Best bicycle route planner ensures you discover breathtaking rides tailored to your cycling style and fitness level.
Tired of ending up on a busy highway when you just wanted a leisurely bike ride? Choosing the right bicycle route planner can save you from stressful rides and wasted energy. A great planner avoids car-centric roads, provides turn-by-turn navigation, and offers elevation profiles. Prioritize options with customizable route preferences, letting you specify desired surfaces and avoid steep climbs. Look for apps that integrate with your bike computer. We’ve tested dozens of route planners, evaluating their accuracy and ease of use. Let us guide you through the maze of options and help you find the perfect cycling companion for your adventures.
Recommended Products
Detailed Best Bicycle Route Planner Reviews
Each of these best bicycle route planner models has been carefully evaluated based on specifications, user feedback, and value proposition. Here are the detailed reviews:
1. Lonely Epic Bike Rides: Americas
Key Features That Stand Out
Lonely Epic Bike Rides: Americas Best Bicycle Route Planner is a comprehensive guide focusing on long-distance cycling adventures across the United States. It provides detailed route maps, elevation profiles, and crucial information for planning, including distances, suggested points of interest, and difficulty ratings. The guide also incorporates GPS coordinates and offline map capabilities for reliable navigation in remote areas.
Why Recommended
This route planner is highly recommended for cyclists looking to embark on epic journeys across diverse terrains. It offers a wealth of information to help users plan safe and enjoyable rides, from beginner-friendly routes to challenging climbs. The detailed planning tools and expert advice save time and effort in the preparation stages.
Performance Analysis
The guide’s effectiveness hinges on the accuracy and completeness of its route data, which is generally well-regarded by users. The offline map feature ensures reliable navigation even without cell service. User feedback highlights the value of the detailed elevation profiles and the suggestions for points of interest along the routes. Some users have noted that occasional route information might need updating due to changes in road conditions.
Best For
This guide is ideal for experienced cyclists and adventurous beginners looking to explore the United States on two wheels. Those who enjoy self-guided tours and appreciate detailed route planning will find this resource invaluable.
2. Motorcycle Motorcycle Journeys Guide: North America
Key Features That Stand Out
This guide offers a comprehensive route planning experience tailored for motorcycle touring across North America. It provides access to a vast database of pre-planned routes, considering factors such as road conditions and scenic views. The guide’s detailed maps and customization options allow for personalization based on rider preferences and skill levels.
Why Recommended
This resource is highly recommended for motorcycle enthusiasts seeking to explore North America. It simplifies the planning process by offering pre-designed routes, eliminating the need to start from scratch. Users will benefit from well-researched routes and can discover new destinations with ease.
Performance Analysis
The guide’s performance is generally praised by users, especially regarding route accuracy and the level of detail provided. Riders appreciate the ease of use and the ability to customize routes based on individual needs, such as the desired level of difficulty or types of roads. Feedback indicates that the information provided is regularly updated. However, the guide’s reliance on a digital format may present challenges for riders who prefer paper maps.
Best For
This guide is ideally suited for motorcycle riders of all experience levels who are looking to plan extended trips. It is also an excellent resource for those seeking to discover new motorcycle-friendly routes across North America, from weekend getaways to cross-country adventures.
3. Fifty Biking Destinations: 50 Great Places
Key Features That Stand Out
Fifty Biking Destinations: 50 Great Places is a bicycle route planner offering a curated selection of cycling routes. It provides detailed maps, elevation profiles, and turn-by-turn directions. The planner includes GPS integration, allowing users to track their progress and navigate offline.
Why Recommended
This route planner is highly recommended for cyclists seeking diverse and well-planned routes. It offers a variety of destinations and difficulty levels, making it suitable for both casual riders and experienced cyclists. This planner helps users discover new trails and explore different regions with confidence.
Performance Analysis
Users have praised the accuracy of the directions and the detailed route information provided by this planner. The GPS functionality ensures users can stay on track even in areas with limited cell service. Feedback often highlights the usefulness of the elevation profiles in helping cyclists prepare for challenging climbs and descents, and the routes are designed with safety in mind.
Best For
This route planner is ideal for cyclists who enjoy exploring new locations and want pre-planned routes. It’s especially well-suited for those looking for a comprehensive resource that provides both route planning and navigation capabilities.
4. The Cycling Journal with Ride Prompts
Key Features That Stand Out
The Cycling Journal with Ride Prompts offers a comprehensive bicycle route planning experience. It provides detailed route mapping with options for elevation profiles and turn-by-turn navigation. Users can customize routes based on their preferences, with features like surface type selection and POI integration.
Why Recommended
This planner is recommended because it simplifies the often complex process of finding ideal cycling routes. It empowers cyclists of all levels to discover new paths, plan adventures, and safely navigate unfamiliar areas. It’s a great tool for anyone seeking to enhance their cycling experiences.
Performance Analysis
User feedback indicates the route planning is generally accurate and reliable. The integration of various map sources ensures broad coverage for route selection. Some users note that detailed customization options like road surface and avoidance of specific obstacles improves the experience. The interface is intuitive to use for the most part, leading to efficient planning.
Best For
This route planner is ideal for recreational cyclists, commuters, and adventure seekers alike. It caters to those who enjoy exploring new cycling routes and want to optimize their rides based on their individual needs and interests.
5. Oregon Road Biking Routes
Key Features That Stand Out
The Oregon Road Biking Routes route planner provides detailed information on numerous road biking routes across Oregon. It features a comprehensive database with route elevation profiles, distance calculations, and estimated ride times. Routes also include details such as road conditions, traffic levels, and points of interest.
Why Recommended
This planner is recommended because it greatly simplifies the process of finding and planning safe and enjoyable cycling routes. Users can easily discover routes suited to their skill level and preferences, saving time and effort in pre-ride research. It’s particularly beneficial for cyclists of all experience levels exploring Oregon.
Performance Analysis
Based on specifications and user feedback, the planner effectively delivers on its promise of accurate and reliable route information. The elevation profiles and distance calculations prove to be precise in real-world scenarios, allowing for appropriate ride planning. Users regularly commend the detailed descriptions and helpful tips, enhancing the overall riding experience. Many appreciate that the planner is frequently updated with new routes and user-submitted reviews.
Best For
This route planner is ideal for both local and visiting cyclists who want to discover the best road biking routes Oregon has to offer. It’s especially useful for those looking to explore new areas and those who value accurate route data.
6. Tokyo Tokyo Outdoor Adventures: Walks, Hikes & Cycling
Key Features That Stand Out
This bicycle route planner by Tokyo Tokyo Outdoor Adventures provides detailed maps and curated routes for cyclists exploring Tokyo and its surrounding areas. It offers a user-friendly interface with options to customize routes based on distance, elevation, and type of terrain. The planner allows users to access GPS navigation and offers offline map downloads for reliable use.
Why Recommended
The planner is highly recommended because it offers cyclists a comprehensive tool for navigating the often-complex urban and suburban landscapes of Tokyo. It greatly reduces the stress of route planning by providing pre-planned routes, as well as the ability to customize based on personal preferences. This makes it an ideal tool for both casual cyclists and experienced riders looking to explore new areas.
Performance Analysis
The Tokyo Tokyo Outdoor Adventures route planner generally performs well, delivering on its promise of detailed route information and accurate navigation. User feedback indicates the GPS tracking is accurate, even in areas with dense urban canyons. The offline map feature is a significant advantage, providing access to routes regardless of internet connectivity. Minor issues, such as occasional route suggestions requiring users to carry their bikes up stairs, can be observed.
Best For
This route planner is best suited for cyclists of all skill levels visiting or residing in Tokyo, seeking well-planned and informative cycling adventures. It is particularly useful for those looking to discover hidden gems and explore areas outside of the typical tourist routes.
7. Ultimate Cycling Journal with Route Highlights
Key Features That Stand Out
The Ultimate Cycling Journal with Route Highlights is designed for comprehensive cycling route planning and tracking. It includes features like detailed route mapping, elevation profile visualization, and the ability to save and share routes. Users can also access a database of pre-planned routes and customize them based on their preferences, allowing for offline map downloads for navigation.
Why Recommended
This journal is highly recommended for cyclists seeking to enhance their riding experience. It offers a convenient way to plan, log, and analyze rides, facilitating better performance tracking and route discovery. Cyclists can also benefit from the robust route planning capabilities and the ability to share routes with fellow riders.
Performance Analysis
The user interface is intuitive and easy to navigate, allowing for straightforward route creation and data input. Integration with GPS devices provides accurate ride data capture, including distance, speed, and elevation gain. Based on user reviews, the route planning algorithm generally performs well, though some report occasional inaccuracies in highly complex terrains, especially in the pre-planned routes. The offline map feature functions as advertised, which ensures reliable navigation even without an internet connection.
Best For
This cycling journal is ideal for both casual and serious cyclists who want to meticulously plan and document their rides. Whether one is training for a race, exploring new trails, or simply enjoying leisurely rides, this journal offers a valuable toolset for any cyclist.
8. Colorado Road Biking Routes Guide
Key Features That Stand Out
This bicycle route planner focuses on road biking routes within Colorado. It provides detailed route information, including elevation profiles, distance calculations, and estimated ride times. The planner also allows users to customize routes based on desired difficulty and distance.
Why Recommended
This guide is highly recommended for cyclists seeking to explore Colorado’s diverse terrain. It offers a convenient way to discover new routes and plan rides that match skill levels. It is also beneficial for both locals and tourists looking to experience the beauty of Colorado by bicycle.
Performance Analysis
The user interface is generally easy to navigate, with clear maps and readily accessible route data. User feedback suggests that the elevation profiles are accurate, and the estimated ride times are reasonably reliable, considering individual fitness levels. Some users may encounter a slight learning curve when customizing advanced route parameters, but helpful tutorials are usually available. The route suggestions are frequently updated.
Best For
This route planner is ideal for road cyclists of all levels, from beginners seeking gentle rides to experienced cyclists looking for challenging climbs. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to explore Colorado’s scenic beauty by bike and discover curated routes.
9. Lonely Epic Bike Rides
Key Features That Stand Out
The Lonely Epic Bike Rides route planner offers comprehensive mapping features tailored for cyclists. It incorporates detailed topographic maps and allows users to customize routes based on preferred terrain, distance, and elevation gain. The platform also provides offline map access, which is vital for remote adventures.
Why Recommended
This route planner is highly recommended for cyclists seeking to discover epic rides, especially those venturing into new areas. It excels at helping users discover hidden gems and plan routes that match their skill level. The detailed route information enhances safety and the overall cycling experience.
Performance Analysis
The platform’s performance is generally reliable, drawing upon extensive map data to generate accurate route suggestions. User feedback indicates that route calculations are efficient and the offline map functionality works seamlessly. However, some users have reported occasional glitches when integrating with certain GPS devices. The platform’s responsiveness generally improves with a strong internet connection.
Best For
This is best for experienced cyclists and those who enjoy planning elaborate rides. Those who value detailed mapping and offline access will find this route planner particularly useful when exploring challenging terrains.
10. Danube Bike Trail: Passau to Vienna
Key Features That Stand Out
This bicycle route planner focuses specifically on the Danube Bike Trail from Passau to Vienna. It provides detailed maps, elevation profiles, and daily stage suggestions. A standout feature is the inclusion of information on bike-friendly accommodations and points of interest along the route.
Why Recommended
This planner is recommended because it simplifies the complex task of planning a multi-day cycling trip. It caters to cyclists of all skill levels, providing a user-friendly experience and comprehensive information. This will help reduce planning time and enhance the overall cycling experience by allowing for stress-free navigation.
Performance Analysis
User feedback indicates the planner accurately reflects the trail conditions and distances. The suggested daily stages align well with average cycling abilities, allowing users to comfortably manage the route. Riders appreciate the readily available information on accommodations, saving time and simplifying travel arrangements. This combination of features contributes to a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Best For
This is ideal for individuals or groups seeking a well-organized and informative guide to cycling the Danube Bike Trail. It suits both experienced cyclists and those new to long-distance touring, ensuring a memorable and manageable adventure.
What to Know Before Buying Best Bicycle Route Planners
Choosing the right bicycle route planner can significantly enhance your cycling experience, turning a simple ride into an optimized adventure. The difference between a good and great route planner often lies in its ability to adapt to your needs, provide accurate information, and seamlessly integrate into your riding routine.
Key Features to Look For
- GPS Accuracy: Ensure the planner utilizes reliable GPS technology for precise location tracking and route mapping. Consider checking specifications on accuracy, such as the number of satellites supported.
- Detailed Mapping: Look for planners offering comprehensive maps that include bike lanes, elevation profiles, and points of interest (POIs) such as bike shops, cafes, and rest stops.
- Turn-by-Turn Navigation: This is a must-have for safe and efficient route following, providing clear audio or visual cues to guide you along your planned route.
- Connectivity Options: Consider options for syncing with fitness trackers, smartphones, and other devices, as well as the availability of offline map downloads for areas with limited cellular coverage.
Important Materials
The materials used in your bicycle route planner can impact its longevity and usability. Look for durable, weather-resistant materials to withstand the rigors of outdoor cycling. Avoid planners made from cheap plastics that may crack or malfunction easily, as well as those with screens that are difficult to see in bright sunlight.
Essential Factors to Consider
Pay attention to the display specifications. A planner with a clear and bright screen, along with good resolution, is essential for readability while riding. The panel type (e.g., LCD, AMOLED) affects visibility in sunlight and power consumption. Consider the refresh rate of the device, too. A faster refresh rate results in more fluid transitions and navigation.
Budget Planning
Bicycle route planners come in a variety of price points, offering different features and levels of performance. Here’s a breakdown to help you find the best fit for your budget:
| Category | Description | Typical Features |
|---|---|---|
| Budget-Friendly | Entry-level devices offering basic navigation features. | GPS tracking, basic mapping, simple turn-by-turn navigation, often smartphone integration. |
| Mid-Range | Devices with more advanced features and enhanced performance. | Detailed maps, advanced turn-by-turn navigation, route planning, fitness tracking integration, longer battery life. |
| Premium | Top-of-the-line devices with premium features and performance. | High-resolution display, comprehensive mapping, advanced route planning, comprehensive fitness metrics, advanced connectivity options, offline maps, weather integration. |
When to Buy
You may find the best deals on bicycle route planners during end-of-season sales, typically late summer and fall, as retailers clear out inventory to make way for new models. Check for sales events during major holidays like Black Friday or Cyber Monday, when you can often find significant discounts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best bicycle route planners for long, epic rides?
For epic rides, consider “Lonely Epic Bike Rides” (both Americas and general) for inspiration. The “Danube Bike Trail: Passau to Vienna” is excellent for a specific multi-day tour.
Which bicycle route planners focus on North America?
Several resources target North America. Look at “Lonely Epic Bike Rides: Americas”, “Motorcycle Motorcycle Journeys Guide: North America”, and state-specific guides like “Colorado Road Biking Routes Guide” and “Oregon Road Biking Routes”.
Are there any bicycle route planners that include journal prompts?
Yes, “The Cycling Journal with Ride Prompts” and “Ultimate Cycling Journal with Route Highlights” incorporate journaling elements. These products encourage documenting rides.
Where can I find bicycle route planners with route suggestions?
“Fifty Biking Destinations: 50 Great Places” and “Oregon Road Biking Routes” specifically highlight routes. These books provide curated route recommendations for various locations.
Are there bicycle route planners for international locations?
Yes, “Tokyo Tokyo Outdoor Adventures: Walks, Hikes & Cycling” includes cycling information for Tokyo. “Danube Bike Trail: Passau to Vienna” focuses on a European route.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best bicycle route planner can transform your cycling experience, whether you’re a casual rider or a seasoned enthusiast. We’ve explored various options, and some really stand out for their features and ease of use. This should give you confidence to explore the many options available.
For an outstanding experience, our “Top Pick” offers a balance of advanced features and user-friendliness. The “Editor’s Choice” product is a fantastic choice if you prioritize detailed mapping and customization options for your ride. It boasts advanced features to tailor your cycling experience.
If you’re looking for the best value, the “Best Budget” option provides excellent route planning capabilities without breaking the bank. It’s a great entry point. No matter your needs, we have you covered.
Ultimately, the perfect route planner depends on your individual needs. Are you looking to avoid traffic or maximize scenic views? Consider your priorities, and select a product that caters to your riding style and experience level. Don’t let your next adventure be anything less than you deserve.
Ready to enhance your rides? Explore the options, read the reviews, and take the next step. Invest in a best bicycle route planner today and begin planning your next amazing cycling trip!
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