How a road race works

1. In a road race everyone starts together and the first rider across the finish line wins. Riders race in teams, though only one rider takes the win.
2. Riders in the same bunch at the finish are all given the same time.
3. In a time trial riders set off one at a time and ride the same course alone; the fastest time wins.
4. A stage race adds up each rider's times over several days. The lowest total wins the general classification, and its leader wears a jersey.

How long

A one-day race is one start and one finish. A Grand Tour stage race lasts 15 to 23 days.