KOM Strategy for Climbing Segments
On a climb every weighting shifts: gravity replaces drag as the dominant force. That makes predictions easier and the day less weather-dependent.
What counts uphill
Above roughly six percent gradient, more than 80 percent of your power goes into vertical metres at typical speeds. So power-to-system-weight is the decisive number — bike, kit and bottles included.
Wind is not irrelevant
At three to five percent gradient and 20 km/h, drag is still 30 to 40 percent of the total. Tailwind measurably helps there. At ten percent the effect is barely noticeable.
Pacing across the gradient profile
Ride slightly above target power on steep pitches and slightly below on flatter ones. The reason: you spend time where it is steep, and extra power is most effective there. Five to ten percent variation around the mean is sensible; more becomes risky.
Temperature and cooling
At low speeds airflow cools poorly. On hot days you lose more power on a climb than you gain from thinner air — cool mornings are often faster uphill.
In short
Climbs reward form and pacing; flats reward weather and aerodynamics. Pick your target to match your strength.
Frequently asked questions
Is an aero bike worth it uphill?
Up to about five percent gradient, yes. Above that the lighter setup wins.
How much do two kilos save?
Roughly one to two percent of time on steep climbs — six to twelve seconds on a ten-minute effort.