Routes by google maps?

[wtt9808]

Hello,
I'm new to the forum, so I apologize if this question has been answered.  I am planning on riding from Arkansas to Wisconsin this summer to raise money for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.  I've plotted a path using several of the Adventure Cycling routes (mostly Route 66 and Great Rivers), but it is about 170 miles longer than the route Google Maps gives when the bicycle mode is enacted.  Does anyone have any advice or experience that might help me decide which to choose?  Thanks in advance for your ideas.

[John Nettles]

If this is your first major tour, go with the ACA maps.  Google is best for short distances, i.e. within a city.  ACA has done research by and for touring cyclists.  The maps are specific for touring cyclists.  Traffic volume, services (camping, food, etc.) are all factored in to developing ACA maps versus Google just plots a course.

Hope this helps, John

[BikeliciousBabe]

Google Maps directions can put you on dirt roads. I have even had it plot routes on roads that no longer exist. Being able to see the roads on Street View is helpful, but not always possible. In short, take its routing with a couple of grains of salt and investigate as much as possible.

And 170 miles is what? Maybe 3 additional days? As John notes, going off the ACA maps will require more research re: services.

[Ty0604]

They’re terrible for the most part. They’ve put me on dirt roads, controlled access highways, and roads with bridges out causing me to turn around and lose a day.

The new ACA app (BicycleRouteNetwork) launched last month and is basically Google maps with all the information cyclist need. They’re not free. Route 66 was $30 for the set. Well worth it though IMO.

Take a look at the photos below.