12 Best Free Bike GPS Apps: Strava, Ride with GPS, OsmAnd & More

Why use a free bike GPS app?

A simple free app on your phone can now add accurate data and useful features to every bike ride.

Whether you’re a casual cyclist, a mountain biker looking for new trails, a member of a cycling club who wants to share routes, or a Strava user looking for a companion app, it pays to understand the different options available when it comes to free GPS apps.

The main features to look for in a bike GPS app are:

• GPS tracking accuracy
• The range of data collected (distance, speed, elevation gain, calories…)
• An interface that’s easy to use
• Navigation and route planning options
• Integration with other apps and cycling communities

In this article, we review twelve free bike GPS apps. We break down their strengths and limitations to help you pick the one that best fits the way you ride. You’ll find solid tools to get more out of your rides, explore new routes and share your cycling adventures.

BikeCompanion, at the top of this list, is the app we build. We describe it with its weak points, just like the other eleven, so you can compare it on the same criteria.

1. BikeCompanion

BikeCompanion is a free bike GPS app that turns your smartphone into a full-featured cycling computer. Whether you ride solo or with a group, it has your back every step of the way.

Plan your rides by building custom routes; with the PRO version, you can also download maps for offline use. While you ride, you get live tracking of your performance; the PRO version adds precise voice prompts and live timed segments. Automatic detection of tough climbs and mountain passes helps you manage your effort.

Key features:

• Route planning; offline maps (PRO)
• Voice navigation (PRO)
• Real-time performance tracking
• Live timed segments and comparison (PRO)
• Automatic climb detection
• 3D videos of your rides
• Detailed history and stats
• Works with Strava and Bluetooth sensors
• Group ride mode with live tracking

Pros:

• All-in-one: planning, tracking and analysis to help you improve
• Navigation (voice guidance in PRO) and real-time performance data
• Bluetooth sensor support (radars, power, cadence, speed, heart rate…)
• Customizable interface (PRO)
• Great for group rides or, with PRO, for letting family and friends follow you

Cons:

• Small community for now
• Garmin Connect and Wahoo sync are PRO-only

Tips:

Take the time to set the app up the way you want and read the user guide.

Turn on Battery saver (PRO) for long rides.

BikeCompanion is an excellent free option for cyclists of every level. It meets the needs of casual riders and enthusiasts alike, with full performance tracking and smooth Strava integration. Its group ride features and 3D videos set it apart from other apps. The free version covers ride recording, following a route on the map, sensors and Strava; the PRO version, which comes with a free trial, adds voice guidance, offline maps and live segments.

To see the latest updates, check out what’s new here.

Visit the BikeCompanion website to learn more and download the app.

2. Strava

Strava is one of the most widely used bike GPS apps in the world. It combines GPS tracking with social networking, building a lively community for every kind of cyclist. Whether you’re a beginner, a club rider or a mountain bike fanatic, you’ll find what you need.

The free version already covers plenty of essentials: ride tracking, segment challenges and sharing activities with other cyclists. It lets you test yourself on popular stretches of road (full leaderboards are for subscribers only) and discover new routes.

Key features:

• GPS tracking and maps: Accurate ride recording, map view and data analysis (distance, speed, elevation gain)
• Segments and leaderboards: Compete with other cyclists on set stretches to push your progress
• Social features: Activity sharing, following your riding buddies, comments and clubs
• Data analysis: Progress tracking, detailed stats, strengths and areas to work on

Pros:

• Active community: Motivating interactions between cyclists
• GPS accuracy: Reliable data to analyze your rides
• Full-featured free version: Plenty of tools without paying

Cons:

• Advanced features cost extra: In-depth analysis and training plans are for subscribers only
• Battery: Heavy drain while GPS is running
• Learning curve: A feature-packed interface that can feel overwhelming at first

Tips:

• Check your internet connection before each ride
• Turn on location services in your settings
• Customize the app to suit your needs
• Get involved in clubs

How it compares: Next to Komoot or Cyclemeter, Strava stands out for its social side and huge user base, which make the whole cycling experience richer.

Official website

Bottom line: Strava works for cyclists of every level. The free version will be enough for most riders, while the subscription unlocks more advanced tools. Battery drain aside, Strava remains a must-have among bike GPS apps.

3. Komoot

Komoot stands apart from other free bike GPS apps thanks to its focus on detailed route planning. Whether you’re a weekend cruiser or a mountain bike enthusiast, it gives you the essential tools to get more out of your rides.

The free version gives you one map region and basic navigation features. It’s ideal for exploring your area by bike and discovering new paths, guided by precise voice prompts.

Key features:

• Voice navigation: Clear, detailed directions so you never get lost, even on tricky trails
• Route planning: Pick your bike type and the app tailors the route to the terrain and elevation
• Offline maps: Download maps to use without an internet connection
• Surface info: Details on the types of terrain along your route

Pros:

• Top-notch planning: Custom routes built around your fitness level
• Terrain details: A clear view of the challenges ahead
• Ease of use: Quick and intuitive to pick up

Cons:

• Only one free region: Other areas must be purchased (see our free Komoot alternative)
• Paid premium options: Some advanced features are for subscribers only
• Navigation can lag: Updates are occasionally delayed

Compared to other apps: Unlike Strava, which focuses on performance, Komoot puts the emphasis on discovery and navigation. The two apps complement each other well.

Getting started: Install the app, create an account and choose your free region. Explore the planning tools and try out voice navigation on your rides.

Website: https://www.komoot.com

Komoot shines at making ride planning and navigation simple and enjoyable. It’s a reliable companion for every cyclist’s adventures.

4. MapMyRide

MapMyRide, long owned by Under Armour and now published by Outside, is a capable cycling app that stands out for its tracking and planning features. Whether you’re new to cycling or a seasoned rider, it offers the right tools to log your rides and track your progress.

The free version covers the basics: real-time GPS tracking, distance and speed, and sharing with the community. You can create and discover routes, which is great for finding new rides near you. The app also connects to Garmin, Apple Watch and MyFitnessPal, a plus if you already use those services.

For more demanding cyclists, the advanced features include personalized training plans and gear tracking. These options help you get more from your rides and keep your bike in shape.

Pros:

• Easy-to-use interface
• Well-designed social features
• Works with Garmin, Apple Watch and MyFitnessPal
• Route creation tool

Cons:

• Ads in the free version
• Basic analysis without a subscription
• Some reports of GPS inaccuracy

The premium version unlocks deeper analysis through an MVP subscription, billed monthly or yearly. For more details on the available options, visit the official MapMyRide website.

Getting started is quick: download the app, create an account and start recording your rides.

MapMyRide is a solid choice for cyclists who want to track their rides for free. The app does its core job well, but advanced analysis requires a subscription. It’s up to you whether the free features are enough or whether you’d rather go for a more complete solution.

5. Cyclers

Cyclers is a Czech app built for bike navigation, especially in cities, and most of it is free. It stands out for its community-driven approach and its safety features, which are essential for urban cyclists. If you’re looking for a companion to Strava, especially for your daily commute, Cyclers brings real added value.

The app shines with its smart routing system based on feedback from its community. No more nasty surprises! It favors bike lanes and bike-friendly streets for safer trips. Riders sharing their experiences also helps you discover new routes while steering clear of areas flagged as dangerous. Safety alerts add an extra layer of protection.

Highlights:

• Optimized city navigation
• Community route sharing
• Safety alert system
• Focus on bike lanes

Pros:

• Core features are free
• Urban cycling expertise
• Several route options for every search

Cons:

• Full access requires a Cyclers Plus subscription
• Basic activity tracking
• Smaller community

Price: Free for the essentials, with an optional Cyclers Plus subscription (free trial available)

Getting started: Installation and setup are quick and intuitive. Even beginners find their way around easily.

Versus the competition: Unlike Strava, which targets athletic performance, Cyclers focuses on safety and exploring the city. It’s the ideal pick for urban cyclists who want to optimize their daily trips. Sporty riders will probably prefer Strava for in-depth performance analysis.

Website: https://www.cyclers.app

All in all, Cyclers is the perfect sidekick for city cyclists, especially for everyday trips. Its free version and focus on safety make it a valuable tool. That said, the subscription needed to unlock everything and its basic tracking features may hold back more demanding users.

6. OpenRunner

OpenRunner is one of the most popular bike route planning tools in France. This web platform, paired with a mobile app, stands out for the quality of its topographic maps and its route-building tools. It’s especially popular with cyclists who love exploring varied, off-the-beaten-path routes.

Main features:

• Detailed topographic maps: Ideal for mountain bikers and gravel riders who want to head off the beaten track. The maps give you a clear picture of the terrain.
• Route creation and sharing: Design routes based on your preferred distance, elevation gain and terrain type. Then share them with friends or the community.
• Elevation profiles: Study the elevation profile to better plan your effort on climbs and descents.
• GPX format: Import and export your routes as GPX files to use them on other GPS devices.

Pros:

• Map accuracy: A go-to for mountain biking and gravel
• Powerful planning tools: Suited to every level
• Large French community: Plenty of shared routes in every region of France

Cons:

• Basic interface: The design feels a bit dated next to other apps
• Limited mobile app: Less complete than the web version
• IGN maps cost extra: IGN topo maps and unlimited offline maps are part of the paid Explorer plan

Pricing: A free version with basic features, plus paid plans (Explorer) for more maps and options.

Tips:

• Start by creating a free account
• Browse shared routes near you
• Build your own custom routes
• Export to GPX for your bike GPS

How it compares: OpenRunner shines with its accurate maps, but its activity tracking is less complete than Strava‘s. It’s an excellent companion tool for planning mountain bike and gravel rides.

Website: OpenRunner

7. Geovelo

Geovelo is a French app designed specifically for urban cyclists. 100% free, it offers excellent coverage of French cities with a focus on safe, comfortable bike trips. Whether you’re just starting out or ride regularly, Geovelo helps you make the most of getting around town by bike.

The app excels at calculating bike routes that take existing cycling infrastructure into account: bike lanes, greenways and quiet streets. Real-time navigation guides you efficiently, while the detailed map clearly shows bike-friendly infrastructure. For your safety, Geovelo always favors the most protected routes and avoids high-risk areas.

Highlights:

• Routes optimized for bikes
• Live GPS navigation
• Safe routes
• Map of cycling infrastructure

Pros:

• Safety at the heart of the app
• Excellent coverage in France
• Completely free

Room for improvement:

• Few cities covered outside France
• Limited tracking features
• Some routes can be convoluted

For anyone cycling in France, Geovelo is a valuable tool. Unlike Strava, it focuses on safety and getting around town rather than athletic performance. It’s the perfect companion for your daily bike trips, especially if you want simple, reliable navigation in the city.

The app is very intuitive and doesn’t require any complicated setup. Just download it and start planning your routes. Even though its feature set is fairly basic, Geovelo does its job as an urban bike GPS perfectly.

Price: Free

Whether you ride occasionally or every day, Geovelo will help you get around town with peace of mind. It’s a dependable companion for every type of cyclist on their daily trips. To learn more, visit their official website.

8. Ride with GPS

Ride with GPS is an American app built around route planning. Its desktop route editor is one of the most complete on the market: elevation profile, surface type, points of interest, notes at intersections and printable cue sheets. Clubs use it to share the Sunday ride, and event organizers to publish their official courses.

The free Starter plan lets you plan routes on the website, record rides in the app, follow a route on the map and browse the library of routes shared by the community. Turn-by-turn voice navigation, planning on your phone, offline maps and live tracking are reserved for the Basic and Premium subscriptions.

Pros:

• Very complete desktop route editor
• Large library of routes vetted by other cyclists
• Cue sheets and custom notes, handy for group rides
• GPX export for a bike computer or another app

Cons:

• Voice navigation and offline maps cost extra
• No planning from your phone without a subscription
• Basic and Premium are paid yearly plans (see our free Ride with GPS alternative)

Tip: plan your routes on the website, then export them as GPX. You can follow them with voice navigation from another app on this list without paying for the subscription.

Website: https://ridewithgps.com

Ride with GPS is the right pick if you plan your rides down to the last detail or ride with a club. For navigation on the bike, the free version remains limited.

9. Cyclemeter

Cyclemeter, made by Abvio, turns your phone into a highly configurable bike computer. The app runs on iPhone, Apple Watch and Android, but the iOS version remains the most polished. It’s a favorite among cyclists who want to decide exactly which data shows up during a ride.

The free version records unlimited rides, displays configurable data screens and keeps your history on the phone. Elite, sold as an in-app purchase with a 7-day trial, adds the advanced features: training plans, sharing with friends, live tracking and deeper analysis.

Pros:

• Fully customizable data screens
• Voice announcements, intervals and training zones
• Works with Bluetooth sensors (heart rate, cadence, speed, power)
• Your data stays on your phone until you choose to share it

Cons:

• Dense interface, takes time to learn
• Many features sit behind the Elite plan
• Android version less complete than the iOS one

Tip: set up several screens from the start (climbing, flat, recovery) and swipe between them during the ride.

Website: https://abvio.com/cyclemeter/

Cyclemeter suits cyclists who love numbers and want a made-to-measure bike computer. Beginners will find the app cluttered.

10. OsmAnd

OsmAnd is an open-source mapping app built on OpenStreetMap data. Its strength is offline use: once the maps are downloaded, navigation works without a signal, which makes it a good tool for bike touring, trips abroad or areas with no coverage.

The free version gives you 7 map downloads (an update counts as a download), a cycling profile with voice guidance, GPX track import and offline search for points of interest. The paid plans (Maps+ or OsmAnd Pro) remove the download limit and add contour lines, 3D terrain, external sensors and more frequent map updates.

Pros:

• Full navigation with no connection
• Detailed OpenStreetMap maps, trails included
• Open source, no account, no ads
• Available on iOS and Android

Cons:

• Complex interface, designed around the map rather than the bike
• No performance tracking or ride stats
• 7 maps max on the free plan, contour lines cost extra

Tip: choose your 7 maps carefully (one per state or region, depending on the country) and switch to the “Bicycle” profile so routing favors bike paths.

Website: https://osmand.net

OsmAnd is an offline map more than a bike computer. Pair it with a tracking app to get both.

11. BikeComputer

BikeComputer is an Android app built by an independent developer, Robert Oehler. It does one thing and does it well: show the map, your position and your ride data, with downloadable offline OpenStreetMap maps for the whole world. Over a million downloads and a 4.3 rating on Google Play.

No account needed. The free version records rides, calculates a route between points dropped on the map, shows the elevation profile and exports to GPX. It contains ads. The Pro version, sold separately for a few dollars, removes them and adds ANT+ and Bluetooth sensors, barometric altitude and guidance along an imported GPX track.

Pros:

• Free offline maps for the whole world
• Lightweight, easy on the battery, runs on old phones
• No sign-up
• GPX export and ride backups to the SD card

Cons:

• Android only
• Ads in the free version
• Dated interface, no social or analysis features

Tip: download your region’s map before your first ride and turn on auto-pause so stops don’t skew your average speed.

Website: Google Play listing

BikeComputer will appeal to cyclists who want a simple bike computer on Android, with no account and no subscription.

12. Google Maps

Google Maps is already on your phone, and its cycling mode comes in handy more often than you’d think, especially in the city. It favors bike lanes and quiet streets, shows the elevation of your trip and offers voice guidance. Street View lets you check an intersection, or whether there’s a bike lane, before you set off. We cover it in detail in our article on bike routes in Google Maps.

Its limits are those of a general-purpose tool. Offline maps only work for driving directions: calculating a bike route requires a connection. The app doesn’t record your rides and measures neither speed nor distance covered. The suggested routes sometimes take paths that aren’t great for riding.

Pros:

• Available everywhere, no extra install or account
• Bike routes with bike lanes and elevation
• Street View to scout the terrain
• Combined bike + train or bus trips

Cons:

• No offline bike routes
• No ride recording or stats
• No sensors, no training features

Tip: make sure you select the bike icon before searching, and run a tracking app from this list alongside it to keep a record of your ride.

Price: Free

Google Maps gets you by for a trip across town or on vacation. For regular riding, a dedicated cycling app will do better.

12 Free Bike GPS Apps Compared

How to choose the best bike GPS app

Now that you’ve seen these twelve free bike GPS apps, it’s time to pick the one that fits your needs. The way you ride deserves an app that truly supports you.

Here are the key criteria to weigh when making your choice:

• Key features: Set your priorities: performance tracking (Strava, BikeCompanion, Cyclemeter), route planning (Komoot, OpenRunner, Ride with GPS), city navigation (Geovelo, Cyclers, Google Maps), offline maps (OsmAnd, BikeComputer) or a mix of these. Each app has its own strengths.
• Ease of use: The interface should be clear and easy to use while you ride. An intuitive display is a must.
• Compatibility: Make sure the app works with your devices (sensors, watches) and services like Strava. Good integration with the tools you already use is a plus.
• Practical considerations: Even though these apps are free, some options cost money. Figure out which features you really need and check how much they drain your phone’s battery.

To get off to a good start with your new app:

• Try several options: Nothing beats hands-on experience. Take advantage of free trials when they’re available.
• Customize the settings: Take the time to set things up the way you like (units, activities, alerts).
• Get to know the features: Explore what the app can do at home before you head out.
• Join the community: Most apps let you connect with other cyclists, a great way to discover new routes.

Your final choice will come down to how you balance performance, navigation and community. Keep compatibility in mind, along with the features that matter most to you.

Ready to take it further? BikeCompanion turns your smartphone into a true riding partner. Voice navigation (PRO), 3D videos of your rides, Strava integration, support for multiple sensors… BikeCompanion is with you on every cycling adventure, solo or with a group. Discover the app now: https://bikecompanion.app

Frequently asked questions

What is the best free bike GPS app?

No single app does everything: the right choice depends on how you ride. In town, Geovelo is completely free and favors bike lanes and quiet streets. To plan a road or mountain bike ride, Komoot gives you one free region and Ride with GPS has a very complete route editor on desktop. To record your rides and compare yourself with others, Strava is still the benchmark. BikeCompanion, our app, combines a bike computer, route following and Bluetooth sensors in the free version; voice guidance and offline maps require the PRO version.

What is the best free bike app for riding in the city?

Geovelo, if you ride in France: the app is 100% free, plans its routes along bike lanes, greenways and quiet streets, and guides you in real time. Outside France, it covers few cities. Cyclers takes the same approach and is free for the essentials. Google Maps also does the job in bike mode, but it needs a connection to calculate the route.

Which bike GPS app works offline for free?

OsmAnd: the free version allows 7 map downloads, after which bike navigation with voice guidance works without a signal. On Android, BikeComputer offers free offline OpenStreetMap maps for the whole world, with ads. With Ride with GPS and BikeCompanion, offline maps are paid, and Google Maps can’t calculate a bike route without a connection.

Is Strava free for cycling?

Mostly, yes. The free version records your rides, lets you compete with others on segments and share your activities. Full segment leaderboards, in-depth analysis and training plans are for subscribers. If you’re looking for another app built for cycling, read our article on Strava alternatives.

Is Google Maps good enough for cycling?

For a ride around town, often. Its bike mode favors bike lanes and quiet streets, shows the elevation and gives voice directions. However, it can’t calculate a bike route offline, doesn’t record your rides and doesn’t measure speed or distance. If you ride regularly, a dedicated cycling app will do better.

Can you use your phone as a bike GPS computer?

Yes. Cyclemeter, BikeComputer and BikeCompanion show speed, distance and elevation during your ride. Cyclemeter and BikeCompanion also connect to Bluetooth sensors (heart rate, speed, cadence, power). We compare them in our article on bike computer apps.