Mobile phones and tablet PCs could soon join the humble bike pump as an Australian cycling essential if a plan for an online map of the nation’s bike and hiking trails gains traction.
The concept, devised by the nation’s leading location intelligence specialists Esri Australia, would show riders the most scenic track to take, where they could undertake emergency repairs, or even help them locate the nearest pub for those with a hard-earned thirst.
Esri Australia’s Professional Services Manager for South Australia and self-confessed cycling tragic Andrew Fellows peddled the innovative concept at the national Tracks and Trails conference in Sydney today as a response to the huge growth in recreational cycling.
The 2011 Australian Bicycle Council Annual report lists cycling as the nation’s fourth most popular recreational activity; recreational cycling has been increasing at a rate of around 20 percent each year for the past five years.
Web link to full media release