CREATE YOUR OWN CYCLING ROUTE WITH KOMOOT? HERE'S HOW IT WORKS STEP BY STEP
Whether you're going gravel riding, taking a nice tour or relaxing cycling holiday With Komoot, you can easily create your own cycling route. In this blog post, we explain step by step how it works. You'll also read about what to consider when planning, how to use the route on your cycling computer or smartphone, and how to get the most out of Komoot.
Creating a Komoot route is surprisingly simple. In this blog post, we'll explain everything step by step and as clearly as possible, so you can get started planning your own cycling routes right away, even without any technical knowledge, whether you're new to Komoot or have created routes before.
What is Komoot and why do so many cyclists use it?
Komoot is an online route planner for cyclists, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. You can create, customize, and save routes exactly the way you want. The planner takes your preferences into account: whether you prefer cycle paths, paved roads, or a forest trail.
The great thing about Komoot is that you can visualize your route on the map. You can immediately see where you're cycling, the elevation profile, and any landmarks or rest stops along the way. Komoot also shows whether a path is paved or unpaved. A handy feature that prevents wasting energy on unnecessary roads or challenging sections. A free account is all it takes to plan and save cycling routes. You can then get started right away via the app or website.
How do you create a Komoot route?
You can plan a route on either your computer or your phone. Especially if you're doing it for the first time, it's helpful to sit down at your laptop or tablet for a while.
- You start by choosing the type of ride you want. In Komoot, this is called the "sport type." If you're cycling with an e-bike , select the "E-bike" option. This way, Komoot ensures the route matches your speed and range.
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Then you set the starting point. This could be an address, a parking lot, or simply your own home. Then you choose an end point, or you can let Komoot automatically plan a scenic loop for you. The route appears immediately on the map. If it takes a path you'd rather avoid, you can simply drag the line to another road.
- A handy feature of Komoot is its highlights. These are popular spots recommended by other cyclists, such as a beautiful view, a cycling café, or a bench. Spot a highlight? Add it as a stopover with a single click. This way, you can create a personalized cycling route in minutes, perfectly tailored to your needs. Komoot also features cycling junctions, so you'll pass all the right places.
- Are you satisfied? Then save the route with a recognizable name. That way you can easily find it later on your phone or bike computer.
Adjust and recalculate routes
Sometimes your route changes along the way. Maybe there's a detour, you want to stop for coffee somewhere, or you spontaneously decide to cycle a bit further. In Komoot, you can easily adjust your route, even while cycling.
You can add an extra stopover or move the end point. Komoot will then automatically calculate a new route for you. This is useful if, for example, you discover something new or if the weather changes. You can also reverse your route in the app, riding the exact same route back to your starting point. Have you already planned a route but want to change direction and cycle the other way? You can easily use Komoot
reverse route by clicking on the three dots in the created route
and select 'reverse direction'.
Navigating with your smartphone or bicycle computer
Once you've saved a route, you can open it in the Komoot app. There, you can also make the route available offline, so you don't need internet access while on the go. This is especially useful abroad or in areas with poor coverage.
Once underway, start your route and receive clear directions. Komoot provides visual navigation and, if you choose to do so, voice instructions as well. Make sure your phone is securely mounted on your handlebars, for example, with a sturdy phone mount , available at CUBE Stores. This way, you can easily and safely keep track of your route.
Prefer to navigate via your bike computer ? Then you can connect Komoot, so your routes are automatically synced and available directly on your device. Trouble syncing? You can also download the route as a GPX file. You can often upload this to your navigation system (or its app).
Tips for better cycling routes
The more you use Komoot, the easier it becomes. However, there are a few tips to help you get the most out of the route planner.
- Pay attention to the elevation profile of your route. If you are using an e-bike orMountain bike If you're cycling, you'll want to know how much climbing you can expect. This way, you'll have a better idea of how far you can cycle on a full battery, for example.
- Choose the right sport type. This way, Komoot knows which roads or trails suit your style.
- Use Komoot Highlights in the region where you'll be cycling. They'll help you discover great spots you might otherwise miss. Many cyclists also share photos and tips, giving you a good idea of what to expect along the way.
- Do you use Komoot regularly? Then it's smart to save offline maps of your favorite region. This way, you can continue navigating even without internet.
Komoot makes planning cycling routes fun, clear, and easy—perfect for cyclists who love to explore and decide for themselves where they'll go. Give it a try and discover how many beautiful cycling routes there are, both close to home and further afield.
Still running into problems? The Komoot Help page provides clear explanations of all the features, so you can always hit the road worry-free. Have fun planning your cycling route!