I’ve hinted at this one already and it’s definitely one of the features I’ve been busting to write about. We know that we’re not the first motorcycle site to offer a way for bikers to share their favorite routes to ride, but we do think we’ve done it right!

If you’ve read any of our recent posts, you’ll hopefully have a good sense of our approach to user experience and rest assured, we’ve applied the same here. There’s no question that google maps remains one of the most popular web-based mapping services and with a powerful API for developers to tap into, it was an easy decision for us to make when we selected them to power our routes feature.

The Basics: When creating a new route, you can map out every turn yourself by entering individual points or dragging the route on the map, or you can simply enter a start and end point and let google figure out the best (though maybe not the most fun) way to get you from point A to point B. You can add media (maybe some photos of the twisty parts) and write a description of your route.

Sharing / Discovery: We like to think that having a mapping feature such as this tightly integrated with a social network is perfect for a motorcycle community. After-all, when not using eatsleepride you are hopefully out exploring exciting new places to ride and are eager to share those places with the rest of us when you log back in When a new route is created it will show up in the main feed for others to see. Just like every other piece of content, a route can be commented on and reused in any number of ways, for instance as I mentioned in the last post about adding a route to an event for a group ride. If we know enough about you, we will be able to suggest new routes to you that others have created that are in your area or you can simply browse through all of the routes yourself.

Points Of Interest: In addition to the routes on the map there is also a POI layer that can be turned on and off. Have a favourite restaurant or scenic rest stop along your route, add it. Know the best mechanics and bike shops in your area, add them. Know where the Police like to hide in order to make our roads “safer” by serving you with a ticket for riding a little too fast, add those too.

Routes is a relatively simple, yet powerful feature. It’s one of our “must haves” that we just wouldn’t launch without. It’s a fantastic way to find new places to ride in your area or if you’re planning a trip you’ll be able to find out from locals the best spots to go.

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