Usually the womens a and b are based on ability. Usually the A is the higher category than the B. But you can tell, if the A is 45 minutes and the B is 30 minutes, then the B is the lower level.

And, when it is timed event like that, you ride until the first rider crosses at the 30 or 45 minute mark. You may have been lapped and if you have been lapped, then you will not do as many laps as the leader. They will pull you off the course when you cross the finish line. They usually give you a bell lap when you come through on your last lap (although it depends on when the leader crossed); but usually when you are coming thru on your last lap, they give you the bell and you know that is the last lap for you.

spoke