What are time bonuses in a stage race?
I · Intermediate · Stage races · 5 of 6Seconds taken off a rider's total time for finishing in the first three. At the finish of a stage the first three riders may be given 10, 6 and 4 seconds. At an intermediate sprint the bonus is 3, 2 and 1 seconds. Bonuses count only in the individual general classification and are never given in time trials.
How it works
- At the finish of a stage: 10, 6 and 4 seconds for the first three.
- At the finish of a half-stage: 6, 4 and 2 seconds.
- At intermediate sprints: 3, 2 and 1 seconds, at up to three sprints on a stage and one on a half-stage.
- A single sprint: if a full stage has only one intermediate sprint, the organiser may double it to 6, 4 and 2.
- Optional: bonuses "may be awarded". They apply only if the technical guide of the event sets them out.
- Not half a system: no bonuses during a stage unless a bonus is also given at its finish.
- Where they count: "only in individual general classification by time".
- Time trials: "No bonuses shall be awarded for individual or team time trial events."
The glossary has the time bonus, the general classification, the sprint and the stage race.
Tricky cases
Does every stage race have time bonuses?
No. They are optional, and count only if the event's technical guide lists them.
Does the winner of a time trial stage get 10 seconds?
No. No bonuses are awarded in individual or team time trials.
Do bonus seconds help a team in the team classification?
No. Bonuses are shown only in the individual general classification on time.
Can a race give bonuses at intermediate sprints but none at the finish?
No. Bonuses during a stage are allowed only if one is also awarded at the finish.
Why the rule exists
On flat stages the whole bunch gets the same time, so without bonuses the general classification would not move for days. A few seconds for the first three give riders a reason to contest finishes and sprints along the way, and can decide a close race.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Full stage | 10, 6 and 4 seconds at the finish | UCI 2.6.019 |
| Half-stage | 6, 4 and 2 seconds at the finish | UCI 2.6.019 |
| Time trial stages | None | UCI 2.6.021 |
| Mountain bike stage races | Bonuses and penalties count, and none in time trials | ../mountain-bike/ set |
From the rule book
Union Cycliste Internationale, Cycling Regulations, Part 2: Road Races (2026 edition, amendments to 1 July 2026), articles 2.6.014 and 2.6.019 to 2.6.021. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: UCI Cycling Regulations, Part 2 (PDF).