Cycling Apps: A Comprehensive Guide

Cycling app options have gotten complicated with all the features, subscription models, and platform claims flying around. As someone who’s tested various apps across different riding scenarios, I learned everything there is to know about which apps actually provide useful functionality for different cycling needs.

Tracking Apps

Probably should have led with this section, honestly, because tracking apps are essential for cyclists wanting to monitor performance. They record ride data like speed, distance, and elevation, providing insights and helping set goals.

• Strava: One of the most popular options. Maps routes, tracks performance, and offers social features for comparing progress with others.
• Garmin Connect: Integrates with Garmin devices. Tracks extensive data and provides training plans tailored to fitness goals.
• MapMyRide: Maps routes, tracks rides, and analyzes stats. Also provides audio feedback during rides.

Navigation Apps

Navigation apps help cyclists find routes, invaluable for planning new rides or exploring unfamiliar areas.

• Komoot: Excellent for route planning with turn-by-turn navigation, even offline. Users can tailor routes based on preferences like road biking, mountain biking, or touring.
• Ride with GPS: Combines navigation with tracking. Helps plan and share routes with detailed maps and elevation profiles.
• BikeMap: Offers routes from a global cyclist community with turn-by-turn navigation and offline maps.

Training and Coaching Apps

That’s what makes structured training endearing to us performance-focused riders. These apps offer plans and virtual coaching for improvement.

• TrainerRoad: Focused on structured training programs with plans for different fitness levels and detailed progress tracking.
• Zwift: Combines training with a virtual world. Cyclists can train, compete, and socialize in a gamified environment.
• Sufferfest: Offers structured workouts, yoga, and mental training targeting comprehensive endurance and strength improvement.

Safety Apps

Safety apps alert contacts in emergencies or provide information about safe cycling routes.

• RoadID: Sends alerts to emergency contacts if a cyclist stops moving for a certain time, also providing location.
• Cyclemeter: Offers real-time tracking and ride sharing for safety, plus performance tracking features.
• Snug Safe: Daily check-in app useful for safety assurance during long solo rides, sending emergency alerts if check-ins are missed.

Maintenance Apps

Maintenance apps provide tips and reminders for keeping your bike in condition, helping learn basic repair skills and track maintenance schedules.

• Bike Doctor: Offers step-by-step guides for common bike repairs, suitable for beginners and experienced cyclists.
• MyBike: Tracks your bike’s maintenance history, sends reminders for necessary services, and logs components.
• Shimano E-TUBE: Interacts with Shimano’s Di2 system, allowing riders to customize settings and diagnose issues.

Weather Apps

Weather awareness is crucial for cyclists. These apps provide updates for planning safe rides.

• Dark Sky: Hyperlocal weather forecasts with minute-by-minute updates helpful for timing rides.
• WeatherBug: Detailed forecasts and lightning alerts with radar maps for tracking storms.
• AccuWeather: Known for accurate forecasts with real-time updates and severe weather warnings.

Nutritional Apps

Nutritional apps help cyclists optimize their diet, tracking calorie intake, hydration, and nutrient stats.

• MyFitnessPal: Tracks calories, macros, and nutrients. Integrates with fitness apps for comprehensive health insights.
• EatMyRide: Specifically for cyclists with personalized meal plans and nutrient timing tips.
• Lifesum: General health tracker with personalized diet plans based on fitness goals.

Community Apps

Community apps connect cyclists with other riders, facilitating group rides and sharing experiences.

• Strava: Besides tracking, it’s a social network where cyclists join clubs, share rides, and organize events.
• Meetup: Helps organize group rides. Cyclists can find or create local riding groups and events.
• Relive: Turns rides into 3D videos for sharing and reliving cycling experiences.

Each app offers features catering to various cycling aspects. Whether improving performance, finding new routes, ensuring safety, or connecting with fellow cyclists, there’s an app for your needs.