Planning the perfect motorcycle route can make the difference between an average ride and an unforgettable adventure. With 8.3 million registered motorcycles in the US and growing smartphone dependency among riders, route planning apps have become essential gear for the modern motorcyclist. Whether you're planning a weekend cruise through the Blue Ridge Parkway or a cross-country expedition on Route 66, this guide will help you find the perfect navigation companion to maximize your time on the open road.
#Best route planning apps for motorcyclists
Why Dedicated Motorcycle Route Planning Apps Matter
As any experienced rider knows, motorcycling isn't just about getting from point A to point B—it's about the journey itself. That's where specialized motorcycle route planning apps come in, offering features that standard navigation apps simply can't match.
The Unique Needs of Motorcyclists vs. Car Drivers
Motorcyclists face distinct challenges and opportunities that car drivers don't encounter. Safety considerations are paramount—unexpected weather changes or poor road conditions that might be minor inconveniences for cars can be serious hazards for riders. A dedicated motorcycle app provides real-time weather alerts and road condition updates specifically tailored to two-wheeled travelers.
Unlike car drivers who often prioritize the fastest route, motorcyclists frequently seek the most scenic and enjoyable roads. Those perfect stretches with sweeping curves and minimal traffic are the holy grail for riders. Motorcycle-specific apps use algorithms to identify these roads, ensuring your journey is as exhilarating as the destination.
Another crucial difference is the need for motorcycle-friendly stops. Gas stations with ethanol-free options, restaurants with secure parking visibility, and accommodations that welcome riders make a huge difference on longer trips. Specialized apps highlight these rider-validated locations that general navigation systems overlook.
The motorcycle community also values community-verified twisty roads and enjoyable terrain. What looks like a simple backroad on a standard map might be a legendary stretch of tarmac in riding circles—information you'd miss without a dedicated motorcycle app.
Have you ever found yourself on an unexpectedly amazing road that no standard navigation app would have suggested?
Key Features to Look for in Motorcycle Navigation Apps
When selecting your perfect riding companion app, several features stand out as must-haves:
Offline map functionality: Critical for those remote mountain passes and rural areas where cell service disappears. The best motorcycle apps allow downloading detailed maps before departure.
Curve detection algorithms: Apps like Calimoto and Kurviger Pro use sophisticated technology to identify and prioritize twisty roads that make motorcycling fun.
Rider community integration: Access to shared routes from fellow enthusiasts who've already discovered hidden gems and can warn about problematic areas.
Weather overlay and road condition alerts: Real-time information about approaching storms, construction zones, or gravel patches can be lifesavers for motorcyclists.
Bluetooth helmet integration: Seamless audio directions through your helmet communication system keep your eyes on the road where they belong.
Premium apps typically offer more motorcycle-specific features, but even free options can significantly enhance your riding experience with proper setup. The investment in a quality navigation app quickly pays dividends in ride quality and safety.
What features do you consider non-negotiable in your motorcycle navigation app?
Top 7 Route Planning Apps for Motorcyclists Compared
Finding the perfect navigation companion requires understanding the strengths and limitations of available options. Let's explore the best apps for maximizing your time in the saddle.
Premium Motorcycle-Specific Navigation Apps
Rever stands out as one of the most comprehensive motorcycle-focused navigation solutions available. With over 1 million riders using the platform, it offers an impressive array of features including ride tracking, community route sharing, and achievement badges for completing famous routes.
Pros of Rever:
Robust motorcycle community with thousands of shared routes
"Discover" feature highlights local rider favorites
Detailed ride statistics including lean angle (with proper equipment)
Butler Maps integration for premium scenic routes
Cons of Rever:
Premium features require a subscription ($39.99 annually)
Some users report occasional GPS tracking issues
Battery drain can be significant during all-day rides
Calimoto has built its reputation on its exceptional curve-focused algorithm that actively seeks out the twistiest roads. Its trip planning interface is intuitive, allowing riders to generate routes with varying levels of "twistiness" with just a few taps.
Pros of Calimoto:
Outstanding "twisty road" detection
Round-trip planning feature with adjustable radius
Weekly route suggestions based on your location
Clean, user-friendly interface
Cons of Calimoto:
North American coverage still expanding
Premium subscription required for full functionality
Limited offline capabilities in the basic version
Kurviger Pro originated in Europe and has developed a dedicated following for its technical approach to route planning. It offers incredible customization options for those who want precise control over their routes.
Pros of Kurviger:
Highly customizable routing parameters
Excellent for technical riders who enjoy tweaking settings
Strong European road network coverage
One-time purchase rather than subscription
Cons of Kurviger:
Steeper learning curve than other apps
US coverage not as comprehensive as European
Less active community than Rever or Calimoto
Which premium app features would convince you to upgrade from a free option?
Free and Multi-Purpose Navigation Options
Google Maps recently added motorcycle mode in many regions, recognizing the different needs of two-wheeled travelers. While not specifically designed for recreational riding, it provides reliable navigation with unmatched global coverage.
Pros for motorcyclists:
Familiar interface and reliable directions
Excellent traffic data and rerouting
Comprehensive points of interest database
Completely free with offline capabilities
Cons for motorcyclists:
Limited focus on scenic or enjoyable roads
No curve detection or motorcycle-specific features
Cannot optimize for exciting rather than efficient routes
Waze offers real-time hazard reporting that can be particularly valuable for motorcyclists. Its crowdsourced alerts about road debris, potholes, and police presence provide information that's especially relevant to riders.
Pros for motorcyclists:
Real-time alerts about road hazards
Active community reporting conditions
Regular updates and improvements
Free with no premium tier
Cons for motorcyclists:
Requires active data connection
Focuses on fastest, not most enjoyable routes
Limited motorcycle-specific features
OsmAnd provides incredible customization options based on OpenStreetMap data. Tech-savvy riders appreciate the ability to fine-tune routing preferences and display settings.
Pros for motorcyclists:
Highly customizable display and routing
Excellent offline functionality
Topographic information helpful in mountainous terrain
Open-source with regular updates
Cons for motorcyclists:
Complex interface can be overwhelming
Requires time to set up optimally
Community routes less abundant than specialized apps
Scenic focuses specifically on community route sharing, making it easy to find rider-tested journeys. Its growing library of routes ranges from short afternoon rides to epic cross-country adventures.
Pros for motorcyclists:
Emphasis on beautiful and engaging roads
Simple interface focused on discovery
Growing library of user-submitted routes
Free basic functionality
Cons for motorcyclists:
Smaller user base than major platforms
Limited navigation features compared to dedicated apps
Some regions have few user-submitted routes
Do you prefer specialized motorcycle apps or have you found ways to make general navigation apps work well for your rides?
Maximizing Your Motorcycle Navigation Experience
Having the right app is just the beginning. Proper setup and planning will ensure you get the most from your chosen navigation solution while keeping safety as the top priority.
Setting Up Your Phone for Safe Motorcycle Use
Handlebar mount options have evolved significantly, offering secure ways to keep your phone visible while riding. RAM Mounts and Quadlock systems provide vibration dampening and weather resistance, protecting your device through all conditions. For maximum protection, consider weatherproof cases or dedicated GPS units for extreme adventures where exposure to elements is guaranteed.
Battery conservation becomes crucial during all-day rides. Practical strategies include:
Reducing screen brightness to the minimum visible level
Enabling battery saver mode when possible
Using offline maps to reduce data usage
Carrying a quick-charge portable battery pack for lunch breaks
Installing a USB charger directly to your motorcycle battery
Bluetooth helmet audio setup significantly improves the navigation experience. Modern communication systems from Sena, Cardo, and others integrate seamlessly with navigation apps, providing clear turn-by-turn directions without the need to look at your screen. Most systems allow you to control volume through voice commands, ensuring you never miss important instructions without removing your hands from the controls.
For backup solutions in low-connectivity areas, consider:
Pre-downloading offline maps for your entire route
Carrying a small physical map as emergency backup
Saving screenshots of critical junctions or complicated sections
Sharing your planned route with riding companions through multiple apps
What's your preferred phone mounting system, and have you experienced any reliability issues?
Planning Multi-Day Motorcycle Road Trips
Route creation strategies for multi-day adventures require balancing distance, scenery, and practical considerations. The most memorable trips typically:
Limit daily riding to 200-300 miles to prevent fatigue
Include deliberate detours to scenic viewpoints and landmarks
Alternate between challenging technical roads and relaxing cruising sections
Schedule rest days in particularly interesting locations
Incorporating motorcycle-friendly accommodations makes a tremendous difference in trip enjoyment. Look for properties that offer:
Secure, visible parking or motorcycle-specific parking areas
Ground floor rooms when possible for easy gear management
Proximity to motorcycle service facilities on longer journeys
Laundry facilities for refreshing riding gear
Weather planning and seasonal considerations can make or break a motorcycle trip. The best apps allow you to:
Monitor historical weather patterns for your intended route
Check seasonal road closures, especially in mountain passes
Plan alternative routes if conditions deteriorate
Adjust departure times to avoid predictable weather patterns like afternoon thunderstorms in mountain regions
Sharing routes with riding companions ensures everyone stays together while accommodating different navigation preferences. Consider:
Exporting routes in universal formats (GPX) compatible with various apps
Establishing regroup points at major junctions or town exits
Creating shared collections in apps like Rever for group access
Setting up group communication systems for on-the-fly adjustments
With thoughtful planning and the right technological tools, your motorcycle adventures can be safer, more enjoyable, and memorable for all the right reasons.
What's your approach to planning multi-day trips—do you schedule everything precisely or prefer to maintain flexibility?
Conclusion
The right route planning app can transform your motorcycle journeys from simple transportation to extraordinary adventures. While Rever and Calimoto offer specialized motorcycle features that many riders find indispensable, even free options like Google Maps can enhance your ride with some thoughtful customization. Consider your typical riding style, budget, and technical needs when choosing your navigation companion. What's your favorite motorcycle route planning app? Share your experiences in the comments below and let us know which features matter most for your rides.