Climb categorization explained

Unfortunately, the mountain classification of the grand tours is not designed to set a standard for recreational cyclists. For example, the categorization of a climb can change due to its location on the course, or simply because it suits the organizer better (€). Regrettably, there is no exact science behind determining the mountain categories. To establish a standard on climbfinder, we have tried to introduce a logical and consistent formula, which in fact aligns very well with most categories in professional cycling races.

Categorization based on difficulty points

Strava and other GPS services use a simple formula based on the average ascent and length of the climb. We believe this approach is too simplistic, because the (sometimes undulating) course of the climb has a huge influence on how much effort it costs to reach the top of the climb. That's why we spent a lot of time accurately calculating the difficulty level of climbs. In fact, we are so convinced of the accuracy of the difficulty points that we also use them to determine the mountain categories.

The sole subjective aspect of our standard lies in the transitions between the categories. However, in this regard, we conducted extensive research. We analyzed hundreds of climbs and compared them with the classifications they received in the grand tours. Through this process, we arrived at the scale outlined below.

From Super Hors Catégorie down to the 5th category

• Super Hors Catégorie (SHC). These are the most difficult climbs in Europe. Because the list of Hors Catégorie became too large and we have several real monsters in Europe, we added this extra category. These are the most terrible, challenging, and often absurdly steep climbs! Brace yourself. These are the climbs above 1500 climbing points. A notable example is the Angliru.
• Hors Catégorie (HC). Ascents on climbfinder only get the famous "HC" classification if the climb scores more than 900 difficulty points. The Mont Ventoux and the Passo di Gavia are proud owners of the "Hors Catégorie" classification. The Hors Catégorie was introduced in the Tour de France as recent as 1979. It's a category that appeals to many cyclists' imaginations.
• 1st category. Climbs of the first category are certainly not to be underestimated. For example, nothing less than the famous Col d'Izoard is a category 1 climb, to the great disappointment of some cycling tourists. Climbs with 600+ difficulty points will be in this category.
• 2nd category. The somewhat shorter climbs often do not exceed a "Category 2" label. The Ballon d’Alsace and Hardknott Pass are good examples of the type of climbs you can expect to find in this category. Climbs must have a minimum of 300 difficulty points to fit in this category.
• 3rd category. In the Alps these are the easy options, but in the lower mountain ranges or highlands these can be the highlights of the day. A climb needs at least 150 difficulty points to fit in this category.
• 4th category. With 75 difficulty points a climb falls into the fourth category. Don't think you can just sprint up these hills, it's still going to hurt. A well-known representative of this category is Box Hill.
• 5th category. The fifth category includes all climbs from 25 climbing points onwards. Although these are certainly not very difficult climbs, they can be quite steep walls (albeit short) or climbs that you definitely feel, albeit secretly. In lower hill areas, these are often the toughest climbs. Great for training.
• No category. Everything below 25 climbing points has no category. These are the easiest climbs in Europe. To be listed on climbfinder, a climb must have at least 5 climbing points, or be very special.