09/02/2026
Navigation apps, which do you use? Strava, Komoot, RidewithGPS and Google maps of course are ways you can find routes. Either using a journey planner feature or look at routes recorded, shared and rated by others allowing you to find new places and get the low down on the mileages, meters climbed and things like gradients.
Is all this necessary!? Some of us started riding with paper maps alone. While being large and requiring purchasing a map for each area. That can help feel you're “disconnecting” while out riding but few will use paper maps these days favouring the convenience of your phone.
The internet says comparison shows preference with Komoot for scenic, gravel, and touring, Ride with GPS for detailed route planning, and Strava for competitive, community-driven routes
Apps will also let you track your ‘stats’ like average speed and upload your routes to share or track progress. Some purists may just prefer to ride without tech but it's a case of each to their own!
Problems with navigation apps like Google maps is it may route you on busy roads or on footpaths, while missing some decent alternatoves. Community reviewed routes are a great way to find a genuinely good ride.
