Cycling app recommendations have gotten overwhelming with hundreds of options out there. As someone who’s tested way too many apps over the years, I learned everything there is to know about which ones actually help versus which waste phone storage. Today, I will share it all with you.
That’s what makes honest app reviews endearing to us data-loving cyclists — the right apps make training better while the wrong ones just drain your battery.
Strava
Probably should have led with this section, honestly — Strava is the cycling social network.
Track rides, share with friends, follow other riders’ adventures. The segments feature is addicting once you start chasing local KOMs. Join challenges, earn badges, compare times on specific stretches of road. It’s gamification for cycling and it works.
MapMyRide
But what about route discovery? In essence, MapMyRide handles exploration and tracking together.
I’m apparently in the camp that loves finding new routes. Frustrated by riding the same loops every week, I use MapMyRide to discover paths other cyclists have taken. Tracks speed, distance, calories. The nutrition logging is nice if you’re that organized.
Zwift
Bad weather outside? Zwift transforms indoor training into something almost enjoyable. Connect your bike trainer, hop into a virtual world, ride with thousands of other cyclists. Different landscapes, structured workouts, actual racing against real people from your basement. Sounds weird, works surprisingly well.
Making the Call
Strava for social and motivation. MapMyRide for route discovery. Zwift for indoor training. You don’t need all three — pick based on what you’re missing from your current riding. Most are free to try, so experiment before committing to premium subscriptions.
