Gravel riding is a growing sport that is gaining popularity worldwide. Whether you are a seasoned rider or just starting out, having a reliable app to track your rides and monitor your progress is crucial. In this article, we will compare two of the most popular apps for gravel riding – Strava and MapMyRide – to help you decide which one is the best for your needs.
Strava
Strava is one of the most popular apps for tracking and analyzing your gravel rides. It is known for its social aspect, allowing you to connect with other riders and compete against them. Strava has a free and a paid version, with the paid version offering more features.
One of the main benefits of Strava is its segment tracking feature. Segments are sections of roads or trails where riders can compete against each other for the fastest time. Strava automatically records your times on these segments and compares them to other riders in your area or around the world.
Another feature of Strava is its training plans. These plans are customized to your fitness level and goals, and provide you with workouts and exercises to help you improve your performance. Strava also offers a heat map that shows you the most popular routes in your area, as well as an explore feature that helps you find new routes to ride that can enhance your tracking and analysis capabilities.
MapMyRide
MapMyRide is another popular app for tracking your gravel rides. It is known for its user-friendly interface and detailed tracking features. Like Strava, MapMyRide has a free and a paid version, with the paid version offering more features.
One of the main benefits of MapMyRide is its route planning feature. You can plan your route ahead of time, and MapMyRide will provide you with turn-by-turn directions and a map of the route. MapMyRide also offers personalized coaching and training plans based on your fitness level and goals.
Another feature of MapMyRide is its gear tracker. This allows you to keep track of your bike maintenance, including when you need to replace parts or perform maintenance tasks. MapMyRide also offers a nutrition tracker, helping you keep track of your food intake and ensuring you are getting the proper nutrients for your rides.
Features
Both Strava and MapMyRide offer a range of features to help you track and analyze your cycling performance. Strava’s primary focus is on social networking, with features like leaderboards, challenges, and the ability to follow other riders. The app also has a segment feature, which allows you to compete against other riders on specific sections of a route. MapMyRide, on the other hand, has a greater focus on training and fitness. The app includes features like personalized coaching plans, training logs, and workout tracking. MapMyRide also has a nutrition tracking feature, which can be helpful for cyclists looking to optimize their diet for performance.
Usability
In terms of usability, both apps are relatively easy to navigate and use. Strava has a clean and modern interface, with easy-to-use navigation buttons and clear displays for ride data. The app also has a strong social networking aspect, with the ability to connect with other riders and share your rides on social media. MapMyRide, on the other hand, has a more cluttered interface, with more features and options to navigate. However, the app is still relatively easy to use, with clear displays for ride data and training metrics.
Compatibility
Both Strava and MapMyRide are compatible with a range of devices and platforms. Strava is available on iOS and Android, as well as on desktop and smartwatches. The app also integrates with a range of GPS devices and fitness trackers, making it easy to sync your data across multiple platforms. MapMyRide is also available on iOS and Android, as well as on desktop and smartwatches. The app integrates with a range of GPS devices and fitness trackers, but it may not be as compatible with as many devices as Strava.
Pricing
Both Strava and MapMyRide offer free and premium versions of their apps. Strava’s premium version, called Strava Summit, includes features like training plans, advanced analytics, and more detailed ride analysis. The cost for Strava Summit varies depending on the plan you choose, ranging from $5.00 to $59.99 per month. MapMyRide’s premium version, called MapMyRide MVP, includes features like advanced training plans, personalized coaching, and nutrition tracking. The cost for MapMyRide MVP is $5.99 per month or $29.99 per year.
Comparison
Both Strava and MapMyRide have their benefits for gravel riding. Strava is known for its segment tracking and social aspect, while MapMyRide is known for its route planning and gear tracking features. However, there are a few key differences between the two apps that may help you decide which one is right for you.
One difference is in the pricing. While both apps have a free version, the paid version of Strava is more expensive than the paid version of MapMyRide. Additionally, some users have complained that Strava’s customer service is not as responsive as MapMyRide’s.
Another difference is in the tracking features. Strava is known for its segment tracking, which is great for competitive riders. However, MapMyRide offers more detailed tracking of your ride data, including heart rate, cadence, and power output.
Lastly, the social aspect of Strava may be a turn-off for some riders who prefer a more solitary experience. While MapMyRide does offer social features, they are not as prominent as they are on Strava.
Conclusion:
In the end, the choice between Strava and MapMyRide ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the individual rider. Both apps offer a range of features and tools that can enhance your gravel riding experience, from tracking your rides and performance to exploring new routes and sharing your progress with others.
If you’re looking for a social platform with a large community of riders and a competitive edge, Strava might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more comprehensive training tool with a wider range of features, MapMyRide might be the way to go.
Ultimately, the most important thing is to find an app that you feel comfortable with and that helps you achieve your goals as a gravel rider. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started, both Strava and MapMyRide offer valuable resources and support to help you get the most out of your rides and enjoy all the benefits that gravel riding has to offer.
