When it comes to improving your cycling performance and overall experience, selecting the right tools can make a significant difference. 

With a wide variety of apps available, you now have access to advanced training plans, route navigation, performance tracking, and even bike fitting solutions, all designed to optimize your riding experience. 

Whether you’re searching for the best cycling apps to improve your training, the best bike apps to help you navigate and track your routes, or simply the most user-friendly tools to keep you motivated, this guide has you covered. 

We’ll explore some of the top cycling apps across different categories to help you find the perfect companion for your cycling journey.

Top 3 Cycling Training Apps

If you’re looking for an effective cycling training solution, these are our top three options. They’re suitable for cyclists of all levels, from beginners to advanced riders. 

You can read about more options in our review of the best cycling training apps. 

JOIN

Best for: Personalized, adaptive cycling training  

Pros: Offers dynamic, personalized training plans that adjust based on user progress.  

Cons: Limited integration with non-cycling fitness metrics.  

Price: Less than $11/month

Summary

JOIN is an AI-driven cycling app that provides adaptive and personalized training plans suitable for cyclists at various levels. The app adjusts training plans based on daily input to facilitate effective improvement over time.

Pros

JOIN is characterized by its adaptive training plans. It modifies training schedules dynamically in response to user input, catering to cyclists with varying schedules. The app is designed for users seeking flexible, data-driven training without unnecessary complexity.

Cons

JOIN has limitations regarding the integration of non-cycling metrics and may not support complex multi-sport training needs. 

Pricing

JOIN is priced is less than $11 per month, which is positioned as an accessible option for many cyclists. A 14-day free trial is available for users to experience the training approach.

TrainerRoad  

Best for: Structured, high-intensity interval training  

Pros: Provides well-researched, structured plans focused on improving FTP.  

Cons: Lacks social features and community engagement.  

Price: $19.95/month or $189/year

Summary

TrainerRoad is recognized for its structured, evidence-based training plans aimed at improving Functional Threshold Power (FTP) and overall cycling performance. It includes a library of interval-based workouts and can integrate with indoor smart trainers.

Pros  

The structured plans are developed based on extensive research and are suitable for cyclists focused on enhancing power output and racing performance. TrainerRoad also features a comprehensive calendar for long-term training strategy.

Cons  

The focus on structured training may result in a lack of social and community features. Users seeking community challenges or social interactions may find this aspect limited.

Pricing 

TrainerRoad costs $19.95 per month or $189 annually. A 7-day free trial is available for users to explore the structured workouts.

TrainingPeaks  

Best for: Advanced data analytics and multi-sport coaching  

Pros: Provides extensive performance tracking and analytics.  

Cons: Can be complex for beginners.  

Price: Free basic plan; premium plans from $19.95/month

Summary 

TrainingPeaks is an app suited for athletes and coaches seeking advanced performance metrics and analytics. It is widely utilized by professional cyclists and triathletes for its detailed insights into performance data.

Pros

TrainingPeaks offers the ability to integrate with various devices and software, providing metrics such as Training Stress Score (TSS) and fatigue tracking. This makes it useful for data-focused athletes and coaches.

Cons  

The complexity of TrainingPeaks may be overwhelming for beginners or casual cyclists. It is more suited for users comfortable with detailed performance data or those working with a coach.

Pricing  

The basic version of TrainingPeaks is available for free, while advanced features require a premium subscription starting at $19.95 per month. The premium plan does not offer a free trial, but the basic version allows users to understand the platform's capabilities.

Top 3 Indoor Cycling Apps

Indoor cycling has transformed how cyclists train and maintain their fitness by providing immersive and interactive experiences from the comfort of their own homes. 

These are the top three indoor cycling for outstanding value and performance. Looking for more options? See them all in our in-depth review of the best indoor cycling apps.

Zwift

Best for: Social and gamified cycling  

Pros: Immersive virtual worlds with strong community features.  

Cons: Requires reliable internet and compatible hardware.  

Price: $14.99/month  

Summary  

Zwift offers an interactive indoor cycling experience, allowing users to explore virtual landscapes, join group rides, and participate in races. The platform includes structured training plans and a gamified approach, making it suitable for users seeking fitness and engagement.  

Pros

Zwift features a vibrant community and gamified elements, enabling cyclists to ride alongside others in real time and engage in events across diverse virtual routes.  

Cons

Full enjoyment of Zwift requires a stable internet connection and compatible equipment, such as a smart trainer or power meter, which may increase costs if you’re just starting out.  

Pricing 

Zwift is priced at $14.99 per month and includes a 7-day free trial, allowing potential users to test its features before subscribing. 

Rouvy

Best for: Real-world route simulation  

Pros: Combines real-world video routes with augmented reality for authenticity.  

Cons: Limited social interaction compared to competitors.  

Price: $14.99/month or $144/year  

Summary

Rouvy provides an indoor cycling experience by integrating real-world video footage with augmented reality, simulating iconic routes. This feature is useful for training for outdoor events or virtually exploring famous destinations.  

Pros  

The app's realistic route simulation offers an immersive experience, supported by training plans and augmented reality enhancements beneficial for serious cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts.  

Cons  

Rouvy's limited social features may not appeal to users interested in group rides or competitive racing, as its primary focus is on realism rather than community engagement.  

Pricing

Rouvy is available at $14.99 per month or $144 annually, with a 14-day free trial for users to evaluate its features prior to commitment. 

BKool

Best for: Customizable training and routes  

Pros: Versatile training plans with route customization options.  

Cons: Smaller user base limits social experiences.  

Price: $9.99/month or $96/year  

Summary

Bkool offers a customizable approach to indoor cycling, featuring customizable routes and training plans suitable for cyclists with specific goals or those seeking creative route designs.  

Pros  

The app's flexibility in route creation and range of training plans accommodates various user needs. It is compatible with multiple devices.  

Cons

Bkool's smaller community may result in fewer opportunities for group rides or races compared to larger platforms like Zwift. 

Pricing

Bkool is priced at $9.99 per month or $96 annually, with a 30-day free trial available for users to explore its features.

Top 3 Bike Trail and Navigation Apps

Our favorite three bike trail apps are invaluable tools for route planning and navigation, making them essential if you want to stay on the right path, discover new routes, and track your rides.

Ride with GPS

Best for: Route planning and navigation  

Pros: Intuitive interface with detailed route planning tools.  

Cons: Limited social features compared to other apps.  

Price: Free basic version; premium plans start at $6.99/month  

Summary

Ride with GPS provides functionalities for detailed route planning and navigation. Users can create custom routes, explore popular trails, and sync maps directly to their devices.  

Pros 

The app features robust route-building tools and detailed turn-by-turn navigation, making it suitable for ride planning and exploration activities.  

Cons 

Fewer community and social features compared to some competitors may limit interaction for users interested in group rides.  

Pricing  

The app includes a free basic version, and premium features such as advanced mapping and offline downloads are available through a subscription starting at $6.99 per month. A 7-day free trial of the premium version is offered.  

Trailforks

Best for: Off-road and mountain biking routes  

Pros: Comprehensive trail database with user reviews.  

Cons: Subscription required for full trail access.  

Price: $2.99/month or $36/year  

Summary  

Trailforks is designed for mountain bikers and off-road cyclists. It features an extensive trail database and real-time updates, assisting users in finding and navigating off-road routes.  

Pros  

The app offers detailed trail maps and user-generated reviews, providing useful information for trip preparation. It covers a wide range of global trails suitable for various skill levels.  

Cons

The free version provides limited trail access, and full functionality requires a subscription fee, which may not be optimal for casual users.  

Pricing

Trailforks charges $2.99 per month or $36 annually for full access to trails. A 7-day free trial is available to evaluate premium features. 

Komoot

Best for: Multi-sport route planning and adventure rides  

Pros: Good offline navigation and route customization.  

Cons: Some features require additional purchases.  

Price: Free basic version; region unlocks start at $3.99  

Summary 

Komoot is targeted at cyclists, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts, focusing on adventure by offering customizable routes and offline navigation.  

Pros 

The app supports offline maps and customization options for different activities, along with compatibility with smart devices.  

Cons

Access to certain features and regions may require in-app purchases, which could impact some users.  

Pricing

Komoot is available for free with additional in-app purchases starting at $3.99 for region unlocking. A free trial for one region is included, allowing users to test navigation features without commitment.

Top 2 Bike Tracking Apps

Track performance, share journeys, and maintain motivation with these three tracking apps. They provide a range of features suitable for cyclists seeking to track their progress and build social connections.

Strava

Best for: Performance tracking and social sharing  

Pros: Offers detailed performance metrics with social networking features.  

Cons: Some advanced features are available only with a paid subscription.  

Price: Free basic version; premium plans start at $5.99/month  

Summary  

Strava is a widely used cycling app that combines performance tracking with social interaction. It monitors key metrics such as speed, distance, and elevation, enabling users to compare their performance with others.

Pros

Strava's features for performance tracking and social engagement allow users to join challenges, share rides, and compare statistics within a community of cyclists.

Cons

The free version provides essential features, but many advanced tools, such as detailed insights, custom training plans, and live segments, are only accessible through the premium subscription.

Pricing 

The free version of Strava includes basic features, while the premium Strava Summit plan, starting at $5.99 per month, offers more in-depth analysis and additional functionalities. A 30-day free trial of the premium version is available.

Relive

Best for: Visualizing cycling routes  

Pros: Provides impressive 3D visualizations of rides.  

Cons: Fewer advanced tracking features compared to other cycling apps.  

Price: Free basic version; premium plan starts at $5.99/month  

Summary

Relive is an app that converts cycling routes into 3D videos, showcasing ride highlights in a visually appealing format. This app is geared towards cyclists who wish to revisit and share their experiences.

Pros

Relive's main advantage is its ability to create 3D visualizations of routes. The app facilitates easy sharing of rides, making it suitable for those interested in documenting and sharing their outings.

Cons

While effective for visualizing and sharing rides, Relive lacks some of the advanced performance tracking available in other cycling apps, making it more appropriate for recreational cyclists rather than those concentrating on performance metrics.

Pricing  

Relive offers a free version that introduces its primary features, while the premium version, priced at $5.99 per month, includes additional customization options and expanded features. A 7-day free trial is available for premium users.

Top 2 Free Bike Apps

Most apps have free features, but these two stand apart for how useful they are at no charge. Consider them if you want to enhance your biking experience without incurring subscriptions or additional costs.

Google Maps  

Best for: Navigation and route planning  

Pros: Accurate navigation with real-time traffic updates.  

Cons: Lacks cycling-specific features and metrics.  

Price: Free  

Summary  

Google Maps is a widely used navigation app that enables cyclists to plot routes, receive real-time traffic updates, and identify efficient paths to destinations. It is not tailored specifically for cycling but serves as a general navigation tool.  

Pros

Google Maps offers precise navigation with detailed maps and real-time traffic data, aiding cyclists in avoiding congested roads and identifying quicker routes.  

Cons 

While effective for general navigation, Google Maps does not provide cycling-specific features such as elevation gain, biking trails, or performance tracking that are common in dedicated cycling apps.  

Pricing

Google Maps is available at no cost, delivering navigation and routing functionalities without paid features.  

Strava 

Best for: Performance tracking and social sharing  

Pros: Provides cycling-specific tracking and social features.  

Cons: Some advanced features require a paid subscription.  

Price: Free basic version; premium plans start at $5.99/month  

Summary  

Strava is a popular app among cyclists for tracking key metrics, including speed, distance, and elevation, while also offering social features for sharing rides, joining challenges, and competing with others worldwide.  

Pros  

Strava's comprehensive tracking capabilities make it suitable for cyclists focused on performance, and the app's social networking aspect encourages users to share their achievements.  

Cons  

The free version offers useful features, but many advanced options, such as detailed insights, live segments, and training plans, are available only through Strava's premium subscription.  

Pricing

Strava provides a basic version at no cost; however, advanced features require a premium subscription starting at $5.99 per month, with a 30-day free trial of the premium version available.  

Top 3 Bike Fit Apps

If you are seeking to optimize your bike setup for comfort, efficiency, and performance, various bike fit apps offer tailored solutions to achieve an effective fit. These three stand out from the pack. 

For more options, read our full review of the best bike fit apps.

1. Bike Fast Fit  

Best for: Quick and simple bike fitting  

Pros: User-friendly with quick setup.  

Cons: Limited advanced fitting adjustments.  

Price: $14.99  

Summary

Bike Fast Fit is an app designed to facilitate an efficient and straightforward bike fitting experience. It provides a step-by-step process to guide users through basic adjustments that can enhance comfort and performance.  

Pros

The app features a simple interface and a quick fitting process, which is suitable for those seeking a basic fitting solution. It is particularly accessible for new cyclists.  

Cons

Bike Fast Fit lacks more detailed or professional-level adjustments, which could limit its effectiveness for experienced cyclists or those with specific fitting requirements.  

Pricing

The app is priced at $14.99, offering an affordable option for those interested in a simple fitting process.  

2. My Velo Fit  

Best for: Comprehensive bike fitting guide  

Pros: In-depth fitting process with detailed instructions.  

Cons: Can be overwhelming for beginners.  

Price: $9.99  

Summary

My Velo Fit provides a comprehensive bike fitting experience with detailed instructions and customizable options for various aspects of bike setup, including saddle height and handlebar positioning.  

Pros 

The app's in-depth fitting process allows for a precise fit by guiding users through key adjustments, making it suitable for those looking for thorough bike fitting guidance.  

Cons

The detailed nature of the fitting process may be challenging for new cyclists, as some prior knowledge of bike components is beneficial to fully utilize the app's features.  

Pricing

My Velo Fit is available for $9.99, providing a comprehensive bike fitting experience at a reasonable price.  

3. APIIR  

Best for: Professional-level bike fitting  

Pros: Highly accurate, personalized fitting results.  

Cons: Additional equipment is required for full functionality.  

Price: $19.99  

Summary

APIIR is a professional-level bike fitting app that utilizes advanced algorithms to deliver personalized fitting recommendations. It is targeted at serious cyclists and professionals needing precise adjustments for optimal performance.  

Pros 

The algorithm-based fitting process of APIIR yields highly accurate results, accommodating a wide range of bike types and styles.  

Cons  

Full functionality of APIIR necessitates additional equipment, such as sensors or a smart trainer, which may increase the overall cost and complexity of use.  

Pricing 

APIIR is priced at $19.99, incorporating all premium features. The app does not offer a free trial but provides a professional-level fitting experience for those prepared to invest in the technology.  

Best Apps For iPhone and Android

Looking for the best apps for a specific operating system? We've put together two complete roundups of the top cycling apps for both iPhone and Android devices. Take a look at the article that matches your operating system for our full recommendations:

• Best iPhone apps

• Best Android apps

Choosing the Right App for You

When selecting the right cycling app, it's important to start by identifying your goals. Whether you're interested in route planning, tracking your performance, or connecting with cycling communities, understanding what you want to achieve will help you choose an app that aligns with your objectives.

Next, consider which features are most important to you. Some apps excel in GPS navigation, while others focus on fitness tracking or bike fitting. By determining the tools you need, you can narrow down your options and find the best app for your cycling requirements.

Finally, it's a good idea to try an app before committing to a purchase. Many apps offer free trials or versions, allowing you to test the features and user interface. This ensures you get the functionality and experience you need before subscribing or buying a paid version.