Kildale to Commondale

Distance 0.42 miles

Max Gradient 25 % according to the sign

Where do you find it?

Following the road from Kildale to Commondale first you go over a testing climb just after the hump back bridge over the railway line – this is just to warm you up. After the top of this climb you go straight on at the crossroads with the Westerdale turn off on your right. The road drops, slightly at first, then sharply as you cross a cattle grid, unfortunately the speed you have gained here will not be able to be carried on the climb due to a sharp left hand turn over a small bridge. The climb starts after the bridge.

Description

As you descend towards the bottom of the climb you will get a good view of the challenge that lies ahead – it is as bad as it looks! After the bridge the road turns sharp right then left, it is quite steep at this point but you should feel quite fresh so hopefully you won’t start to feel the pain until the gradient eases to about 10 to 15%. I’m sure that this climb used to be graded 20% but the sign now says 25%, maybe the climb has somehow got steeper over the years? I think that 20% is probably more accurate for the steepest section. The climb carries on for some time and swings to the right near the top, try to find a rhythm and if you have any gears to use you might feel the need to employ them now. If you are descending the surface is quite good but care is needed both for the sharp bends at the bottom where gravel collects and for wandering sheep – I had a very near miss coming down once at night on a mountain bike when I had to swerve quite sharply to avoid a sheep in the middle of the road so be warned. If you do this climb you will probably have committed to Sand Hill which is the climb out of Commondale so try to leave a bit in the tank if you can.

Photos

Kildale to Commondale, the twisty bottom section

Our Ratings and Comments:

Paul 7
Dave 7
Steve 7
Mick 7
Nick 7
Simon 7

I persuaded those who turned up for the Club Run to help out with this project for the day. All six of us agreed that it was a 7 and that it was quite a tough little climb. Strong cyclists will probably find it quite comfortable but the gradient at the bottom and the fact that it drags on for a little longer than you think it might can have you praying for the top.

Note the ratings are :-