Top cycling apps for your commute
Optimise your cycling routine with these top app recommendations
With summer solstice bringing long days and sunny skies, it’s a great time to think about switching up your commute and start cycling to work. Rachel Fitzell, One4all Inside Sales Manager, stated: “It has been great to see employees making the switch to cycling, and availing of the government’s taxfree benefit, whether it’s for their health, the environment, or to save money. With Cyclescheme, businesses can benefit from our centralised platform and our dedicated team are there to help with any queries along the way.” If you’ve decided to switch up your commute and start cycling, there will inevitably be some factors to take into the equation, including weather, transit time and potential roadblocks. Luckily, there are so many apps available nowadays that can easily prepare you for any of these circumstances and more.
CITYMAPPER
Citymapper generates routes and transit times for cycling, as well as walking and public transport, so you can compare journey times. It also provides turn-by-turn navigation with a map and audio instructions to guide you every step of the way. They’ll even point you in the direction of the nearest Dublin Bikes Dock, with a live update on how many bikes and spaces there are available at each station.
GOOGLE MAPS
There’s a reason why this app is the go-to for many people who are looking to find the best way to get to their destination. Google Maps will reliably describe your location, your surroundings and how to get from A to B. While it may not always factor in some backtrails when it comes to cycling, it will provide consistent audio directions and cues as you ride.
BIKE REPAIR
A handheld mechanic at your fingertips, the Bike Repair app contains 58 repair guides, with 95 top tips and 300 photos within them to help you fix issues as they arise. Users can also benefit from reminders when it’s time for bike maintenance, saving them from dead batteries, wear and tear, and flat tyres. Top Tip: Make sure you wear gloves when using the app so you don’t get oil or grime on the screen.
ACCUWEATHER
What makes AccuWeather stand out as a weather app is that you can filter the forecast by hours, days and even months, so you can plan your day-to-day commute
STRAVA
as well as forecasting days where it might be best to layer up or work from home to avoid a downpour — ideal for those with hybrid working flexibility. A must for the more competitive cyclists. The free version tracks speed, distance, and routes and permits users to follow and comment on others’ rides by following athletes and syncing Facebook or contacts to connect with friends. Upgrading to the premium version will enable users to compare performance on specific ‘segments’ such as a local climb or stretch. Top Tip: Make sure to set a ‘privacy zone’ around your home and workplace to prevent bike theft.
CYCLEMETER
With Cyclemeter, you can track just about every metric you can think of when it comes to cycling performance. Data is stored on your device so there’s no need to go online to begin tracking or view past performance. Users can connect with friends and even track their live cycling routes if permitted to do so.
TFI JOURNEY PLANNER
This one is mainly for bike-rail commuters. The App provides up-to-date information on departures and delays, along with estimated arrival times. Set your preferred mode of transportation in the app settings and save your regular journeys to easily view travel updates in real-time.
For more information about how to start saving on your commute with Cyclescheme, please contact info@cyclescheme.ie or visit www.cyclescheme.ie.