For last week, under the bike radar, Google launched another facility within its all-encompassing Google Maps application - users can now plot routes by bicycle, or Bicycling, as they put it on their drop-down option menu.
Currently in Beta phase and only for US maps, the ability to plot a complete bike ride could lead to a whole new world of e-biking possibilities.
Here at NÖ we have already applied Google Map's Streetview wonderment to good effect - as, in respect of NÖO9 Stage 1, we plotted our escape from Genoa's bustling city centre, to pick up the westward coast road. And come next spring, with NÖUNDICI, we'll be doing the same, but looking for an eastward exit. It goes without saying, one's nervous initial wheel-turns through an unknown locality can be made all the more safer, and profitable if you have already moved through those spaces, from the comfort of your own armchair.
Although this may seem elemental, everyday practice to some, remotely stepping along foreign thoroughfares, thousands of miles away, via the portal of your laptop, is mightily impressive.
But for now, one thing is certain, at NÖ we like a paper map. And a pint of beer. Until Google Grog arrives that is.
