FOUR TIMED CLIMBS

Passo del Daino

The first timed climb is fairly short. But it’s one of those deceiving climbs that start out mellow and get tough later when it hits up to 14%. If you start it too fast, you will suffer badly towards the end. It’s a climb for the smart rider.
Climb starts at approx. mile 35.

Montagna dell'Orso

This climb is a true New York City cycling classic. It's situated in a National Park. Here, New Yorkers test their true climbing abilities. As soon as spring arrives, athletes are flocking to Montagna dell'Orso or, as the locals call it, "Bear Mountain". It is not as steep as the two previous climbs - it tops out at 10% - and hence will suit a passista scalatore best as it is nearly four miles (6k) long and very gradual. A controlled tempo effort will bring the fastest time.
Climb starts at approx. mile 42.

Colle Andrea Pinarello

The third timed climb was already part of the 2011 course but not timed. Riders unisono voiced that we might as well time it if we put this beast on the map. We listen to our participants. Colle Andrea Pinarello, known by the locals as "Gate Hill Road" is neither long nor steep but it's still draining. A few times a rider might think "Now I'm up!" just to be faced with yet another hill. The climb is named after the late Andrea Pinarello who was the ambassador of Gran Fondo, not only representing the company of his family but also the whole sport. He participated in the inaugural Gran Fondo New York 2011.
Climb starts at approx. mile 60.

Colle Formaggio

Colle Formaggio is a hidden gem in the area. Ask the 9W enthusiast and most will have never heard of it. New to GFNY 2012, Colle Formaggio which is also known as "Cheesecote" or "Overlook Road" is the perfect icing on the cake. Make sure you turn around at the top to oversee large parts of Hudson River and on a clear day all the way to Manhattan.
Climb starts at approx. mile 67.