First, you don't explain what tests you did to determine your max HR. When I discovered mine, I was doing hill repeats as hard and fast as I could. My lungs felt like they were going to explode. My vision went red. I felt dizzy and disoriented. And my HR hit 194. I figured that was probably it.

Then I based all my further calculations on that.


Next, where is this 2 mile climb with 25-35% grades? And what gear are you in when you do it.


Finally, if you're hitting 165 on this climb, and if you're just "out of breath", then 165 is not your max.