Burkes Pass is a climb of 4.4 kilometers (category 3). The climb finishes at 709 m above sea level. It is located in Fairlie, Canterbury, New Zealand / Aotearoa. The average gradient is 3.6% with a maximum of 9.7%. The climb has 160 meters of elevation gain.
Difficulty analysis: At 4.4 km, with 160 m of elevation gain and an average gradient of 3.6%, this 3rd-category climb is within reach of any regular rider. The difficulty lies mostly in how the gradient changes: km 0.0 to 1.0 averages 4%, the 1.0 to 1.5 km section drops to 3%, and then there's an almost flat stretch between 1.5 and 2.0 km. The second half climbs noticeably, with 5% between 3.0 and 3.5 km, then 6% and 7% all the way to the finish, which makes the end the hardest part.
Tips for managing your effort:
1. Pace yourself from the start. The 4% gradient over km 0.0 to 1.0 tempts you to go out too hard, so keep your effort under control.
2. Make the most of the almost flat stretch. Between 1.5 and 2.0 km, the zero gradient gives you a chance to recover and settle back into a steady rhythm.
3. Save something for the finish. The final kilometres, from 3.5 to 4.4 km at 6% then 7%, demand a steady cadence and some power in reserve.
Halfway up the climb, most riders stop. Grab a coffee and take a breather before getting back on the bike.
Several riders' reports mention the number of antique objects on site. Those who've been through there say it's worth stopping for a look around.
One rider describes the spot as a pretty quirky stop, one you have to go and see. He simply says it's a good place to spend some time.
One tip keeps coming up: ride on to the "3 creeks", the three streams. The rider who recommends it says it was a really good time.
4.4 km • 160 m D+
VAM: average climbing speed, based on elevation gain
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