Sakanako lepoa

Overview

Sakanako lepoa is an hors catégorie climb, the hardest classification a road can carry — and its numbers explain why. Over 7.6 km it holds an average gradient of 11.08%, a figure that would be punishing for a single kilometre, let alone a sustained ascent. From a start elevation of 227 m the road hauls you to a summit of 1074 m, a net elevation gain of 847 m. There is almost nowhere to hide: with a max gradient of 19.93%, the steepest ramps nearly double the already savage average. This is a climb defined by unrelenting steepness rather than length, the kind of wall that rewards patience and punishes ambition.

How the Gradient Unfolds

The defining feature of Sakanako lepoa is consistency of difficulty. An 11.08% average across 7.6 km means very little respite — the climb rarely eases into the single digits for long. The gap between the average and the 19.93% maximum tells you what to brace for: pitches that surge well beyond a comfortable rhythm, likely clustered on the harder ramps rather than spread evenly. The total ascent of 820 m is slightly less than the 847 m net gain, which confirms there is virtually no downhill or flat recovery built into the route. Every metre gained is a metre earned. Expect the gradient to bite early and stay biting, with the sharpest 19.93% sections demanding out-of-the-saddle efforts.

Pacing Notes

On a climb this steep, pacing is everything. The 11.08% average over 7.6 km means you cannot bank on gravity-assisted recovery, so ride to your sustainable ceiling from the base. Aim to sit just below your FTP for the length of the climb, holding a steady power target rather than chasing the gradient. On the 19.93% ramps your power will spike unavoidably — accept short surges above threshold, then settle back the moment the pitch relents. If you do not know your threshold number, run it through the FTP estimator before your attempt so you can set a realistic target for the full 7.6 km rather than blowing up in the first kilometre. Discipline in the opening third pays dividends across all 847 m of gain.

Gearing

Do not under-gear this one. With an 11.08% average and ramps hitting 19.93%, you want the widest range you can fit. A compact 34-tooth chainring paired with a large cassette is the minimum sensible setup. A 34×32 will get many strong riders up, but on a climb sustaining these gradients most will be grateful for a 34×34 — that extra sprocket keeps your cadence turning on the steepest pitches instead of grinding to a near-standstill. If your frame and derailleur allow an even larger cassette, take it. Preserving cadence over 7.6 km of relentless climbing protects your legs far more than raw pride.

Summary

Sakanako lepoa is a genuine test — short by grand-tour standards but ferociously steep, an HC climb that never lets up across its full 7.6 km. Come with low gears, a measured plan, and respect for the 19.93% ramps.

Length: 7.6 km
Average gradient: 11.08%
Max gradient: 19.93%
Start: 227 m
Summit: 1074 m
Net gain: 847 m
Total ascent: 820 m
Category: HC