Passo di Viamaggio

Overview

Passo di Viamaggio is a long, measured category 2 ascent that rewards rhythm over raw power. Over 15.6 km it climbs from a start elevation of 348 m to a summit at 983 m, giving you 635 m of net elevation to gain. The total ascent registers at 639 m, meaning only about 4 m of that figure comes from small dips along the way — this is an almost relentlessly upward road. With an average gradient of 4.07%, it never becomes brutally steep, but the length ensures the effort accumulates. This is a climb you settle into rather than attack.

How the Gradient Unfolds

The defining number here is the gap between the 4.07% average and the 7.18% maximum. That spread is modest, which tells you the road is remarkably consistent: there are no wall-like ramps, only gentle variation around the mean. The steepest pitch at 7.18% is the sort of gradient you can ride seated without a dramatic gear change. Because total ascent (639 m) sits so close to net gain (635 m), the profile is essentially monotonic — you climb, and you keep climbing, with almost no descending relief across all 15.6 km. Expect the effort to feel steady and honest rather than punchy.

Pacing Notes

On a climb this long and even, discipline beats bravado. Aim to hold a sustainable percentage of your FTP from the base rather than surging into the early kilometres. With 15.6 km and 635 m of vertical to manage, going out too hard in the first few kilometres is the classic error — the consistent 4.07% gradient will happily punish anyone who overcooks the start. Ride at a tempo that leaves a little in reserve, and you can lift the pace over the final third when the summit at 983 m comes into view. If you are not sure what wattage to target, run your numbers through the FTP estimator first and set a realistic ceiling before you turn the pedals.

Gearing

Because the maximum gradient tops out at 7.18%, most trained riders can clear Passo di Viamaggio comfortably on a compact setup. A 34×32 lowest gear gives you enough spin to sit and turn the pedals through the steepest sections without grinding. If you prefer to keep your cadence high on a long day, or you are carrying fatigue from earlier climbing, a 34×34 adds a welcome extra escape gear and makes the full 15.6 km feel far more manageable. Either choice works; the deciding factor is your own leg speed and how fresh you arrive at the 348 m base.

Summary

Passo di Viamaggio is a textbook steady climb: long, consistent, and never savage. Its value lies in rhythm — hold your gear, protect your pacing, and let the 635 m of gain come to you across 15.6 km. It is an ideal climb for practising sustained tempo efforts, and a satisfying summit to tick off at 983 m.

Length: 15.6 km
Average gradient: 4.07%
Max gradient: 7.18%
Start: 348 m
Summit: 983 m
Net gain: 635 m
Total ascent: 639 m
Category: 2