The 10 essential cycling apps
Cycling has never been so high-tech. Forget the map that blows away in the wind, tears, or gets soaked in the rain... Cyclists, here are the 10 apps you won't be able to live without.
- CycleMaps , "the Swiss Army knife of cycling." CycleMap boasts 1.4 million kilometers of cycle paths worldwide, information on elevation and surface type, details on the availability and location of self-service bike stations in 150 cities globally, as well as downloadable maps for cycle tourists without internet access. Starting in summer 2015, the app will suggest routes to users based on their previous rides.
- Mécano Vélo , for those not afraid to get their hands dirty. Become an expert mechanic with this app offering 58 repair guides and 95 tips and tricks to solve all your bike hardware problems. You describe the nature of your problem (is it the chain? The derailleur?) and the app suggests possible causes with their solutions and the necessary tools to fix them.
- Road ID , because accidents happen so quickly. The app would be useful in an emergency, if you were unconscious and unable to provide your identity. The app allows you to provide essential information (names, emergency contacts, medical information, etc.) while keeping your phone locked.
- GoProApp , or how not to wait to view your unedited footage. With the GoProApp, GoPro camera owners can remotely control their camera and view their day's recordings.
- Size my bike , to put an end to ill-fitting bikes. You enter your measurements (height, leg length, etc.) and the application tells you the ideal positioning of your bike's parts.
- Runtastic , the 2.0 cyclometer. This application records the mileage covered during your bike trips and tracks your route via GPS. In addition, like a traditional cyclometer, it indicates your top speed, your average speed, and your total ride time.
- Climatip , to go out dressed appropriately. Very simply, Climatip suggests you wear "a wool hat" or "your favorite tank top" depending on the temperature and atmospheric conditions in your region. The application doesn't quite meet the needs of the hurried cyclist, but it's fun. To really know how to dress for your bike ride, the Yahoo Weather app will surely be better advice!
- Strava , to stay connected with your fellow riders. The Strava social network is specially designed for cyclists who want to compare their performance. The application maps your rides and compares them to those of other cyclists. Even professional cyclists are on it!
- MapMyRide , for a variant of Strava. With MapMyRide, you map your rides and share your routes with new cycling friends.
- Runkeeper , the app for versatile athletes. Everyone will find something for them, not just cyclists. This app tells you exactly your route, your speed, encourages you when you need it, and even tells you about the calories you burn (to be taken with a grain of salt, however).