Heatmaps are essentially a repository of where other riders have ridden. They can show you preferred routes in a new place you're visiting or help you connect your favorite roads in a new way. Heatmaps compile all the rides that are uploaded to their online platforms into a visual map that color codes routes based on popularity making it instantly visible where the popular roads or trails are. In this video, I walk through how to use Strava and RidewithGPS heatmaps.
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Test Editor Dan Chabanov got his start in cycling as a New York City bike messenger but quickly found his way into road and cyclocross racing, competing in professional cyclocross races from 2009 to 2019 and winning a Master’s National Championship title in 2018. Prior to joining Bicycling in 2021, Dan worked as part of the race organization for the Red Hook Crit, as a coach with EnduranceWERX, as well as a freelance writer and photographer.
