Long Tom Pass is a climb of 64.6 kilometers (hors catégorie). Long Tom Pass tops out at 2,076 m above sea level. It is located in Mbombela (Nelspruit), Mpumalanga, South Africa. The average gradient is 3.1% with a maximum of 14.2%. The climb has 2016 meters of elevation gain.
Difficulty analysis: With 2016m of elevation gain over 64.6km (3.1% average), this climb is a long endurance test. The difficulty lies in its length and in the steep sections late in the ride (KM 46-49 and KM 61-64 with gradients of 8-9%), after many kilometres of false flats and gentle flat sections.
Pacing advice:
1. Managing your pace: Settle into a steady, controlled rhythm over the first 45 kilometres (mostly 1-4%) to save your legs.
2. Anticipating the key sections: Save something for the three hard stretches: KM 33 (8%), KM 46-49 (8-9%) and the final push KM 61-64.6 (8-9% then 5%).
3. Using the flat sections: Make use of the zero or negative gradient sections (KM 7-10, KM 24, KM 53-57) to recover by spinning an easy gear without stopping.
Riders who have climbed the Long Tom Pass agree on the spectacular scenery. They describe a panoramic road with jaw-dropping views over the mountains, green valleys and forests, a ride where nature is at its absolute best.
The climb is described as a twisty, enjoyable road, with a surface generally considered good. For many, it's a memorable, pure-fun climb, a one-of-a-kind riding experience that's well worth the detour if you're in the area.
That said, riders' reports flag some things to watch out for. Trucks are frequently mentioned, making overtaking tricky and calling for real caution. The weather can also throw a spanner in the works, with patches of fog or rain cutting visibility on this mountain road.
The ride is also enriched by the historical side of the place. Riders mention passing the Long Tom cannons, a reminder of the battle fought there, which adds a special atmosphere to the climb.
Despite the sometimes heavy traffic, the overall experience remains very positive. Riders come away feeling they've tackled one of the finest passes in South Africa, a climb that is both demanding and deeply rewarding.
64.6 km • 2016 m D+
VAM: average climbing speed, based on elevation gain
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