Kyobashira Pass

Overview

Kyobashira Pass is a Category 1 climb in Japan, running 12.7 km from a start elevation of 397 m to a summit at 1115 m. On paper the headline figure is a net elevation gain of 718 m — enough to earn its category, but a number that undersells the work involved. It starts low, finishes high, and averages 5.65% across its length.

That net figure is only part of the story. The total ascent is 1762 m, more than double the net gain. That 1044 m gap means the climb does not rise cleanly to the summit — it undulates, giving back and reclaiming elevation repeatedly. You will pedal roughly 1762 m worth of uphill even though you only end up 718 m higher than you started. Budget your effort for the total ascent, not the net.

How the Gradient Unfolds

The 5.65% average is a blend, not a constant. The undulation hides both genuine recovery stretches and sharp ramps that spike well above the mean. Because descents and false flats are baked into the average, the climbing pitches are steeper than 5.65% suggests.

• Flatter or downhill recovery sections that pull the average down between the harder pitches.
• Repeated short climbs stacked back to back, the source of the extra 1044 m of ascent.
• A steepest ramp reaching 34.64% — a wall that demands your lowest gear and out-of-saddle effort.

Pacing Notes

Do not chase an even speed here. The undulation makes a constant pace impossible without wild power surges. Instead ride to an even effort, holding a steady sustainable power output through the ramps and easing on the recovery stretches rather than hammering the flats to "make up time." Surging on every kicker will cook you before the summit given the total ascent involved. If you do not know your ceiling, run the FTP estimator first and set a target you can hold across all 12.7 km.

Gearing

The 34.64% maximum gradient governs your setup, and it is severe. A compact 34-tooth inner ring is the minimum; a sub-compact chainset is better. Pair it with a wide-range cassette — a 34×32 or, ideally, 34×34 low gear — so you can spin the steepest ramp rather than grind to a halt. Check your chainset and cassette before you ride. A gear that feels fine at 5.65% will not save you on a 34% wall.

Summary

• Length: 12.7 km
• Average gradient: 5.65%
• Maximum gradient: 34.64%
• Net elevation gain: 718 m
• Total ascent: 1762 m
• Category: 1

Kyobashira Pass is a deceptive Category 1: its 718 m net gain masks 1762 m of real climbing and a 34.64% pitch. Come with low gears, an even-effort plan, and respect for the undulation.