Originally Posted by
redlude97
Sure they are, or can be. Most people don't train for 7 mile climbs by doing 7 mile climbs. You increase your threshold with higher intensity for shorter distances. It is more efficient.
It's good interval training, which can help raise your threshold. However, it helps very little for pacing. I can hold a much higher effort for one mile vs. seven.
If you have the option of the 7-miler it's foolish not to ride it.