Wednesday, February 15, 2012

The Formula For Faster Climbing

The power-to-weight ratio is nothing more than a fraction based on two variables: Power (measured is watts) and Weight (measured in kilograms). 

The purpose in determining and tracking one’s power-to-weight is to maximise its value relative to a specific task (i.e. climbing). 

This can be done in one (or a combination) of two ways: 1) INCREASE power or DECREASE weight.

Using the following formula you can estimate the power necessary to climb a hill:

Bike weight (kg) + cyclist weight (kg) x 9.8 x elevation gain (meters) / time (seconds) = power (watts). Add 10% for rolling and air resistance.

An example:

Giro d'Italia 2011, Stage 14, Final climb Monte Zoncolan, from 10 Km banner to finish line = last 10.0 Km

Igor Anton (stage winner)


Elevation (m): 1194 m
Distance (Km): 10.0 Km
Time in seconds (sec): 2439 = 40 min 39 sec = 40:39
Weight rider (kg): 60 kg
Weight bicycle, clothes etc. (kg): 8 kg

Grade: 11.9 %
Average speed: 14.7 Km/h
Total weight: 68.0 kg

Power : 357.3 Watt
Power / kg : 5.9 Watt / kg


This unquestionably proves that climbing the Zoncolan (from Ovaro) in a time under 1 hour is a realistic goal for us ;-)

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