We all fall into routines, but cycling the same roads week after week can dull your enthusiasm. It’s time to become a two-wheeled explorer and discover the hidden gems in your area. Here’s how to keep your riding fresh and exciting:
Start by harnessing the power of technology. Strava, Ridewithgps and MapMyRide offer a wealth of local routes. Their heat maps reveal where cyclists ride most frequently, often for good reason. Komoot is another excellent option, particularly if you’re interested in gravel or mixed-terrain adventures.
But don’t overlook traditional methods. Your local bike shop is a goldmine of route information. The staff often know the area’s best rides and might even have hand-drawn maps of their favorite loops. While you’re there, ask about local cycling clubs. Many offer group rides that explore different areas each week, providing a great way to discover new roads with experienced local riders.
When planning a new route, consider starting small. A 20-mile ride on unfamiliar roads can feel much longer than your usual 40-miler. Bring a buddy for safety and companionship, and pack extra food and water. In some parts of the country, you never know when that “short climb” might turn into an hour-long grind.
It’s wise to download your new route to a GPS device or phone, as cell service can be unreliable in rural areas. But don’t be afraid to deviate from the plan if you spot an intriguing side road. Some of the best discoveries happen when you follow your curiosity.
Challenge yourself with different terrain, too. If you typically ride flat roads, seek out some hills to test your climbing legs. If you’re a mountain goat, find some rolling countryside to work on your speed. Mixing up your terrain will make you a more well-rounded cyclist.
Remember, the goal is to have fun and push yourself a bit. If you find yourself on an unexpectedly busy road or tough climb, take it as part of the adventure. Every new route teaches you something about your area – and your capabilities as a rider.
So this weekend, set aside your usual loop and venture into new territory. You might just stumble upon your new favorite ride. And who knows? You may inspire your riding buddies to join you in your explorations.
Readers, do you have a favorite method of finding new routes?
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Hand drawn routes? Gonna call AAA to send me a TripTik for my next road trip too.
For context, I ride for experiences. My ride ratio (saddle time/total time) is 0.7, with the balance spent ‘checking things out’. Apps like Atlas Obscura and capitalgems.ca provide a wealth of interesting Points of Interest (PoI). I choose an area and use these, as well as more traditional sources, to identify PoI and map out new routes.
I put my routes on paper (batteries not included) and we’re off. While I do have a Garmin GPS, it is useless for this type of trip planning. Similarly, it is distracting while on the road; put it on the map and use it for reference only.