Phu Nam Ron

Overview

Phu Nam Ron is a short, approachable category 4 climb that packs its work into just 3 km. From a start elevation of 227 m it lifts you to a 343 m summit, a net gain of 116 m. The average gradient sits at a friendly 3.88%, and while it never bites hard, the steepest ramp reaches 6.68%. This is the kind of climb that rewards rhythm over raw power: not long enough to blow the day apart, but real enough to sting if you disrespect it. For riders building toward bigger objectives, it is an ideal proving ground for pacing and gear selection.

How the Gradient Unfolds

The shape here is defined by the gap between the 3.88% average and the 6.68% maximum. That difference tells you the climb is not uniform. Expect gentler stretches that pull the average down, punctuated by at least one steeper pitch that pushes toward that 6.68% ceiling. Over 3 km, the net elevation gain of 116 m confirms a modest overall slope, while the listed total ascent of 97 m hints that the profile isn't a single clean upward line. In practical terms, ride the shallow sections with intent and save a little for the steeper kick, and the climb never feels overwhelming.

Pacing Notes

Because Phu Nam Ron is so short, pacing is about restraint at the bottom rather than survival at the top. Hold something close to your threshold and let the steeper 6.68% ramp raise your effort naturally rather than sprinting into it. If you know your FTP, aim to sit just under it on the gentle grades and allow brief surges above it on the steep pitch, knowing the summit is never far off. Not sure where your threshold sits? Run the numbers through the FTP estimator before your next attempt so you can calibrate effort to the 3.88% average instead of guessing. On a climb this brief, a single well-judged effort beats a fast start followed by a fade.

Gearing

For a 3 km climb averaging 3.88% with a 6.68% maximum, most riders will be comfortable on standard road gearing. A compact crankset paired with a 34×32 low gear gives you plenty of room to spin the steeper ramp without grinding. If you prefer to protect your knees, ride mostly seated, or simply like keeping a high cadence, a 34×34 provides an extra margin of comfort on that 6.68% pitch. Neither is essential given the modest 116 m of net gain, but having the easier ratio available means you can choose your effort rather than have the gradient choose it for you.

Summary

Phu Nam Ron is a compact, well-mannered category 4 climb: 3 km of steady 3.88% gradient, a 116 m net rise, and a single 6.68% ramp to keep you honest. It is short enough to slot into any ride and forgiving enough to attack repeatedly, making it a fine place to practice pacing and dial in your gearing.

Length: 3 km
Average gradient: 3.88%
Max gradient: 6.68%
Start: 227 m
Summit: 343 m
Net gain: 116 m
Total ascent: 97 m
Category: 4