Do Dirty Freehub’s GPX files include turn-by-turn directions?
No — Dirty Freehub GPX files do not contain embedded turn-by-turn directions. Our route files show a breadcrumb trail for you to follow, but they do not include pre-programmed turn-by-turn directions.
How do my bike computer’s turn-by-turn directions work then?
When you load a Dirty Freehub GPX file onto a Garmin or Wahoo device:
- The device tries to snap the route’s GPS track points to its onboard maps (usually based on OpenStreetMap data).
- It, the Garmin or Wahoo bike computer, then auto-generates turn-by-turn prompts where it detects intersections or changes in direction.
Because our routes often mix paved roads, gravel roads, dirt roads, singletrack, and bike paths, the map data on your device may not always be complete or perfectly accurate. This can lead to:
- Missing or incorrect turn prompts. (We have found that the auto generated turn-by-turn directions on Garmin and Wahoo devices are at best 70% accurate.)
- Inconsistent rerouting if you leave the planned track.
Best Practices
Always ride with the mindset that your GPS is a helpful guide, but not perfect — especially on remote or mixed-surface routes. Preview your route ahead of time, keep an eye on your breadcrumb line, and consider carrying a backup navigation method like Avenza maps.
At Dirty Freehub, our Director of Routes, ignores all turn by turn directions, turns off all turn-by-turn audio cues and turns off the auto re-route feature. When riding, his primary display is the map with the breadcrumb trail visible. The display range is from 500 feet to 2000 feet. The more turns and nuanced the navigation, the closer in he zooms (i.e., the 500 feet setting).
