Motorcycle Navigation Application: Google Maps

Google Maps! Nope, not motorcycle specific, but it is still a go to map application for many riders out there!

Most smart phone users have had many experiences with Google Maps. It was one of the first really practical applications that made sense with daily use mapping and navigating. And because of the Google Maps integration with all of the other Google tools, the exposure to this application came whether we were looking for it or not.

Now, we all have our opinions about mapping applications, and Google is no different. Many of us have our stories of getting lost using Google Maps, being led to dead-end or private roads, or going on an extra loop that was completely unnecessary. But, in the big picture Google Maps has some interesting and practical qualities that can make it easy for route planning and navigating on the go. Live traffic updates, speed camera notifications, locating local businesses (gas stations, restaurants, hotels etc.) are supported by the “long reach” of the Google empire, and these can be really helpful.

Motorcycle Navigation Application: Google Maps

On a recent road trip we learned of a couple of other Google Maps features that we didn’t know about. For example, when getting directions and choosing a route, there are options to avoid motorways, tolls, and ferries (avoiding motorways being the key option we were looking for). There is also an option to “click and drag” the route to add additional driving loops in certain directions to avoid the most direct route. And it’s possible to add multiple destinations along a route to generate stops along the way. Supposedly, as I have read in the Google support material, it is possible to choose “motorcycle” as a mode of transportation, but I have yet to find this option (I assume this is a user issue, and this blog will be updated when I find the option and see how it changes the application operations).

So far there does not seem to be an option to choose smaller roads, gravel roads, curvy roads, or other fun options for motorcycle navigation. The focus is still on the fastest or most efficient route to your destination – which makes sense considering the larger population that is accessing Google Maps on a daily basis. Google Maps is a really good “all round” navigation alternative that is under constant development and progress (with massive resources at its disposal), so it remains a good option for some of the motorcycle navigation requirements.

When you are utilizing the SilverFox controller with Google Maps, make sure that you are in the Function 1 Keyset to get the zoom in and out working properly!

See you on the roads!