Cerro del Chiquihuite is a climb of 7.4 kilometers (hors catégorie). Cerro del Chiquihuite tops out at 2,719 m above sea level. It is located in Ciudad de México, Ciudad de México, México. The average gradient is 6.6% with a maximum of 20.1%. The climb has 488 meters of elevation gain.
Difficulty analysis: This climb has a deceptive profile, with a very easy start (1-2% over the first 2 km) followed by an extremely demanding central section (gradients of 12% to 14% between km 2.5 and 3.5). The finish is especially brutal, with a final segment at 15% over 350m after a breather at km 6.5. The difficulty lies in this contrast and the concentration of steep gradients.
Pacing advice:
1. Save your legs early on: The first 2 km at low gradient are your chance to ride within yourself, so you reach the crucial section with something left in the tank.
2. Prepare for the wall between km 2.5 and 3.5: Shift down to an easier gear ahead of time and settle into a steady rhythm to get through this decisive stretch without blowing up.
3. Save something for the finale: The 15% section from km 7.0 to 7.4 demands serious power. Manage your effort on the 2% stretch (km 6.5-7.0) to recover before the final push.
Riders who have climbed the Cerro del Chiquihuite describe a unique ascent, with very steep gradients and narrow streets that make for a real challenge. According to their experience, it is not a road for every vehicle, and the physical effort is real, but the reward is worth the suffering.
At the top, accounts agree on a spectacular, unobstructed view over all of Mexico City. Many talk about the beauty of the sunsets and the magic of watching the city light up at night, a panorama that contrasts with the imposing presence of the telecom antennas, a striking feature of the landscape that some find fascinating.
The experience is, however, tempered by realism. Several riders mention that the surroundings can be dangerous and advise caution. The road surface is also described as broken up in places, and the climb takes place in an urban setting, where the traces of irregular construction and recent landslides serve as a reminder of how vulnerable the area is.
Despite these downsides, tackling this iconic cerro remains a unique adventure for cyclists looking for an intense effort crowned by an out-of-this-world viewpoint over the city, a raw and authentic experience that leaves a lasting impression.
7.4 km • 488 m D+
VAM: average climbing speed, based on elevation gain