Bicycle Network: Where to Ride

Google bikes maps now in Oz

12 July 2012. Google has introduced its bike route mapping tools into Australia enabling riders to get directions for a trip through unfamiliar territory.

And the recmmended routes will mostly avoid hills, according to Google.

Preliminary testing of the system indicates it is useful, but not always precise. Sometimes it uses the route an experienced rider would choose, or lists it as an alternative.

But as the system is still in beta, the route choices are occasionally puzzling.

Google says its routes were made possible in part thanks to the support of councils around the country who provided us with information on bicycle-friendly streets and areas.

"If you want to bike to work or your local shops, or simply want to spend more time outdoors, cycling directions will help you find the best way to get where you want to go," the company says.

Google says the directions tell you the most convenient and efficient route that makes use of dedicated bike lanes and avoids hills whenever practical.

"If you decide to stop off at your favorite coffee shop, you can either add it as an extra destination in the menu on the right or simply drag the route. The directions will continue to take cycle lanes into consideration."

On the Google Maps website, a click of the get directions button brings up the travel mode panel, now with a bike logo. Click that logo and get started.

On the maps dark green indicates a dedicated bike path, light green indicates a dedicated bike lane along a road, and dashed green indicates roads that are designated as preferred for cycling, but without dedicated lanes.

Google says it will continue to add new cycling lanes over time and since the cycling directions system is still in beta, we riders to send feedback and route information for inclusion.