Find the best tools to map, track, and improve your rides
Whether you’re a casual cyclist or training for your next Gran Fondo, having the right cycling app can completely transform your rides. From detailed GPS tracking to performance analytics and personalized route suggestions, today’s apps are packed with features to help you ride smarter, longer, and stronger.
Here’s our 2025 comparison of the best cycling apps, focusing on navigation, training features, community, and device integration.
🚴 Top Cycling Apps at a Glance
| App | Best For | Offline Maps | Wearable Integration | Free Plan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Komoot | Route planning & touring | ✅ | Garmin, Wahoo | ✅ (Limited regions) |
| Strava | Social + performance tracking | ⚠️ (Premium only) | Garmin, Apple, Polar | ✅ |
| Ride with GPS | Turn-by-turn navigation | ✅ | Garmin, Wahoo | ✅ |
| TrainerRoad | Power-based indoor training | ❌ | Smart trainers | ❌ |
| Zwift | Indoor workouts + virtual rides | ❌ | Smart trainers, Apple TV | ✅ (trial) |
1. Komoot
🗺️ Best for outdoor adventure and route discovery
Komoot is ideal for cyclists who want to explore new roads and trails. Its intuitive route planner allows you to set surface preferences (road, gravel, MTB), elevation targets, and even fitness level.
Pros:
✔️ Excellent offline navigation
✔️ Global community route sharing
✔️ Works with Wahoo, Garmin, Apple Watch
Cons:
➖ Turn-by-turn navigation is paid for regions outside your starter pack
2. Strava
🌍 Best for social riders and performance analysis
Strava remains the top choice for cyclists looking to track progress and connect with others. The social feed, segments, and challenges keep motivation high.
Pros:
✔️ Massive global community
✔️ Deep integration with fitness trackers
✔️ Segment tracking and leaderboards
Cons:
➖ Route planning and advanced analytics require a paid subscription
➖ Limited offline capability
3. Ride with GPS
🧭 Best for navigation and cue sheets
Favored by touring cyclists, Ride with GPS provides turn-by-turn voice navigation, elevation profiles, and downloadable maps—even in remote areas.
Pros:
✔️ Customizable routes with voice prompts
✔️ Excellent for supported rides/events
✔️ Great printable maps and cue sheets
Cons:
➖ Some features locked behind premium tier
➖ Interface is more technical than Komoot
4. TrainerRoad
💪 Best for data-driven indoor cyclists
TrainerRoad is for serious cyclists focused on FTP-based interval training. It uses structured workouts and real-time power analysis to build strength efficiently.
Pros:
✔️ Fully science-backed training plans
✔️ Great analytics dashboard
✔️ Integrates with smart trainers and sensors
Cons:
➖ Indoor use only
➖ No route planning
➖ No free tier
5. Zwift
🎮 Best indoor virtual cycling experience
Zwift gamifies your indoor workouts with stunning 3D worlds, events, and group rides. While not a route planner, it’s excellent for off-season and bad weather training.
Pros:
✔️ Fun, immersive virtual rides
✔️ Online racing and group events
✔️ Works with most smart trainers
Cons:
➖ Requires subscription + trainer equipment
➖ No outdoor tracking or navigation
🧭 Editor’s Picks
- Best for real-world navigation: Komoot
- Best for motivation & stats: Strava
- Best indoor training: TrainerRoad (serious athletes)
- Best hybrid (ride + fun): Zwift
🧠 What to Consider When Choosing a Cycling App
- Outdoor vs indoor riding: Are you planning real-world adventures or virtual workouts?
- Wearables & device compatibility: Make sure the app works with your GPS computer or trainer.
- Map availability: Need offline maps for touring? Choose Komoot or Ride with GPS.
- Data geek or casual rider? Strava and TrainerRoad serve very different needs.
🛠️ Bonus Integration Tip
Most cycling apps integrate with Garmin Connect, Apple Health, TrainingPeaks, or Google Fit, so your workouts can sync automatically into your ecosystem.
🔗 Related: Best Smartwatches & Bike Computers for Cyclists
Conclusion
Cycling apps in 2025 offer a wide range of tools—from basic GPS tracking to immersive VR-style workouts. Whether you’re a touring cyclist, a social rider, or training for your next podium finish, there’s a perfect app for your style and goals.