Route Planning 101 - Ride with GPS

Introduction

• Use Ride with GPS Route Planner for planning trips by bike, on foot, or by vehicle.
• Offers route visualization, climbing details, and other features.
• Available for download on iOS and Android.

Getting Started

• Access Route Planner via the website's top menu.

Main Features

Jump to a Location

• Click on the map or enter an address to set a start point.
• Use the "HOME" button if set in profile settings.

Add to Route

• Use the "Add to Route" button to plot your route.
• Choose "Routing Mode" for the desired path.
• Generates a cuesheet for navigation.

Routing Modes

• Cycling: Prioritizes safety and multi-use paths.
• Walking: Prioritizes safety, ignores some traffic laws.
• Driving: Prioritizes shortest distance.
• Draw Lines: For custom paths, does not create cues.

Preferred Surface Type (Cycling Mode)

• Switch between "Paved", "Unpaved", or "Any Surface" options.

Control Points

• "Pin" route lines with control points for precision.
• Move, add, or remove control points as needed.

Cuesheet

• Provides turn-by-turn navigation.
• Automatically updates with route changes.
• Check "Advanced Route Planning" for more info on cuesheets.

Points of Interest (POI)

• Add POIs for scenery or stops (Premium feature).

Import Existing Routes

• Drag & drop GPX, FIT, TCX, KML, KMZ files into Route Planner.
• Premium users can import multiple routes.

Map View Options

Change Map Type

• Access various map types for detailed planning options.

Route Planner Settings

• Switch between imperial or metric units.
• Enable features like auto-center, scrollwheel zoom, and distance markers.

Heatmaps

• Premium users can access global and personal heatmaps.

Street View

• Use pegman icon for Google Street View images.

Right-click Utility

• Access tools like undo actions and add control points via right-click.

Route Tools

• Modify entire route or sections with available tools.

Special Tools

• Out and Back: Plan return trip automatically.
• Reverse Route: Flip route direction.
• Change Color: Differentiate route sections visually.

Saving and Viewing Routes

Save Your Route

• Save frequently to avoid losing progress.
• Add titles, descriptions, and privacy settings.

View Route

• Access saved routes from the Route Library.

Tips for Efficient Route Planning

• Avoid clicking inside intersections to ensure accurate cues.
• Zoom in for detailed route planning.
• Save work often to prevent loss.