Kerschbaum Saddle

What to Expect

The Kerschbaum Saddle is a Category 1 climb in Austria, rising from 513 m at the base to a summit at 1,120 m. Over 8 km it delivers 607 m of net elevation gain — and a total ascent of 694 m, which signals that the road is not simply a straight ramp. There are undulations in the gradient profile that eat into your legs before the hardest ramps arrive.

An average gradient of 7.61% is already demanding over this distance. But the maximum recorded gradient of 22.68% is the number that changes your race plan. That figure puts certain sections into wall territory — pitches where traction, momentum, and gearing all become critical concerns simultaneously.

Gradient Breakdown

The gap between the average (7.61%) and the maximum (22.68%) is large. That spread tells you the climb is not uniform. Expect extended stretches sitting closer to the average interspersed with short, sharp ramps that spike well above it.

• Lower slopes: Starting at 513 m, the early kilometres establish the rhythm. Treat these as a controlled effort — the temptation to ride hard on manageable gradients is where many riders blow up before reaching the steeper upper sections.
• Mid-climb: The total ascent figure of 694 m versus the 607 m net gain indicates dips and rollers embedded in the route. Any section where you recover slightly should be used to spin the legs, not to accelerate — you will need those reserves.
• Upper slopes: The 22.68% maximum almost certainly appears in the upper half. At gradients approaching and exceeding 20%, even a brief loss of momentum can force you to an unplanned stop. Stay seated where possible to maintain rear-wheel traction.

Pacing Notes

For data-driven riders, the 8 km length and 7.61% average make this a climb where FTP management is central. Riding the full 8 km at or above threshold without accounting for the steep ramps is a common mistake.

• Target power: Aim for 90–95% of FTP as a ceiling for the sustained sections. When the gradient spikes toward the upper extreme, let cadence drop before power spikes — preserving muscular endurance for the remainder.
• Cadence: A higher cadence (80–90 rpm) on moderate sections protects the legs for the steep ramps, where cadence will inevitably fall toward 60–70 rpm regardless of gearing.
• Pacing tool: Use the FTP estimator before race day to establish your baseline numbers for a climb of this length and difficulty.

Gearing

With a maximum gradient of 22.68%, this is not a climb where you want to be caught out with inadequate gearing. A compact chainset (50/34) paired with an 11-32 or 11-34 cassette is the practical minimum. Riders on semi-compact or standard setups should confirm their lowest gear is achievable before committing to a hard effort — there is no clean way to recover from being over-geared on a 22% pitch.

Summary

The Kerschbaum Saddle earns its Category 1 rating through a combination of sustained length, a punishing average, and gradient spikes that require specific tactical decisions. Start conservatively, manage effort through the rollers in the mid-section, and have the right gear for when the road tilts beyond 20%.