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Calcimator

Climbing Speed Calculator

Calculate your climbing speed, VAM, and time to summit from gradient, distance, weight, and power output using physics-based modeling.

Inputs

%
mi
lb
W

Results

VAM (Vertical Ascent)

1,001 m/hr

Climbing Time

41m 51s

Average Speed14.3 km/h
Average Speed8.9 mph
Elevation Gain698 m
Watts per Kilogram3.05 W/kg
How to Use This Calculator
  1. Enter the climb Gradient in percent and Distance in kilometers.
  2. Set your Total Weight (rider plus bike in kg) and Power Output in watts.
  3. Review VAM (Vertical Ascent Meters per hour), Climbing Time, and Average Speed.
  4. Check Watts per Kilogram (W/kg) to benchmark climbing fitness.
  5. Use Elevation Gain to verify the climb stats match your GPS data.

How the result changes with Power Output

Power OutputVAM (Vertical Ascent)Climbing Time
95399 m/hr1h 45m 5s
208846 m/hr49m 31s
3431,321 m/hr31m 43s
4551,664 m/hr25m 11s

What each input means

Gradient
The average gradient of the climb in percent. Famous climbs: Alpe d'Huez ~8%, Mont Ventoux ~7.5%.
Climb Distance
The road distance of the climb (not horizontal distance).
Total Weight (rider + bike)
Combined weight of rider, bike, gear, bottles, etc.
Power Output
Your sustained power output during the climb. Use your FTP as a starting point.

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