Although there are now apps designed to help us resist distractions from our phones, their true potential lies in enhancing our daily activities, especially fitness. From virtual trainers to meditation guides, these apps offer invaluable support.
Cycling is no exception. In fact, a smartphone can be one of the most powerful tools for cyclists, offering everything from maps and navigation to training programs and nutritional guidance—all at your fingertips.
Here are a few apps to make the most of your time on two wheels.
Komoot
Komoot excels at addressing these challenges. In collaboration with Garmin, the app leverages the open-source OpenStreetMap database to plan routes effectively while on the go.
You can create MTB, road, or even gravel routes that are always optimized for cyclists. Additionally, if you predefine your starting and ending points, the app will suggest multiple routes and even indicate their difficulty levels. In other words, it knows exactly how easy or challenging the path will be for you.
Maps.Me
That’s right, you read it correctly. Maps.Me allows you to download map data for entire countries. Want to discover the best routes in Wales? No problem. How about Spain? Sí, de nada. France? Well, you get the idea.
But the real game-changer is that Maps.Me works seamlessly offline—as long as you download the data in advance. So, if you don’t have access to 4G or want to avoid roaming charges, simply download the map area for the city or country you’re visiting. You’ll be able to navigate even in the most remote, off-the-grid locations without breaking a sweat.
Ride With GPS
Part of the joy of cycling is planning a new route, and that’s exactly where Ride With GPS shines. Download the app, and you’ll be able to meticulously plan your next adventure, record your ride on the go, and even share your real-time location with friends.
The app lets you zoom in on the steepest climbs along your route, helping you prepare for them in advance. Best of all, it can also be used offline—a lifesaver when 4G coverage is nowhere to be found.
TrailForks
We’ve all found ourselves at a crossroads, unsure how to get back to civilization. Next time you’re heading out on an unfamiliar trail, make sure to download TrailForks before you leave home—it could save you hours of wandering through forests or mountain slopes.
Powered by contributions from fellow cyclists, the app boasts detailed maps of over 161,000 routes worldwide, real-time geolocation, and information about nearby landmarks. If things take a turn for the worse, there’s even a safety alert feature that sends your exact GPS coordinates and the name of the nearest town. It’s an essential tool, especially if you enjoy riding solo.
Zwift
Download Zwift and dive into a detailed, interactive virtual world. Plug into the matrix, and you’ll be able to race against athletes from across the globe in real time (though you’ll need an internet-connected smart trainer and a screen to make it happen). The app also features built-in training programs designed to help you become the best rider in your virtual cycling club.
Locus Map
Another standout option is Locus Map. Unfortunately, this cycling app is only available for Android devices, leaving iPhone users out of luck. However, Locus Map deserves special attention for its exceptionally detailed maps.
Planning routes and discovering new, interesting places is a true pleasure with Locus Map. Most importantly, you can use the maps even when offline, making it a reliable companion for any adventure.
Garmin Connect
Garmin Connect is a cycling app designed for creating route tracks for Garmin bike computers and watches. By logging into the Garmin Connect website, you can easily create a detailed route.
The navigation distinguishes between different cycling types, such as road cycling and mountain biking. Garmin Connect also features a heatmap that shows the popularity of various routes based on user activity, helping you determine if a specific path is passable.
