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VAM Calculator — Vertical Ascent Rate
Calculate vertical ascent metres per hour from climbing data.
How We Calculate This
VAM Formula
- VAM (m/hr) = Elevation Gain (m) / Time (hours)
VAM is most meaningful on climbs of at least 7% gradient and 20+ minutes duration.
Frequently Asked Questions
VAM stands for velocita ascensionale media (Italian for average ascent speed). It measures how many vertical metres you climb per hour.
Recreational cyclists typically achieve 600-900 m/hr. Strong amateurs 1000-1400 m/hr. Professionals 1500-1800+ m/hr on major climbs.
VAM is closely related to W/kg on steep gradients. On climbs above 7%, VAM is roughly proportional to power-to-weight ratio.
VAM allows comparison of climbing performances across different climbs. It was popularised by Dr Michele Ferrari and is now standard in professional cycling analysis.
Related Calculators
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Calculate the power needed to climb at a given speed and gradient.
CdA Calculator
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Gradient Calculator
Calculate road gradient from elevation change and distance.
Normalised Power Calculator
Calculate normalised power from average power and variability index.
Watts Per Kilo Calculator
Calculate your power-to-weight ratio in watts per kilogram.
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Last updated: February 2026
All calculations are estimates. Always verify results and consult a professional bike fitter where appropriate.