Best Cycling Apps: Track Rides & Indoor Training in 2024
The cycling app market is experiencing significant growth, driven by a desire among cyclists to track performance, plan routes, and connect with a wider community. Even as Strava remains a dominant force, a range of applications now cater to diverse needs, from casual riders to competitive athletes.
Strava, founded in 2009, has become ubiquitous among cyclists and runners, boasting over 120 million users worldwide as of March 2026, according to recent reports. The app’s core functionality centers on GPS tracking of activities, providing data on speed, distance, elevation, and heart rate. However, its enduring popularity stems from its social features, including “Segments” – virtual stretches of road where riders compete for the fastest times – and a social feed for sharing rides and offering encouragement. The app’s free version provides substantial functionality, while a premium subscription, priced at approximately $79.99 annually, unlocks additional analytical tools and features.
Beyond tracking, cyclists are increasingly utilizing apps for route planning. Komoot distinguishes itself by allowing users to build rides based on terrain type and fitness level, offering turn-by-turn navigation particularly useful in unfamiliar areas. Ride with GPS caters to long-distance and touring cyclists, providing detailed elevation profiles and offline route access. The interface is designed for data review, allowing riders to analyze performance without being overwhelmed by information.
Indoor training has also seen a surge in app development. Zwift has emerged as a leader in this space, creating immersive virtual worlds where cyclists can ride with others, participate in races, and follow structured workouts. The visual environment is designed to combat the monotony of indoor training, enhancing motivation. Cyclists are increasingly opting for refurbished devices, such as an iPhone 16, to power these graphically demanding applications, balancing performance with cost. Back Market is one marketplace specializing in verified refurbished electronics.
TrainerRoad offers a contrasting approach, prioritizing performance gains over visual immersion. Its AI-powered training plans adapt to a rider’s actual performance, ensuring workouts remain challenging and effective as fitness improves. Wahoo SYSTM provides another option, synchronizing workouts with video content, including real race footage, to create a varied and engaging training experience.
The proliferation of cycling apps reflects a broader trend in fitness technology, with developers leveraging smartphones and tracking devices to create innovative ways to exercise. As of March 2026, Cycling Weekly reports a wide range of apps are available, integrating with bike computers and smartwatches, offering solutions for various cycling needs. The market continues to evolve, with new features and applications emerging regularly.