"There's an app for everything." If this advertising slogan is true, it shouldn't be a problem to go on tour with your smartphone. After all, 80 per cent of Germans own a smartphone, and almost all of the target group of cyclists. But it's not quite that simple. Simply equipping your mobile phone with a suitable outdoor app is not enough for a successful cycling trip.
Bike mount for the smartphone
In order to follow the route, the display must also be easy to read in the cyclist's field of vision. It is also important to prevent the expensive phone from coming loose and falling onto the cycle path. We have tested different models: Custom-fit cases with handlebar mounts and universal mounts.
Power supply
On extended tours, the power supply deserves special attention. When the display with active backlight is switched on, the power consumption of a smartphone increases rapidly compared to a GPS device. An empty battery after two to three hours is no exception. What could be more obvious than recharging with a power bank or from the large e-bike battery during the ride? But be careful: the constant jiggling is not good for the small USB connectors. These plugs are not designed for this, and damage can occur in the long term. Wireless Qi charging technology offers a practical alternative for modern phones. We show two electricity suppliers without a cable connection.
Ready-made tour or own planning?
Once the technical preparations are complete, the question remains: which tour should I take? Apps and tour portals promise the right tour for every taste. We took a closer look at four apps. The selection and quality of the route suggestions were tested in practice. During navigation, the convenience of route guidance played a major role, as did the range of functions on remote routes without mobile internet reception. One thing remains to be said: There is no one app for everything. But that is the advantage of the smartphone. Each app plays to its strengths and several apps can be used side by side without any problems.
In the end, everyone has to decide for themselves whether they want to use the sinfully expensive smartphone for outdoor use on the handlebars.
Or would you prefer the GPS device?
In an age of waterproof smartphones and a wealth of sophisticated apps, is there still anything in favour of an expensive, stand-alone GPS device?
Per smartphone
The biggest purchase item has already been taken care of - the smartphone itself. Operation is more intuitive, as the app developers are guided by the principles of mobile phone operation. The display is very large and easy to read in the shade. The biggest strength is the huge selection of apps. Everyone will find their favourite. Several special apps can also be used alternately. One to find tours, one for route guidance and one as a tour or training diary.
Per GPS device
The GPS device with navigation is significantly more robust. All internal components are also designed for outdoor use. You don't have to worry about the battery life. In most cases, even two days of cycling are possible. The display is much easier to read in the blazing sun, even if it is smaller. The GPS device always works - even without internet in a dead zone. Everything is included in the purchase price: Mount, software without ongoing subscription costs and maps including free updates.
