Saddle Slang is sponsored by Rehook. Check out our tools, bike care and apparel

jen-ruhl klass-uh-fuh-key-shuhn jer-zee

Noun

A jersey worn by the leader of a cycling race in terms of overall points.

Example usage: The cyclist in the yellow general-classification-jersey was leading the race.

Most used in: Professional cycling competitions around the world.

Most used by: Professional cyclists, cycling fans, and sports commentators.

Popularity: 8/10

Comedy Value: 5/10

Also see: Maillot Jaune, Maglia Rosa, Leader's Jersey, Overall Leader's Jersey,

.

What is a General Classification Jersey?

A General Classification Jersey (or GC Jersey) is a special type of jersey awarded to the cyclist with the lowest overall time in a cycling race. This jersey is usually worn by the leader of the race and is used to distinguish him or her from the other competitors. The General Classification jersey is one of the most prestigious awards in cycling and is highly sought after by professional cyclists.

In order to determine who is the leader of the race, the times of each cyclist are added up from each stage of the race. The cyclist with the lowest overall time is then awarded the General Classification jersey. This jersey is usually a bright yellow and is worn throughout the remainder of the race. It is also typically accompanied by a special helmet.

The General Classification jersey is most commonly seen in multi-stage races such as the Tour de France and Giro d'Italia. In the Tour de France, the winner of the General Classification jersey is often referred to as the 'maillot jaune' or 'yellow jersey'. This jersey is symbolic of the overall race winner and is seen as one of the most prestigious awards in cycling.

The General Classification jersey is an important award in cycling and is a highly sought-after prize. It is a sign of accomplishment and excellence in the sport and is a goal for many professional cyclists.

.

The History of the General Classification Jersey in Cycling

The term 'general-classification-jersey' has been used in cycling since the early 1900s. It was first used in the Tour de France, a famous cycling race that was first held in 1903. The original Tour de France only had 6 stages, but the race was still grueling and the general classification jersey was used to recognize the cyclist who had the lowest cumulative time over all the stages.

The general classification jersey was originally a yellow jersey, with the first yellow jersey being awarded to the cyclist in the 1904 Tour de France. The yellow jersey became a tradition and is still used today. The other colors of the general classification jersey, such as green, white, and polka dots, were added later on in the race's history.

The term 'general-classification-jersey' is now used in many cycling races around the world, and is a symbol of excellence and recognition for the cyclist who has the lowest cumulative time over all the stages. It is also a reminder of the hard work and dedication that goes into cycling.

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.

Saddle Slang

Find definitions for all of the technical terms, slang, and acronyms used in cycling. From the different types of bikes and their components, to training techniques, racing terminology and put downs, this dictionary has it all.

Talk the Talk
1 of 3

EXCLUSIVE OFFERS AND THE LATEST UPDATES BY EMAIL

FOLLOW THE NEWSLETTER