Chasing Strava best times: 7 legendary climbs and their conquerors

For many cycling enthusiasts, Strava is more than just an app for recording training sessions. The platform makes it possible to compete with other riders and collect virtual trophies for the fastest times on certain sections of the route. The KOMs (King of the Mountain) and QOMs (Queen of the Mountain) on famous climbs are particularly popular. There are a number of mountains around the world that are considered particularly legendary due to their length, gradient or scenic beauty. Seven of these climbs stand out in particular and attract numerous cyclists year after year who want to take on the challenge and perhaps even set a new course record.

Pico del Teide - volcanic giant on Tenerife

At 3718 metres, Pico del Teide on the Canary Island of Tenerife is the highest mountain in Spain. The climb to the summit is 35 kilometres long and covers around 2100 metres in altitude. The average gradient of 6 per cent is a real challenge due to some steeper ramps and the thin mountain air. The contrast between the barren volcanic landscape and the view of the Atlantic is particularly impressive. Many professional teams use the Teide for their altitude training, which emphasises the importance of this climb.

>> Giles Drake has the KOM at Pico del Teide.

Sa Calobra - Mallorca's serpentine classic

Sa Calobra on Mallorca may be comparatively short at just under 10 kilometres in length and 668 metres in altitude, but it is considered one of the most beautiful and challenging climbs in Europe. The 26 hairpin bends wind their way spectacularly up the rock face and offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. The average gradient of 7.1 per cent is exacerbated by some steeper sections. The "tie knot", a 270-degree hairpin bend that crosses itself, is particularly famous.

>> Illi Gardner set the fastest time on Sa Calobra.

Alto de Letras - Colombian flight of fancy

The Alto de Letras in Colombia is considered one of the longest continuous climbs in the world. The route leads over 80 kilometres from Mariquita to Letras and climbs almost 3700 metres in altitude. The average gradient of 4.6 per cent sounds moderate at first, but the sheer length and altitude make this climb a real challenge. The highest point is at 3663 metres, which also puts your stamina to the test. Many Colombian professional cyclists have laid the foundations for their later successes here.

>> Camila Cortes was the fastest at the Colombian altitude.

Stelvio Pass - Alpine legend in Italy

At 2757 metres, the Stelvio Pass in South Tyrol is the second highest asphalted Alpine pass and an icon of cycling. The classic climb from Prad am Stilfserjoch leads upwards over 24.3 kilometres and 1808 metres in altitude. The average gradient of 7.4 per cent is structured by 48 numbered hairpin bends that wind their way up the mountain like a spiral staircase. The Stelvio Pass has often been part of the Giro d'Italia and has seen many dramatic race decisions. The breathtaking view of the surrounding three thousand metre peaks more than makes up for the effort.

>> Jack Burke is not only the Ötztaler winner, but also has the KOM on the Stelvio Pass.

Haleakala - Hawaiian volcanic peak

Haleakala on the Hawaiian island of Maui offers one of the longest uninterrupted climbs in the world. From sea level, the road leads over 55 kilometres up to an altitude of 3055 metres. The average gradient of 5.5 per cent is made even more difficult by the tropical temperatures at the foot of the mountain and the thin air at the top. The ascent leads through different climatic zones and offers a unique view over the Pacific. Sunrise rides are particularly popular and are an unforgettable experience from the summit.

>> Phil Gaimon was the fastest at Haleakala.

Pikes Peak - Colorado's giant

At 4302 metres, Pikes Peak in Colorado, USA, is one of the highest asphalt climbs in the world. The road to the summit runs for 31 kilometres and climbs 1920 metres in altitude. The average gradient of 6.2 per cent is a challenge due to the extreme altitude. The thin air is particularly noticeable in the upper sections. Pikes Peak is also known for its annual car race, which emphasises the quality of the road. The view from the summit stretches up to 160 kilometres on a clear day.

>> John Keller has the KOM on the legendary Pikes Peak.

Wuling Pass - Taiwan's altitude record

At 3275 metres, the Wuling Pass in Taiwan is the highest asphalted road pass in East Asia. The ascent from Puli covers 54 kilometres and climbs 3100 metres in altitude. The average gradient of 5.7 per cent is exacerbated by some very steep ramps of up to 27 per cent. The climb leads through the Taroko National Park and offers spectacular views of deep gorges and dense forests. The combination of length, altitude and scenic beauty makes the Wuling Pass one of the most impressive climbs in Asia.

>> Daniel Carruthers was the fastest on the Wuling Pass.