How do you choose the right bike navigation as a recreational cyclist?
Minimal requirements navigation recreational biking
As a recreational cyclist, you don't have high demands for a bike navigation system. You probably like to view the distance you bikes, your speed, and your route, but that's it. An extensive navigation system isn't necessary. It can happen that you want to make a spontaneous bike ride. In that case, it's nice if you don't have to plan a route in an app or computer first. That's why you can enter the route on the device for all our navigation systems for recreational bike rides.
Do you want to discover new and surprising routes?
Most bike navigation systems allow you to choose a surprising route. Your navigation system will show 3 routes based on previous routes and how far you want to bike. Mio calls this the Surprise Me function. Garmin also offers this function for surprising routes. This way, you can discover nice new routes and surprise yourself.
Do you want to see toilets and restaurants on the go?
Points of Interest (POI) are useful spots along your route. These are toilets, restaurants, campsites, and attractions. Sometimes, you can add a comment. Most navigation systems for recreational cyclists show Points of Interest, but not all. Do you find it useful to see this information when you bike? Make sure the system has this function.
Do you bike inside or outside of Europe?
Most navigation systems have standard maps of Europe or a part of Europe. But it's also possible to have maps from the whole world. Decide which maps are relevant for you. Do you like to take your bike on vacation within Europe? In that case, a system with coverage in Europe is enough. Do you also want to use your navigation outside of Europe? Make sure the you can expand the maps of the system. You can buy the map of the destination you need.