Navigate by smartphone
Turn-by-turn directions
If you don’t have a bike computer with GPS service, how can you navigate by smartphone? This question has come up recently and I’d like to share a discovery.
Like many tour operators, I use several online mapping services including Google Maps, Map my Ride, and Ride with GPS. These services share some common features and excel at one or two: Street View on Google Maps has a better ‘feel’; Map my Ride has a nice mapping tool; Ride with GPS plays better with other devices and is my favorite for use with the ELEMNT computer.
Several guests have asked about navigation on their smartphone. After some research, I discovered that by upgrading to a monthly basic service fee at Ride with GPS, my routes will now guide me in real time.
I’ve planned out two test routes and ridden each, the first with both the ELEMNT and my iPhone & Ride with GPS app turned on, and the second with only the phone running. As you might suspect, the directions and outcome were identical between devices on the first ride. On the second ride I was able to observe the phone and look for the clues about turning, and it worked perfect.
Get Connected in 4 easy steps!
- Go online and create your free account at Ride with GPS
- Upgrade to the Basic Plan, either monthly or annual fee
- Find the companion app for your phone and install it
- Make a simple route and follow the cues from your phone!
I’ve designed dozens of tour routes online, and I’m happy to share. A friend has emailed me a route which I was able to upload, save and follow, so I know this feature works. There are a large number of untested features, including storing routes on your phone for use when there is no cell service. I’ll put this to the test soon in the Upper Peninsula.
Know where you are before you ride
Electronic mapping is great, but I’m certain you are best served when you understand the route before the ride begins. On our tours guests will receive a printed map for each days’ ride, in addition to turn-by-turn directions. At breakfast we give verbal instructions to get to the lunch spot. At lunch additional instructions on finding the hotel at the end of the day. Remember, when you’re on tour in a new place you will be in unfamiliar territory, and a paper map can provide a lot of confidence and self reliance to your ride.
Smartphone vs. Bike Computer
If you have a smartphone but don’t have a bike computer, you may wonder what the differences are. GPS-enabled Bike Computers deliver tons of data and can help guide you along. You can select from dozens of display items including speed, cadence, temperature, elapsed time, power output, etc. These features can be important if you ride a lot, or are data-obsessed.
The basic Ride with GPS service described above is designed for turn-by-turn directions and lacks most of the other features you might have on a computer. The advantages using your phone include having fewer devices (think chargers, mounting systems, etc), and having to learn less about operating the device.
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