Al Shaaf is a climb of 13.5 kilometers (hors catégorie). Al Shaaf tops out at 2,289 m above sea level. It is located in سبت العلاية, منطقة عسير, السعودية. The average gradient is 12.6% with a maximum of 17%. The climb has 1707 meters of elevation gain.
Difficulty analysis: This 13.5 km climb is extremely demanding because of its average gradient of 13%, a rare and steep figure. The difficulty is compounded by a string of very steep kilometers (14% to 17%) between KM 2 and KM 10, with a nasty peak of 17% at KM 8-9. KM 10-11 gives you a brief respite at 2%, but the climb finishes on a moderate gradient.
Tips for managing the effort:
1. Pacing: Don't go out too hard. The first kilometers (4%, 9%) are deceptive. Settle straight into a comfortable gear and a steady effort to tackle the central section, the hardest part.
2. Anticipate the gradient changes: The 2% kilometer (KM 10-11) is a crucial opportunity for active recovery. Use it to ease off slightly and prepare for the final part of the climb.
3. Mental focus: The length and sustained gradient make this climb mentally grueling. Break it down into segments based on the changes in gradient to stay focused.
13.5 km • 1707 m D+
VAM: average climbing speed, based on elevation gain
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