Apple Maps Cycling
Apple Maps Cycling now supports routes in Taiwan and Hong Kong.
On August 7, 2025, Apple Maps Cycling directions officially expanded to Taiwan and Hong Kong, giving cyclists in these regions access to smart, bike-friendly navigation. With this update, Apple continues to grow its cycling support across East Asia, helping more users find safer, smoother, and more efficient cycling routes. Whether you’re commuting through the city or exploring scenic paths, Apple Maps now makes biking in Taiwan and Hong Kong easier than ever.
Discover new bike paths with Apple Maps Cycling on your iPhone
Plan your daily commute easily using Apple Maps Cycling directions.
📝 A Quick History of Cycling Directions in Apple Maps
Apple Maps Cycling directions were first introduced in iOS 14, back in 2020, with the goal of making navigation easier for cyclists. This feature included bike-specific turn-by-turn navigation, elevation awareness, support for dedicated bike lanes, and smart options to avoid steep hills or busy roads—making it ideal for both casual riders and daily commuters.
Initially, Apple rolled out this cycling support in select regions like North America, Europe, Oceania, and parts of Southeast Asia. In East Asia, the feature was limited to mainland China and Japan for several years. According to sources like MacRumors the availability gradually expanded with each iOS update. Even Wikipedia’s page on Apple Maps confirms this phased rollout strategy, showing how Apple steadily brought its cycling navigation to more countries over time
With Apple Maps Cycling, you can avoid hills and busy roads.
📝 This Expansion: Taiwan & Hong Kong
With the latest update rolled out on August 7, 2025, Apple Maps Cycling directions have officially launched in Taiwan and Hong Kong, making them the newest additions to Apple’s growing list of cycling-supported regions. According to MacRumors, this marks a major step in expanding Apple Maps’ bike navigation features across East Asia.
Although Apple hasn’t released a detailed list of supported routes or exact coverage areas yet, it’s expected that the initial rollout focuses on major metropolitan areas and popular cycling paths. Like previous Apple Maps feature expansions, this rollout will likely follow a phased approach, gradually reaching more regions and rural areas over time.
This update is a positive shift for urban cyclists, offering better navigation tools, route customization, and improved biking experiences in two of Asia’s most densely populated regions.
The latest Apple Maps Cycling update is a game-changer for urban riders.
📝 Benefits for Cyclists
The introduction of Apple Maps Cycling directions in Taiwan and Hong Kong brings a host of benefits for both local commuters and visiting cyclists. Riders can now enjoy structured and reliable navigation, designed specifically for two-wheel travel—whether they’re biking to work or exploring the city at their own pace.
One of the most useful features is the safer routing system, which highlights dedicated bike lanes, suggests less congested roads, and even includes options to avoid steep hills or busy intersections. This gives cyclists more control over their route and helps reduce the risk of accidents or difficult terrain.
In addition, this update promotes eco-friendly transportation, supporting Apple’s broader push toward sustainability. It also greatly enhances the experience for tourists, offering a smart, scenic, and sustainable way to explore urban areas like Taipei or central Hong Kong without relying on taxis or public transport.
Set Apple Maps Cycling as your default for bike travel guidance.
📝 How to Use Cycling Directions in Apple Maps
Using Apple Maps Cycling directions on your iPhone or iPad is quick and easy. Whether you’re navigating daily routes or planning a weekend ride, Apple Maps offers a smooth, cyclist-friendly experience.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to get started:
- Open the Apple Maps app on your iPhone or iPad.
- Enter your destination in the search bar.
- Tap the bike icon to view cycling route options.
- Choose your preferred route from the suggestions.
- Use toggles like “Avoid Hills” or “Avoid Busy Roads” to customize your journey.
- Finally, tap “Go” to begin real-time navigation.
Many users love the eco-friendly options provided by Apple Maps Cycling.
💡 Pro Tips:
- You can set cycling as your default mode in Maps settings for quicker access.
- Adjust your routing preferences to better match your riding style, like preferring bike lanes over main roads.
(AppleToolBox, 9to5Mac)
These simple settings make a big difference in your daily ride, whether you’re in a quiet suburb or a busy city like Taipei or Hong Kong.
📝 What’s Next & What to Watch For
Although Apple Maps Cycling directions have officially launched in Taiwan and Hong Kong, not all users may see the update immediately. As reported by MacRumors, Apple typically follows a phased rollout approach, meaning the cycling feature might become available in stages—starting with major cities and gradually expanding to other regions.
So, if you don’t see the bike icon or cycling route options yet, don’t worry—it’s likely on the way.
To stay updated, users are encouraged to regularly check Apple’s official website or visit their “Feature Availability” pages, which list country-wise support for Apple Maps features. These pages are helpful in confirming when new functionalities like cycling directions are fully rolled out in specific regions.
This gradual rollout strategy ensures a smoother user experience while Apple fine-tunes its coverage, especially in regions with complex road or terrain data like Taiwan and Hong Kong.
📝 Conclusion
The launch of Apple Maps Cycling directions in Taiwan and Hong Kong marks a major milestone for cyclists in East Asia. With this update, Apple is not only expanding its navigation capabilities but also empowering riders with smarter, safer, and more eco-friendly travel options in two of the region’s most urbanized areas.
Whether you’re a daily commuter, a fitness enthusiast, or a tourist exploring new cities, this new feature makes biking more accessible and enjoyable.
✅ Now it’s your turn — try out the cycling directions in Apple Maps, explore your city on two wheels, and share your experience with fellow riders.
Also, which country or city do you think Apple should add next? Drop your thoughts in the comments and be part of the cycling revolution!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does Apple Maps have cycling routes?
Yes, Apple Maps offers cycling routes in many regions. These routes include turn-by-turn directions tailored for bicycles, highlighting bike lanes, elevation changes, and safe paths that avoid traffic-heavy roads or steep hills.
How do I map my bike route on my iPhone?
To map a bike route on your iPhone, open Apple Maps → enter your destination → tap the bike icon → select a suggested route → toggle options like “Avoid Hills” or “Avoid Busy Roads” → tap Go to start navigation.
What is the best map to use for cycling?
Apple Maps and Google Maps both offer cycling support, but Apple Maps excels in smoother integration with iOS devices and offers smart options for elevation, road safety, and Siri-based voice navigation—especially in supported regions.
Is Google Maps or Apple Maps better for cycling routes?
Both have strengths: Google Maps has broader global availability, while Apple Maps offers more detailed elevation and bike lane info in supported regions. iPhone users may find Apple Maps more seamless for cycling.
Is there a bike mode on Google Maps?
Yes, Google Maps includes a bike mode that shows cycling directions, bike lanes, and estimated travel time. It’s widely available across countries and useful for both commuting and long rides.
What countries are cycling on Apple Maps?
As of 2025, Apple Maps supports cycling in select regions including the U.S., Canada, U.K., Germany, mainland China, Japan, Singapore, Australia, and newly added Taiwan and Hong Kong. The list continues to grow with each update.
Can Google Maps show cycle paths?
Yes, Google Maps can show cycle paths and bike-friendly roads. You can view dedicated bike trails, shared paths, and avoid roads with no cycling infrastructure by using the cycling directions feature.
How fast do Apple Maps assume you cycling?
Apple Maps generally assumes a cycling speed of around 10–16 km/h (6–10 mph) depending on terrain and route type. This estimate may vary slightly to provide accurate arrival times.
Can Apple track cycling?
Yes, Apple tracks cycling activity through the Health app and Apple Watch. It logs distance, speed, elevation, calories burned, and integrates with Apple Maps for route guidance and workout tracking
Does the Apple Watch know when you’re biking?
Yes, Apple Watch (Series 6 and above) can automatically detect when you start biking and suggest starting a cycling workout. It also provides real-time metrics and syncs data with your iPhone and Fitness app.
