Sella di Serrada

Overview

Sella di Serrada is a hors catégorie (HC) climb, the hardest rung on the classification ladder above categories 1 through 4. Over just 10.9 km it drags you from a start elevation of 194 m to a summit at 1250 m, a net gain of 1056 m with 1037 m of total ascent packed into the ride. The number that defines it is the average gradient: 9.73%. That is not a figure you see softened by flat kilometres or recovery bends — it is a near-constant wall. With a maximum pitch of 16.74%, this is a climb that punishes anyone who starts too hard and never really lets you settle.

How the Gradient Unfolds

Because the net gain (1056 m) sits so close to the total ascent (1037 m), there is almost no downhill or false-flat relief along the way — nearly every metre gained is a metre climbed and kept. That makes the 9.73% average feel honest rather than deceptive: you are climbing steeply from the base to the top. The steepest ramps reach 16.74%, roughly seven points above the average, so expect the road to lurch upward in places well beyond the number your legs have grown used to. Between those spikes, the gradient rarely dips into comfortable territory. The shape of this climb is a sustained grind punctuated by sharp stabs, not a rhythmic climb with clear rest stretches.

Pacing Notes

On a climb this relentless, discipline beats bravado. Anchor your effort to your FTP and hold something in reserve for the 16.74% ramps, which will spike your power far above threshold whether you like it or not. A smart plan is to sit slightly under threshold on the steady 9.73% sections so those steep pitches don't blow you apart. If you're unsure of your numbers, run them through the FTP estimator before you commit to a target. Over 10.9 km at this gradient, even a small overcook early will compound badly by the top — start conservative and let the climb come to you.

Gearing

Gear for the average, then gear again for the max. At 9.73% sustained with ramps to 16.74%, most riders will want the easiest cassette they can fit. A 34×32 is a sensible minimum for strong climbers, but for the 16.74% pitches — and to keep your cadence civilised across the full 10.9 km — a 34×34 gives you the extra margin that keeps you spinning instead of grinding to a standstill. On a 1056 m gain there is no shame in the biggest sprocket you own; the goal is to protect your legs for the summit at 1250 m.

Summary

Sella di Serrada earns its HC label. Steep, sustained, and unforgiving, it offers little rest across its 10.9 km and demands respect from the first pedal stroke.

Length: 10.9 km
Average gradient: 9.73%
Max gradient: 16.74%
Start: 194 m
Summit: 1250 m
Net gain: 1056 m
Total ascent: 1037 m
Category: HC