Alpe du Zwift Time Predictor
Power-to-Weight Ratio: 0 W/kg
Estimated Climbing Time: 0:00
Estimated VAM: 0 Vm/h
*Estimation assumes steady effort, average road bike setup, and the standard Alpe du Zwift segment (12.2km, 1,036m gain).
How to Calculate Your Alpe du Zwift Time
The Alpe du Zwift is the most iconic climb in the virtual world of Watopia. Modeled after the real-world Alpe d'Huez, it features 21 grueling hairpins, a distance of 12.22 kilometers (7.6 miles), and a vertical gain of 1,036 meters (3,399 feet).
Predicting your time on this climb is primarily a function of your Power-to-Weight Ratio (W/kg). Because the average gradient is roughly 8.5%, gravity is the primary force you are fighting, making aerodynamic drag a secondary concern compared to flat roads.
The Science Behind the Prediction
Our calculator uses the VAM (Velocità Ascensionale Media) method. VAM measures how many vertical meters you can climb per hour. On an 8.5% grade, the formula for power required to overcome gravity and rolling resistance is approximately:
- W/kg ≈ VAM / (Exploration Factor)
For Alpe du Zwift, a common benchmark is that 3.2 W/kg is the threshold required to complete the climb in exactly 60 minutes. If you want the "Sub-60" badge, this is your target.
Reference Times by W/kg
| W/kg Ratio | Estimated Time | Category Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| 2.0 W/kg | ~1:35:00 | Category D / Casual |
| 3.0 W/kg | ~1:04:00 | Category C / Fit |
| 3.2 W/kg | ~0:59:50 | Sub-1 Hour Club |
| 4.0 W/kg | ~0:48:00 | Category B / Strong |
| 5.0 W/kg | ~0:39:00 | Category A / Elite |
Tips for a Faster Time
- Choose the Lightest Gear: Use the Specialized Tarmac Pro or the Canyon Aeroad with Lightweight Meilenstein wheels for the best climbing performance in-game.
- The Tron Bike: While great on flats, the "Concept Z1" (Tron) is slightly heavier than dedicated climbing rigs on the steepest sections of the Alpe.
- Steady Pacing: Don't blow up on Hairpin 21. Use a power you can sustain for at least an hour. The steepest sections are at the bottom and through the hairpins.
- Virtual Gearing: Ensure your trainer difficulty is set to a level that allows you to maintain a comfortable cadence (80-90 RPM) throughout the 8.5% incline.