The Best Apps for Finding Cycling Routes- Introduction
Guest contribution by Kris Cook
There are many ways to discover cycling routes both near you and in other areas. You can either join many cycling-based communities and get tips from members, go off on your own without a plan, or download one of the many cycling-based apps you currently have at your fingertips.
Know that there are many cycling apps out there for you to pick and choose from, which can make finding the right one somewhat tricky – especially if you don’t know what to look out for regarding features and quality.
You see, not all cycling apps were created equal. Some are a lot better than others. Below are 5 of the best apps for finding cycling routes near you.
1. Strava
Hailed by many as being “the only app to download for running and cycling,” Strava is the ideal travel companion, one that will keep you on the right path at all times.
One of the best things about it is its social fitness sharing platform, where users are encouraged to upload their rides with photos and video clips, thus encouraging them to find new locations and routes and then share that with others.
There is a free version of the Strava app, but the premium version does come with a lot more if you’re looking to track your every movement to the nth degree.
Video: Strava
2. Komoot
Komoot has the benefit of being able to be used on desktop as well as on mobile through a dedicated app. This allows users to plan extensive journeys however they like.
The app has been downloaded by numerous users, with the total user count being somewhere over the 10 million mark. Like some of the other cycling apps covered, users can log their journeys within the app, choosing start and endpoints.
Komoot is free to download, with a premium version available for those interested in going the extra mile.
Video: Komoot
3. Ride With GPS
Ride with GPS is very helpful to have in your pocket if you like to plan extensive routes. With the free version, you can record your rides, create your routes, and organize them into collections.
The app is free for both iOS and Android devices. The advanced version lets you add things like leaderboards, amongst other extensive features. You also get offline maps which are very handy if you’re cycling in dead spots where your phone might not have a signal.
Video: Ride With GPS
4. Bikemap
The reviews for the next cycling app on the list are solid—cyclists of all age groups, genders, and experience levels.
On the Bikemap app, you’ll find over 9.9 million cycling routes that cover more than 100 countries. That’s a lot of coverage and should help you outline routes that appeal to your preferences.
Again, buying the premium version of this cycling app will unlock better features. In the case of Bikemap, paying to upgrade will unlock downloadable map functionality, turn navigation instructions, and 3D mode.
Video: Bikemap
5. Fill That Hole
Fill That Hole is the last cycling app we want to direct your attention to because it’s a lot different compared to the other apps mentioned above.
It might look very plain compared to the other apps, but what it lacks in style, it makes up for its ability to find routes free of potholes and other annoying obstacles.
If you love cycling but hate potholes, then this will be the cycling app for you, guaranteed.
The Best Apps for Finding Cycling Routes
And there you have it! Were you surprised by some of the apps mentioned, or have you already downloaded them on your smartphone? Those were the best apps for finding cycling routes both near and far.
If we had to pick a favorite from the list, we would have to say that Strava is the best cycling app on the market. We say that because it pairs well with other physical activities like running.
It’s also the best free app for cycling there. A bold statement, but it’s the truth. No app bridges the gap between expert functionality and features quite like this. Trust us on this one.
Images: Unsplash/ Will Truettner and William Hook
Author Bio
Kris is a Content Strategist at E4TP (Electric For the People), a website dedicated to all forms of electric transport. Kris lives in the world of EVs, writes poetry in his spare time, and paints. He also collects vinyls (150 LPs), and enjoys biking outdoors.