XiaoHongShus Ultimate Guide to Road Biking Apps and Gear | China AI Search Blog

Road biking has surged in popularity, captivating enthusiasts worldwide with its blend of fitness, adventure, and breathtaking scenery. But whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just clipping in, enhancing your ride often starts with the right digital tools and innovative gear. We dove deep into XiaoHongShu, China's vibrant lifestyle platform, to uncover what the community is loving and recommending in the world of road cycling apps and accessories.

From tracking your performance to discovering new routes and even training indoors, the XiaoHongShu community has curated a comprehensive list that promises to elevate every aspect of your cycling journey.

The Digital Ride: Top Cycling Apps for Every Cyclist

XiaoHongShu users highlight a diverse array of apps, catering to everything from real-world adventures to immersive virtual training.

For Outdoor Riding & Social Interaction

1. 际刻骑行 (Jike Cycling): The Rising Local Star

If you're looking for a clean, user-friendly experience, Jike Cycling is quickly becoming a favorite, especially within China. Users rave about its ad-free ("green") interface and impressive collection of tens of thousands of free roadbooks (pre-planned routes). This is a game-changer for new riders who aren't sure where to start.

Need Route Ideas? Try These Methods!

Jike Cycling shines with its versatile route planning, allowing you to create roadbooks from your own tracks, add waypoints using Gaode Navigation integration (a popular Chinese mapping service), or simply select points on a map. It offers real-time navigation with voice guidance (for iOS users), supports importing/exporting FIT/GPX files for compatibility with various bike computers, and even syncs data from global platforms like Apple Health, Huawei Sports Health, Strava, and Garmin. Its localized "Segment Function" offers real-time rankings and popular local segments, similar to Strava but free for Chinese users. The app also features AI cycling analysis and is set for a UI overhaul and a new challenge system. It's truly an all-in-one solution for beginners and those seeking a consolidated, local platform.

Cycling Apps for Beginners: Quick Review & Summary

2. Strava: The Global Powerhouse

Often mentioned as the benchmark, Strava boasts a vast global community and professional-grade data analysis. Its membership offers precise route planning with recommendations based on global user data, custom route drawing, and offline map downloads. For serious athletes, its deep data analysis acts like a "personal coach," dissecting heart rate, cadence, and offering professional improvement suggestions. The social features are robust, allowing users to join clubs, create challenges, and observe expert data. Notably, a new, official Chinese version is praised for direct desktop access without the past hassles of OurPlay or VPNs, though membership costs are still a common point of discussion.

Strava Membership: Essential for Athlete Data Tracking

3. 公路帝 (GongLuDi / Road Emperor): Community-Focused Growth

Another popular choice for social cycling, GongLuDi emphasizes community through its "Circles" feature, akin to a cycling WeChat Moments. It provides practical tips for skill progression, automatic recording of key metrics, and recommended routes. Its "novice progression" group ("小白进阶") makes it ideal for those learning techniques and seeking group rides. Look out for upcoming features like real-time altitude warnings and custom virtual races.

Road Emperor Cycling App: Highly Recommended & Fun

4. 行者 (Xingzhe): The Established Domestic Player

Xingzhe has a long history in China with a large user base. It offers various map types, track merging, and team location tracking. However, some users note occasional inaccurate tracking or frequent crashes, with its 3D track feature sometimes considered "chicken ribs" (an idiom meaning unnecessary or decorative).

5. Other General Sports Apps with Cycling Features

Several broader fitness apps also cater to cyclists:

Keep: Simple interface, great for beginners, tracks trajectory, speed, climbs, and calories, offering badges for achievements.
咕咚 (Gudong): Known for detailed data analysis, beautiful 3D trajectories saved as videos, and a very active community across various sports.
骑记 (Qiji): A simple, focused app for basic trajectory recording with sufficient detail.
悦动圈 (Yuedongquan): For real-time tracking of routes, mileage, and speed, aiding in route planning and training goals.
黑鸟单车 (Blackbird Cycling): Community-driven, focusing on local events, races, rankings, and teams, with active members.
两步路 (Two Steps Road): Offers very detailed data analysis (graphics/numbers), track overlay, and supports external devices like outdoor watches, with a highly active community.
捷安特骑行 (Giant Cycling): A brand-specific app that provides clear ride records and data, social sharing, and tracks personal, friend, and official rides.

Discover This Highly Practical Cycling App

For Virtual Cycling & Indoor Training (Winter Training)

When outdoor conditions aren't ideal, virtual cycling platforms provide an immersive alternative for training and fun.

1. Zwift: The Global Immersive Experience

Zwift is the world leader in virtual cycling, offering rich virtual maps, dynamic graphics, multiplayer races, and extensive training plans. It's highly immersive and suitable for all levels, often paired with indoor trainers like 智骑ThinkRider (Zhiqi ThinkRider X2).

Zwift Software: Ride with Global Cyclists (Part 2)

2. MyWhoosh: The Free Contender

This app stands out for being completely free! MyWhoosh provides rich training plans and various map difficulties, meeting about 80% of training and racing needs, though some users note a slight gap in refinement compared to Zwift.

Immersive Mywhoosh Virtual Cycling Experience

3. Rouvy: Realistic AR Riding

Rouvy focuses on recreating real-world routes using augmented reality (AR) technology, offering an experience very close to outdoor cycling with global classic terrains and professional training functions.

6 Cycling Apps Reviewed for All Seasons

4. Domestic & Niche Virtual Options

顽鹿竞技 (Wandelu Jingji / Velocore): A domestic app focused on social and competitive virtual cycling with a simple interface.
TPVirtual: Prioritizes functionality and data accuracy for serious training.
骑鬥 (Qidou): A casual, game-like option with a cartoon interface, focusing on fun rather than professional training.

Beyond the Screen: Essential Cycling Gear & Accessories

The community also shares insights into hardware that seamlessly integrates with the digital cycling experience.

1. Flitedeck: The Futuristic Smart Cockpit

Recipient of the Red Dot Design Award, the Flitedeck is a fully integrated display built into the handlebar stem. This innovative product aims to replace separate bike computers, lights, and bells with an HD color touchscreen, StVZO-compliant front light, and anti-theft features. It connects to various sensors, third-party apps, and smartphones, with data export capabilities. This high-end product is planned for release in Q2 2026, with orders starting in February 2025.

New Road Cycling Gear

2025 International Red Dot Award Design

2. Action Cameras & Mounts: Capture Every Moment

To document your rides, popular choices include 大疆Action4 (DJI Action 4) and insta360 (Insta360 X5, Ace Pro 2). The community offers creative tips for mounting, suggesting accessories like 弹力小Q (Elastic Q) for versatile positioning, handlebar clamps, chest straps, helmet clamps, and rear seat extension poles for "drone-like" perspectives. A special wrench is recommended for secure tightening on bumpy roads.

3. Protective Gear & Indoor Trainers

西骑者 (Xiqizhe) is mentioned for cycling helmets and protective gear, emphasizing safety. Indoor trainers, such as the 智骑ThinkRider (Zhiqi ThinkRider X2), are frequently referenced as companions for virtual cycling apps like Zwift and MyWhoosh.

Pedal Smarter: Tips & Insights from the Community

The XiaoHongShu community provides a wealth of practical advice to enhance your cycling journey.

Route Planning & Navigation: Leverage apps like Jike Cycling for thousands of pre-existing roadbooks or create your own. Download GPX files for seamless navigation with your bike computer. For off-grid safety, Strava (membership) offers offline maps and a "one-click return" feature.
Data Analysis & Training: Go beyond basic metrics. Apps like Strava and Jike Cycling offer deep data analysis (heart rate, cadence, power, AI analysis of posture) to help you train scientifically. Set goals, and use indoor training platforms for "winter training" (冬训) to maintain fitness.
Improve Cycling Ability: Focus on muscle relaxation for recovery, glute activation exercises, cycling-specific strength and core training, and improving flexibility for better posture. For beginners, mastering proper gear shifting techniques is crucial.
Photography & Videography: Experiment with diverse camera angles (handlebar, chest, helmet, rear seat post, lower handlebar, rear seat stay, under seat post, front fork) to capture engaging footage. Utilize flip screens for easy selfie framing. Add data overlays to your videos using tools that export FIT files. For social media, generate cool "data stickers" of your ride stats using apps like Jike Cycling or Outbase (and its WeChat mini-program), then customize them with photo editing apps like 美图秀秀 (Meitu Xiuxiu) or 醒图 (Xingtu). A fun creative tip shared is to edit your cycling photos with music album covers for a unique aesthetic.
Community & Social Interaction: Find "sporting buddies," join clubs or "Circles" on platforms like Strava, GongLuDi, and Blackbird Cycling for motivation, route sharing, and challenges.

Tech Tools & Cultural Nuances

Beyond cycling-specific apps, the community also leverages broader tech tools. LMArena.ai is used for generating AI images, specifically "AI figurines" in a hand-drawn style. Photo editing apps like 美图秀秀 (Meitu Xiuxiu) and 醒图 (Xingtu) are popular for customizing social media content. The mention of OurPlay highlights its past role in helping Chinese users access global apps like Strava before its official localized version was available. The WeChat Mini Program for Outbase shows how popular platforms are integrated into daily digital life in China.

Noteworthy Mentions & Practicalities

Popular bike brands among the community include 捷安特 (Giant), 喜德盛 (Xidesheng), and 闪电公路车 (Specialized Road Bike). Specific scenic routes and climbing spots mentioned include 滨江彩虹道 (Bingjiang Rainbow Path) (likely Shanghai), 龙井 (Longjing) (Hangzhou), 妙峰山 (Miaofengshan) (Beijing), and 戒台寺 (Jietai Temple) (Beijing), often associated with local badge challenges.

For those mindful of costs, MyWhoosh and 际刻骑行 (Jike Cycling) are praised for their free offerings (e.g., free roadbooks, segment functions), while Strava membership is noted for its premium pricing. Most apps are available on iOS and Android, with Strava's new Chinese version also supporting 鸿蒙 (HarmonyOS).

Conclusion

The XiaoHongShu community provides a rich tapestry of insights for road cycling enthusiasts. From sophisticated apps that meticulously track your performance and guide your routes, to innovative gear that integrates seamlessly into your ride, and creative tips for sharing your adventures, there's a solution for every need. By leveraging these community-tested tools and wisdom, you can truly unlock a more informed, engaging, and enjoyable road biking experience. Happy riding!

Image Gallery

All images from the trending posts that inspired this article:

6 Cycling Apps Reviewed for All Seasons

冬天也有好骑心｜6款骑行app你用过几款

Strava Membership: Essential for Athlete Data Tracking

Strava 会员，运动党必备的运动数据神器！

Need Route Ideas? Try These Methods!

还不知道骑什么路线吗❓试试这几个方法！

Cycling Apps for Beginners: Quick Review & Summary

骑行小白各骑行APP初体验（省流总结版）

Discover This Highly Practical Cycling App

骑友快看过来👀超实用的宝藏骑行APP🔥

The Ultimate Cycling App: You'll Want to Ride More

骑行 app 界的 “卷王”！让我不骑都难受！

Zwift Software: Ride with Global Cyclists (Part 2)

zwift软件和全球骑友一起骑车（下集）

Road Emperor Cycling App: Highly Recommended & Fun

不愧是搭子种草骑行APP❗️公路帝太好玩了

Immersive Mywhoosh Virtual Cycling Experience

沉浸式体验Mywhoosh虚拟骑行

For iOS Cycling Users

ios骑行用户看过来！

Strava's Latest Chinese Version Now Available

运动达人们冲！Strava最新中文版来袭

New Road Cycling Gear

公路车骑行新装备

2025 International Red Dot Award Design

2025国际红点奖设计

Is This Cycling App Any Good?

这个骑行app好用吗？

New Mountain Bike Routes: 70+ Added in 2 Weeks

上线2周，70+条路线，国内山地车路线终于有人

Amflow PL: Conquer Steep Climbs with Ease

Amflow PL ：陡坡而已，何须费力

Get Strava-Style Ride Summary Screen in 3 Easy Steps

只需3步！拥有Strava同款骑行结算画面

Interesting Strava Feature with Full Guide

骑行软件STRAVA这个功能有点意思，附上攻略！

Discounted Strava Membership: Essential App for Athletes

超省订阅Strava会员：运动爱好者的宝藏APP

How to Film Road Cycling: Different Perspectives in 10 Seconds

10s教会你，公路车不同骑行视角怎么拍

Create Your Own Cyclist Figurine in 1 Minute

1分钟教会你制作骑行佬自己的手办

MyWhoosh: A New Alternative for Cyclists

顽鹿之后的新选择-MyWhoosh

Strava Segments Now Free in China!

报告骑友！Strava赛段功能国内免费上线了！

6 Action Camera Angles for Cycling in 30 Seconds

30秒教你运动相机骑行的6种机位！

Improve Cycling Skills: Learn from This Amazing App

🚴菜腿逆袭｜在宝藏骑行APP里学技巧

Create Activity Track Stickers in 30 Seconds (No Strava Needed)

不用Strava 30秒搞定运动轨迹贴纸

Simple & Aesthetic Action Camera Mount for Road Bikes

公路车运动相机这么装既美观又简单🤩

Add Track Watermarks in 2 Steps (No Strava Needed)

不用strava也可以很好玩，两步搞定轨迹水印

One App for All Your Cycling Data

一个APP搞定你所有骑行数据

Winter Training: Beyond the Trainer, Experience a Virtual Tour

冬训除了骑台子还可以来个环法

Road Emperor: Find Your Cycling Community

骑行党集合！公路帝让我找到组织了

Road Bike Filming: Comprehensive Camera Angle Guide

公路车骑行拍摄——最全机位分享

For iOS Cycling Users

ios骑行用户看过来！

Cyclists Can Have Their Own Figurines

单车佬也有自己的手办

Filming Solo Rides: 4 Popular Camera Angles

一个人骑行怎么拍｜分享4个常用机位角度

Improve Your Cycling: Activation, Strength & Flexibility

🚴‍♂️如何提高骑行能力？激活/力量/柔韧👈

Road Bike Shifting Guide

公路车变速指南

Tutorial: Add Speed Data to Cycling Videos

骑行视频如何添加速度信息教程。

Get Great Cycling Photos in 2 Easy Steps

骑车帅照只需两步，首先这样，然后这样

Plan New Cycling Routes in 2 Steps (Beginner Friendly)

陌生骑行路线第一次规划！新手只要2 步！

This article is based on trending content from xiaohongshu. View the original search results and detailed analysis to explore the individual posts and community insights that inspired this piece.