frtour1-7, Exercise 2: Categorising climbs

Model answer (check the details):

Categories: climbs are graded from fourth category (short and easy) up to first category (long and steep), and then hors catégorie, "beyond category", for the hardest. The grade depends on length, average gradient and position in the stage, and is decided by the organisers.

King of the Mountains: the first riders over a classified summit earn points, with more points for higher categories. The rider with the most points wears the polka-dot jersey.

Overall result: the climbs affect the general classification indirectly. On a long climb the stronger climbers gain time, and weaker climbers lose it. A single hors catégorie summit finish can change the order of the overall contenders by minutes. Points in the mountains classification do not count for the yellow jersey, but the same riders are often near the top of both, though climbers who go on early breakaways can win the polka-dot jersey without being contenders for the yellow one.

Care: the points scales and the number of categories change, so check the current regulations.