Te Ponanga Saddle is a climb of 2.4 kilometers (category 2). Te Ponanga Saddle tops out at 716 m above sea level. It is located in Turangi, Waikato, New Zealand / Aotearoa. The average gradient is 7.5% with a maximum of 16.9%. The climb has 182 meters of elevation gain.
Difficulty breakdown: The Te Ponanga Saddle from Poutu is a 2.4 km climb with 182 m of elevation gain and an average gradient of 7.5%, which earns it a Category 2 classification. The real challenge is consistency: KM 0.0-0.5 and KM 0.5-1.0 both sit at 8%, then KM 1.5-2.0 ramps up to 10%, the steepest part of the climb. Only KM 2.0-2.4, at 5%, offers some relative relief before the finish.
Pacing tips:
1. Find a steady rhythm from the start. On KM 0.0-0.5, at 8%, don't go out too hard. Save something in the tank for KM 1.5-2.0.
2. Get ready for the 10% section. Shift into an easy enough gear before KM 1.5-2.0 and stay seated to keep a smooth, steady cadence.
3. Recover smartly on KM 2.0-2.4. Use the gentler 5% gradient to build your effort back up, without easing off the pressure all the way to the saddle.
2.4 km • 182 m D+
VAM: average climbing speed, based on elevation gain
Join thousands of cycling fans! Plan your rides, record your performance, track your progress and discover the finest climbs.
Live climb profile to pace your effort all the way to the top.
