What’s the Best Way to Use a Web-Based Map Tool for Tracking and Improving My Cycling Routes?

Hi everyone, I’ve been exploring web-based mapping tools to track my outdoor activities, especially cycling. I really appreciate how these tools let me access and plan routes from any device without needing to download an app. Still, I’m wondering how to get the most out of these platforms for cycling specifically.

From what I understand, a cycling tracker records data like routes, speed, elevation, and time, helping cyclists keep a detailed cycling distance log. This kind of log lets me look back at my rides and track progress over time. I find the idea motivating because it helps me stay organized and aware of how I’m improving, even if I’m using a web tool instead of a dedicated app.

One thing I’m curious about is how to accurately keep a record of rides and analyze the data to improve future trips. For example, can I get detailed stats on elevation changes, average speed, and distance? Also, is there a way to compare different rides visually on the map to see which routes might be better or more enjoyable?

When it comes to route planning, I’d like to know if there are good features that let me customize routes based on preferences like avoiding busy streets or including more parks. I know some tools allow dragging routes to add stops, but are there smarter or easier ways to adjust routes on the web interface?

I was inspired by cycling trackers I’ve seen in apps, but I really want to focus on the web experience since it feels easier not to depend on my phone while riding. Having a clear and easy-to-access log of my rides, including stats and elevation profiles, would be a huge plus. I think it could motivate me to explore new routes or push myself more.

I’m also interested in whether web tools can incorporate community data, like shared info from other cyclists, to highlight safer paths or hazards. Would this kind of feature be available or practical on a web platform?

On a practical note, I sometimes struggle with exporting or saving my routes in formats that are easy to keep or share with friends who might want to ride with me. Are there recommended formats or ways to save data that work well for this? Also, can web tools sync or integrate with fitness platforms or trackers, so I don’t have to manually move data around?

Lastly, is there any way to see historical trends directly in a web-based tool? Like tracking my cycling frequency or improvements over time? Or does that usually require exporting data and using other programs?

Since it’s a web tool, I guess offline use is limited, but does anyone have ideas for preloading maps or routes for areas where my connection might be poor?

I’d love to hear how others manage their cycling routes and tracking using web tools, especially tips for making the experience smoother and more insightful.

Hey,

great questions, albeit a bit in the wrong spot, unfortunately.
This is a forum for the openrouteservice and the openrouteservice universe, not a general cycle touring forum - you will probably find better answers to your questions in other places :slight_smile:

That being said, you are correct.
Tracking usually refers to recording actual rides. How you do this is up to you.
The most common web service in the (western road) cycling world is probably Strava, in the more adventure/outdoor-based (western) cycling world it’s probably Komoot.
However, you may also save the corresponding gpx files on your computer - as I do with my hiking tracks.
For all your questions (analysis, visualization etc.) tools exist, but which ones are better than others depends a lot on your preferences, needs, opinions about openness, willingness to pay and a lot more.

Regarding route planning, the same is true.

I would suggest to just try out a few for a month or two and see what you like - but we cannot help you with that and would feel uncomfortable with recommending specific ones; apart from our own clients and QGIS plugin, which are however not providing any functionality other than route calculation.

The most common format for planning cycling tours, AFAIK, is gpx.
Most devices, services and software can cope with this, and the format differentiates between “planned” and “ridden” parts.
However, if everyone you know is on the garmin spectrum, this might not be the way to go, or so I’ve heard.

I hope this helps,
Best regards

1 Like