When preparing a motorcycle trip—especially for the first time—navigation can quickly become a source of stress.
Which route should you take? Which roads are worth riding? How can you avoid major highways without getting lost?
That is exactly why we use and recommend OSMAND, a navigation app particularly well suited to motorcycle travel.
What is OSMAND?
OSMAND is a navigation application based on OpenStreetMap data, used worldwide.
It runs on smartphones (Android and iOS) and allows you to follow precise routes, even without an internet connection.
Once the maps are downloaded, your phone becomes a true travel GPS.
At Ride in Tours, we use OSMAND to provide you with reliable, tested routes designed for pure riding pleasure.
Why is OSMAND ideal for motorcycle travel?
For riders who are not used to long-distance trips, OSMAND offers several key advantages:
- Offline navigation
No mobile signal required—perfect for mountains, remote areas, or traveling abroad. - Accurate and detailed routes
The app follows the planned route exactly, turn by turn, without unnecessary recalculations. - Clear and easy-to-read display
The screen clearly shows the road, remaining distance, and upcoming direction changes. - Freedom and peace of mind
You ride at your own pace, stress-free, knowing you are always on the right route.
It is an excellent balance between a dedicated GPS unit and overly basic navigation apps.
OSMAND and Ride in Tours journeys
For our self-guided tours, and for some guided trips, we provide ready-to-use GPS tracks, specifically designed for OSMAND.
These routes:
- favor scenic roads,
- avoid monotonous main highways,
- take local constraints into account (mountain passes, traffic, landscapes),
- are adapted to the riders’ experience level.
Even with little navigation experience, all you have to do is follow the route and enjoy the ride.
Equipment tips: keep it simple
OSMAND runs on a smartphone, but a few basic accessories greatly improve comfort:
- Secure motorcycle phone mount
Essential to keep the screen visible without taking your eyes off the road. - Power supply or external battery
Navigation uses battery power, especially during full riding days. - Readable screen
A phone with a bright screen remains readable even in direct sunlight.
A tablet can also be an option, provided it is waterproof and shock-resistant (several affordable models are available).
No need for complex or expensive equipment—the goal is to stay simple and efficient.
Travel with confidence
OSMAND is not just for experienced riders.
On the contrary, it is perfectly suited for those discovering motorcycle travel and looking for peace of mind.
At Ride in Tours, we believe a great route is the key to a successful journey.
OSMAND is one of the tools that allows us to offer you that freedom—one road at a time.
Where to download OSMAND, how much does it cost, and how many free maps are included?
Before hitting the road, you need the app and the maps. Here is everything you need to know, simply explained.
Where can you download OSMAND?
OSMAND is available on all major platforms, as well as on the official website:
- Android: Google Play Store
- iPhone / iPad (iOS): App Store
- Official website: https://osmand.net/
Just search for “OSMAND” and install it like any other app.
How much does it cost?
OSMAND offers several versions:
- OSMAND Start (free)
Free download with access to a limited number of offline maps.
Perfect for discovering and testing the app. - Two paid versions
Unlock all advanced features, download more maps (ideal for multi-country trips), and access additional options such as voice navigation and advanced alerts.
As a guideline, subscriptions cost around €30–40 per year (or a few euros per month), which is far cheaper than a dedicated motorcycle GPS—and much more flexible.
Tip: discounts are frequent, often offering subscriptions at half price.
How many maps are available for free?
With the free version, you can download a limited number of regions or countries (usually between 2 and 7, depending on map size).
This allows you, for example, to load an entire country like France or Italy, or several smaller regions.
If you plan a multi-country trip (Alps, Balkans, Morocco, Spain, etc.), the Premium version or additional map purchases will let you carry all the necessary maps offline, without relying on mobile data.