How to Make Google Maps Bike Friendly

Google Maps is one of the best navigation apps in the world, if not the best. Of course there are other contenders out there like Waze ready to take the cake at any second, but let’s face it, Google Maps is the most versatile one. You can use Google Maps for driving, sight-seeing, getting on public transportation and so on. But there is one thing that Google Maps is not that greatly optimized for, and that is biking. People out there who have a bike as their preferred means of transport already know this, but let’s say it once more louder for everyone to hear: Google Maps is not bike friendly!

But it could be. There are ways in which Google could make Google Maps a good app for navigating while on a bike. Let’s explore some of the possibilities.

Safe and Quiet Route Instead of Fast

It is a well known fact that drivers want the fastest route to wherever they’re going. They want to get there on time and avoid traffic jams as much as possible. But a car friendly route is not necessarily a bike friendly one. If you ride a bike, you know that the most appreciated route is the one that is safe and quiet. Riding a bike exposes you more in traffic, so it’s best to avoid that.

Bike Parking

Google Maps hasn’t had its parking feature for long, but it’s making progress. However, it leaves bikes out of the equation. So maybe a bike parking feature would be much appreciated and would make Google Maps more bike friendly.

These are just a few things to get Google Maps started. If these will be implemented, we’re sure more will come in the future. This is just a good way to start!