Guide · Riding offline
Using Cyclr without internet: what works on a ride
You do not need a continuous internet connection to record a bike ride with Cyclr. GPS recording works offline, rides are stored locally and no account is required. Maps have an important limitation, though: GPS determines your position, while your iPhone downloads map tiles over an internet connection.
GPS recording and offline maps are different things
Cyclr records your ride using GPS even without a cellular connection. You can capture distance and your ride track when internet access is unavailable. Cyclr still needs location access, and your device needs adequate GPS reception.
The map background is separate. Map tiles load when a connection is available, so you should not expect a complete map everywhere without internet. Offline recording does not guarantee offline map coverage.
Check the recording before you set off
Open Cyclr before your ride and check location access and the displayed ride metrics. Start recording and make sure the recording is running. This also applies if you will later ride through an area without reception.
If you plan to rely on a map for orientation, account for any loss of internet access. Do not rely on GPS recording alone to provide the map you need.
Save your ride and review it later
After stopping, you can choose to save or discard the ride. Saved rides stay on your device by default and can be opened again in Cyclr, where you can review the ride details and statistics.
You do not need a Cyclr account. Optional iCloud Sync is part of Cyclr Pro. Saving locally and syncing to other devices are separate steps; iCloud syncing requires an internet connection.
Use your ride elsewhere with GPX export
Exporting a saved ride as GPX is free. You can keep the ride track as a file or use it in another compatible app. Whether sharing the file needs internet depends on the destination you choose.
Importing and exporting are different features: exporting your own recorded rides as GPX is free. Importing GPX routes is part of Cyclr Pro.
iPhone, Apple Watch and additional sensors
Cyclr also works with just your iPhone. Apple Watch is optional: it adds features such as heart-rate readings and can record rides independently. The ride is then transferred to your iPhone.
With Cyclr Pro, you can connect compatible Bluetooth speed, cadence and power sensors to your iPhone. Additional sensors are not required for normal GPS recording. They provide readings, but they do not replace missing map tiles.
Good to know
Do I need mobile data to record a ride?
No. GPS recording works without internet. Location access and adequate GPS reception are still required.
Is the entire map available offline?
This is not guaranteed. Map tiles load when an internet connection is available. GPS recording and the map display are separate functions.
Do I need Cyclr Pro for offline recording and GPX export?
No. GPS recording, local ride analysis and GPX export are free. Pro adds features including sensors, GPX route import and optional iCloud Sync.