.39%
Max gradient: 7.47%
Start: 297 m
Summit: 990 m
Net gain: 693 m
Total ascent: 673 m
Category: 2